Looking at hearing opinions from those of you who have experience with these two trucks. These are the two I'm considering. I'm probably at least a couple months away from pulling the trigger on anything... so just doing research at this point. <BR> <BR>I currently own a 2003 Avalanche 5.3L that has been mostly good to me, and I was set on getting another one (most likely the 5.3L as they are more readily available in the used market, or a 6.0L if I get lucky...). <BR> <BR>But from what I've read, the Tundra CrewMax sounds like it's also worth considering. It seems to get great reviews in terms of pulling power, which is about the only area in which I feel my Avalanche could be improved. <BR> <BR>Don't get me wrong, the Avalanche tows fine... I just see myself possibly moving to a larger boat at some point and don't see an Avalanche doing well for anything heavier than my current approx. 5200-lb. boat &amp; trailer. However, I love the Avalanche's versatility and worry I'd sacrifice some of that versatility with the Tundra's fixed mount rear seats (do they fold up, down, or otherwise out of the way?), and lack of mid-gate (which I think I can get over). <BR> <BR>I'm most likely buying used, and either way it would be the premium trim level (LTZ/Z71 or Limited). <BR> <BR>Please no "just buy a diesel, you won't look back" comments (if I had the garage space I probably would buy a diesel); and no Dodge/Ford suggestions (I've already ruled them out for various reasons). I'm just looking for feedback regarding these two rigs, and how they compare, mostly as tow vehicles, but would love more general observations and feedback as well. <BR> <BR>Thanks in advance. <BR> <BR>(Message edited by phenom_1819 on October 26, 2009)

The Tundra's back window rolls all of the way down. One of my favorite Toyota features.

Love my 05 Avalanche. <BR>My buddies call it the Transformer truck..... because I show up with it configured a different way all the time. <BR> <BR>That said, if you don't ever open up the back wall, I don't see any point in buying the Av.

I have been researching 1/2 and 3/4 ton trucks for a few months now, and as soon as my Audi sells I will be picking up a 2010 Tundra Double Cab. The 5.7 engine puts out just over 380HP and just over 400ft/lbs. of torque. The max torque is made at a lower RPM then then the Hemi or 6.0 GM engine which I like for towing. Also, with the tow package the Tundra has a tow rating of 10,000lbs, a payload of 1500+ pounds, a 4.3 rear end, transmission cooler and temp gauge, oil cooler, power steering cooler, and towing mirrors. <BR> <BR>I started my search looking at 3/4 ton gas trucks and I really liked the Dodge &amp; Chevy, but being that only 10% of the time the truck would be used for towing, I couldn't justify the 3/4 ton or diesel...especially since it's going to be my wife's daily driver for her 5 minute commute. <BR> <BR>Once I started looking at Tundra's and researching them I found out that they more then a 1/2 ton but not quite a 3/4 ton. In the 2008 '1/2 ton shoot out' <a href="http://special-reports.pickuptrucks.com/2008-light-duty-shoot-out.html" target="_blank">http://special-reports.pickuptrucks.com/2008-light-duty-shoot-out.html</a> the best two for towing were the Chevy w/6.2 liter engine and the Tundra. The Dodge, Ford, and Nissan just didn't do as well when loaded. They mention that with weight, the rear end and 6-speed transmission really helped the tundra. <BR> <BR>The only other '1/2 ton' that I would consider would be the chevy with the 6.0 (great motor) or 6.2 liter. You can option out the chevy 1/2 ton with the 'max tow package' which allows it to tow 9,000+ pounds, gives it all the coolers, 6.0 engine, etc... <BR> <BR>We have really hurt our Tahoe towing our Sanger v230 loaded down with camping gear and people! The transmission has problems, warped rear brakes, and lots of other little things and it doesn't even have 90,000 miles. Big boats can kill the longevity of a 1/2 ton that isn't setup right for towing. If you go the chevy route, get the 6.0 engine, a good rear end ratio, and possibly check out some larger brakes.

You can't go wrong with either truck. I have an 05 avalanche and LOVE everything about it. However my 2nd choice would be the Tundra. My avy does the job just fine for towing a 21ft supra launch and I think it will do just fine towing something bigger. I don't think I could personally give up the versatility of my avy.

Avalanche with the 8.1L ...

