Craig Quann

Ok. So I own a 2017 sierra dcsb wt. I did not get the z71 package. The rear locker is standard with the tow package. The only skid plate the z71 adds cost $100cdn. But I opted for a gm brand "under shield" kit.($300 cdn and I installed it myself) That comes with the transfer case plate as well as a 2 piece aluminum skid plate that replaces the factory plastic splash guard under the motor/front diff. (I off road my truck) depending on your trim level and wheel combo it makes a huge difference for ride. My wt has 17" steels and had P rated tires. Was a very soft/rolley ride. I swapped to LT rated all terrains.(way stiffer sidewall and a much tougher tire) most of the "luxury" trims have the softer P rated rubber even tho they have a larger rim. The thinner side wall takes away from the cushion of the tire. The Z71 comes with LT rated all terrains which as I said before are a super tough tire/sidewall so they don't puncture off road. The hill decent to me is a gimmick. Use Lower gear an your brakes lol. So honest the shocks are the only "real" major difference between my truck and a z71 for actual driving/off road use. Tho I may consider swapping my shocks for a adjustable set in the future. But honestly my truck will hop alot on rough washboard roads....but because of my upgraded LT metric all terrain tires, if I'm planning to off road I air down the tires and that makes all the difference. (Also why I stuck with the 17" rims for more sidewall)