I've run into a lot of these in my price range (<$5k) in my area, most in the 125-200k mileage range, and most with the 5.7l engine. I'm searching for a more capable replacement for my Honda Pilot as an expo vehicle (anyone considering a Honda expo rig, be forewarned that the mildest fire roads can beat the crap out of these, I'd avoid them like the plague for expo). I need something with good range, decent articulation/clearance, and a good payload capacity (and 4wd, obviously). I figured a K1500, extended cab would fit the bill nicely with a cap on the back to sleep in. A 4-door Tahoe also seems to be large enough. A K1500 'burb would work as well, but would stepping up to the burb be a major hit on fuel economy compared to the 4-door tahoe/extended cab silverado, given the same 5.7l engine?
I know this was chevy's first attempt at IFS on their truck/SUV line. Is the IFS a big issue? I'm not looking at real serious wheeling, but I'd like to be able to trust it in some minor mud, wash-board roads, and milder trails.
I'm looking at larger tires as an early investment for the rig, what is the biggest I can go without lift? Can 255/85's fit without rubbing?
Speaking of lift, are there good options out there? Will I be able to get actual suspension lift (not spacers, actual spring lift) for a reasonable amount of money? Is long travel an eventual possibility?
Speaking of the 5.7, TBI or Vortec? Which is more reliable, which is more efficient, quirks/issues of each?
Anything else you guys know about this generation of truck/engine that I should be aware of? Are there many invasive electronics systems that I may run into? When shopping for one, what do I need to look for/avoid?
Thanks, and sorry for showering you all with questions.
I know this was chevy's first attempt at IFS on their truck/SUV line. Is the IFS a big issue? I'm not looking at real serious wheeling, but I'd like to be able to trust it in some minor mud, wash-board roads, and milder trails.
I'm looking at larger tires as an early investment for the rig, what is the biggest I can go without lift? Can 255/85's fit without rubbing?
Speaking of lift, are there good options out there? Will I be able to get actual suspension lift (not spacers, actual spring lift) for a reasonable amount of money? Is long travel an eventual possibility?
Speaking of the 5.7, TBI or Vortec? Which is more reliable, which is more efficient, quirks/issues of each?
Anything else you guys know about this generation of truck/engine that I should be aware of? Are there many invasive electronics systems that I may run into? When shopping for one, what do I need to look for/avoid?
Thanks, and sorry for showering you all with questions.