<a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Chevrolet-Avalanche-2500-Get-it-all-2005-Avalanche-3-4-ton-NO-reserve_W0QQitemZ220500030491QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUS _Cars_Trucks?hash=item3356d3741b#ht_500wt_948" target="_blank">http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Chevrolet-Avalanche-2500-Get-it-all-2005-Avalanche-3-4-ton-NO-reserve_W0QQitemZ220500030491QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUS _Cars_Trucks?hash=item3356d3741b#ht_500wt_948</a>

^^ now that's the way to go! I think they discontinued the 3/4 ton Avy but what a great best of both worlds. With only 47,000 miles on it it's got a long life ahead of it. My '01 8.1 has 187,000 miles and is still going strong. I think the big blocks are the way to go because they are barely working, so those engines last forever...

Cal, My vote is for the Avalanche. I have owned Chevy's all my life and they have treated me great. And in this economy I have big issues with buying anything but American made. The 6.0L will pull anything that you put behind it as well as it has a nice long wheel base. <BR>Did I hear you say bigger boat....Are you thinking about making the big leap out of the wakeboat market?

cal <BR>what are you hatin on my dodge for? no more free rides around town for you now man. <BR> <BR>ha ha... <BR> <BR>did you meet cade when you were down here last with the lifted tundra? in my opinion his is the nicest set up of the group right now. not sure how towing compares to the avy, but i am sure it is pretty similar. i had a 5.3 in the yukon i had for a while and towing was alright, but nothing like towing with a real truck...

Bill, I do love my Avalanche... and actually do use the mid-gate. But it would be just as easy to leave the tailgate down and use tie-downs... which is why it's not a huge issue for me. I have it transformed in different ways all the time too, but most often one seat is folded flat with a dog-bed on top... something it doesn't look like the Tundra can do (but the Tundra has so much floor space, I would think the dog would still be fine in the cab). <BR> <BR>I've considered a '05 or '06 8.1L Avalanche, but my truck is still running strong enough that its hard to justify to upgrading... to stay with what feels like the exact same truck. So that's off the list, great find for somebody though! <BR> <BR>Patrick, I've read basically the same thing about the Tundra's (though sometimes I question the magazine side by side test reports). <BR> <BR>It's dizzying trying to figure out what the hell I need to find in a Chevy/GMC truck (especially when considering Silverado's and Sierra's too, which I have considered). There are more damn combinations that it makes it nearly impossible to buy anything in the used market because it's never set-up quite right. Of course, they probably do this on purpose... so that if you need something specific, you will have it built new. <BR> <BR>In my eyes, for the less technically-inclined (such as me), Toyota seems to have figured it out: A well-built and good looking truck, a few different models with just a few combinations or variations of each. No endless list of upgrades -- instead they offer engines that are big enough, brakes that are large enough, transmissions and rear-ends that are built and geared right (tranny's in the Tundra are all 6-speed, might I add; compared to the Chevy's where about 1/6 are 6-speed and the rest are 4-speed and it's hard to tell which). <BR> <BR>I had a 2000 4runner before my Avalanche and loved it, killed me to sell it... but wasn't safe for how I needed to use it. It had every TRD option you could throw at it, including the Supercharger, intake and exhaust, rear-bags and on-board compressor. For a mid-sized SUV, it was a beast. I love how easy Toyota makes it to upgrade their trucks, with the piece of mind of knowing the add-ons will do what they say, without affecting warranties. I think Chevy could take a few notes about simplifying their line-up and offering OEM/Aftermarket upgrades like Toyota does with TRD... But back on topic. <BR> <BR>Brady, I hear you about buying American and I try to always do that, so long as I don't feel I'm making too much of a compromise. I guess that's one of the things I'm trying to figure out. I don't take it lightly either, but do find some comfort knowing Tundra's are made on an assembly line in TX... still ownership is overseas. Still, it's just a consideration at this point. <BR> <BR>As to a larger boat... no plans of going larger than a wakeboard boat. I just want to keep my options open to go bigger (23-24' range), and with the pass we have between us and the river, anything bigger would be tough on my Avalanche. <BR> <BR>Diggs, I was just checking to make sure you were reading all the way through... The Dodge is sweet! I seem to recall a few free rides for you too... on one of those, I think you were trying to sell me on a diesel from the back seat... <BR> <BR>(Message edited by phenom_1819 on October 26, 2009)

