used pickup truck purchase advice

Nik · Feb 3, 2009

I am looking for a 2006 or so used pickup truck. I am considering a Chevy Silverado 5.3L V8 crew cab versus a Toyota Tundra 4.7 V8 Crew cab. I do not need a long bed and would like the capabilty of towing my B3030 periodically (I guess < 5000 # including trailer). Have seen 4.8 chevy V8 engine available but not sure this is enough power and I think the 5.3 would be preferable. I am looking for a certified truck. The chevy and 2006 Tundra seem to have a lower center of gravity than the newer tundra and Ford 150. I am looking for a low mileage vehicle and would appreciate your wisdom and advice. These used trucks seem to sell quickly in my area.

redharley · Feb 3, 2009

Right now is a great time to purchase a use truck,Shop around for sure.I found prices widly space here in central Pa. I just recently purchased an 06 Chev Avalanche and love it.I have worked on Gm products for years at a local fleet repair shop so my opinnion might be that way.I looked and test drove them ALL.I to felt the used Toyota's with the 4.7 were a little under powered for my 16' trailer and my bota.The Chev with the 5.3 has no problems pulling my tractor with loader[a BX] and I haul 2 ton of coal with no problem's if you use your head.The 5.3 has been a good engine.I would not get a 4.8 and we are having a LOT of exhaust manifold and y pipe problems on the 6.0 but other than that they are doing well.Test drive them as your likes of seating and proformance may be different than mine.

Builder · Feb 4, 2009

Nik said:
I am looking for a 2006 or so used pickup truck. I am considering a Chevy Silverado 5.3L V8 crew cab versus a Toyota Tundra 4.7 V8 Crew cab. I do not need a long bed and would like the capabilty of towing my B3030 periodically (I guess < 5000 # including trailer). Have seen 4.8 chevy V8 engine available but not sure this is enough power and I think the 5.3 would be preferable. I am looking for a certified truck. The chevy and 2006 Tundra seem to have a lower center of gravity than the newer tundra and Ford 150. I am looking for a low mileage vehicle and would appreciate your wisdom and advice. These used trucks seem to sell quickly in my area.

If you get in and out of your truck as many times per day as me, you will appreciate a lower truck unless you need to do a lot of hard core off roading. Both of those trucks are very comparable. I'm impressed with the comfortable ride of my GMC. I can drink my hot coffee without worrying about spilling it all over.

I like redharley's advice, go drive them and buy the one you like best. You might also want to check the warranties on them and see if one's longer than the other. My GM came with a 100K powertrain warranty on the engine, tranny & front/rear axles. Don't know if Toy does the same.

Diamondpilot · Feb 4, 2009

Get the one you like best. Like you think the 5.3L engine is the way to go in a GM. The 4.8 just lacks torque and the 6.0 is a gas hog. Like the others said, drive them all and make your choice. Look at how its wearing on parts like the doors, tail gate, interior, buttons and knobs, ect. All trucks now have good powertrains from Ford, GM, Dodge, Nissian, and Toyota.

Chris

George2615 · Feb 4, 2009

I would agree not to get a 4.8 engine. I had one in an 02 Chevy and it would pull but didn't have the power / torque I needed. The 5.3 is a better choice with the 3.73 rear for towing your 5K. As other have said now is the time to buy new or used since prices are down. I can't offer any advice on the Tundra since I don't know anyone who has one or the capabilities of it.

om21braz · Feb 4, 2009

Nik,
I have a 2006 Chevy 1500 crew cab w/ 5.3 & 3.42 rear end. It does very well pulling a 16' tandem axle landscape trailer. The heaviest load to date is that trailer with a Jeep Cherokee on it - I'd guess 6,000 lbs. (2k trailer + 4k Jeep). It did very well, even on very hilly ground I was able to maintain 50-55mph without pushing it very hard. Unless you have a larger trailer in mind for the future you would probably be pleased with this type truck. I actually had a F250 with the 5.4 gas that would not do as well pulling power wise as this 1500. Just make sure you use the "tow mode" when towing more than an empty trailer.

Travelover · Feb 4, 2009

I don't know if regional price differences are as big as they used to be, but traders used to come to the metro Detroit area and buy trucks to sell at a profit in other states. I guess it is because everyone here knows someone that can buy the truck new at a employee pricing.

At any rate, you might look into seeing if a drive will get you a lower price. Lots of people here in a selling mood.

asylum575 · Feb 4, 2009

I have a 2006 Silverado crew 1500HD 2WD with the 6.0 and 3.73. Drinks gas, but very powerful. Great towing rig, the lack of 4WD Hasn't really been an issue. I just don't take it where i'll get stuck.

crashz · Feb 5, 2009

I have an 04 GMC 1500 4x4 with 5.3L and 3.73 gears. Tows and plows snow well for a 1/2 ton. Suspension and tire upgrades are a must as well as improvements to the brakes if towing, hauling or plowing snow on a regular basis.

I have nearly 100K miles on my truck with very few problems that I haven't caused myself. Proper maintenance and an easy right foot will yeild many years of use for you.