Guys - I appreciate the information, insight, and thinking.

Outcome of today's trip to the dealer: no deal.

I provided the salesman a written offer, including a number for his truck, an amount I was asking for my trade-in, rate of interest not-to-exceed, and loan term.

No problem with the rate and term.

But on the deal itself, difference between my net number and dealer's best offer was $1,000.

Frankly, I was wanting to do the deal at the price the dealer was offering. But I had a plan walking into the dealer so decided to stick with it.

The salesman and his sales manager know we are still in the market for a new tow vehicle. In the meantime, the trusty Suburban will stay in service.

Again, thanks for the help. - Deerfield