Diggs, I did meet Cade when I was down there and actually have his email, I'll drop him a note...

cal if you really want to buy american go buy the tundra. It has a greater percentage of american made parts on it than the avalanche. tundra's at 80% avvy is at 65% and toyota isn't owned by the government and unions.. information comes from <a href="http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/staticfiles/DOT/NHTSA/Traffic%20Injury%20Control/Articles/Associated%20Files/AALA/AALA2009p.pdf" target="_blank">http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/staticfiles/DOT/NHTSA/Traffic%20Injury%20Control/Articles/Associated%20Files/AALA/AALA2009p.pdf</a> <BR> <BR>This buy American Crap is getting out of hand, I'll buy from the company that employs more Americans as opposed to the company who just happens to have been formed in America. Espcially if that product fits my needs better.

I think you have answered your own questions here: <BR> <BR>"In my eyes, for the less technically-inclined (such as me), Toyota seems to have figured it out: A well-built and good looking truck, a few different models with just a few combinations or variations of each. No endless list of upgrades -- instead they offer engines that are big enough, brakes that are large enough, transmissions and rear-ends that are built and geared right (tranny's in the Tundra are all 6-speed, might I add; compared to the Chevy's where about 1/6 are 6-speed and the rest are 4-speed and it's hard to tell which). " <BR> <BR>I have owned an F150 with the 4.6 and 5.4, a Silverado with the 5.3, a F250 diesel (6.0) and hands down my regular cab Tundra with the 5.7 will outperform any of the above listed towing our Xstar. <BR> <BR>I wish I would have gotten the double cab model, but for now this one works. Hands down the 07 and newer Tundra is without a doubt the best truck in the market. 381HP and 401 FT/LBS of torque, you can't ask for much more than that.

I have had both and the 5.3 can not even compare to the Tundra. The Tundra rides like a car and tows like a diesel. Plus they look tight as hell.

I have a Tundra Crew Max and for space you can't beat it. Your crew will be more comfortable in the back. Its HUGE. I only got the 4.6 liter engine. I am in Florida so its plenty for me. Tows no problem usually with the boat loaded on the highway about 12-13 mpg. I love the truck. Just always been a Toyota guy. Good luck. Oh I have an 02 X Star so not as big as your looking

I'm considering these exact two vehicles to replace my '99 5.3L Z71. I'm curious how the mileage and turning radius compares? I'm considering both the 5.3 and 6.2 Av, and 5.7L crew cab with either the regular shortbed or the micro bed on the Tundra. <BR> <BR>Also, will a dirtbike fit diagonally with the tailgate up (wheels all the way in the corners) in the micro bed on the Tundra?

It can also be a good exercise to go drive higher mileage versions of these vehicles (75k+). Pretty night and day at that point.

Alan, please explain... I have 175k on my Z71, and it's about the same as far as interior wear, rattles, etc as my BIL's Tacoma with 160k on it. Had to replace the auto tranny in mine at 161k, and his clutch just went out. Had to replace the a/c compressor on mine at around 110k, and that's it for major work.

I have no experience with either truck but I saw a lifted Yota Crew cab short bed today and thought it was one of the best looking trucks I have ever seen.

I know this is against what Cal wanted but didnt want to start a new thead. I am also looking at a different truck...my lifted Titan just not cutting it. I bounce back from 3/4 to 1/2 ton, my boat is stored by water and maybe 3 times during the year haul far. Does anyone tow with Tundra? lose a lot of gas, I keep taking self out of diesel..seems overkill, anyone like F150?

The new F150 is a nice truck, too. I don't think you can lose with any of them. Drive them and see what fits you the best. <BR> <BR>I really like the new Toyota. I think they look great when they're all optioned up. <BR> <BR>Whatever you do, don't buy a 5.3 Chevy. My old Tahoe was decent, but the new one with their new power strategy and fuel mileage goals is a wimp. My brother has a '08 Avy and it's a dog with the 5.3. It doesn't even tow his 16' Donzi well. Pretty lame IMO. The 6.0 is a different animal. <BR> <BR>If I didn't love my diesel so much (lol!) I'd probably be in the market for a new pick-up. If I didn't do long heavy hauls in the hills or spend a lot of time cruising in the mountains a gas truck would be great. I don't think you can miss. Pick-ups have gotten so nice in the last few years.

