Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra - Owners hangout

mledtje · March 2001

I wanted 4wd for the ability to travel hours off paved roads in the deserts and mountains.

The only time I've driven in the snow in the last 30 years is when I go camping in the mountains in the winter. And then we only needed the 4wd when we had 6" of fresh unplowed snow in the campgrounds.

PS: Camping in Kings Canyon Nat'l Park is free in the winter months, and they heat the toilets!!

Mike L

rpascual · March 2001

Anyone else got a C3500 willing to share driving experiences???

Here's mine:

Bought a C3500 crew cab back in September 2000. Currently have close to 12,000 miles on it.

Mods include: Gibson cat-back dual exhaust, Granatelli air sensor, k&n air filter kit. Also installed a Hypertech programmer.

This big boy runs beautifully. Broke it in on a 2000 mile journey out to 4 corners. Currently getting 11/12 mpg street, 16/17 mpg highway on 92 octane Chevron gas. Out of California, add about 3 mpg to each of the above figures. Currently running 265/75/16 Yokohama Geolanders on all 4's.

Changed the oil religiously at 500, 1000, then every 2000 miles since new (close to 12000 miles on odometer), and currently running Mobil 1 Tri-synthetic 10w-40 in the big 7.4 bruiser. Bumping up the oil change interval to at least 7000m with a filter change at every 3500m.

This baby is quite roomy (crew cab with 4 full doors helps), has more power/torque than I will ever need (hopefully) and makes those 14 hour out of state runs a joy! Hauling people/cargo is a breeze with the crew cab/long bed configuration.

The only gripes I have concerns the brakes and the valve configuration on the 7.4. Since my 2000 was a chassis carry-over from previous year, it has drum brakes in the rear(4.10 gearing, 14 bolt) which makes for less than ideal braking experience. I also run a 1999 z71 which has disk brakes all around, and that baby stops on a dime! With the drum brakes, it's such a pain in the [non-permissible content removed] to change the shoes. After setting them up, you literally have to sit there and fine tune them so that they pull at the same time. On the fronts, they are no problem since they are disks. Just unbolt the assembly, unhook the old pads, set the new ones on, then bolt the assy. back together. Entire front end shouldn't take more than an hour tops. But the drum brakes, forget about it! Set aside a whole Saturday afternoon to dial them in. I guess I have to live with the drums--or do a rear-disk brake conversion.

The valve configuration on the big 7.4 is outdated. One intake, one exhaust valve/cylinder. Can't GM get a clue and slap another intake and exhaust valve setup in their motors??? Wouldn't their motors run more efficiently that way??

Well, that's my impression of the Chevy 3500. I have owned a 1997 c2500 Silverado, and currently own a 1999 z71 besides the big c3500.

Anybody with any driving impressions of their c3500????

tucsonjwt · March 2001

tucsonjwt · March 2001

Each to his or her own - but ask a question and I give an answer. Sorry if some people don't agree with it - but I won't complain about Tim blowing by me in a cloud of dust and polluting my environment (oh, I guess that would be a cloud of snow.)

Full size trucks are more comfortable for 6'2" 200# drivers(ok - 225#).
I actually enjoy my life better without speeding tickets. If I want speed - I'll drive a sporty car.
For me a truck is a utility/commuter vehicle.
I did not say don't use the A/C or heat. I said don't use it if you don't have to. Read: If it is 70 degress outside do you need to roll up the windows and put the A/C on 5? I used to do that. Like I said above, when there is ice on the windows I pansy out and let the truck heat up for 5-10 minutes.
Cracking the windows with WeatherFlectors has no discernible effect on "drag" when you are going 40 mph or less for short intervals in town. (Now taking off all of the stinking badges and decals will really reduce drag and make you the envy of your fellow commuters.

I don't drive slow - I drive the speed limit - I know it is a radical concept, but after many years of driving and seeing traffic accidents more than once every week - I think there may be a reason for speed limits. I no longer see any benefit in racing from traffic light to traffic light.
I started driving like this the last time I was pulled over for speeding. (When the friendly officer pulls you over and asks "What's the hurry?", do you have to think of a good answer?) Gas mileage is a side benefit that developed from this driving style.
I wonder how we got this speed bug? Did guys riding horses pound them and their buggys 100 years ago? My guess is that you actually got less long term performance out of a horse driven/ridden hard. (Everybody I know who has a horse has gotten thrown by it at least once - maybe they are unhappy with their rider?)
No matter how fast we go we all end up the same place - DEAD. I'm taking the long way there.:)
Oh no - I'm off topic - out of here.

