3500 Vs 2500

[jeffgrim]

I am going to buy a truck with a Duramax. I don't need a 3500, but I like the looks of them. 04 or 05 will be be the year. Does anyone know what the fuel mileage would be for each model. I was told that I could get better economy if the motor is turned up (CHIPPED). Does anyone know what I am asking. Thanks for your help.

 

http://www.kytruckandtrailer.com/web/2013/...20DIESEL%20NICE

 

this is one of the trucks that I am looking at.

[MarkD]

Someone else may be more specific, but you could expect city mileage in the mid teens, Highway at 70mph in the low twentys, and towing in the low teens or just under. Research shows programmers helping 2-4 mpg.

 

These numbers are with a light right foot.

[dewfpo]

If your concerned about fuel economy and don't need a dually, then consider a SRW 2500 or 3500 with the Duramax.

 

DEWFPO

[GPGuy]

Go big or go home!

 

Seriously though, for me I'd look at what you're going to use the truck for. I don't have a lot of experience with the 2500 and 3500's so I can't comment on mileage. Or just go for what you really want ^^^ refer to earlier comment. Sometimes that's the best way because that's what you'll be happiest with in the long run.

[ATMINF]

I know that in the city driving the numbers will be in the 14-15 range, but to get 20's on the highway it is still pretty hard, and very dependant on how you drive it. The guys I know that are getting 20's on the HWY are driving at 65mph, and are very light on and off the gas pedal (with no load). I would tell you to go with the 2006-2007(classic) models. I think some of the 2004- 2005's has some cooling issues.

[Big black truck]

All my previous trucks have been 1 ton. Both dually and single wheel long bodies. This is my first 2500 sb and I really enjoy driving it. I still tow a lot, backhoes and skidsteers, and it does the job just as well as my diesels. The big advantage is I can drive and park easier.

[BlackSilver]

Chipping will likely void any remaining GM warranty on the engine and transmission.

 

The engineers did a damned good job designing this drive train. Leave it alone.

 

(PS: Diesel isn't about economy. It's about getting heavy work done.)

[MarkD]

Chipping will likely void any remaining GM warranty on the engine and transmission.

 

The engineers did a damned good job designing this drive train. Leave it alone.

 

(PS: Diesel isn't about economy. It's about getting heavy work done.)

 

I disagree... I am loving the improved economy of my truck.

 

I also intended to wait on a "chip" until warranty expired, until this mornng.

 

On an on ramp, the car in the right lane would not yield to let me enter traffic on the interstate.

 

Filled with the new-found bravado that 650 fl lbs of torque fosters, I decided to accelerate and enter traffic "in front" of the flow of traffic. Within seconds, I was pulling away from the offending BMW...until, that is...I hit the speed limiter, and my truck fell on its face. Now I constantly think of "tuning up" my new truck.

[GPGuy]

What is the limiter set at on a 2500?

[ATMINF]

I got mine "set" at 120mph, but that is with a tune from Wheatley!

[Big black truck]

I agree that these trucks are well tuned from the factory.....,but, that is great for the EPA crap,... add a chip, do some mods and a whole new world awaits. Enjoy.

[[email protected]]

the 3500 rear diff is bigger, and not that the 2500 is puny, but when it comes to rear ends ... bigger is better... at least on trucks.

600-700 lbs. of torque for 5- 12years is alot on a diff IMO. Maybe someone knows more about the probable longevity of the 2500HD/ vs. 3500 rear diff is. As for fuel use more weight=lower mpg , so thats a plus for the 2500. How many RPM's is that DMAX turning at 120mph? How tall the tires??

[dewfpo]

the 3500 rear diff is bigger, and not that the 2500 is puny, but when it comes to rear ends ... bigger is better... at least on trucks.

600-700 lbs. of torque for 5- 12years is alot on a diff IMO. Maybe someone knows more about the probable longevity of the 2500HD/ vs. 3500 rear diff is. As for fuel use more weight=lower mpg , so thats a plus for the 2500. How many RPM's is that DMAX turning at 120mph? How tall the tires??

 

I was under the impression that the rear ends of the 2500HD and the 3500HD were exactly the same. At least the GMT800's anyway.

 

DEWFPO

[ATMINF]

The rear diff are 10.5inch 14bolt FF for 6.0 gasser trucks, and 11.5inch 14bolt FF for the big blocks and D-max trucks in the 2500HD trucks. I am not sure if the same is for the SRW 3500 gasser trucks or Duallys.