I had an 08 CrewMax Limited 4x4 5.7L to tow my big Crownline (about 8000#) and it did a great job. Loved the truck... i pulled the boat over the mt. passes without even thinking about it. Everyone loved the space in the back seat. Interior was a little "plastic-y".. but the leather seats made up for it (I had the RedRock interior... looked great.) <BR> <BR>When we switched to the 08 23LSV i went with an V10 Touareg... just didn't need such a huge truck to drive as a daily driver (the Touareg would easily win in a tug of war against the Tundra.. but that's for another thread. <IMG SRC="http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/clipart/happy.gif" ALT=":-)" BORDER=0>)

I just bought a 2009 Chevy Crew Cab with the 6.2 liter. This is replacing my 06 Chevy Crew Cab Duramax as my daily driver. I went with this for a couple of reasons, could not see paying an extra $8,000 for a duramax and was tired of parking outside. The new truck fits in the garage. So far I have not towed with it yet, but the 6 speed is smooth and the power is there without the turbo lag. Yes while towing I might get lower mpg, but after driving the 06 for 130K miles with only about 30K towing. It's not that big of a deal.

I had an '03 Avalanche, it was by far one of my favorite vehicles. Unfortunately the Avalanche just didn't have enough power for me towing up here in Colorado so I went to a Duramax. If I had to pick between the Tundra and the Avalanche, I would go with the Tundra due to it's power. <BR> <BR>You could also look at an Escalade Ext with the 6.2L and that would actually be perfect for towing.

New chevy ads have 4x4s with locking differentials, those caught my eye this past week. got 100K on my toyota and have been VERY happy with it.

QUOTE "I have owned an F150 with the 4.6 and 5.4, a Silverado with the 5.3, a F250 diesel (6.0) and hands down my regular cab Tundra with the 5.7 will outperform any of the above listed towing our Xstar. " <BR> <BR>Not trying to flame, but WOW - Let's see a video of the Tundra "outperforming" the 6.0 powerstroke.

I have had an 07 sierra denali for two weeks now, and the 6.2 power is unreal, but then again, it comes with a matching 13.6 in city mpg's (for me). <BR> <BR>it gets 19mpg on the highway - going 65 <BR> 16.5 going 82 (and it likes going 82)

QUOTE "I have owned an F150 with the 4.6 and 5.4, a Silverado with the 5.3, a F250 diesel (6.0) and hands down my regular cab Tundra with the 5.7 will outperform any of the above listed towing our Xstar. " <BR> <BR>QUOTE: Not trying to flame, but WOW - Let's see a video of the Tundra "outperforming" the 6.0 powerstroke. <BR> <BR>... well I would put my Touareg up against both of them and i am pretty sure I’d be the clear winner when comparing performance while towing an X-Star. :-D I'd even race ya towing up hills... at altitude :-D. (Sorry.. not trying to get off topic.. but i just think i found the ultimate vehicle for towing a 5000lbs-ish boat)

That's OK, go as off topic as you all like... I think I've most likely made up my mind at this point...! <IMG SRC="http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/clipart/happy.gif" ALT=":-)" BORDER=0>

Which is what?

Quote:... well I would put my Touareg up against both of them and i am pretty sure I’d be the clear winner when comparing performance while towing an X-Star. :-D I'd even race ya towing up hills... at altitude :-D. (Sorry.. not trying to get off topic.. but i just think i found the ultimate vehicle for towing a 5000lbs-ish boat) <BR> <BR>LOL! Those are sweet. <BR> <BR>How about you chain your toureg to a f350 diesel and lets put that claim to rest.

LOL @ a Touareg towing better than something twice its weight and twice its wheelbase.

After this discussion, I'm leaning towards a Tundra... If you see a used supercharged Tundra in your area, let me know... they are hard to find and I'm not limiting myself to that... but I'm sure I'll be saving for one either way. I just put both of my cars back up for sale again. Priced a bit more agressively this time... <BR> <BR>If anybody needs a nice '03 Avalanche or '06 Saab 9-3... <BR><a href="http://yakima.craigslist.org/cto/1440208210.html" target="_blank">http://yakima.craigslist.org/cto/1440208210.html</a> <BR><a href="http://yakima.craigslist.org/cto/1440235823.html" target="_blank">http://yakima.craigslist.org/cto/1440235823.html</a> <BR> <BR>(Message edited by phenom_1819 on October 27, 2009) <BR> <BR>(Message edited by phenom_1819 on October 27, 2009)

You have a price error in the top line of the Av ad. <BR>Nice rig. Good luck.

