BAWC Forums

8.1 only offers 100 more torque. Same HP as newer 5.3s. I would take a 6 speed over a 4 speed for towing in the "sweet spot" over the 100 torque. But that is just me. The 5.3 can tow 8000 lbs. What do you plan on towing over that much weight?

If I tow it’s not flat. Not by a long shot. That’s why I’ve been wanting the 8.1. That and it’s stupid. I love stupid vehicles. I was thinking it was a 4 speed with an overdrive. It’s not it’s a 3 speed with an overdrive. That does bug me. I would get the 6.0 if I could find them, it’s hard as everything just says v8.


Coop

[quote=""DCIV""]Eh the 8.1l has a different trans and more power so I think it would act different but maybe not.

The 6 speed deff has the abuility to last longer as a vehicle and more versatile.

The 8.1l just has the POWER that makes it stupid and perfect for me.


Coop[/quote]
You still don't get it, it's not all about the power and torque. The 6spd is far smarter than the 4spd for much more vehicle control in acceleration but more importantly for declaration and holding speeds down hills. When you are talking about moving 5+ tons of combined weight stopping and controlling your downhill speed is far more important than most people think. The 6spd is so much better its not even funny. If you really want to use it as a tow vehicle you need to get over doing Coop things because you want to do Coop things. Practicality and safety are important considerations when you want to tow.
[quote=""DCIV""]When people talk about it having a 4 speed do they mean 4 speed with an overdrive? So it’s a 5 speed...or is it just a 4 speed?


Coop[/quote]
It's a 4 spd where 4th gear is an over drive gear. So when you tow you basically only have a 3spd auto as you'll want to lock out OD especially in the mountains.

The big block will definitely tow better but it's a relatively short run engine. Parts are harder to find. I can't confirm this today but 5 years ago I needed a crank sensor for one (might have been cam. Can't remember for sure) and it was a 2 year only part with 4 left in the country at the time.


Unless you're planning on towing 12+k the 6.0 will do the job with better empty mpg, much easier to work on, and more parts availability.

Throw a few psi at it and it'll smash the 8.1

It's kind of like comparing an sbc to an sbf. They both have potential and are very capable but the Chevy is easier and cheaper

I will say the 2500 has bigger brakes, suspension, frame, and so it’s not like I would be doing “unsafe” things. I also get to drive a very heavy vehicle very fast in “safe” manors all the time so while that’s not towing, that’s controlling a lot of weight.

I need to find an 8.1l to drive. I’ve driven one of the 1st avalanches before, so I need to drive a 6 speed one as well.


Coop

[quote=""DCIV""]I will say the 2500 has bigger brakes, suspension, frame, and so it’s not like I would be doing “unsafe” things. I also get to drive a very heavy vehicle very fast in “safe” manors all the time so while that’s not towing, that’s controlling a lot of weight.

I need to find an 8.1l to drive. I’ve driven one of the 1st avalanches before, so I need to drive a 6 speed one as well.


Coop[/quote]

When it comes to suspension and brakes I'm sure they're about equal. 8.1 may have heavier springs due to the increased weight but I'm almost positive they have the same brakes.

It has a different bolt pattern and everything. It’s a 2500 vehicle. I HIGHLY doubt the brakes are the same.


Coop

https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/inventory ... =229424481

Dang 6 speeds are expensive.


Coop

[quote=""DCIV""]It has a different bolt pattern and everything. It’s a 2500 vehicle. I HIGHLY doubt the brakes are the same.


Coop[/quote]

Silverado 2500 came with a 6.0

I have one in the shop right now and did brakes on it yesterday.

I might end up with the 8.1 because I can get those for 5-7k. Pay off my escape, and have money to mod.


Coop

Don't see this every day.

https://row52.com/Vehicle/Index/3GNEK13T92G235935

More 2500s than I expected too.

https://row52.com/Vehicle/Index/3GNGK23G43G174111
https://row52.com/Vehicle/Index/3GNGK23G82G161831
https://row52.com/Vehicle/Index/3GNGK23GX2G287964