If I got a new truck soon I was giving a lot of thought to a 8.1/ZF 6 speed one ton but the only thing that has me stumped is if I want to take a chance and get an 8.1 which I heard could start drinking oil. Just wondering if I shouldn't worry about it that much or maybe should I wait longer to see if GM is trying to fix this problem? Thanks

Get it and don't worry, some do, some don't, very comon, doesn't use that much anyway. The 8.1 is built off of the 454 block, same bore, longer stroke. The 454's were some tough, stout engines. I have a 8.1 with 53000 miles and i add less than a quart between oil changes. I have run it low between oil changes, not added any and haven't hurt a thing, i have 53000 hard, fast, foot in the gas miles and it runs like a new one.

8.1 I used to own would use 1 qt every 2K miles. Never had a problem with the engine however it was thirsty for fuel. Low as 7 mpg in city traffic and 13 on the road.

My 05 8.1 doesn't have that many miles on it yest but after 1250 miles the oil was still at the top of the dipstick line. After 2400 miles the tailpipe is still clean. I haven't heard of any of the newer ones burning oil.

DEWFPO

My buddy got one in an avalanche, he was doing the factory recommended oil change intervals and figured it was new so why check the oil? He had about 7000 miles on it and was close to getting ready to change the oil and it started rappin real bad. He checked the oil and it would not even register on the stick. He checks it more often now!

Thanks for the replies. I think I am just going to save up for the diesel anyway.