6.0l vortec vs 8.1l with allison gas mileage
I'm considering the purchase of two different trucks. Has anyone had experience with comparing the gas mileage for a a 6.0l vortec vs an 8.1l paired with the allison transmission?? For my purposes...
Forum Discussion
I have the 8.1 3500 dually and have been very happy with it. Bought it brand new in 2001 and have had minimal problems with it. Mostly electrical switches and body hardware. I have towed trailers ranging in weight from 7,500 to my current fifth wheel of 16k lbs. With 7k pounds behind it you will barely know its back there. I got between 9 and 9.5 mpg towing depending on terrain but never less than 9. I average around 8 mpg towing my current fifth wheel. Empty, I always get around 10-11 mpg but mostly 10 with mixed driving. Range when towing is about 225 miles before refueling but I'm usually ready for a leg stretch by then.
I cant comment about 6.0 cause I've never own one but I had heard they tow fine but at higher RPM.
My final thoughts are if I had a choice (and I did) I would go with the 8.1 for two reasons. If you ever upgrade to a heavier camper (which I did)you will probably kick yourself for not opting for the towing power of the 8.1. Second and most important is the Allison transmission. These transmissions are just about bullet proof and when towing its one less thing you have to worry about.
I cant comment about 6.0 cause I've never own one but I had heard they tow fine but at higher RPM.
My final thoughts are if I had a choice (and I did) I would go with the 8.1 for two reasons. If you ever upgrade to a heavier camper (which I did)you will probably kick yourself for not opting for the towing power of the 8.1. Second and most important is the Allison transmission. These transmissions are just about bullet proof and when towing its one less thing you have to worry about.
