Chevy Dump truck

[WMonroe]

Where I work they just bought a 97 Chevy 3500 Dump Truck. It is a base model, no ac, 2wd with a 350 v8 and 5 speed. I got to drive it for the first time today and I was really disappointed with the power. I have driven 1 ton rams with the 360 v8 and it performs way better than the 350. I doesn't have lowend power and it does only mildly better at the top end. Is this how all 350's are?

Will

 

[bmoeller]

I'm not impressed with the Vortec 350s myself. I was faster than my boss' '97 heavy 3/4 GMC, even stock. We both have 4. 10s. Rate of acceleration was about the same ( Mine weighs more than his too). Ram still pulled better. Now, with the new plate, all I can do is Even with a junk T/C, it can boogie pretty good, at least locked up. He can't get over 13mpg empty. I've never been under 14. Normally, i get 14. 5- 16. 5mpg.

 

[duaneparks]

I have to say that my experiences with a '96 Suburban 4x4 with the Vortec 350 were all favorable. The engine moved that Sub along pretty well, faster than my truck when it was stock.







That Sub had 3. 55 gears, and did make better power higher up (the nature of Vortec 350's). With 7 passengers and luggage driving from Houston to Knoxville at 75 mph, that thing would get 16 mpg. I guess it's all in the setup?



Duane