|
Posts: 719
| FWIW I've been and independant dealer for 25 years and have handled many thousands of GM trucks and have also been driving suv's personally for the past 20 years ( All the big Ford/Lincoln, Tahoe, Suburban variations including 5.4's 5.3's, 6.0, 6.2 etc ) here's my take:
A 4000lb rig is easily towed by any of them, plenty of suspension, brakes and engine. It's best to use the tow setting or disengage overdrive for longer trips or in hilly terrain with that weight and the 5.3. Stepping up to the 6.0 or 6.2 gives a noticable increase in power...usually these are in the Denali or Escalade with self leveling suspension so that has it's benefits as well. The 5.4 ford in the Expedition (I know you didn't ask but it has come up) is a better puller than the 5.3...more low end grunt. The 5.4 in the Navigator is a fair amount stronger and pulls more like the 6.0 or 6.2.
When I moved up to the heavier walleye style hulls (620-621) there was significant benefit to the larger engines...the 5.3 will get it done but the better suspension and additional power of the Denali or Escalade set-ups are a nice step up with the biggest rigs. Those and the Navigator are my choices with the heavy 621.
There are very few 6.0 or 6.2 Suburban half ton's out there...but a nice option if you find one.
In short 4000lb is an easy load for a Sub or Tahoe with the 5.3... you'll know its there but it will handle it very well. There is no way you need a 3/4 ton or the bigger engine...will they handle it better sure but your well below needing that. Plus you won't get hammer'd in day to day driving like you would in a 3/4 ton...both your butt and your wallet.
Edited by bturg 12/27/2012 5:13 PM
| |
|
