Anyone that has a 2001-2006 HD2500 with a 6.0(300HP), just curious how much weight you tow? Mine is rated for 10,200 lbs, and I am sure it can do it safely. But, I don't think the 6.0 would be happy with 9000-10,000lbs back there.

I came from a 2007 1500 with the Vortec Max 6.0 and 4:10 gearing. That was rated for similar weight(10,500 I believe) and the truck was a beast for a gas engine when towing. With less hp and more weight, my older 2500 is a turd in comparison.

The 6.0 is a decent motor with a huge thirst for fuel under load. With that much weight I would opt for a diesel, it will be happier and so will your wallet.

I know a diesel would be better, but I already own the truck. To me, it seems that approximately 7500-8000lbs would be the max "happy zone" for this truck. So, I am just looking for some feedback from others that have this truck.

And the 6.0 has a huge thirst under load and not under load! LOL

A close friend had the same truck with the 6.0 and pulled a horse trailer with living quarters. Had to be near the same weight as you are considering. They traded the truck off for a duramax after a few months. They said they are even or better with the fuel expense added into the equation and it doesn't sound like it wants to explode going up hills, LOL.

So true! I sure miss my 1500 with the Vortec Max! That thing rarely downshifted on hills.

Diesel would be better but a 6.0 LQ4 and 4l80e in a 2500HD is capable of the job.......

I have a 6.0 in my 1500 tows my 24' Formula ok, (4150lbs dry) gotta be 6000lbs loaded?

I have that truck and pull a Checkmate Convincor 253 with it. approx. 600-7000 lbs. It is very comfortable with that. I dont think it would like anything close to 10,000 lbs. though.

The 2500 feels more like a turd due to the truck being heavier, the difference in transmissions, and the computer settings, (mostly the "torque management") If you have ever ridden in a 6.0 2500 that has had a custom tune where the torque management is turned down or off, it feels like a completely different truck. As far as that much weight, the truck may surprise you, however it will not like highway speeds or trying to maintain speed on long hills. I wouldn't be scared to hook to 10k as long as you're not in a big hurry to get to where you are going.

Get either a custom tune or a black bear tune. Hypertech tune is ok also but not as good as a custom tune. It will really liven up that engine.

Wannabe

The additional 70hp and VVT on the vortec max help too. Truck has a tune with most of the TM removed.