Engine choices
 

Hey guys,
I've been in the f-body world for years. I've been lurking here for a couple days. I'm looking at purchasing a crew cab 4x4 (1500, probably) as a DD in the next few months. (I found a great deal on a '06 (for 22k!), but it was hunter green)

I'm not sure if I'll mod it much, but might do a few bolt-ons/TC. I'm just looking for opinions on whether to get the 4.8, 5.3, or 6.0. I won't be hauling but a few times a year (dirt/junk to dump), and won't be towing much. Common sense says go for the 4.8 because I don't need the extra ci's/hp, but I thought I'd ask anyway. We have a TB EXT w/4.2, and that's not bad, but it does feel "heavy". My other vehicle is my SS (see sig), so I like to drive. :drive:

Thanks.

Go 6.0 with a CC then you won't worry about having gone too small. The 4.8 and 5.3 aren't dogs but why not get the bigger one?

ok, What's a cc? LOL. I'm thinking if there's not much of a gas or price difference, I'd get the 6.0.

VMAX baby nothing wrong with a bolt on lq9 6.0

CC: Crew Cab (heavier) ...more reason to go with a 6.0...don't know about the gas mileage difference. Mine(in sig)gets 18.5 combined...20 to 21 hwy

ok, thanks guys. I think I'll get the 6.0.

Next question..

For my uses: DD mostly, some light hauling, etc..
Is there any reason to get the 1500HD or 2500HD over the base 1500?
I have the '06 & '07 books at home. The HD's (especialy 2500HD) look better, IMO and have the better suspension and 4L80e. I have to price them out, but I'm not sure if I can justify the price difference since I won't be hauling/towing much.

the HD truck with a 6.0 will be the LQ4, which is the lower compression motor, the LQ9 is available in the regular 1500. From what you describe you won't need the extra suspension or the 4L80e - the 1500 with a LQ9 in it will have a 4L65e behind it and will be fine for your described uses, even if you do complete bolt ons it should be fine if you aren't racing it daily.

Good info. I was wondering why there was such a hp/tq difference between the two 6.0L engines. Thanks.