RONIN LSX

iTrader: (43)

Hey guys!

I just bought a lawn service business and I am looking for a better truck than I currently have. I was wondering about which would get better MGP while towing an enclosed v-nose trailer.

In regards to years, motor and fuel systems, I am keeping it between 97 to 03 and though I would rather have a GMC or Chevy, I am open to anything that offers a deal so yeah Ford, Dodge or Toyota.

In general, I am assuming that the v6 would offer better MPG than the v8, but would the v6 be as good when hauling a trailer, or no better than the v8, with the v8 having to work less to pull the same load.

Oh and BTW, I am talking gas, not diesel

I hope I made sense here, lol...

Thanks!

bobfig

imo depending on the weight of the trailer a 4.8/5.3 would be best. the 4.3 v6 are not the best in terms of mpg expectantly in a big truck. 4.8/5.3 generally get very close mpg and the 4.8 would shine when unloaded.

George C....

4.8 tends to get less mpg then 5.3


a 4.3 has no place in a full size truck that is going to tow

smokeshow

iTrader: (16)

The EPA rates the 4.3's fuel economy on par with the 5.3 and a little worse than the 4.8. So realistically, considering how people actually drive and use their vehicles, the 4.3 is definitely worse than both. There's no reason to get the V6.

1FastBrick

iTrader: (17)

A V6 typically gets worse mileage.

Find a truck with a 5.3 and at least 3.73 ratio in the rear end.

RONIN LSX

iTrader: (43)

Thanks guys!

Suburbazine

A v6 can't support more than 1400lbs or so trailer weight. No gumption whatsoever.

A 4.8 is a turd unless you want to floor it, which defeats economy.

SLOPONY

I bought a 4.3 truck... I plan to toss it out, and pop in a 5.3 this winter. that being said. Its a 2wd RCSB 5 speed. It gets 20 mpg around town empty. My tahoe with a 5.3 gets 13. I wouldnt tow more than a garden trailer with the pickup, as it has a hard enough time moving under its own power, and hills kill it. I couldnt imagine it with any kind of a trailer loaded up behind it.

I towed the RCSB home with the tahoe... aside from one really nasty hill by my house, I literally kept forgetting I was towing a trailer with a full size truck on it.

In the past I've towed my old drag car with a 5.3 sierra, and it never really bogged it down, or made me wish I had more power. I would tow all day long with a 5.3

The 4.8.... Useless motor..