rdavenport1 · March 2001

hey, thanks for the reply and who cares what some other(s) say or think about your driving habits. i for one, admire you for being a responsible driver. it's what we need more of, right now there are plenty of "lead foot" drivers that are wasting to many resources.
your tips are greatly appreciated and it reminds me to try a little harder as well.
Rick

hillhound · March 2001

How much difference in mpg should you expect to see between the 4.10 & 3.73? My truck is a 2001 1500 4x4 5.3 with the 4.10 axle and I seem to be getting about 14/17 mpg. Really I expected the lousy mileage in town but was hoping for a little higher on the interstate. Did anyone's mileage go up as their engine got broke in? Right now I have about 3000 miles on it.
Guess I can't [non-permissible content removed] too loud-my old Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 with 5.2l got about 12/15 and somehow managed to put out 55 less hp than the Silverado!

obyone · March 2001

Something I finally agree with you on. Poca will be deleting no posts from now on as....well, if you hadn't noticed, we have a new host who has yet to introduce himself. Hear tell he drives a foreign one. Good luck on this one now....

rlyman · March 2001

Im looking to buy a new gmc 1500 soon and really want to get the 6.0L in an extended cab. Does anyone know or has heard if gmc is going or is willing to do so? I really am not intrested in buying the 1500HD Crew.

mledtje · March 2001

Only the GMC C3 will get you the 6.0L in a 1500. But that is a lot of money ($40K +) for a pickup.

Mike L

markbuck · March 2001

2nd tank, more than 1/2 driving at 75mph on the interstate, including a round trip down to 3000' and back to 7,000'. Fuel econ 14.5mpg. 2500HD 4x4 CC LB 5speed stock everything else.

Now wondering if something was wrong with my 1500 4.8L 4x4 5speed regcab LB 4.10 as it mostly only got 16mpg over about 37,000 miles of use.

Much softer rear suspension than my buddy's F350SD...

rdavenport1 · March 2001

anytime a vehicle is underpowered it is always going to require more power to keep it at speed, therefore it will also require higher fuel consumption. quite basic, but it just took MARKBUCK a little while longer to realize this. LOL
Rick

tucsonjwt · March 2001

the verdict from the most respected automotive review publication in America - Consumer Reports.
I just got my copy of CR in the mail today. They recommend what? - The Toyota Tundra, of course. Looking at the detail data in the back of the magazine, the 2000 Silverado is still above average in every category except body integrity. However, the 2000 Toyota Tundra has the very best relability ratings in every category, except electrical, where it is only one notch below having the fewest repairs.
So, the undeniable conclusion is that the Toyota Tundra is the perfect vehicle.:)
BTW - all of the CU recommended vehicles for reliability are foreign (except they also recommend the Geo/Chevrolet Prism - which are well known as hallmarks of reliability:). All of the "reliability risks" are domestic models (except they also call the Mercedes-Benz M-Class and Volvo S70/V70 AWD unreliable, which are known to be crummy auto companies:).
I going over to the Tundra site to get more information on my next new truck:)

hillhound · March 2001

Ever notice Tundra owners get all bummed out when you tell them you've had no problems with your Chevy/GM truck?

mgdvhman · March 2001

..oh boy...there is a reliable source!

....I guess I better sell my 3/4 Ado and buy a 1/6 ton Tundra!

CR says so!

- Tim

(Hold breath now)

ryanbab · March 2001

"Also if there is a better way to than disabling the fuel pump I'd like to hear it."

1. Lock the doors
2. buy a boot and put on on the front tire
3. hire an armed guard to watch over it

87lion · March 2001

I'd hardly call the 4.8L underpowered at 270 HP. That's just 15 shy of the 5.3. I have a 2k with x-cab, LB. 2WD and I get the EPA numbers or a little better. For a truck this big I'm very pleased with both power and mileage.

falknor · March 2001

Hope you enjoy your Toyota Tundra since your don't use a truck for what they are meant for you will do just find with a 1/6 ton tundra. We will miss you (Ha Ha). Dave

markbuck · March 2001

Agree with you. My old 4.8L was the fastest, most powerful vehicle I have owned for it's size. Way better power than my 89 F350 Diesel, 88 Crown Vic, Isuzu Trooper, Mazda PU, Pontiac Tempest.

The new 2500HD with 6.0L might beat it, haven't really run it hard, yet.

CR back a couple of years ago picked Ol' Milwalkee beer as the best domestic beer for the money..... So, we should all be driving Tundra's, and drinking Ol'Milw.....

