Help - Looking At An '05 Silverado 2500hd Lt Crew Cab 8.1 This Wee

BLSJDS · February 22, 2011

Hi,

I'm looking at an '05 Silverado 2500HD LT 4x4 Crew Cab this weekend. My current ride is an '02 Sierra Denali, so I am somewhat familiar with this style, but not at all familiar with the Vortec 8.1 (other than what I've read). Is there any way to tell if excessive oil consumption is an issue? What else (engine wise) should I specifically look at / listen for, etc?

I love my Sierra Denali, but my kids are older and I'm looking for a little more back seat room, and I'm getting tired of the suicide doors. I also need a 6.5' bed to haul our dirt bikes / street bikes. I really don't need the towing / hauling capability of a 2500, but I don't think GM makes a 1500 series crew cab with a 6.5' bed.

Thanks in advance for any / all advice!

Dan

8.1HD/ALLISON · February 22, 2011

No way to know unless your drive it for a while and keep eye on oil level. Usually wanna drive for 3,000 miles and keep track. I can tell you mine has no external leaks and it does use a little.

BLSJDS · February 22, 2011

No way to know unless your drive it for a while and keep eye on oil level. Usually wanna drive for 3,000 miles and keep track. I can tell you mine has no external leaks and it does use a little.

Ok - thanks. I'll give it a very thorough "once over".

How do you like the 8.1? I've got the 6.0 in my '02 Sierra Denali and it runs strong. Should I expect the 8.1 to be comparable in a truck that is about 900 pounds heavier?

Thanks again!

8.1HD/ALLISON · February 22, 2011

I love this truck. My friend has a 6.0 CCSB and it is a DOG compared to this truck. Much more power. I also looked at the extended cab vs. crew cab. Lots more leg room with the crew.

Shaners · February 22, 2011

The 8.1L is a fantastic motor. It is very powerful but thirsty in terms of fuel and oil. Almost everyone that has an 8.1L says they have to add oil in between changes. GM even says that up to a quart every 1000 miles is considered normal.

I think a 6.0L would do you just fine for what you need and would save you alot of pain at the pump.

BLSJDS · February 22, 2011

The 8.1L is a fantastic motor. It is very powerful but thirsty in terms of fuel and oil. Almost everyone that has an 8.1L says they have to add oil in between changes. GM even says that up to a quart every 1000 miles is considered normal.

I think a 6.0L would do you just fine for what you need and would save you alot of pain at the pump.

That's the issue I'm having - I definitely do not need a 3/4 ton truck or an engine that big. I'm only looking at them because of the crew cab / 6'6" bed combination (which isn't available in a 1/2 ton). That probably isn't a great reason to buy

Maybe I should just keep my Sierra. It only has 96k on it, is in great shape, and has been trouble free. I can deal with the suicide doors, and I REALLY like the Quadrasteer (hopefully it doesn't crap out any time soon).

My mind is going in too many directions - ha ha