Passin Thru wrote:
I have an older 2006 Duramax. Love it but the new ones have to run too hot and eat too much fuel for me. I was driving today and thinking GOSH! I don't use Urea, get 19 ety and 9.8 loaded at 19K. Why pay 70000 for a new one.
I have an LBZ 3500 and I get around 8-9 mpg pulling heavy. As good as that truck is and it is one of the "gold standard" engines probably ever (along with a 7.3 and some versions of the Cummins motors), I still much prefer to tow with my 18'. My mileage is no different towing between the two. However the power difference is substantial. My '18 runs cooler pulling the mnt passes than does the 06. The biggest benefit however is really the controllability at max GVW. The '18 with engine braking, much better brakes, and a better suspension make it much preferred to towing heavy than with the 06. My 06 is also tuned to engine brake with the tow haul on, but it is not near as effective as is the '18. The new ones are expensive, getting really stupid expensive in my mind, but they do provide a large increase capacity, and much better towing experience in my view. Now when your not pulling at or near the max capability of the truck, I think the advantages wont be as noticeable.
