5.3L vs 6.0L MPG in 2004 1500 Z71 Extended Cab
02-02-2011 | 12:07 PM
#1
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5.3L vs 6.0L MPG in 2004 1500 Z71 Extended Cab
So, I’m still trying to decide between rebuilding my 5.3L and dropping in a 6.0.
I’ve heard varying things about the MPG differences. Some state the 6.0 actually does the same as 5.3L as it has to work less to do the same job. Then, of course there are those who are getting 13mpg highway (Perhaps in a heavier vehicle, big tires?) Eitherway, I may add a supercharger after, funds permitting.
My truck is a 2004 Silverado Extended Cab Z71, 215,000 miles, stock tire size, tonneau cover. I currently get around 20mpg on the long hauls, and around 15 city. I would probably be using the same type (although slightly built) transmission.
Can anyone offer any real world experience? I like power, but can’t afford horrible highway MPG. City I don’t care so much. Towing is done occassionally and I am aware of the benifits of a 6.0 in this case, but lets not consider that for now.
I’ve heard varying things about the MPG differences. Some state the 6.0 actually does the same as 5.3L as it has to work less to do the same job. Then, of course there are those who are getting 13mpg highway (Perhaps in a heavier vehicle, big tires?) Eitherway, I may add a supercharger after, funds permitting.
My truck is a 2004 Silverado Extended Cab Z71, 215,000 miles, stock tire size, tonneau cover. I currently get around 20mpg on the long hauls, and around 15 city. I would probably be using the same type (although slightly built) transmission.
Can anyone offer any real world experience? I like power, but can’t afford horrible highway MPG. City I don’t care so much. Towing is done occassionally and I am aware of the benifits of a 6.0 in this case, but lets not consider that for now.
02-03-2011 | 12:02 AM
#7
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From: Primrose, NE
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02-03-2011 | 01:21 AM
#8
02-03-2011 | 02:52 AM
#9
You can buy a handheld tuner or you can pull your PCM out of the truck, hit a few times with a brick and then re-install. About the same performance increase will be achieved. 
Hand helds are about $300. For $400-$500 you get a real "custom" tune on a dyno or the street with AFR monitored. It's really a no-brainer.
Hand helds are about $300. For $400-$500 you get a real "custom" tune on a dyno or the street with AFR monitored. It's really a no-brainer.
02-03-2011 | 03:07 AM
#10
Let me rant in general about MPG. This is directed at no one. I am not trying to offend, just sayin 
Originally Posted by Crazy 1SlowHoe Rant
If you drive 15,000 miles a yr. and get 20mpg then you are buying 750 gallons of gas. At $3.20 for regular unleaded (just a ballpark figure) you are spending $2,400 a yr in gas.
If you drive 15,000 miles a yr. and get 15mpg then you are buying 1000 gallons of gas. At $3.40 for premium unleaded (because you tuned for power) you are spending $3,400 a yr in gas.
$1,000 a yr =$83.33 a month or $2.78 a day.
If you can't afford a gas bill increase of less than $3 a day...then maybe you shouldn't be spending money on performance parts.
If you drive 15,000 miles a yr. and get 15mpg then you are buying 1000 gallons of gas. At $3.40 for premium unleaded (because you tuned for power) you are spending $3,400 a yr in gas.
$1,000 a yr =$83.33 a month or $2.78 a day.
If you can't afford a gas bill increase of less than $3 a day...then maybe you shouldn't be spending money on performance parts.