Low Mileage LB7 vs. Higher Mileage LLY?

[sharp21]

Hey Gang,
New here, first post.
I currently run a 1990 CTD, but am looking to step up into something newer. I like the Cummins, but the 3rd gens are overpriced my way & I'd like a nicer interior. I grew up a GM guy so....

I've been reading some good & bad about the different Duramax's. I'm looking at an 02 with 90,000kms or an 05 with 200,000kms. I figure the lower the mileage the better, but the LB7 doesn't seem to be very popular.

So given the choice, which do I go for? It'll be a tow rig if that helps.
S.

[Mark Rinker]

A 2006/2007 (LBZ) with miles halfway between those two would be my choice!...:D

[sharp21]

The only 2007's I see in my range have about 200k on the clock as well.
When did the 6 speed tranny come out?
S.

[JohnC]

The 6 speed auto came out in '06. Any '06 or '07 is OK regardless of the engine designation. '06 LLY's are really just detuned LBZ's.

[Mark Rinker]

The '02 with half the miles, all else being equal would be a better deal initially IMO - but could cost more in the long run due to the nearly inevitable and more costly replacement of LB7 injectors, requiring valve cover removal.

The LB7 is a nice powerplant, free of EGR, DPF, and with a simple wastegated turbo setup that can be easily tweaked to deliver more boost, to burn up additional fuel available through a number of aftermarket tunes.

If you like to mod your trucks, the LB7 is the one to buy and set up for exactly how you tow, and to maximize power where and how you need it.

Their main black eye around here is injector life...dig in by searching on 'LB7 injector replacement' vs. 'LLY' , etc. there is a ton of info and opinion here.

[sharp21]

The only mod I'm interested in is gauges & maybe a plug & play tuner. I did a 5000mile trip with the 135hp 12V last summer, so stepping into a 300+ hp motor will already be a huge treat.

I just wanna tow.

I think I'll look for an 04-07, & take my chances on which engine I get if its the 04. I've already found a loaded 04 dually with 100,000kms for $24k (can) that looks real nice.
S.

[NutNbutGMC]

The only mod I'm interested in is gauges & maybe a plug & play tuner. I did a 5000mile trip with the 135hp 12V last summer, so stepping into a 300+ hp motor will already be a huge treat.

I just wanna tow.

I think I'll look for an 04-07, & take my chances on which engine I get if its the 04. I've already found a loaded 04 dually with 100,000kms for $24k (can) that looks real nice.
S.The early 04s have the LB7. Check the VIN letter designation (8th, reading left to right) for the applicable engine model. Twenty-four $k is a bit much but then again, it's all in what one is willing to pay.

[sharp21]

Whats the difference between the 2500 & 3500? With Dodge its basically heavy duty leaf springs in the rear. Same with GM?
S.