The front differential was sweating with in the first 5000Km.
I have the 4.3L V8 with an automatic transmission and a 4:10 rear end. This combination delivers tones of power for every day driving and handles my 4700lb trailer very well.
The interior of the truck is very luxurious and comfortable. This truck is a pleasure to travel in and is great on long road trips.
I have a friend who has a father who purchased a 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3 litre V8 SLE with a locking differential, and many other options. This is a very reliable vehicle, and it has big balls! It averages at 15 mpg (miles per gallon) on the highway and 13 in the city. Even with the locking differential doing a powerstand is no challenge. This truck is unbeatable (except with a hemi) and everyone should have one.