Fixed. Thanks Bill

Good luck with the purchase! I think the Tundra will put a smile on your face the second you hit the gas with the boat behind it. On the other hand, after about a month you'll be missing those tool boxes on the side. I got rid of my '03 Av 2 years ago and still wish I had those tool boxes, the removable cover and the lights in the cargo area - all features that every pickup should have IMO.

Quote:... "well I would put my Touareg up against both of them and i am pretty sure I’d be the clear winner when comparing performance while towing an X-Star. :-D I'd even race ya towing up hills... at altitude :-D. (Sorry.. not trying to get off topic.. but i just think i found the ultimate vehicle for towing a 5000lbs-ish boat) <BR> <BR>"LOL! Those are sweet." <BR> <BR>QUOTE: "How about you chain your toureg to a f350 diesel and lets put that claim to rest." <BR> <BR>I think it would be an ugly day for my Touareg <IMG SRC="http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/clipart/happy.gif" ALT=":-)" BORDER=0> Anyway.. the V10 TDI Touareg is a lot of fun.. about the same weight (6000#) and HP/Tourque as the 6.0L Ford... but it's obviouly not a truck and that is what most people want. It surprising tows as well as my 08 5.7L Tundra did. <BR> <BR>Back on topic... I think you are making the right choice with the Tundra.. it's a great truck, we loved ours. Check out the RedRock interior... it's looks great on a black Tundra <IMG SRC="http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/clipart/happy.gif" ALT=":-)" BORDER=0>. You can always add the supercharger later, so find the Tundra you want then worry about the blower.

I couldn't resist, just got back from a test drive at the Toyota dealership. I'm almost speechless -- that is one impressive truck. Torque like hell and way more comfortable inside than the Avalanche (a welcomed surprise, as that was one of my biggest concerns). <BR> <BR>They "softened" the look of the dashboard with different colors in the 2010 compared to the previous years, it's much more attractive than I was expecting. And I'm close to giving in. With the pricing on the 2010's and 0% APR, it seems like a no-brainer. The dealer is looking into whether a silver or black 2010 silver Crewmax Limited is available for an inventory swap... <BR> <BR>SOMEBODY BUY MY SAAB OR AVALANCHE, please.......... <IMG SRC="http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/clipart/happy.gif" ALT=":-)" BORDER=0> I don't like when people ask "what's a good deal" on a forum, so at the risk of being that guy, if you have any suggestions for me and you want to send me a PM, I'd welcome whatever negotiating advice I can get...

I sold an F150 to a Toyota tech because and I quote "The Tundra just isn't a truck yet" this was in 08.

Same thing happened to me Cal! I test drove the Tundra and knew right away it was the truck I wanted. I don't even own it yet and I already know exactly what I am going to do to it lol <BR> <BR>Tint the front windows, paint the wheels black, add in sub/amp, and level the front end <IMG SRC="http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/clipart/happy.gif" ALT=":-)" BORDER=0> <BR> <BR>Best of luck in the sale of your other vehicles! This market sucks to be selling, but you'll get a heck of a deal on what you buy!

Good call Cal. I agree that Cade's truck is pretty nice. I have been with him while towing and also up to the mountain. It does for sure have alot of torque.

So what turned you away from the F150?

F150: I drove a friends' 06 F150. It felt underpowered, I didn't care for the way it drove and the drivers seat just didn't feel right (I'm short at 5'7"). That was enough to turn me off.

Does the Tundra have the space for a 6' 4" guy? I'm looking to unload my Expedition but was really leaning towards a 2006 diesel F250. I could be convinced otherwise though. Or maybe not... Not sure I'd like to drop $40K on another item.

Cal, what are you going to do about the dog? I wish they had back seats that were more friendly for the 4 leggers. This is the only complaint with that truck, but most trucks now don't have the backrest that fold flat to make a nice platform for dogs to be comfortable. I figure a little creativity you can figure something out.

Thats one thing the Av is great for.... the dogs. More often than not, I drive it with the back seat &amp; wall down, the entire bed open for the dogs.

