Ryan Weaver Wanted 2 tone C20/K20 tow vehicle for car hauler - Page 3

**Ryan1969Chevelle** · #1 10-08-2023, 05:34 PM

I have considered a 3500 as they are cheap, but too thirsty.

I have considered ramp trucks but I want the Cutlass in an enclosed trailer for long overnight trips.

I have spent a lot of time analyzing trucks and anything with DOD AFM is out of the question.

I looked at early 90’s trucks and the TBI were a little low on power, so I ended up looking for 1996 to 2000 with Vortec 5.7 or 7.4, this is likely the best choice….. but then I got thinking why not buy a truck I love?

Ryan W31

**chevelleheart** · #2 10-13-2023, 02:51 AM

Ryan , You need a 1971 454 SS Chevelle Wagon ! I have pics !

**Too Many Projects** · #3 10-13-2023, 04:07 AM

The 2000 was a new body style from the '96-99 and was all LS engines in SBC, but 5.3 for the small block. That body carries over thru 2002. I had a '95 5.7 and went to a 2000 with an LS and it is a world of difference in power and economy between the old TBI gen 1 5.7 sbc and the LS. There were 6.0 and 6.2 LS gas engines in the 2500 series that would be better suited for an enclosed trailer than the 5.3
Keep looking and you will find one you like.

**Ryan1969Chevelle** · #4 10-13-2023, 08:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Too Many Projects

The 2000 was a new body style from the '96-99 and was all LS engines in SBC, but 5.3 for the small block. That body carries over thru 2002. I had a '95 5.7 and went to a 2000 with an LS and it is a world of difference in power and economy between the old TBI gen 1 5.7 sbc and the LS. There were 6.0 and 6.2 LS gas engines in the 2500 series that would be better suited for an enclosed trailer than the 5.3
Keep looking and you will find one you like.

I think the K2500 stayed OBS in 2000…… I think both new and old versions of 2000 were built.

I am confident with 4.10’s the Vortec 5.7 or 7.4 would be just fine…. Am I right/wrong?

Ryan W31

**Too Many Projects** · #5 10-13-2023, 04:50 PM

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.

**Ryan1969Chevelle** · #6 10-13-2023, 08:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chevelleheart

Ryan , You need a 1971 454 SS Chevelle Wagon ! I have pics !

I want to tow an enclosed trailer, I want a 71 wagon of course but my next vehicle needs to tow.

Ryan W31

**Donnie** · #7 10-13-2023, 05:46 PM

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

**DW31S** · #8 10-13-2023, 07:14 PM

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.

**Ryan1969Chevelle** · #9 02-17-2024, 01:23 PM

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

**Ryan1969Chevelle** · #10 02-17-2024, 01:29 PM

K2500 photos

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