96 K2500...

I am looking at a 96 K2500 Chev with the 5.7 Vortec and a HD 5-Speed manual.

I was wondering what kind of mileage to expect from this truck?
When I test drove it, at 60 mph it was running just under 2000 rpms.
I am assuming it has the 4.10 rear end.

Also, if I do buy this truck, I am gonna hafta put some pipes on it.
From 96 to 98, chevy ran two pipes into the muffler, and one out. What are the pros and cons to putting on two mufflers and running duals out the back? Should a balancer or crossover pipe be used?

I should know Monday if am getting this truck or not.

Thanks in advance!!

8 to 10 mpg if you are lucky

:eek: Are you sure about that??
I could understand getting 8-10 towing, but gee whiz.
The 5speed should help it out some, right??

Anyone else??

I didnt mention before that this is a regular cab long box.
I know that would make a difference.

i have a 97 350 auto and i could get around 13 or 14mpg but if your like me and floor it a lot of the time you'll get about 10.

Well
I have a 97 1500 Suburban with the 5.7 and the best I can get is 13 mpg around town. Now the 2500 has more weight and I would bet lower rear end gears the olny help is that its a standard shift but I still would not count on anything over 12 mpg

Well
I have a 97 1500 Suburban with the 5.7 and the best I can get is 13 mpg around town. Now the 2500 has more weight and I would bet lower rear end gears the olny help is that its a standard shift but I still would not count on anything over 12 mpg

I am just guessing, but I think this truck running empty would be lighter than your suburban, but I am sure that it has the 4.10 gears. I will find out tomorrow what it is gonna get, cuz the dealership is 2 hours away.
Will be a good trip to check the mileage.

Thanks for the input guys.
I found out from a friend at work how to rig the exhaust up.

I picked up the truck today, and the mileage impressed me
quite a bit. It is all highway between here and the dealer, and
I got about 17.5 mpg give or take.
Now I will see what it gets around town.

I hafta get some pipes on this thing, all I here is the road
and a little wind noise.
Glad to be rid of the Clunkerado!!
LOL