Which to buy? LMM/LML or 6.2 EcoTec3

[Cory Yancer]

I am in the market for a new truck and I have narrowed it down to a 2014-2015 1500 LTZ/SLT with the 6.2 or a 2008-2014 duramax LTZ/SLT. My camper fully loaded weighs around 8000lbs and we camp 5 or 6 times a year. I also haul firewood around 5000lbs or so. With the 6.2 I would most likely add air bags, towing mirrors, and LT tires whether I can find a Max Trailering Package or not. The duramax I would contemplate deleting.
This truck would also be my daily driver. I feel both of these trucks would tow better then my current 2000 Chevy 2500 non HD. What are the pros and cons to each truck. I have done a lot of research of each truck which is why I have narrowed it down but I would like anyone's opinion on the subject.

[Donstar]

It is difficult to compare used trucks.  If both these trucks were new or somehow they are in identical used condition, the Duramax would be my choice.  I'd rather not feel the need to add air bags or other equipment to handle heavier loads.  The reality is the Dmax will be more expensive to purchase.  If you believe a 1500 will suit your needs then consider a year-end deal on a new truck.  The 5.3 would provide ample power for the loads you describe and be a great daily driver!

[redwngr]

6.2 won't even come close to towing like an LML.  Torque is what matters, rather then HP.  LML is 765 IIRC, vs 460 ft-lb for the 6.2.

If long hills are a factor, the LML has the exhaust brake, the LMM does not.  

 

Significant chassis changes were made in 2011 when the LMl replaced the LMM.  (I owned both).

 

This review is old, but has some good info:

http://www.maxxtorque.com/2010/12/2011-duramax-lml-review-built-to-tow.html

 

Needs changed, and I tried to make do with a 1500 (tried a 6.2 and a 5.3 NHT, both with 8 speed), but just not happy when towing and have gone back to 6.6L. 

 

 

 

 

[Likarok]

I agree with redwngr. nothing tows or hauls like a diesel!

[swathdiver]

2007 Classic with the LBZ!

[Lgetz]

How far are your 5-6 camping trips?

Nevermind just looked at the 5K firewood hauling go with the Duramax.

Brakes especially on the 11+ models are superior to the 1500 and will make for less white knuckle experience. 

Only con to the 2500 will be the harsher ride driving it around town unloaded compared to a 1500.

[Donstar]

I suspect the firewood is in a trailer. All newer GM 1500's can tow at least 5,000 lbs.

[Lgetz]

42 minutes ago, Donstar said:

I suspect the firewood is in a trailer. All newer GM 1500's can tow at least 5,000 lbs.

OP put haul firewood which is different than towing a trailer of firewood.  I know semantics but it makes a difference with our responses.

[Donstar]

3 hours ago, Lgetz said:

OP put haul firewood which is different than towing a trailer of firewood.  I know semantics but it makes a difference with our responses.

He also said he has an 8,000 lb camper.... A camper is a term commonly used for the type loaded on the box of your truck and travel trailer is a pull behind.  The definition of haul is, pull or drag with effort or force.  I don't think OP meant that he planned to load 5,0000 lbs of firewood into the back of any pickup.

[6.2Chevy]

Are you towing this camper up mountains? Or just across flat plains?

[newdude]

I'd be leaning Duramax.  Which year, up to you.  I'd go 2011 or newer.  2010 and older you are buying not much more truck than the one you have now in terms of frame and brakes.  Gives you a bigger payload safety net, bigger brakes, frame, suspension, etc.  Could the 1500 do it?  Sure.  But you'd be adding bags and LT tires, and even though they help, they don't increase the legal hauling weight of the truck. 

[KMGZ400]

Would go with the 11 plus duramax, I have had one for 4 plus years and wouldn’t want to tow Or haul with anything else. 

[2018GMC]

I vote 11+ Duramax LML. We have one in the family which has been trouble free from new and has 40k now. 

 

Only minor issues were def tank quality sensor needed replaced and oil pressure sensor needed replaced. All under warranty. 

[Cory Yancer]

It is a travel trailer and I do pull a trailer to haul the firewood.  I havnt camped in the mountains yet but I also don't want to be limited on where I can go.  My gut was telling me duramax and I've always wanted one but always felt I couldn't justify the extra cost. Thanks for all the replies!  

[GNICK2017]

Had both and the Duramax is the way to go. I love the 6.2 though to get out and play around with.


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