I am considering buying a Chevy 2500 Reg. Cab Long box 4x4. Its a 1998 model with the 6.5L TurboDiesel. I have a few questions about these trucks and I hope you can answer them: 1. I am aware that they aren't to quick... what do you think I would have to do to get an 8 Second 0-60 time out of it?? 2. What MPGs are you getting with them? 3. How would this truck do pulling trailers that are about 4000 to 6500 Lbs.? 4. I live in WI where winters get BELOW 10 Degrees F. What can I do to make starting it easier in the winter? 5. What are some Pros and Cons of these and how long can I expect it to last? Any response is appreciated! -Braden

Never took the time to check 0-60 trap time and not sure why it matters-it is a truck.

MPG varies a lot and depends on driving style,axle ratio,load ect. it can range from around 8-21 mpg depending on the truck and it's use.

Again towing power depends on the axle ratio but I suspect a K2500 would be setup to tow that weight fairly well as is.

An aftermarket ECM tune with extended glow time programmed in helps with cold starts,a manual glow override can be done DIY and use new Bosch Duratherm glow plugs.

Longevity depends more on how the previous owner has treated the truck and how you treat it in the future,there is no best before date but getting to 400,000 is not uncommon.

Better answers require some more information from you.what modifications from stock does it already have?what more do you intend to do to it?

Tire size,gear ratios and driving habits play a big role in mileage.

Yeah, I know more info would help. The guy that's selling it it hasn't responded to my email I sent him yesterday yet so I am not sure of this information yet... I will imform you of it when he replies. Thanks!

Pros and cons.
Pros:
Cheap to buy
Cheap to fix
easy to work on
Parts are cheap and readily available
Cons:
It is a light duty diesel.
It is NOT a Cummins,Duramax or Powerstroke.
If that kind of performance is what you want, you will be dissapointed.
These engine are limited to performance improvements and they are very costly compared to the results.
They run hot when towing. Things can be done to help but If you push a 6.5, it will push back.
They don't have much resale value.
You need to be able to work on it yourself because few shops can. That includes the dealer.
A 93 with an NV4500 is the best combo. 98 Not a bad year. Better cooling system.

Hey, thanks for the reply! As I do further reasearch, I am finding that it may be better to go for a Duramax instead... thanks for all the help anyway.. now, back to saving more $
to be continued!

Can never go wrong with a Duramax but they have their issues too so do your homework there are well.