Derrick71

I'm about ready to pull the trigger on a work van. Going to look at one today. It's a 2011 1500 with the 5.3 and 180,000 miles

I've been on the fence about getting a 1500 5.3l 4-speed or a 2500 with the 6-speed tranny.

The 1500 v8 would be more than enough towing capacity (6,700 pounds) and I'll only be towing around 4,000 at the most. I won't be leaving the south east where it's relatively flat. Most of the time I'll be running the van without the trailer or with a lighter trailer. My tools and cargo are bulky but not very heavy. I'll be well within the 2144 lb payload capacity. Right now I'm working out of a Grand Caravan and have pulled the trailer with it. I'm running out of space inside and it struggles with the trailer. I'm looking to go several hundred miles with the trailer more loaded down and can't ask that of the poor minivan.

I can get a 1500 or a 2500. For me the only difference is the transmission. The 2500 gets slightly lower mileage even with the 6-speed. The 1500 is powerful enough that I could swap in a taller rear end (comes with 3.73) for better fuel economy and still tow what I need. I would want to add limited slip anyway. I'm a handy mechanic with access to a full shop so working on these doesn't scare me.

So, is the 6-speed worth basing a decision on or would I be happy with the 4-speed?
Am I missing any other big differences between the vans that would apply to my needs?

mountainmanjoe

If you can, go for the 2500 of course. It's going to be significantly more durable.

Derrick71

Which systems would be more durable?

I went and looked at the 2011 1500 yesterday. It's equipped exactly as I would want it. Sliding door, glass in all doors and even rear heat/air. It has a 1,500 watt inverter and some very nice shelving, drawers, divider and lock boxes. I don't need all the shelving, boxes or divider so I'd be able to sell some of it. It has the nice drop down ladder racks too.

The shocks and struts are shot so I'd replace those and maybe replace all the suspension mounts for good measure. It needs tires and has a few chips in the windshield.

mountainmanjoe

Most of the chassis. Beefier suspension , axle, transmission, driveline, etc.

You said you bought it for work.
Most people don't like glass on work vans for security reasons
Also, I measured and the barn doors have a larger opening than the slider.