Hello all. I am about to begin the wonderful process of buying a new Silverado and I need a few opinions from yall.

I have owned a 1997 Cheyenne 1500 for almost 9 years now, so I am quite out of the loop as far as current models go!

After spending a while on a lot yesterday, I am almost sure of what I want, but not quite. Here are my questions:

1. Z71 or 4x4? I know for sure I want a 4 wheel drive, but not sure which one would be the best.

2. 2500HD or not? Furthermore, should I stick with just a 4x4 or Z71 or go all the way for a 2500HD? I love how these things look.

3. Does a 2500HD 4x4 NON duramax model exist? The only 2500HD's that I found all had diesel engines and that makes the price too high for me. Is it possible to get this model with a gas engine?

Thanks for helping a new guy!

 

Bought a 2006 z71 5.3 extended cab 2 weeks ago and love it so far. Yes you can get a 2500 in gas. Unless u plan to haul heavy loads I wouldnt get a 2500. Less gas mileage etc.

 

The only difference between 4x4 and a Z71 (for the 1500 series) is bilstein shocks and skid plates. Bilstein shocks are only moderately nicer. Skid plates would be nice.

 

If your not going to be doing any off roading you don't need to spend the extra money on a Z71. I'm sure anymore but they may have bigger tires too.
I also agree with a 1/2 ton. If you aren't going to be doing any pulling or heavy pulling you don't need a 3/4 ton.
I have a 96 350 vortex. I have pulled my 68 Dodge reg cab full box 1/2 ton on a full size trailer, my 49 1/2 ton short box Ford, and my 84 shortbox 1/2 ton Dodge. It pulls them fine. The only problem I really have is on the open highway on a big hill it will want to downshift twice and run 4500 rpm and it doesn't have a lot of power with that much weight at that rpm, so I let it slow me down for 75 to 65 70. I belive that is very close if not a little over max weight for mine to pull. The most I have had to do to mine is spark plugs and oxygen sensors. Probably from pulling and working the engine harder and hotter. My temp gauge shows the same as pulling or not though.

 

I'd take the 2500HD, hauling or not. The 2500HD is available without the Duramax, but the Duramax is definitley the best diesel out there, gets good gas mileage, and is quiet. As for the 1/2 ton, the Z71 doesn't give much more than the standard, but it is very popular. A status mark, I guess. I'd take the Z71, it has more standard equipment that is only optional on non-Z71 models, plus comes with more equipment not available on non-Z71 models.

Take care and God bless,
1ND-hoppe