06 2500hd Diesel Vrs Ford F350

Dysan · June 27, 2009

Hi All, new to the forum and I have a question for those who know the 06 diesel trucks. I am looking to buy the following:

2006 GMC Sierra 2500HD Diesel crew cab 4x4 S/B (has 75,000 miles on it) but is in excellent shape and has the LBZ engine (supposed to be a better one than the previous)

My questions are:

How will this truck pull a 12,000lb 5th wheel?

Do the 16inch factory rims/tires pose a problem? Meaning should I switch to a 17inch rim?

Any major issues with the 06 truck I should be aware of?

I hate to say this but the other choice I am looking at is a 2007 F350 Diesel Lariat Edition w/35,000 miles(sorry) anyway, price for the GMC is $6,000 CDN dollars lower than the Ford (due to Km and year). I like the quiet of the GMC diesel, but like the beefier size of the ford. Ford seems to be roomier inside also, not sure though.

Any comments/thoughts/suggestions appreciated

Thanks

MarkD · June 27, 2009

I'm not a diesel guru, but there are a few facts I have seen play out.

The Ford has a 6.0L which is prone to blowing head gaskets. The most recent (August 09) Diesel Power or Diesel World magazine has an extensive article on how to fix ALL of the problems with the 6.0

Most people that pull a 5th wheel regularly recommend a long bed for the increased bed clearance when turning.

16 inch wheels are fine, tires are usually cheaper, easier to get e-rated tires, softer ride, and less heat buildup.

From what I hear, by 06 most of the problems have been worked out. 01-02 had some injector issues. That amount of weight should almost feel irrelevant.

Air Bags are worth their weight in gold for a regular tow-er.

Dysan · July 4, 2009

Thanks for the reply and the information, but there has been some changes...I have decided to turf the Ford idea, and the 06 was sold on me..So now I am looking at a 2008 Sierra 2500HD diesel Crew SLT Z71 package (whatever that offers) Anyone with this type of truck have comments..Do you like it etc etc. Thanks

weymard · July 4, 2009

.......................................So now I am looking at a 2008 Sierra 2500HD diesel Crew SLT Z71 package (whatever that offers) Anyone with this type of truck have comments..Do you like it etc etc. Thanks

Exactly that I want too, I have a 1500 ltz with 6,0L gas 2007, but the 2500 diesel is my new project ! GMC as you if it possible !

wjackson91 · July 4, 2009

Thanks for the reply and the information, but there has been some changes...I have decided to turf the Ford idea, and the 06 was sold on me..So now I am looking at a 2008 Sierra 2500HD diesel Crew SLT Z71 package (whatever that offers) Anyone with this type of truck have comments..Do you like it etc etc. Thanks

Just got an 09 chevy 2500HD Diesel/Allison Crew LTZ Z-71 yesterday. Should be the same drivetrain as yours. Love it so far. This is my first diesel so I am learning.

From what I know the Z-71 package on the Chevy, includes skid plates, off-road suspension, and a bigger stabilizer bar. Pretty sure it's the same on the GMC.

Love the interior and the ride so far. The dealer put some 285/75 17 Toyo Open Coutry tires on it with ReadyLift leveling kit up front.

I don't think you will be dissapointed in that truck.

Z45 · July 4, 2009

Trailering spec's for the 2008

http://eogld.ecomm.gm.com/NASApp/domestic/...ge=&butID=8

Roofer · July 4, 2009

The 06 probably would have been better on fuel, but not sure by how much. As for pulling that weight....get a good controller and hitch, you'll be fine.

As for the Ford, trust me......you don't want a newer ford Diesel. Wait for their new engine in a year or so. They get 16 mpg if they you get a good one. My Cummins with 2012 emmissions get 19 rather easily. The 02 Duramax I had got a little better with open exhaust and a 90HP Edge, but the Cummins is much more powerful even stock. Haven't driven a newer Duramax.

As long as you are looking at a 08, you may as well check out some dealerships for new. I got mine for $12K under sticker with good financing to boot.

Dysan · July 5, 2009

Thanks for the info everyone. How do I know what the Model # is on the truck elcamino? They list TC and TK #'s on that site ..I am not sure which it would be...I guess I will ask the dealer for a build sheet maybe??(edit: did some looking on that site and I think it is a TK20743) I am pulling a 5th wheel that list at 10,000lb's dry weight (32ft) so I should be ok according to what I see.

Fuel wise, I think the 06 would be better also....Apparently that regen thing the new trucks go through is killer on fuel..Not sure what that is all about. Anyone have any knowledge on this? What happens if your in the middle of a pull across the mountains and it decides to regen? Do you lose power??

Also this unit does not have trailer tow mirrors, it has the power folding bullet style..Can I replace them with the factory TT mirrors? or are there better after market options than factory?

Thanks for all your input