Yep, that's a big issue for me. The Avalanche definitely wins as far as dogs are concerned.... inside, you fold the seats down and they have a level place for a bed. Outside, remove the panel closest to the cabin... and it protects the dog from the elements and lets him sleep beneath if he likes. <BR> <BR>In the Tundra, the rear seat does fold down, but not nearly as low as the Avalanche... and leaves a big gap and they would inevitably fall down -- so it's no good for dogs. <BR> <BR>But the floor is big enough that he and his dog bed should fit there just fine when the seat is scooted all the way back. He's 85 lbs, any bigger and it'd probably be uncomfortable...

In the Tundra, you could lower the entire rear window (powered) so your dog could go in/out pretty easily too (but not while the truck is moving). <BR> <BR>Don't know if you're aware that the Tundra Crew Max rear seats slide and recline. Super super comfy. My kids love my brother-in-law's Tundra specifically because of that feature.

Does anyone tow with the Tundra? How does it tow?

Shawn, that Crew Max has a huge back seat with tons of leg room, more than a Super Duty.

I tow with a 08 Sequoia. Has the 5.7L with 401# torque. The tow package give me the lower rear end gearing. What a pleasure to tow with. That drivetrain makes the vehicle.

Very happy with my 07 Crew Max Ltd. I have added a few extras and am running @ 440hp. <BR> <BR><img src="http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/messages/3183/744298.jpg" alt="Upload"> <BR><img src="http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/messages/3183/744299.jpg" alt="Upload">

So much for waiting a few months... <BR> <BR>I pulled the trigger today on a white 2010 Tundra Crewmax Limited. I brought it home a few hours ago and immediately removed the TRD decals... it goes in for a couple hours tomorrow to have the running boards installed. Will post pics as soon as she's presentable. <img src="http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/clipart/happy.gif" border=0> <BR> <BR>(Message edited by phenom_1819 on October 29, 2009)

Great Choice - looking forward to the pictures!

I just a new white one on the highway. It was lowered or the bigger wheels filled the gap better. Eitherway super sharp truck.

Rob, awesome truck. Cal, congrats and we cant wait for pics.

nice .... congrats... Maybe we will see that thing come boat show time

Thanks Tyler and Kevin... Rob, very nice setup! Can you give me some details on your leveling/lift? Looks great...

I see you in the boat in the first picture with the shoes on the ground...makes since....good man...but the second picture the shoes are still on the ground...but where did you go haha? <img src="http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/clipart/proud.gif" border=0>

How did you get the TRD decals off I hate them on my Crew Max.

Heat them with a hairdryer, warms the glue... and they peel right off. I'm trying to get the "5.7 V8" and 4x4 emblems off too... having a harder time with those.

I have a heat gun I am going to get it done! Thanks

Congrats! Can't wait to see the pics and hear about your first tow with it!

Hey Cal, so you found a TRD, Limited? Here in CA I can only find SR5/TRD or Limited. I was told hard to find? But yours is both? Sweet! <BR> <BR>Having the limited w/o TRD is only like the beefier tires and shocks right? <BR> <BR>(Message edited by Black_Ops_09 on October 30, 2009)

Jason, it is a Limited with the TRD suspension package -- The TRD package is just a fancy of saying... "Bilstein shocks and huge TRD stickers across the bed". I'm pretty sure most Limited's have the package, but I could be wrong.

Cal <BR> <BR>The current set up is a Camburg Racing Coil over 3 inch lift with 3 inch sag <a href="http://www.camburg.com/toyota%2007%20tundra.html" target="_blank">http://www.camburg.com/toyota%2007%20tundra.html</a> in the front. Factory rear with a 3 inch block. The wheels are Ultra Goliath with 305 55 20 Nitto Terra Grapplers. Other mods include Doug Thorley Headers, Magnaflow Exaust, Cold Air Intake, Hid Fog Lights, Rinoguard Front Grill and Excalibur Lighted Running Boards <a href="http://excaliburtruck.com/excrunningboards.htm" target="_blank">http://excaliburtruck.com/excrunningboards.htm</a>.

Sorry for the delay, here she is! Sorry for the crappy iphone photo, but better than nothing. I'm also installing Bilstein 5100 leveling shocks, should be on the truck by Thursday... <BR><img src="http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/messages/3183/744995.jpg" alt="Upload">

Sharp truck Cal. Congrats.

nice guy.... you gonna put some new shoes on it?

