90's Tahoe/Yukon vs. Expedition

[motuman]

Hello to all. I'm new here and trying to find the best forum for this question. Hope here is OK.

 

I'm looking for an inexpensive tow vehicle for my trailer which is about 5000 lbs. fully loaded. I want to spend under 7K and I've narrowed it down to a 96-99 Tahoe/Yukon or a 97-99 Expedition. My main concern is durability and reliability, second is comfort and handling with a trailer on long trips. I haven't owned either one but here is some of the info I have gathered so far. Please add you own advice and/or things to look out for, and let me know if anything I've been told is incorrect.

 

* When comparing similiar years & condition it looks like the Expedition sells for a little more.

 

* The Tahoe/Yukon stock 5.7 engine was a little underpowered before 1996. 96' & later engines had more power, same or better gas mileage, but had more problems with the fuel injection system.

 

* Sounds like the Tahoe/Yukon tranny is good for about 120k to 150K miles depending on upkeep and use. Don't know if the Ford does any better?

 

* I've heard stock brakes on the Tahoe/Yukon are a little wimpy. Don't know if the Expedition is any better?

 

* A mechanic friend told me the Tahoe/Yukon 5.7 is bulletproof if you change the intake manifold gaskets every 60,000 miles. He is the only person who mentioned it. Don't know if it's true?

 

* Sounds like the stock 4.6 Ford is a little wimpy, but the optional 5.4 (if you can find one) is known for problems with the coils. Both engines have some problems with MAF and EGR sensors.

 

* Haven't found horsepower/torque numbers for Ford 5.4. Anyone have this?

 

* Expedition's gained horsepower in '99 (but are probably above my price range).

 

* Optional air suspension on Expeditions can be source of problems?

 

Thanks to all. Look forward to hearing from you!

[04silverado1500]

first few years 97 and 98 forsure the 5.4L made 230 hp and the 4.6 made 215. fords are ok trucks but i would go with the amazing 5.7 that is in the yukon/tahoe better gas mileage thats a plus by the way my dad has a 5.4 in his navi so i have been a frequent driver of that motor as well......i would call it a gutless gas pig. but anyhow good luck in making your decision and remember most of us on here all drive chevys