I am a 23 year old just graduating from school out here in Colorado. I am currently looking at these world class trucks. I.e. the Chevy 2500 CC 4x4 with the Duramax, or the GMC (same truck). First question - Which brand would you suggest? Second - Which tranny? I will be towing a little in about a year when i'll be getting my boat. I'll also be driving to the mountains quite a bit. Third - What year would you suggest? I've been reading all of your posts, and i've got it down to then 2004 - 2005. Just curious which generation of engine to go with. Thank for your input.:offtopic:

If you're buying new, the LLY is going to be your only choice out there......Personally, I would go with the 6-speed manual, but I know I'm in the minority on that statement :) Chevy or GMC....take your pick..some say the GMC is higher quality, but I have yet to see any difference other than the badgeing and styling......
Welcome to the forum!

If you enjoy the Batmobile look of the Chevy, get it. If you desire the classic good looks of the GMC, you made the right choice! ;)

The only significant difference is the front wheel clearance if you decide on larger tires. Seems the GMC's have a pinch more tire clearance in the front.

LB7 engines went into trucks from 2001 to (build date) ~12/03. The 8th digit of the VIN is 1. Starting in 12/03 (model 2004.5), the engine changed to the LLY. The LLY has less "go fast" goodies so far, but it has two main advantages: easier injector replacement, and a variable vane turbo. Downside is reported 5-10% reduction in mileage, and a "soft" 1st and 5th gear power output with stock programming.

personally I think GMC's look better and sit higher thus on my second HD.

also, get the Allison Tranny..I think its the only option with the Duramax, only one that can handle its torque. You won't be disappointed.

either truck is built on the same assembly line and have the same engine/tranny so its going to be little preferences you like that will determine.

good luck with your final choice. whispering-gmc gmc gmc gmc.. LOL

Has anybody noticed a difference between the ally and 6 speed based on fuel economy?

not sure about fuel economy, but with the 6speed you go down a bit in power.

ally all the way!!:exactly:

Being your going to spend considerable time in the mountains, I recommend the Allison. The downhill braaking in the Allison is a dream for trailer people.Differences in the GMC and Chev is cosmetic, get whichn ever one looks best to you. I like my GMC.

GMC or Chevy just seems to be preference on looks. I vote Ally. Clutch and flywheel seams to be dealing GM and owners fits right now. I also vote 01-03 or 05. The 04's have had some hit and miss overheating problems. I like the 01-02 Chevy front end best myself. The 05 looks better than the 03-04 and they did increase airflow to the radiator to help the overheating.

You WILL NOT be dissapointed with the Ally, especially towing throught he mountains. As far as Chevy vs. GMC, the differences are purely cosmetic. As you can see by my sig I prefer GMC but to each his own.


Welcome to our twisted world and hang on to your wallet because thhis is a sickness :muahaha:

Learn which dealer (Chev or GMC) has the best service dept to handle any warranty work close to where you live most of the time. Attempt to get your best purchase price from any dealership selling the brand name vehicle that ties to the better vehicle servicing dealer in your area. I didn't care if I purchased a Chev or GMC since only difference is sheet metal but our local GMC dealer in my FL location is lacking in the service area. The Chev dealer is A-OK, so Chev got the nod. Got my best price from the dealer in my NV location. Service after sale is important should problems arise.
Get the Allison. Unless you plan on driving the thing for an eternity the manual will have adverse effect on resale or trade value.

Allison transmission.
Chevrolet or GMC - it's only cosmetic.
2001-2005 models, nothing wrong with any year.

:ro) You guys rock. If there is anything else i should look at when purchasing please let me know. Thanks.

Lets see;
Edge + Predator + 4" exhaust + Allison upgade = HUGE TIRE BILL and DROPPING JAWS FROM NON-BELEIVERS!

Thats all you need to know!

go with ally better for you when your with a girl.you can have more room for STUFF going on (IF YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN) that old stick shift just gets in the way.
gmc may have more air flow across the stack

With all this good advice and $3.50 you can get a cup of coffee at Starbucks!!!!

I prefer the GMC look on the hood and Lights over the Chevy. Another Question you might want to ask yourself would be if you want Heavy Duty. If your only going to tow occasionly and with light loads, the HD might be a little stiff for ya. It doesnt bother me, but I have seen people here trying to "soften" their HD's when driving unloaded.

I'd recommend going with automatic Allison Tranny...... Shifting all the time, gets old especially when you are trying to drink a soda, answer your cell, and drive with your leg on the steering wheel. Enjoy, you will not be disappointed!!