Thoughts on this rig?

[newdude]

How much is 91 octane in Canada?  If you can handle $10-20 more a tank for 91 octane (26 gal. tank in the 1/2 ton), it would still be cheaper than a tank of 87 in a 2011+newer HD truck (36 gal. tank in the HD).  The 6.2 does similar MPG's vs. the 5.3 and if you aren't a lead foot empty, can do the same or better average than the 5.3.  Towing, the 6.2 and the 6.0 will both get 10mpg, maybe 11 on a good day, its the empty driving that will get the bigger average mpg difference (12-14 on the HD, 15-18 on the 6.2).   

 

Also, a side note, the K2 trucks and the GMT-900 trucks frame aren't that far apart.  They are rather similar.  You'd be trading for 420hp, 460 torque, NHT package (shocks/springs/hd cooling), an 8 speed and 3.42 gears that would pull that trailer quite well.  HD will give you a stronger foundation over that in terms of remaining payload allowed, larger brakes. 

[Roscopcoletrain]

25 minutes ago, newdude said:

How much is 91 octane in Canada?  If you can handle $10-20 more a tank for 91 octane (26 gal. tank in the 1/2 ton), it would still be cheaper than a tank of 87 in a 2011+newer HD truck (36 gal. tank in the HD).  The 6.2 does similar MPG's vs. the 5.3 and if you aren't a lead foot empty, can do the same or better average than the 5.3.  Towing, the 6.2 and the 6.0 will both get 10mpg, maybe 11 on a good day, its the empty driving that will get the bigger average mpg difference (12-14 on the HD, 15-18 on the 6.2).   

 

Also, a side note, the K2 trucks and the GMT-900 trucks frame aren't that far apart.  They are rather similar.  You'd be trading for 420hp, 460 torque, NHT package (shocks/springs/hd cooling), an 8 speed and 3.42 gears that would pull that trailer quite well.  HD will give you a stronger foundation over that in terms of remaining payload allowed, larger brakes. 

 

Does the 6.2 always require 91 or is it only when towing? 

[jimmyboy8301]

 
Does the 6.2 always require 91 or is it only when towing? 

Always


2017 Chevy Silverado LTZ Z71 6.2L
4.5" Zone w/ Bilstein and Fox
22x10 American Force Grips
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[Jon A]

Yeah, it'll run on lower octane, but I really wouldn't recommend it.  It should get enough better mileage than your current truck fuel costs will likely be a wash.

 

As for how it will handle your trailer, it should be an improvement over your current truck--not a night and day dramatic difference that you'd notice with a 2500, but stiffer  springs and stiffer hitch should handle things a bit better.  The integrated brake controller is nice, the larger rear axle adds durability, etc.

 

The big thing, of course, is the engine and transmission and how it will maintain speed up hills with much less effort.  It will feel much more capable and make towing, especially in the mountains, much more enjoyable.

 

Another big thing you'd gain is the increased payload and rear GAWR, which will give you a lot more breathing room before the weight police come and get you.

 

Overall, I'd say it's a worthwhile upgrade if you found a good deal.  Not transformative as changing to a 2500 would be, but this truck would actually make a nicer daily driver instead of a worse one.

[i82much]

Yeah who knows. I am sure the 1500 will get the job done, I just am that guy who errs on the side of caution.  You know, carry 10 cans of fix-a-flat with me, red loctite on kids furniture, shoot deer with .338 win mag, that sort of thing.  Totally normal stuff, right? 

[newdude]

3 hours ago, Roscopcoletrain said:

 

Does the 6.2 always require 91 or is it only when towing? 

 

2014-2016: 

Quote

If the vehicle has the 6.2L V8 engine (VIN Code J), use premium unleaded gasoline meeting ASTM specification D4814 with a posted octane rating of 91 or higher. Regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher can be used, but acceleration and fuel economy will be reduced, and an audible knocking noise may be heard. If this occurs, use a gasoline rated at 91 octane or higher as soon as possible. Otherwise, the engine could be damaged. If heavy knocking is heard when using gasoline with a 91 octane rating or higher, the engine needs service

I'd run it religiously. 

[Roscopcoletrain]

So, took it for a a spin. Very nice. Sales guy was great. Let us take it home and try a tow with it. I gotta say it's worlds better than my 09. Feels planted. Wife said it felt like the trailer wasn't there. Mind you it was a pretty short tow, but we did get a few small hills, handled it like a champ. My wd hitch is set for my rig, so I'm sure there is some adjustments needed to. But it looks pretty level. 

 

 

 

 

 

[Jon A]

That's great they let you do that.  That's obviously the best way to see how it does--see for yourself!

[Roscopcoletrain]

Yeah, I was pretty pleased. And we're not exactly close to the dealership either.  Truck has a few small issues they're sorting out for me, but assuming its taken care of, looks like I have a new rig

 

Now...do I put my Sumosprings on this truck from my 09?? hmmm 

[cire0309]

Nice looking rig! Hope the dealer takes care of the little stuff.

[Roscopcoletrain]

3 minutes ago, cire0309 said:

Nice looking rig! Hope the dealer takes care of the little stuff.

Thanks, they did, we picked it up today ? loving this 6.2!

[Jon A]

On 7/6/2018 at 12:13 PM, Roscopcoletrain said:

Now...do I put my Sumosprings on this truck from my 09?? hmmm 

If you liked them on your 09, there's no reason not to.  They will help when towing.

[Roscopcoletrain]

Just now, Jon A said:

If you liked them on your 09, there's no reason not to.  They will help when towing.

I tried but couldn't get them off. Ugh. 

[Jon A]

Oh well, they're cheap.   

[Roscopcoletrain]

1 minute ago, Jon A said:

Oh well, they're cheap.   

Not cheap enough lol.