Hi guys. I'm brand new to the forum. I have absolutely no mechanical abilities, but I am learning a few things on this forum.

I previously owned a 2003 LB7 that I sold a couple years ago and regretted ever since. I am now back in the market for another Duramax and could really use some advice. I am currently weighing options between:
1. a 2004 LLY with the LS package. I have found 2 similar rigs, one with 66k miles and the other with 78k miles.
2. a 2006 with 107k miles - though I have not obtained a VIN to see if it is the LLY or LBZ. This rig is a loaded LT package with leather etc.

Assuming they are all in good condition and none have been modified, and assuming you could buy any of them for similar money (around $21k), would you take the 2004 with lower miles and fewer options, or the 2006 with higher miles and more options.

I'd sure appreciate your opinions. Thanks in advance.

I would go for a 2006 LBZ preferably, or a 2006 LLY is just as good, just a little less power due to programming.

X2 above BIG TIME.!

you'll love the 6 spd and the extra power...no Real issues wirh this motor or drive train other than those already noted: pump rub, ISS etc.

had mine 2 yrs and will be buried with it.!!

cheers,


as an aside to Tiny's sig: Journeyman Welder/Fitter ('76), Welding Engineering Technologist (86), Certified CWB Level II Welding Inspecter: ASME Sect IX, B31, CWB W47/W59/Z299 Pipeline ('91), Proud Technical Sales Team member of ESAB Welding, Cutting & Automation Products Canada: July 2000 - July 2008: Now rep for Northern Ontario..yea baby.!!

stk

Thanks for the replies guys. Please keep the opinions coming. Is this price range a fair one for these trucks as described?

The 06 LLY/LBZ is far superior to the 04 LLY, the 04 is not a bad motor but by no means the same animal. The 6 speed is amazing and manual mode is sweet.

Is 107k miles concerning? I gather most would agree the 6 speed transmission and motor are superior. But is the considerably lower mileage on the '04 LLY's change anybody's opinion as to a better buy at the same price?

The LLY's lower mileage doesn't mean it has less wear, it all depends on how it was used and maintained. Same for the LBZ. Unless you have a valid maintenance record for both, it's a crap shoot. If Daryl Testosterone added a programmer cranked up to warp 5, larger tires, a lift kit and pulled an Abrams tank on a fifth wheel over the Rockies twice a week, all bets are off.

From my experience these DuraMax engines take about 25,000 miles just to wear in. 107k miles isn't that bad on a diesel engine that hasn't been neglected. Most expect the DuraMax to go a minimum of 250-300k miles. If you switch all the OEM fluids for synthetics, add a bypass oil and coolant filter and Nicktane or Air Dog fuel filter, any of them should live along time. But the Allison 6 speed is the deciding factor for me - it's too good to pass up.