Potential New Purchase... Anything I Should Watch Out For?

[LennPitt]

Good morning all...

 

I am a n00bie from Beaumont TX that bleeds blue but can drive anything domestic. I am currently in the market for a new (to me) truck and have found a rather tempting buy.

 

It is a 2002 Silverado 2500HD Supercrew longbed 4x4. It has the 6.0L gas engine in it. My biggest problem is that it has 144k miles on it. The price is not bad from what I can gather (just under $11k). It has a brand new set of BFG/AT tires, Rancho shocks and a Ranch Hand style front bumper.

 

Is there anything (as a GM virgin) I should watch for in this truck on the test drive? I found it yesterday and needless to say, the dealer was closed.

[Stevens03]

Other than hard on mpg.. pretty rock solid truck. If you can get it for a good price, I'm sure you'll be happy.

[LennPitt]

"Hard on MPG"...

 

Are we talking approaching single digits!?!? I completely expect somewhere around 12-14city/15-16hwy. Is that expecting too much?

 

Also, I have read alot about "Engine Knock/tick" when cold in the 6.0's. Is this a problem that should be worried about or is it just an inherent trait (similar to the 2004-2005 F150 5.4L cam phasers making it sound like a diesel)?

[KMGZ400]

the engine tick/knock is normal its not a problem. that truck will get about anywhere from 10-14 city and only a little more highway..

 

thats a little pricey for that truck... its probably worth about 8500 to 9500

[LennPitt]

I appreciate all the responses.

 

Yeesh... I'll have to chew on that fuel economy for a little bit.

 

As for the tick/knock... Does anyone know what actually causes the noise and what can be done to fix it?

[Stevens03]

I appreciate all the responses.

 

Yeesh... I'll have to chew on that fuel economy for a little bit.

 

As for the tick/knock... Does anyone know what actually causes the noise and what can be done to fix it?

 

 

GM says it's "normal" it comes from short side skirts on the pistons. Some claim better oil helps

[LennPitt]

Cool... Thanks guys.

 

Last question, I promise (for now)-

 

If I am not too much in need of a 3/4 ton truck, is this thing overkill and I should keep looking for a 1/2 ton? I rarely ever used the full potential of my 2005 F150 Lariat that I had. Hehe. Sadly, I sold it in preperation to purchase a house and that has gone by the wayside.

[Stevens03]

Yes, If your not towing or heavy hauling then yes.. its def. overkill and I'd look for a 1500 with the 5.3 Much better mileage and better ride.

[LennPitt]

Thanks alot, I appreciate the info.

[KMGZ400]

yeah, damn a crew cab long bed? a little overkill. a CCSB 1500 5.3 with lower miles would be a much better choice... way better MPG's and it will be just as reliable.. 5.3's are amazing engines.