C4500 Duramax with High miles

[SuperD]

I'm looking at a 2004 C4500 crewcab Duramax with 250,000 miles. What kinda life should u get out of a Duramax? I know it depends on how it was taken care of and how I take care of it. What about the Allison with 250,000 miles? I'm currently using a 2006 2500HD to pull my trailer. I like the idea of having a larger truck in front of the trailer. I been reading some of the other post here also, now I'm woundering if there is no real advantage to go to a C4500. or any large med size crew cab trucks.

[Mark Rinker]

Hello - great questions. I have owned seven Duramax/Allison powered trucks, one was a 2004 C4500. Alot has to do with what you are towing, how far you tow it, and alot of subjective personal preferences.

As far as the 250K, I wouldn't be afraid of the truck - but would be very curious to know how many sets of injectors it has gone through. I bought my truck with 25K, and by 135K, it had already needed TWO SETS, luckily covered under warranty.

With a set of 8 new sprays running ~5K, it is a major consideration when buying a high mile used Duramax.

So...

• What is 8th digit of truck's VIN (identifies engine family)
• How heavy do you tow
• How far do you tow
• What is most important to you in a tow rig (ride, mileage, braking, look, etc.)