I assume you're going with a "newer", mid-late 90's diesel Sub? I had an '86 with the non-turbo 6.2L and loved it. I never had to pull anything heavier than a 21' boat or a couple of sleds and it was more than adequate. The 6.5L turbo does have plenty more kick for towing heavier loads. They are getting increasingly hard to find in good shape.

As far as other diesel options, especially if you want a newer vehicle, a crew cab short bed might work and the Excursion could certainly do the job if your budget allows.

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1980 300TD-China Blue/Blue MBTex-2nd Owner, 107K (Alt Blau) OBK #15
'06 Chevy Tahoe Z71 (for the wife & 4 kids, current mule) '03 Honda Odyssey (son #1's ride, reluctantly) '99 GMC Suburban (255K+ miles, semi-retired mule) 21' SeaRay Seville (summer escape pod)