Just picked up an 05 Escalade ESV with 13k for a song.  It is in perfect shape and has 60 HP more than my Yukon.  The whole family loves it and can't wait to hook our 225BR to it.  These kids have no idea how spoiled they are:)  I am going to put synthetic fluid in the diffs and transfer case to protect the all wheel drive and increase mileage.  I am also going to get the PCM reprogrammed for more HP and mileage.  Anyone pointers for towing with a 6.0 and AWD?  

My stock 6.0L /3.73 gear ratio, gets around 10.5 MPG towing, nearly 15 MPG highway. Power wise it tows 7800 lbs just fine. I hate the thought of fueling up the boat and Suburban's empty gas tanks at the same time.....gotta pay to play though.

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Phil Belcher
2003 266CCR
496 MAG, Bravo 3

Well, it tows great but I only got 10 mpg.  Was in a bit of a hurry so that could probably be improved upon.  Also had to fill them both up with fuel....Ouch!

Troy, the Cadillac Esv is a very nice vehicle, just pay close attention to whine, growl noises coming from front diff. They have some problems.

Thanks, I have heard the GM AWD systems can have a problem with that so this weekend both differentials and the transfer case are getting synthetic lube.  It sounds like the break-in period overheats the fluid and it greatly reduces its ability to protect the drive components.  Anyone with AWD (Escalade, Denali, Silverado SS) should switch to synthetic ASAP.  Already put synthetic in the motor but haven't gotten to the drivetrain yet. 

I have an 04 Yukon xl that has had the front differential repaired. The gear lube is not the problem. Axle shaft bearings are set in position with adusting nuts to set the clearences for the ring & pinion gears. Once set the nuts are locked in postion with basically a horse shoe clip that is bent over the nuts to prevent them from moving. If or when the clip breaks the nuts start to loosen up and the ring & pinion get loose and sloppy and begin to whine. Then you see the repair man!  I'm pulling an ' 07  23 SS  with a 5.3 and AWD. I leave the OD locked out and use 3rd gear to save  the OD from shifting in and out so often. Also use the TOW MODE. I get 10 mpg and it works good.