Yeah, I think during those early electronic ip years the service managers were lost for words (and excuses) while their lots were full of 6.5's waiting for Stanadyne to catch up. The towing thing was nonsense but the fuel I was getting was substandard. (supplied by my oil company client). I am an optimist and a GM lover so Im looking forward to driving my new crew cab dually and shooting for 20mpg. Total investment= less than 10,000 !!

The story you mention about the high mileage 6.5 is not unique. I have heard about just as many good experiences as bad. I wonder out loud if some cranks have a better balance from the factory and others pass through a funky harmonic at certain rpm? The rebuilt engine I am considering right now has a main stud girdle and mahle pistons. Crank is 0/0 with just a polish. It is not a balanced assembly. Is balancing important for these low rpm engines? Perhaps someone here can guide me to a Thread(s) that describe the best practices to rebuild a 6.5? I have seen a number of posts recommending the stud girdle and 18:1 Mahle pistons but would appreciate some links to machining oriented threads.

Having a resource like this forum sure adds a new and interesting dimension to building a tow vehicle..great stuff !

Rob