BajaNomad

Chevy Suburban 4x4, 1500 vs. 2500

Gaucho - 3-10-2011 at 04:30 PM

I'm shopping for an older Chevy/GMC Suburban 4X4. If I'm launching say a 20 to 26 foot panga or the like, would I need the 2500 model or can I get by with the 1500?

chippy - 3-10-2011 at 04:35 PM

I have both a 1984 1500 and a 1995 2500. You won´t have any trouble towing/launching with either one. If your are towing alot and far the 2500 is better due to its brakes.

Gaucho - 3-10-2011 at 04:56 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by chippy
I have both a 1984 1500 and a 1995 2500. You won´t have any trouble towing/launching with either one. If your are towing alot and far the 2500 is better due to its brakes.



Thanks Chippy. What size (length) trailor would you feel comfortable towing w/ your 1500?

Bob and Susan - 3-10-2011 at 05:18 PM

i had a 1500 suburban and the transmission was the weakest link
burned it up

it cant tow anything over 3000 pounds

i'd get the 2500 for sure

dirtydieseldave - 3-10-2011 at 05:54 PM

get one with a stick or keep it out of OD with big loads. They made a heavy 1500 with 8 luges wheels and 2500 brakes. the heavy 1500 has the best ride.

chippy - 3-10-2011 at 06:09 PM

The trannys are fine. Just stay out of O/D like Dave said. I believe the 1500 is rated to tow about 5000 lbs. I´ve towed my 20 ft. Mako all over Mexico and its alot heavier than a panga. But if you are gonna tow long distances I would get a 2500 for braking more than anything. If you are a short hauler get the 1500 as its ride is a lot nicer.

[Edited on 3-11-2011 by chippy]

msteve1014 - 3-10-2011 at 06:37 PM

The big question is if you will be towing for 1000 miles, or just a few to the ramp. Any 4x4 suburban with a v8 will be fine to launch a boat, anywhere.

mulegemichael - 3-10-2011 at 06:45 PM

ALWAYS go with the 2500...if you don't, there will be times you regret it...had both...have a 2500 now and love it!

Gaucho - 3-10-2011 at 07:37 PM

I probably won't be hauling long distances. I was leaning towards the 2500. I appreciate everybodys input. Thank you!

Gaucho - 3-10-2011 at 07:41 PM

I love those Mako 20's. Do you find the 1500 get's alot better mpg than your 2500?
Quote:
Originally posted by chippy
The trannys are fine. Just stay out of O/D like Dave said. I believe the 1500 is rated to tow about 5000 lbs. I´ve towed my 20 ft. Mako all over Mexico and its alot heavier than a panga. But if you are gonna tow long distances I would get a 2500 for braking more than anything. If you are a short hauler get the 1500 as its ride is a lot nicer.

[Edited on 3-11-2011 by chippy]

chippy - 3-11-2011 at 10:26 AM

No they are just about the same.

Gaucho - 3-11-2011 at 10:34 AM

Great, thanks.

Gas or Diesel???

bajaguy - 3-11-2011 at 10:36 AM

Which one?????

Gaucho - 3-11-2011 at 11:57 AM

Gas