We are considering a new tow vehicle.
We now have a 2005 Suburban 2500 w/Vortec 8100 496 cu in V8 (325 hp at 4200 rpm and 447 lb·ft of torque at 3200 rpm) and 4.11 axle ratio. It is rated to tow 12,500 lbs and our trailer is a Keystone Ou...
Forum Discussion
I just made the change myself from a 2004 Suburban with the 8.1 and 4.10 rear end to a newer 3/4 Suburban with the 6.0 and 6speed. I've only done a short tow with the new(er) suburban, but I can tell you the 8.1 with the low gears pulled better, although not by much. The 6speed really helps make up for the less torque of the newer engine.
Where the newer Suburban (a 2008) shines is on non-towing duty. I don't pull my camper all that much other than a few short trips a year and one long trip each summer. The 2008 is getting over 50% better unloaded fuel mileage than the big block did. Interstate drives which used to be done at 2800 RPM's at 75mph can now be done at 82mph with the engine loping along at 2,000 RPMs.
Unloaded mileage on the 8.1 was 9-10 mpg average, with a best ever of 12. Unloaded mileage on the 6.0 has never been worse than 14. If I'd ever slow down on the highway, I think 16 or 17 would be easily achievable.
All in all, I'm happy with the upgrade. Looks a little newer, is A LOT quieter on the inside, and is a bit easier on the pocket book at the gas pump. (Note: The 2008 3/4 ton Suburban has a 39 gallon gas tank. At 15mpg, you can go A LONG ways on a single tank of gas)
Where the newer Suburban (a 2008) shines is on non-towing duty. I don't pull my camper all that much other than a few short trips a year and one long trip each summer. The 2008 is getting over 50% better unloaded fuel mileage than the big block did. Interstate drives which used to be done at 2800 RPM's at 75mph can now be done at 82mph with the engine loping along at 2,000 RPMs.
Unloaded mileage on the 8.1 was 9-10 mpg average, with a best ever of 12. Unloaded mileage on the 6.0 has never been worse than 14. If I'd ever slow down on the highway, I think 16 or 17 would be easily achievable.
All in all, I'm happy with the upgrade. Looks a little newer, is A LOT quieter on the inside, and is a bit easier on the pocket book at the gas pump. (Note: The 2008 3/4 ton Suburban has a 39 gallon gas tank. At 15mpg, you can go A LONG ways on a single tank of gas)
