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Cheezeweggie · April 7, 2006

I've been driving small foreign trucks for years now. There's a baby on the way and I need to tow a 4000 lb camper. I'm looking at newer extended cab silverado's and am actually impressed. I'm amazed that the 4.8 V8 gets better mileage than my Nissan v6, Plus it has another 75 horsepower !

One of the local dealers has a 2000 4x4 silverado extended cab with the 4.8 with 70,000 miles on the odometer. It's a plain jane with rubber floor mats and old fashioned hand crank windows. Are there any "issues" with this year and model that I should be aware of ?

Thanks.

tflessner · April 7, 2006

Sounds like it should be a good truck, if you don't mind not having elec. windows, etc. As always, take it to an independant mechanic that you trust and have it checked out.

If you're going to pull your 4,000lb camper long distances and up hills, make sure it's got a good transmission cooler out front. The 4.8 might struggle a little up hills? A 5.3 motor might be better for you?

asilverblazer · April 8, 2006

My opinion the 4.8 WILL struggle, but it will be fine. Don't plan on going 75 down the highway, probably more between 60-65.

99silveradoz71 · April 11, 2006

Welcome, I'd suggest getting the 5.3 especially if the truck is an ext cab and you'll be pulling with it. It'll be stronger and the mileage difference will be minimal.