Need help fast

700cc · June 29, 2006

I'm trying to quickly decide between a 1500 and a 2500HD. If I get the 1500, I am looking at a 2006 Silverado 1500 EC Z-71. Problem is, this one was invoiced early in the model year, and has an engine/gear ratio I've never heard of. 310 hp "light duty power package" with a 3.42 rear end. I thought they were all 295 hp with either a 3.73 or 4.10 rear end. What gives?

ken1mod · June 29, 2006

I would recommend against the 3.42 axle ratio. Mine has the 3.73 and I consider it barely adequate. I wish mine had the 4.10s and I run unloaded.

Ken

MS3DALE · June 29, 2006

The 310 hp engine is the "L33" aluminum-block "H.O." 5300 V8 that first became available in '05,It is only available in the 1/2-ton Ext.cab short-bed trucks.

3.42 is now the common gear ratio on 4x4 trucks (This started in '05) with 4.10's being optional,GM restricts the 3.73 ratio to the hybrid trucks and fleet sales until they make so many with 3.42's (Because 3.42 ratio gets better gas mileage this helps GM meet CAFE standards) then they lift the restriction.

pm26 · June 30, 2006

GM also uses 3.23 ratio axle gears on 2WD trucks, including those with factory tow package. Do 2WD supercabs come with the aluminum H.O. 5.3 as well? With the lame 3.23 axle ratio?

ZZebes · June 30, 2006

You want to talk about an inadequate gear... My truck has 3.23 from the factory and i HATE them, i want to get rid of them but cant afford the almost 2,000 the dealership wants to swap them for 3.73's i am considering having an outside shop switch them to 4.11

pm26 · June 30, 2006

Considering 0%/72? How about 0%/0? That's called paying cash for your truck.

700cc · June 30, 2006

Considering 0%/72? How about 0%/0? That's called paying cash for your truck.

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To most of you for your replies, thanks so much. For pm26, thanks for your insightful bs. If I can use someone else's money for 72 months for free (and invest my own in interest-bearing accounts), why would I part with my money now. Thanks again.