I had a dealer run a search for a k3500 chassis cab today. I'm due for a new all-round farm/ personal truck,been shopping since late winter and thought new incentives made the time right. My search was for an extended cab d-max.... Nothing found but an hour later he calls back with a must see truck-a 4500 crew cab 4x4 for about what I'd been expecting to pay for a 3500.

Does this sound like trouble? I do a lot of towing up to 16000# and more when nobody's looking, so it makes some sense there. Usually travelling with assorted children and dogs so that looks good too.

But, I used to run old medium duty farm trucks including c6500s f700 and even a b61. They were fun but I wouldn't want any as a daily driver and the upkeep on them made me decide to try to hold the line running light trucks and trailers.

This will also be my regular transportation, Does it sound like a bit much? Is anyone using a 4500 as a regular driver? Will it be an excessive fuel hog or to cumbersome to run errands in?

I'll probably go look at it over the weekend. They are nice looking trucks and seem fresher than the Sierras. Is this a stupid idea and I should holdout for a 3500? All thoughts welcome .

Thanks, Pete

Hey Mapledge: I just received a 5500 I ordered back in Feb. I have not had the chance to run it because I took it to the upfitters to Fab a 56" high utility body for it. I know that it is not a 4x4 but I will using it as my everyday driver. I feel that if you are running the same motor/tranny setup there is not going to be that much difference in the MPG. My first impression so far is that it is a fat cow for performance, but I tech explained that there is a prompt in the computer that is not letting the Bosch FI deliver full fuel pressure yet for break-in. I know how the old trucks were kind of sluggish but I was put in the seat by a 2500 Duramax/Allison yesterday and I was Impressed. I will up date you once I get my truck back.

Right now GM, Ford and Dodge are going to try to do what they can to get rid of all heavy fuel consuming vehicles they have sitting on the lots due to the fuel prices.
There is another thread on here that has a statement from GM regarding everyone gets the employee price or something like that. Check around and you may get them to give you an even better deal.
Mark

Mapledge, F.Y.I. BAD news, the GMS price doesn't count on Medium -duty trucks.Just to add that tid-bit as far as cost factors. Howard

Howard- Thank you for the info. The answer just barely beat the question. Are 3500 chassis/cabs eligable ?

I'm going to try to sneek out for a couple hours today to check it out. I suspect a 3500 means waiting for an 06 at this point, but I shouldn't be in that big a rush.

Been checking out posts in the medium duty area for info, including Kingsmt. We'll see what developes.

Well, I've seen it. Spectacular huge interior, but on a decidedly medium duty truck. Not quite what I want for a regular ride.
Thanks to all for your advice