Scotty, I have a 2009 Chevy Avalanche LTZ 4wd with 117k miles with the HD towing package. Today the 6 speed transmission failed and needs to be replaced. I don’t want to spend for a new transmission if the 5.3 V-8 will need a top end rebuild because of the collapsed lifters the FFM system is known for. I need something to tow a 5,000# boat and I don’t know if I should trade in the Avalanche for a pre-owned truck or replace the tranny and pray I don’t have collapsed lifters in the near future. Any words of wisdom?
You are confusing two technologies there. Flex fuel means it can burn ethanol fuel. AFM= cylinder deactivation
Yea.....I her ya but my concern is still with the potential for collapsed lifters because of the cylinder deactivation system. I’m seeing a lot on information on all the shops with Chevy and GMC trucks with the cylinder deactivation systems needing the top end rebuilt
Have you given any thought to trading it in towards an HD truck? The 2500's are built much better.
Those 5.3 engines can last a while I would honestly go with a factory rebuilt transmission because the Avalanche is a pretty good truck from my experience of owning one. The new GM's are quite terrible now.
Do you have a 5.3 with the cylinder deactivation system?
yep
I am planning to get it turned off by a professional tuner to prolong engine life.