PS. I do drink the Ol Mil, occasionally, but I definately wouldn't call it the "best"....

mgdvhman · March 2001

Now there is a sick thought!

Gimme a 3/4 Ton Chevy and Guinness.

- Tim

obyone · March 2001

and the Mazda pickup would go hand in hand...

mledtje · March 2001

Where is it written that a 4.8L Silverado is underpowered? If you believe that then you have never driven one.

My 4.8L when loaded to the Max GVWR of 6400Lbs averaged 15.5mpg on varied roads to and from Alaska. And it never felt underpowered. It actually feels quicker than my 2500 6.0 truck. Probably just throttle tip-in characteristics. But, not having driven one you wouldn't know that would you?

Mike L

obyone · March 2001

I'm sure if you had the 4.8 in the 2500, you would certainly feel the difference compared to the 6.0.

obyone · March 2001

I'm just trying to compare apples to apples. As for Rick's comments....well, I wouldn't even bother.

mgdvhman · March 2001

gears of the two are very different ..which makes the 4.8 seem peppy

- Tim

mledtje · March 2001

Markbuck and I both have manual transmissions and the gear ratios are lower on the 2500 - the opposite of automatics.

To me the the 6.0L doesn't have the throttle response of the 4.8L. The 6.0 certainly has more torque and isn't as affected by hills, but it feels more trucklike in throttle response. I kind of like it in that truck.

Mike L.

sierra2500hd · March 2001

I'm new to the board but I took the time to go through many of the older posts. You guys and gals are great. I've already learned some interesting things reading the posts.

I'm picking up a Hypertech for my GMC in the next few days. Does anyone have any negative comments on them? Their website seems to promise the world.

Anyway, I've got a Sierra 2500hd ext. cab 4wd with a 6.0/4.10 and 4spd. auto. I didn't buy it for milage. I do some serious hauling at least two days a week so I wanted to get the most power I could afford. The 8.1 was a little out of my range. When it's empty, I have no problem getting on it (I learned all about the speed limiter...@#$%). I'm getting about 12 mpg tops. I don't have a problem with that. With all respect to the guy who posted about getting 20/27 milage, some people buy trucks to have fun with them. If I wanted milage I would have bought an Escort.

I've owned trucks all my life and nothing even comes close to the one I have now. This truck is awesome. My Sierra is making my memories of my Ram very distant memories. Why did I ever buy a Dodge anyway? Perhaps I should count my blessings because some of the problems I've read about with the Rados and the Sierras are scary.

Keep posting people, this board is a great read!

sierra2500hd · March 2001

I drove a 4.8 in a rental a few months before buying my 6.0. The 4.8 certainly has more throttle response, but load the truck up and try going up a steep hill, you'll notice the differnce the 6.0 brings to the table.

dch0300 · March 2001

tucsonjwt,
As you leave our topic, please don't forget to put the toilet seat back up for those of use who still perfer to pee standing up, not sit down to pee like 70% of the Tindra owners.

2001 Silverado 1500, LS, ext-cab, Z-71, (born on 12/6/00) 1819 miles and still absolutely flawless!!

-David

markbuck · March 2001

Come on, the Tundra is a fine light duty truck...

GO EASY, Tusconjwt was just joking....

mgdvhman · March 2001

..oh yeah....I forgot they still actually make a manual.......no need for them any more really...

...automatics are 3.06 and 2.48 for 1st gears..maing the 3.06 5.3 seem very peppy....but as said....load it down and see how much better the 6.0 really is..

- Tim

obyone · March 2001

You're lucky we have a male host. Cause that post may not have made it past you know who. LOL!!

Tim-

Manual transmissions are important for those who want to remember how to change a clutch, and maybe those control freaks....oops...'scuse Andy Jordan.

markbuck · March 2001

Manual Trannys - "or those of us that value a THOUSAND BUCKS"

;o)

dch0300 · March 2001

Yah, that was a close one, Poca would have jumped all over that one.
So far our new host BOB has been great. No deleted posts, no annoying dialog, no interruptions telling us to get back on topic, etc.

KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK BOB!!

Maybe with Bob as our new host Ryan may come back and post with us again.

-David

sierra2500hd · March 2001

Okay, everyone cut me slack, I'm really not much of a motorhead (the interest is certainly there, but the know how ain't even close). Can someone explain to me what the deal is with synthetic oil? I've read numerous posts about it supposedly helping fuel economy, horsepower etc. Does putting the right oil in a vehicle really make that much difference? Someone enlighten me...

obyone · March 2001

What's more important in the synthetic vs. dino debate is using the correct oil weight, miles/months between changes and the brand of oil filter. Cause as long as its done religiously, you shouldn't have any problems.

