Quick introduction - I have been "lurking" on this site for last 6 months or so trying to absorb everyones knowledge. Thanks to everyone. Wish I could remember everything I have read...

Decided I needed to get an 06 before the emission "stuff" next year with the 07. Traded in my 1999 GMC 3500 4x2 454 dually and got the truck in my signature. MY first diesel so will have more questions along the way.

Can I get opinions on engine breakin. I have a pullrite super slide hitch going in on Thursday so I am enjoying putting 500 miles on before that. However the manuel says to only pull the trailer at 50mph for the first 500 you tow. WOW did anyone really do this. What happens if you do 55 or 60? Is this for the motor or the truck?

Will try to get pictues posted shortly.
Thanks for the help. Always open to advice.
Strea

 

Congrats on the new truck!

There is no break in period of the engine, it's ready to run right out of the box. The break in period is for the rear axle, so put 500 miles on it before towing. After that, drive it like you stole it.

MikeyB

 

you definatly get us some pics, and congrats!

 

Welcome, I am in the same boat as you. I traded in a 2000 chevy 3/4 ton with the 454. That thing sucked the gas! I just turn 500 miles on my 06 and I am leaving for the mountains tomorrow. It will be hard to tow at 50, I'm thinking like 65. I used to dread pulling my toy hauler (not enough power), now I can't wait.

 

Woo Hoo, new trucks are great

 

Thanks for the comments and advice. I will hold the speed down first miles towing but 50 for 500 seemed unbareable...

I don't think I have the rights to post pictures yet or just don't know how. Any tips on this would be helpful.

campnfish - I know what kind of gas mileage we were getting and this will be heaven. I usually got between 5 and 6 when towing my 5th wheel and I will be one happy guy if I can get 12 towing. I too can't wait to tow for the first time and that should be Friday so enjoy the holiday weekend.

Strea

 

To post pics, upload them to your gallery, and under the picture in the gallery you will see the ubb code, copy and past that.

 

Strea,

The idea behind the 50 mph towing the first 500 miles is to allow the ring and pinion time to "temper" before really loading them down. You want to try to get through several heat and cool cycles under light to moderate loads before pulling heavy and fast. So, pulling a light load at 65 shouldn't hurt (that's what I did - 8000 lb travel trailer at 65 mph). Congratulations on the new ride and good luck!


I hear'ya. I ordered my Commander on Monday and I'm dying to get it. I sure hope it doesn't take 2 weeks to get here! Oh, and don't worry about a group buy. Call Lary and he'll give you the best price.

 

ptgarcia, (or others)
I have a 5th wheel - about 11,000 lbs.
I know my first trip this weekend is pretty short 100 miles so I will keep the speeds down. But next trip is 330 miles one-way on the interstate late July. Any recommendations on how you would handle the speeds while towing with that load.