Wow, just went looking and the 2500 kept the old body style thru 2002, didn't remember that. Yes, the Vortec was a big improvement over the TBI engine but the optispark wasn't the best for reliability. Remember, this engine was only produced for 5 years and it was basically a test bed for Gm to introduce full computer controls for spark and injection. It still has a distributor and only 2 injectors that just feed fuel into a plastic intake, much as the TBI did, but with Mass flow metering of air/fuel and slightly better placement of the injectors for increased performance over the TBI. It can be a good engine, but for my money, I would move up 1-2 years and get into the LS, with direct injection and distributor-less control of the spark. The increase in torque with the LS motor for towing is significant.

Ryan, if you want a gas motor to pull enclosed trailer. I would go 8.1 with an Allison.

Before purchasing a truck, I’d recommend determining what kind of trailer you’ll be wanting/needing/buying. Trust me, all box trailers are NOT the same. Do some homework on trailer axles and what will handle your car, tools, and maybe some spare parts and lawn furniture (chairs and canopy or umbrella for down time at the races). Then figure out what the total weight of the rig will be, and THEN find a suitable truck. An old 5.7 pulling a heavy load up a mountain a few times will be worse than a Saturday night in a Tijuana jailhouse. If you’re gonna do it, do it right. And, please think about the brakes on the trailer and whatever truck you choose. Oh yea, don’t skimp on tie down equipment; good stuff is not cheap and cheap stuff is not good.

Happy Valentines to me!!

My truck search is over!!!

I am now the proud owner of a 2000 K2500 GMC SLT Extended cab short box.

I have to do some work between now and spring to get it ready to tow.

It has so many of the right options!!!
8,600 GVWR
4WD
AC
3.73
Posi
Hydra Boost 9900 lb brakes
Engine oil cooling
Trans cooling
Block heater
Cruise
6.0L LQ4
4L80E
Power T case
Skid plates
Aluminium Wheels
Extra Battery
Trailer wiring
Trailer hitch
Snow Plow Prep
And Two Tone Paint!!!

Thanks to the guys that helped me along the way!!! Van Gregory Hurst, Des Ryan, Bruno Beltrame, Andy Elliott, and of course the person that pushes me towards my passions every day of the year Amy Weaver

Congrats man. Pics.

2000 k2500 GMC SLT
 

K2500 photos

You asked so quick, I was already posting!!!

All the pieces of the puzzle are coming together!!!

A friend has an older 24’ enclosed trailer that he doesn’t use much, so we are going to hopefully strike a deal in April and I will be all ready to go!!!

Ryan W31

Congrats. You should consider replacing the brake lines preemptively. Does it have the Autotrac transfer case? I've owned my 2004 since new and been through most of it replacing/fixing stuff.

Wow. What a beauty. My 6.0 pulls very well. Fuel mileage sucks, but such is life; power OR economy. I have no regrets, and doubt you will either.

Heed his warning. The Chevy trucks are notorious for their brake lines rotting out. I have had to replace them on every Chevy truck we have owned except our 2015 HD2500 (so far). The worst part is they rot through and with little or no warning. You are going down the road and suddenly you lose the front or rear brakes. NOT a good thing especially pulling a trailer. GM says 1998 through 2003 but I have replaced them on my 1998 and my 2004 so I think they have those numbers are a little off. I just bought myself a newer truck as well to replace my 2004 HD2500 with 220,000 miles. It has been a fantastic truck but I kind of like rocker panels and the 04 no longer has any. I replaced it with a Silver truck I saw on sYc recently. Great truck and an even better seller. :)

Oh, and congratulations Ryan on your new acquisition.