Drove a GMC 3500 Single Rear Wheel Today !!

jefffoxsr · April 28, 2004

With the extra 14 inches of wheelbase over the 2500HD crew cab, the 3500 crew cab srw rode MUCH better over the bumps. I have never driven a drw so I can't compare.

This 3500 srw had the 8.1 engine, 4.10, and the allison. It was a sweet ride. I cannot stress enough how NICE the ride was and I can tell you I hate a rough ride. The allison was nice too. The 2500 didn't have the allison, but needed it. The allison had the right internal gear ratios for the job in my opinion.

Now I'm in trouble though because I was all set to get that new 3/4 ton Yukon XL with the 8.1 engine and the 3.73. I drove them back to back today and I love them both.

What to do?

I like the Yukon XL better as a daily driver, but the purpose of this purchase is to buy the right tow rig for my trailer. My 2003 Yukon 1/2 ton will remain the daily driver as it won't do the job as the tow rig.

I know the GCWR of the truck is 22,000# vs the 17,000# of the 3/4 ton Yukon XL and the wheelbase of the 3500 is 37" longer, but do you think one of the two vehicles in question will feel better towing on the road than the other?????????

If they will feel the same then I might as well get the Yukon XL.

Jeff

2004 Sunnybrook 2726 (6500# unloaded & dry)

2003 Yukon 5600# wet (for now!)

Chevyfreek · April 28, 2004

The new 3500SRW trucks with the D/A combo are awesome for sure. I drove an EC/LB Silverado a couple of moths ago and it was a very nice truck. I love the new LLY motor and the trans was just right as well. I would take one for sure if I could afford it.

As far as towing goes you will have no problems pulling anything with the Duramax and you will get much better mileage out of it vs. the 8.1L. Length of the trailer and overall length may be a factor for you as well. It is personal preference really. Both are nice trucks, but I would go with the pick-up myself. Especially is you are just going to use it for towing.

Roofer · April 28, 2004

I would go for the truck myself. You can do so much more with it and it is made for towing. Not sure what I would take for a motor. I wouldn't like to leave a diesel sit that long between drives. Either motor will tow with ease. Another thing is with a truck you can uprgrade to a 5th wheel if and when you want.