So here’s the just of it, I have 240k on my 03’ 2500 with a 6.0, & its time for a rebuild, so now I’m looking at my options to make it into a decent tow rig. Right now it’s weak & has a hard time pulling my 28’ camper at hwy speeds. I can get around in KS ok but plan on pulling to the mountains at some point.
I don’t have cash for a turbo or super Charger, I im thinking the stroker is out of reach as well.
I have been searching the boards/net for a while now & seem to get a lot of conflicting info so I figured I just park it here & get your guys’ thoughts.

 

I have full bolt-ons with a tune and I am not impressed with the gains in the 6.0. I would opt for 243 heads and a mild cam for towing. If you like your heads get LQ9 pistons for compression and a mild cam. Those are my next two things to try. If that doesn't work a supercharger will....

 

Mild cam is a great option keep it under 220 duration for towing. 212/218 is a very common proven towing cam in a 6.0 allong with the supporting parts. A good tune, full exhaust including long tube headers, and gears are going to be your best options for improved towing ability.

 

Seems like a 212/218 would be a bit small for towing in a 6.0?

 

Put a 8.1 in or build a 6.0 with flat tops and put a blower on top and a cam designed to work with the blower.

 

my truck has a 4.8 with 275/55 20's and 3.23's and its a turd.... a guy at work has the same truck with 4.10's and 22's and he says it makes a night and day difference... changing the rear gear could make the difference you're looking for

 

small cam and 243 heads.

 

I plan on doing a tune and cam for sure, & gears would be a great fit but since i am wanting to go through the motor with a refresh I going to start there.

As for pistons should i go with the lq9 flat tops or the LS3 6.2's I cant say that that i need to bore the cylinders out, but would be willing to do it if the gain was worth it.

And as for heads I know alot of people are using the 243's but since im just looking for low end, would i be just fine with my heads & maybe a port & polish? (have no clue what a p&p would cost)

Thanks for the help guys!

 

I'd buy a low mile 6.0. install small cam and 243 heads.

 

I picked up huge bottom and mid gains going with long tube pacesetter headers and a custom 3.5 exhaust. In fact going from 3in to 3.5 inch gained mainly in the mid/low. Nice trq gains. I would start there. Paired with the cam everyone else is recommending and the lq9 pistons the truck would come alive for cheap. Expect 80-90whp and similar torque across the board with good tune.