van question

bumblebee

Seasoned Expediter
Looking to get a newer van should I go with a g2500 ext 4.8 liter or the 6.0 I heard the smaller motor works harder under a load??? any truth to that? which would be better on mpg. let me know thanks:)
 
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jaminjim

Veteran Expediter
4.8 better mileage works less 6.0

Most I think would say to go with the larger engine in about six months.
 

chefdennis

Veteran Expediter
1st, why the g-2500 and not the g-3500 for the higher gvw? As to the motor, the 4.8 will get you good mileage and gives you all the power you need for the up to 3000 lbs will will get in a cargo van. The 6.0 will give you more power but a bit less in mileage.

I have the 4.8, get a consistent 16.8 loaded and 18 empty at 65 mph, hit 70 and the mileage goes in the crapper. I have not had an issue with not having enough power whenever it is needed.

Personally, I'd be looking for a g-3500 with a 4.8, but if you have to go with the g-2500, make sure it is the HD 8600 lb GVW. You get the little 7200 lb gvw and you will regret it from the 1st load.
 

Jack_Berry

Moderator Emeritus
6.0

you should review the van mpg threads here. some folks getting 17/18 mt with the 6.0.

i have a 4.6 ford. it is fine in flatland but in say, western mo on 44, it hunts for passing gear when in cruise. that is loaded or empty.

i have had 17 almost 18 a couple times in warmer weather, when it is warmer and the land is flat. stay around 60-63 everywhere includng texas an okla and you will get good mileage. 65-70 and that can drop to 13-15.
 

Moot

Veteran Expediter
Owner/Operator
I have the 4.8, GVW. You get the little 7200 lb gvw and you will regret it from the 1st load.

Is this in a 3500? Does G.M. now offer the 4.8 as an option in the 3500?

Like the chef said go with the 3500 and super size it! (long wheel base)
 

bumblebee

Seasoned Expediter
1st, why the g-2500 and not the g-3500 for the higher gvw? As to the motor, the 4.8 will get you good mileage and gives you all the power you need for the up to 3000 lbs will will get in a cargo van. The 6.0 will give you more power but a bit less in mileage.

I have the 4.8, get a consistent 16.8 loaded and 18 empty at 65 mph, hit 70 and the mileage goes in the crapper. I have not had an issue with not having enough power whenever it is needed.

Personally, I'd be looking for a g-3500 with a 4.8, but if you have to go with the g-2500, make sure it is the HD 8600 lb GVW. You get the little 7200 lb gvw and you will regret it from the 1st load.



Thankyou for the info much appreciated.:)
 

bumblebee

Seasoned Expediter
6.0

you should review the van mpg threads here. some folks getting 17/18 mt with the 6.0.

i have a 4.6 ford. it is fine in flatland but in say, western mo on 44, it hunts for passing gear when in cruise. that is loaded or empty.

i have had 17 almost 18 a couple times in warmer weather, when it is warmer and the land is flat. stay around 60-63 everywhere includng texas an okla and you will get good mileage. 65-70 and that can drop to 13-15.

Thankyou for the info much appreciated
 

chefdennis

Veteran Expediter
Yeap Moot, 2005 3500 extended GMC with a 4.8. And I haven't had it drop into O/D at any point that a 6.0 wouldn't do the same , either loaded or unloaded. Now I am not sayng that at sometimes, i wouldn't like it to drop down into O/D, but in those situtations, i just kick it down myself.

I am more then happy with the 4.8. I am not the best guy for gas maileage as my driving habits aren't always the best, so if some are saying they are getting the 18 mpg witn the 6.0, i certinly won't say anything different. I just know that i haven't seen that when loaded.

But again, you will regret a 2500 or even the little 3500.
 

Moot

Veteran Expediter
Owner/Operator
When I bought my 1998 the 5.8 was standard and the diesel was the only option. When I bought my 2004 the 6.0 was standard and there was no option. Both were Chevrolet, 3500 extended vans.

I would think that in 2005 both GMC and Chevrolet offered the 4.8. Nice to have a choice! Was the 5.3 an option or did they do away with that motor? In 2004 both the 5.3 and the 4.8 were available in the 1500 and 2500 series.
 

miker

Seasoned Expediter
I agree completely with the chef on this one, the smaller engine works just fine , the mpg os on the money, and go with the 3500 for added gvw
 
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