I am looking in to purchasing a 2009 2500 Chevy Express with a Duramax. I want to know what you guys are getting Miles per gallon? Also if I order the cold climate package does this come with a fuel heater? or should I order the dual Alternator? and any other comments or concerns?

How does this van/engine combo do with towing heavy 1-ton trailers in hilly areas and does the tranny have a Tow Haul Button?

Also would it be wiser to go with a 3500?

I am in the construction business and usually keep the vans for about 10 years. I am currently driving a 1999 3500 Chevy Express with 5.7L with 120K on it. I been getting about 10 MPG with it city.

I have been seeing it should take about 3 years to pay off the $7500 cost of this engine.


Thanks

I have an 06' 2500. My fuel mileage has been as low as 11.8 towing on the hwy and as high as 19.98 with everyday service work. My average is 16.2 and I am always within 500 to 700lbs of the max load. They do have a tow/haul mode. This van does everything with ease compared to my 2500 with a 5.7 which averaged 11.5.

Is the dmax a 7500 option on the vans now? I thought when I bought mine it was around $4000 extra

I am refering to the GM Buypower Web site when I Build it. Its like 7K for the engine and an additional $800ish for the Cold Climate Package. This is all befor rebates and other stuff. What do you get MPG in your van?

mine is totally stock. highest i've seen is 22mpg, all hwy, with 2000lbs of equipment inside.

mine is totally stock. highest i've seen is 22mpg, all hwy, with 2000lbs of equipment inside.


Whats your lowest?>

I think it was 13-14, with all my equipment and pulling our 4100lb camper, cruise at 70

I would go 1-ton ext for towing. I have seen as high as 25 MPG. Currently with the crap Winter fuel I have been getting 22-23 MPG. A few weeks ago I got 17 MPG towing the trailer with about 2,500 lbs of heaters on it at 75 MPH across Montana.

Also would it be wiser to go with a 3500?

If you had 3500's in the past, I'd go with it again unless you're driving an empty van.

If you had 3500's in the past, I'd go with it again unless you're driving an empty van.


I do not carrie as much as I did before because I got a trailer and use that to haul instead of the van except for the tools.