advice on new truck

[juma33]

I am coming to a point where I will get rid of my '97 LS 1500 van and get a pickup to last me 6-8 years. I looked hard at the F-150 but they appear to be heavy as all get out, no manual trans, and I like chevy better anyway. What I was thinking is the 1500 LS Silverado 2WD, 6.5 foot bed, with 5.3 motor and a 5-speed. From all I have read here that seems like it would be a strong running combination that would get me to work, tow a boat or camper, light hauling, and blow off the average sports sedan.

Might even consider the work truck version which is cheaper still -- any reason not to look at that model?

Any real downside to that 5-speed? Seems like very few have it on this forum but I'd appreciate any info or opinions on it.

Looks like I'd have to get a bench seat. Does the driver side of the bench adjust separately? can you get a good tilt back with it?

Any "must have" options that contribute a lot for a little?

juma

[mattming]

the 5.3 siverado is the way to go. the 5 speed manual is not much better than the automatic since chevy makes such a damn good automatic. it has taul/ haul so you can use overdrive when your hauling and i can break traction whenever you want. I believe the 04 bench seats come with 40 20 40.


2000 ext cab siverado 5.3

[NUCLEUS.ONE]

I have a 5.3 w/ auto and would recommend one anyday! Runs great. If you ease on the pedal for everyday driving, you'll get pretty good mileage; but you got power to pass anytime you stomp the go pedal. I've seen the SS single cab concept w/ a manny tranny and it looks great, but obviously limits center seating room. A friend has a 5 speed, but only the 4.3 and he seems to enjoy as well.

[Slowprocess]

You need to go with an auto. I actual don't think the 5.3L has an optional manual tranny, but don't quote me on that. Every manual v8 I've seen on the newer style trucks is either the 4.8L or the big boy v8. I personally would go with the auto anyway, with a good stall, the auto is just about impossible to beat by a same model truck with a stick. You would be suprised how many people think I have a stick with this stall. If If I had to do it over again, I would have gotten a base model stepside. I mean, look at all the options I paid for and just got rid of. I took off the cheap molding on the side, I sold the premium wheels, I changed the head unit. I've changed the power chrome mirrors, I removed the chrome rear bumper. I mean, I paid money for all this crap the factory put on it, and I just either sold it all for chump change, or just ended up throwing it away. But as far as the transmission goes, if the 5 speed is offered with the 5.3L, I would vote against it. Chevrolets 4l60E auto is awesome, and it stay with you along time. I have been beating the crap out of mine for over 106,000 miles, and I get faster every time I go to the track. That's why it needs to hurry up and warm up so I can go see what this 3000 stall and shift kit did for me. Good luck on your search and stay chevy!!!!