Diesel Tow vehicle options

[Chevy454]

Yeah, that kinda mileage out of an LLY is a *bit* of a stretch...maybe he's using that "new math", though?!

[Xplantdad]

Maybe he's driving downhill both ways?

[Donnie]

well, I have a LLY with just over 9,000 miles on it and I get 19.3 empty on the highway and 12.2 pulling a 24' enclosed @ 65 to 68 MPH. and I do get a little over 18 around town and highway mixed.

[bilede]

My 2005 lly would get 20 consistently unloaded and got as high as 24 on the highway so mileage does vary from truck to truck, driver to driver.

[TN2Lane]

A couple of things re: mileage
-Rear end ratios - there are basically 2 available on 2500 & 3500 GMs - 3.73 and 4.10. Most Duramax's have the 3.73, most 8.1s have (err...had) the 4.10. Check dieselplace.com - they've got a list of all the axle codes and their ratios.
-4WD - the 4x4 versions get 1-2 mpg less, even when running in 2WD mode. That front differential still has to turn, even when it's in neutral. Plus, 4x4s have more stuff to break. Unless you need 4x4 (planning on going off road, live in a blizzard zone, etc.), get a 2WD. 2WDs generally have less resale value, so if you're looking used that's a plus.

[SmallHurst]

Plus, take another 1-2 off for duallies. Plus the 1-tons typically had the 4.1's. It all adds up, plus I don't think Rob has a level piece of ground around until he hits the interstate!!!

[Chevy454]

[ QUOTE ]
A couple of things re: mileage
-Rear end ratios - there are basically 2 available on 2500 & 3500 GMs - 3.73 and 4.10. Most Duramax's have the 3.73, most 8.1s have (err...had) the 4.10. Check dieselplace.com - they've got a list of all the axle codes and their ratios.
-4WD - the 4x4 versions get 1-2 mpg less, even when running in 2WD mode. That front differential still has to turn, even when it's in neutral. Plus, 4x4s have more stuff to break. Unless you need 4x4 (planning on going off road, live in a blizzard zone, etc.), get a 2WD. 2WDs generally have less resale value, so if you're looking used that's a plus

[/ QUOTE ]
From GM, you can *only* get a 3.73 in a Duramax...no choice...on the 8.1L, 3.73 or 4.10 (both of ours are 3.73).

As for the 4x4, if you *never* get off of concrete/asphalt or never see ice/snow, you'll be fine with a 2wd...but I'm here to tell ya, you can get in a pinch EASILY with a trailer in tow...been there, done that. A certain snow covered parking lot in Nebraska comes to mind...

[ORIGLS6]

[ QUOTE ]
As for the 4x4, if you *never* get off of concrete/asphalt or never see ice/snow, you'll be fine with a 2wd...but I'm here to tell ya, you can get in a pinch EASILY with a trailer in tow...been there, done that.

[/ QUOTE ]

Gas, Diesel, propane, steam powered............ doesn't matter. If you're pulling a trailer and think you might EVER get off pavement,....get the 4WD.
I would gladly drive a 2WD truck as my daily driver, but I do tow my trailer a few times a year and HAVE used the 4WD more times than I care to remember. So,.... since I don't have the option of multiple trucks,... 4WD it is.