I personally use Royal Purple which is dino oil with the same additives as synthetic. So far so good with the cycle between changes being 5000 miles using a K&N oil filter.

obyone · March 2001

I would use the AC Delco PF 59 or the AC Gold but they are nowhere to be found...not even at KMart and the dealer wants the same ($9.00) that I paid for the K&N which works better for me. Can't stand when KMart sells the AC Delco for $2.50 and the dealer wants $9. Go figure. Noticed even Checkers Auto Parts wants $4.59 for the Delco filter. What a bunch of ripoffs. Will probably order a case through a jobber at a later date.

mgdvhman · March 2001

so $2200 for an Allison is out of the question then eh Markbuck?

hehe

- Tim

tucsonjwt · March 2001

that we need this internet etiquette since some don't always grasp the subtlety of the message.
I think dch0300 missed the sarcasm in my previous post. Sorry for the miscommunication.
BTW, what I think is really funny is how spun up people can be about their brand of truck. Lighten up - you'll live longer. Oh, and don't forget to drive slower - makes life SEEM longer.:)

sierra2500hd · March 2001

I change my oil religiously at 3000 miles. I've done it since I first starting driving...why do you allow it to go 5000? Price? Not Needed? What?

mgdvhman · March 2001

average about 6K or longer with Mobil 1 5-30......wouldn't be concerned with a few thou more..

- Tim

87lion · March 2001

Unless you drive under unusual conditions (ie. heavy dust) change your oil when the message center indicates it's time. I'm sure the engineers added plenty of margin on the interval as engineers in general are fairly conservative. And even the current dino oils are improved over the oils of even a few years back. Changing your oil more often than recommended is a waste of time, money, and natural resources.

Then again, if you'll sleep better changing out your Mobil-1 every 500 miles who am I to tell you different? {8^)

obyone · March 2001

Seems to be the consensus among those using synthetic or the likes. My message board went off at 4500 miles and I changed oil two weeks later at 5000. Seems these new oils can go the distance. Only thing that worries me is the oil filter as they can get screwed up pretty bad after awhile.

Spoke to service manager, mechanic friends, and the likes and all agreed that 3000 unless abusing the truck is far too soon for these new oils and trucks. Maybe you could strech it to 4000? Unless, it's going to be abused.

bubba1993 · March 2001

I am trying to decide wheather or not to buy the 2500 HD w/ a 6.0 auto or a 1500 w/ a 5.3. Need to hear from owners of the 6.0 to get a feel for the mileage I can expect. Thank for the Help.

mgdvhman · March 2001

..but a 2K 2500 4WD Ex.Cab SB LT 6.0 4:10..

drive about 50 miles a day to work....50/50 highway/city....75 highway...55 city....I take off fast...stop fast.....and like to pass....Gte about 12.5 MPG average.

The newer 6.0 may be even better?

Good Luck

- Tim

mgdvhman · March 2001

Body that is....

although some consider the 8600 GVW LD now.

The 9200 HD is just a 1 ton labeled a 2500HD.

good old marketing

- Tim

PF_Flyer · March 2001

Never a good idea to come into town with the guns blazing!

Makes a bad first impression!!

I'm still in the process of trying to catch up with all the great stuff going on here.

My basic job description...Keeping things relatively civil, and avoiding the "magic words". Oh yea... and I DON'T want to shoot anybody with this bazooka if I don't have to. The cleanup is no fun...LOL

Keep truckin'

PF Flyer
Host
Pickups & News and Views Message Boards

markbuck · March 2001

Bazooka, heck, better bring something bigger ---- it's been thermonuclear for the last couple of months.....

sierra2500hd · March 2001

It's not so much that I sleep better (well maybe a little), it's just that I know I'm rough on my vehicles. I have heavy foot for starters and I'm not shy about loading the truck to the max. Many times my trucks are loaded well beyond what they should be. I once had 4 tons of gravel in the back of my 98 Dodge. I've never lost an engine and I believe that's due to the way I keep up with the oil changes.

sierra2500hd · March 2001

I guess it comes down to what you consider abuse. I like to think of it as making the truck work hard. I'll try the first change when the message light comes on and see what happens.

sierra2500hd · March 2001

I'm getting around 11.5-12 mpg. I have an ext cab and a full bed with the 6.0 and a 4.10 rear. About a 50/50 spilt with highway and city driving. I may not be someone to use as an example though, like I said, I tend to push the truck pretty good. My Dodge w/5.9 would only get around 9-10 mpg. Hope that helps.

Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra - Owners hangout

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