Tow Vehicle

[wski]

Considering a 2006 Chevy Silverado 3500 with the Duramax/Allison combination. If you can provide and pros/cons, please chime in. Thanks in advance for any info you can provide.

[rhagfo]

the bear II wrote:
If it is equipped with an exhaust brake you'll think you've died and gone to heaven while towing downhill. It will hold at 55MPH on a 6% grade. No need to use the brakes.

I have a 2007 and it's the best truck I've ever towed with. Keep in mind it is a C4500 dually but the engine and trans are nearly the same. My engine was factory de-tuned to 330 HP but it has plenty of pulling power. I tow a 15,000lb 5th wheel.

OP doesn't state, but the RAM could easily have an EB also.

I would agree, an EB is a great enhancement.

[Chevyman2006]

2006 COULD be an LLY, check the VIN.

My 2006 LBZ just turned 45k miles. Have thought about selling it, just not sure I could go through with it.

[downtheroad]

If it is an LBZ generation Duramax (8th character in the vin is a "D") then grab it.
They are highly sought after and considered one of the best diesels ever.

Like others, I have been asked a number of times to sell it....latest was the head diesel tech at our local GMC dealer.

[MinnCamper]

I have the 06 Sierra LBZ and love the truck. Bought it with 140,000 miles and runs like a top. Jump on it now! I've had 3+ guys want to buy mine.

[the_bear_II]

If it is equipped with an exhaust brake you'll think you've died and gone to heaven while towing downhill. It will hold at 55MPH on a 6% grade. No need to use the brakes.

I have a 2007 and it's the best truck I've ever towed with. Keep in mind it is a C4500 dually but the engine and trans are nearly the same. My engine was factory de-tuned to 330 HP but it has plenty of pulling power. I tow a 15,000lb 5th wheel.

[jerem0621]

kaydeejay wrote:

jerem0621 wrote:
.............Cons
* Dually doesnt fit in an automatic car wash
* Dually can be a pain to park in some rare circumstances

As long as the trucks mechanics check out I would buy it.

Thanks!

Jeremiah

We don't know if the OP is looking at a dually or not. But I agree with you on all counts.:B
Except you missed the increased stability provided by four rear wheels (if that is the case):W

Yea, I seen 3500 and automatically read Dually. Lol.

[kaydeejay]

jerem0621 wrote:
.............Cons
* Dually doesnt fit in an automatic car wash
* Dually can be a pain to park in some rare circumstances

As long as the trucks mechanics check out I would buy it.

Thanks!

Jeremiah

We don't know if the OP is looking at a dually or not. But I agree with you on all counts.:B
Except you missed the increased stability provided by four rear wheels (if that is the case):W

[jerem0621]

pro's
* you can tow nearly anything
* no expensive emissions equipment to go wrong
* Powerful
*Economic
* looks GREAT
* Very comfortable seats
* Amazing transmissions

Cons
* Dually doesnt fit in an automatic car wash
* Dually can be a pain to park in some rare circumstances


As long as the trucks mechanics check out I would buy it.

Thanks!

Jeremiah

[kaydeejay]

Hi and welcome.

The 3500 would be a MUCH better match for that trailer than your current truck. Wouldn't need air bags for a start!
Secondly, the 2006/7 LBZ D'Max is the Gold Standard. Not quite as much power (360HP vs 397) as a new one but a lot less complicated as far as emissions are concerned.
Pre DPF. pre-DEF and a six speed Alison transmission.
If it's a decent price and not HUGE miles (150K plus) I would jump on it!!
The engine/trans combo is good for a lot more than that but the rest of the truck may be starting to get tired.