New truck buying advice

wadecool · October 13, 2020

I totaled my 2016 Silverado recently and will be in the market for a new one soon. Looking to make sure i get the right trim/options so I would appreciate advice. I would like to keep total price (before taxes) under $40,000. Looking for a crew cab AWD truck. Any preferences on Custom vs LT, 4.3 V6, 2.7 turbo, or the 5.3 V8 options, AFM or DFM? My old truck was a 2016 with 5.3 (AFM) and 3.08 axle ratio. It looks like i can't get the NHT Max Tow package and stay under $40K but am curious as to whether to get the 3.42 or 3.23, 6 speed or 8speed, 2.7 turbo, 4.3, or V8. We don't own a boat or RV and don't tow anything currently.

Any advice is appreciated.

TNTSierra · October 13, 2020

The 4.3 is a solid motor! A buddy has it in his CC custom Silverado. Loves it. Plenty of power for him.
I have heard nothing but good things about the 2.7l turbo. Haven’t driven one but heard if u didn’t know it was a 4 cylinder wouldn’t know it

the 5.3l is a great motor, great workhorse, and if you drive it conservative it can achieve great fuel economy. I have had both gear ratios and 3.42 are my preference but 3.23 will be a great upgrade compared to 3.08

good luck with your decision

lebag335 · October 13, 2020

5.3 motor was the sweet spot for me.

OnTheReel · October 13, 2020

The LT is much better equipped. Custom is basically a work truck interior. Fine for some, but the LT is a lot more comfortable and better looking inside. LT has better trim, and a better gauge cluster, larger infotainment screen, steering wheel radio controls, etc. Most of the LTs around also have heated seats and steering wheel, push button start and so on.

Around here the cost difference between an LT and Custom is not substantial so in my view, an LT 5.3 8 speed is the best value.

The DFM in the LT is smoother than the AFM in Custom. I also believe the 8 speed / 3.23 is a better performer than the 6 speed 3.42, although some may disagree.

wadecool · October 14, 2020

Appreciate the replies! My truck had recently had a misfire code pop up and in my research i read a lot about the 5.3 AFM lifters failing and lot of people drive in M5 to keep truck from shifting into V4. I ended up having to replace the left side bank of injectors. All that being said, I'm a little gun shy of the 5.3 with AFM. The 3.08 gears made that truck a bit of a dog off the line as well. I guess if I'm ruling out the AFM I shouldn't consider the 4.3 V6 either?