Hi, thought I would ask a few questions from the people who know. I searched the forum but couldn't find anything, I apologize if this is a re-post. I'm looking at a '99 (suburban) 2500 4x4 w/ a 7.4, 70,000 miles and VERY clean. This won't be a daily driver but to tow a 5,000 lb. trailer now and then, plus loaded with kayaks, kids, bikes and other camping stuff. It will also get me to work when it snows. My question is, how reliable is the 7.4? Can I expect to put on another 70k without to much trouble provided I maintain it regularly? Anything specific to the Suburban I should look for that might be a problem down the road? Thanks in advance!

 

Welcome to the forum.

It depends on what the BBC saw in the first 70K and how it was maintained. Well maintained, a BBC is very durable, IMO.

 

Agree with Shark re: maintenance history. My 1994 350 went 300K miles (then traded it still functional), about 70K of that was long haul (KS to TX) towing of a large sailboat, trailer, crew, gear, etc. in spring summer fall, 5K trailer and boat plus 5 people and gear. Went through a tranny and rear end rebuild after about 150K. Only traded it because I was "hearing footsteps" with the engine even though it wasn't exhibiting any problems and I was starting to see a little spotty rust. I maintained it regularly before stuff broke. I have a friend that's still running a late 80's big block, same type of use but i don't know how many miles he has on it.