PaulSea1,
I haven't been gold long enough to experience the problems with being upgraded.
I just stayed at the Huntington Beach, Ca. Hilton. (2nd time this year, 1st as gold). I was treated very nicely and though they could not upgrade to a suite, they did put me on the 11th floor and gave me access to the lounge.
From a service perspective I have not had any problems with Hilton. From the points perspective, I have been able to earn points relatively easy. I plan on staying with Hilton unless things take a turn for the worse.