Thanks guys. I'd like to put new wheels on it, but I was looking for a deal on used one and ended up with an average deal on a new one... any semblance of a budget was blown from the start. Maybe by next summer.

Looks sharp. I am jealous for sure.

I love it! That's exactly what I want but in a DC. I am going to try and work 285/65/18 A/T tires into the deal but not sure if they will give anything else since I am getting the Costco price (roughly 10% off MSRP). <BR> <BR>Did you go the Costco route?

Is 10% MSRP a good deal?

I did not go the Costco route, and 10% off MSRP seems (to me) like a good deal. I did a lot of research before-hand and feel I got an average deal (due to my line of work, average is as good as I can expect, unfortunately). <BR> <BR>Truck is in the shop having the level/lift installed as I type...

Nice truck Cal, 'bout time you got another Toyota;)

Cal, nice looking rig. Did you pick that up at the Yakima dealership? A buddy of mine pulls his boat with a 07 limited and loves it. I too have been thinking about trading in my F350 long bed for something with a short bed but with a lot of room in the cab. <BR>One question though, is there enough room in the Crew Max for 3 car seats in the back? <BR> <BR>Moon

Thanks Pete... if work allows, you should try and get to the NW this winter. I have White Pass lift tickets with your name on 'em.... <BR> <BR>Moon, thanks... there aren't many of us Central Washington kids on wakeworld! Yes, I bought it at Bud Clary. I don't know about the car seats -- I don't have any kids and know nothing about car seats (made obvious to the salesperson at Bud Clary when I asked if the hooks on the back of the seats were cargo tie-downs... he just laughed...). I would think you could fit three without a problem. <BR> <BR>And by the way, my 85-lb. lab is already used to being on the floor in the back. With the seat slid all the way back, he can turn around fine. The back seat is huge, literally has 2' of floor space.

I was dead set on buying a 2009 Avalanche, 6.0 LTZ, 4x4. The 5.3L was not an option after coming from an Armada, then a 5.7L Grand Cherokee. I had a couple suitable trucks located but GM would not budge on the prices even in spite of the bailout (this was in May/June of this year). That forced me to explore my options. <BR> <BR>After test driving a Tundra Crew Max, I dropped my plans for an Avalanche for the following reasons: <BR>*Power...there is safety in power <BR>*Interior room...hip room, shoulder room, leg room, storage compartments, you name it, the Tundra is bigger in all interior dimensions that the Avvy. <BR>*43 ft turning radius...smaller than any comparable pickup and almost as small as the Avvy despite its bigger size. <BR>*Front and rear parking sonar...A LIFE SAVER, it makes parking this big truck easier than parking the Avvy in tight places. <BR>*The 10k plus tow rating is not dependant on optioned equipment, it is across the board. go option a domestic, and as soon as you jump up to 20" wheels, your tow rating goes down. <BR>*Roll down back window...more useful than you would imagine. i roll it down so i can see and talk to the boat driver while i am launching and pulling out... <BR>*tow point height. this is a factor if you have a trailer that sits high off the ground. the Avvy's tow point is very low. you would have to run a 6" drop hitch upside down to level the trailer under my 230. <BR> <BR>Things that suck: <BR>*the stock audio system (even in my Platinum) is the worse sounding factory audio system I have ever listened to. <BR>*as cool as those huge back doors are, they can be a pain in tight parking spaces. <BR>*the aftermarket is much smaller for Tundra than a domestic... <BR> <BR>other than that, i LOVE this truck, and I have never been attached to any truck I have owned before. I usually swap trucks about every two years, the only way I will get rid of this one is if they offer a diesel option... <BR> <BR>just for reference, my Tundra is a 2010 CrewMax, 4x4, Platinum, blacked out w/ 2.5" Old Man Emu lift....

TDC, Adding to that -- the Tundra brakes are much larger than the GM 1/2 ton trucks... and the rear end and drivetrain appear to be better built too (should be mentioned again that I'm not a gearhead so this is judging on research only. But the rear end had to be rebuilt in my Avalanche at 110k, that certainly played a part in my decision to go Tundra). <BR> <BR>As to the stereo, GMC definitely wins in the stereo category... I was able to get the Tundra's JBL stereo sounding pretty good but had to tweak the settings a bit. Here's how I have it set: <BR>bass +4 <BR>mid +4 <BR>treble flat