Looking to get a single cab silverado z71 between 99-04 model soon, i am looking for PURE FUEL ECONOMY. I do not tow anything i dont need any power and will be running a stock size tire. Once again, all i care about is fuel economy i will be installing aftermarket parts such as a cold air intake and exhaust (dont care what it sounds like just want it to breath better) and possibly a bully dog or something. Thanks alot guys.

 

small v8 like the 5.3 with like 3.27 gears, i had a 96 4.3 5speed reg cab short box at one time got worse millage than a 88 extended cab auto 350 that i had at the same time. the engine had to work so hard to push itself around it actually got worse millage. v6's are great in s10's but not fullsize

 

Spectre cold air intake from autozone runs about $150, a magnaflow muffler about $100, and a custom tune which is much better than a hand held. This should get you bout 18 -20 mpg's.

 

Ezrider_92356 you had the same idea i had just thought i would double check. I dont think i would be able to find a used Z71 that was a v6 anyways. Thanks man.

 

My Grandfather had a 2wd 2000 GMC Sierra with the same engine/gearing combination listed above and it rarely dipped below 20mpg. I would think that a modified truck of the same year with 4x4 should do about the same

 

Definately a V8

 

I had the 4.2L in a Ford F150. It was never enough truck. You won't see much performance gain from tuning the V6. And if you use the Bullydog to boost performance, you'll lose the mileage. Get the V8. You don't get great mileage from a V6 in a pickup because it's always underpowered unless you get a smaller truck. I got 18 mpg in my Ford, mostly hwy miles. I now averaget 18 in an '08 Chevy Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L with active fuel management. The Nissan Frontier would be a good idea if all you're concerned with is mileage. It has more than enough motor to push the smaller truck. My uncle has one. It's strong.

 

I'm averaging about 21 in my 2006 4.3. I feel pretty confident I could get 23-25 highway.

But there are a pretty good amount of times I wish it was a V8.

Just my $0.02.

 

id get the v8 for sure. cant beat having the extra power if you ever want it

 

i have always been partial to V8's myself