Hi all, been lurking here for the past few months as I search for a decent truck in my area! I am looking for a long bed 4x4, probably 2500/3500 series, and have been thinking an OBDII truck would be preferred vs an older one. Do the older trucks have any issues that are unique to them, or to their age, and is there a point where a truck should be avoided because of how old it is vs assessing it based on condition? I know all GMT400s are getting up there in age. I've done a bit of searching the forum to gain some knowledge, and I do have a few questions.
On the older trucks, is the TH400/4l60e the same in the 1500 and the 3500? I know the 4080e is more desirable. Did 2500/3500s with the TH400 have any upgrades that the 1500 lacked, or were the early trucks really just a better chassis?
Are there any specific years to avoid? I have heard some people say to avoid 1996 I believe as it was the first year after a refresh, and that finding parts would be a little difficult since some of them are one-offs for that year only.
Would a good running 1988 truck have any additional specific issues vs a good running 1998 truck, or just issues that come with age, like gaskets, wear items, etc?
Thanks for reading. I've looked at a few trucks to buy but haven't taken any home yet. Finding the right balance between solid mechanically and solid cosmetically (plus body and frame) has been a little challenging. I'd love to hear what you guys have to say with some first hand experience!
On the older trucks, is the TH400/4l60e the same in the 1500 and the 3500? I know the 4080e is more desirable. Did 2500/3500s with the TH400 have any upgrades that the 1500 lacked, or were the early trucks really just a better chassis?
Are there any specific years to avoid? I have heard some people say to avoid 1996 I believe as it was the first year after a refresh, and that finding parts would be a little difficult since some of them are one-offs for that year only.
Would a good running 1988 truck have any additional specific issues vs a good running 1998 truck, or just issues that come with age, like gaskets, wear items, etc?
Thanks for reading. I've looked at a few trucks to buy but haven't taken any home yet. Finding the right balance between solid mechanically and solid cosmetically (plus body and frame) has been a little challenging. I'd love to hear what you guys have to say with some first hand experience!