I love my 3.0. I really don't know why some people call it a 3.slow. When the 3.0 came out, GMC was using a 2.8 V6 in their trucks. Now, THAT was a horrible engine.

It uses more gas than the 22R. But, the extra horsepower is worth it. I've drived 22R trucks and I would never want to go back.

The headgasket problem was only for the 1990 and newer models. In fact early 3.4s had the same failure. It isn't like 22Rs don't have headgasket failures. I've replaced plenty of them for friends. And, dare I bring up the 22R's plastic timing chain guides?

Basically, the 3VZE is just as reliable as the 22R. It is just as easy to work on. The only downside is that it comes with a chain driven transfercase. But, Marlin has a solution for that.