2004 LD vs. HD

[powersless]

I have a 2004 2500 2wd crew cab silverado. It has 6.0, 4.10 rear end, but it is a light duty (LD) not an HD.

 

What is the difference from an HD with the 6.0? I looked through my manual and it seams they are similiar in load and towing rating.

 

I ask because I tow a toyhauler approximately 9,000 to 10,000 pounds.

 

Anyone have input?

 

thanks,charlie

[builderpaul]

The HD sits 2" higher do to frame/cab mount differences. There are more power and transmission options with the HD. Most important, to me anyway, is the HD has a full floating rear end. This will last longer under harder use than the semi floater.

 

The maximum combined weight rating for your truck is 16000lbs. So if you pull 10000 that leaves 6K for the truck,cargo, passengers etc. I would guess your truck weights about 5600 add you and a passager that leaves about 100lbs for cargo. Seems you are just about at your maximum capacity.

[powersless]

The HD sits 2" higher do to frame/cab mount differences. There are more power and transmission options with the HD. Most important, to me anyway, is the HD has a full floating rear end. This will last longer under harder use than the semi floater.

 

The maximum combined weight rating for your truck is 16000lbs. So if you pull 10000 that leaves 6K for the truck,cargo, passengers etc. I would guess your truck weights about 5600 add you and a passager that leaves about 100lbs for cargo. Seems you are just about at your maximum capacity.

 

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thanks for the info. I wasnt aware of the differences in the rear ends.

 

i was thinking of trading in for the HD Diesel.

[CapitalTruck]

I toured the Flint, MI truck plant. The HD's are beefier all the way around. Thicker drive shafts, thicker frame components, there's a pretty major difference. At the same time, that added material makes for substantial weight gain. If you tow frequently and use your truck at full capacity all the time it might be worth an upgrade. However, if you tow occasionally, and still have a little space on the GCWR, I would stick with what you got. It's okay to use a truck at its capacity if its cared for and spec'd with proper options like a tranny cooler.