GM 4wd systems

[Kansas Kid]

So guys, are you totally pleased with the GM 4wd systems on all the Silverado pickups, or would you like to change some stuff?  I have a feeling most of you guys will be pretty happy with the current stuff, but I'd like to change some stuff around.  Now I've never had a single problem with IFS but it won't be around on all the trucks if I had my choice.

 

Here is how I would do things...

 

The 1500 Silverado/Sierra pickups would stay almost exactly the same as they are now.  They would have the same IFS front end, center axle disconnect, both lever and pushbutton t-cases.  I supposed I would keep autocrap around, even though I see no point for it, other then keeping the mechanics busy.

 

The 2500 Silverado/Sierra pickups would have some minor changes.  They would have the heavier duty IFS, center axle disconnect, and both lever and pushbutton t-cases.  But in this case I would eliminate autotrac.

 

The 2500HD and 3500 Silverado/Sierra pickups would get some major changes.  The IFS front end would be gone.  Now like I said above, I've never had single problem with IFS but in a one ton pickup I prefer the extra strengh of a SFA setup.  Even though the coil sprung setup on the Dodges rides great, I would go with a leaf sprung Dana 60 out front.  It would come with either manual hubs and a lever shift t-case or a pushbutton case with center axle disconnect and of course no autotrac.

 

Guess I can always wish, huh?  So what do you guys think?

[RedDog]

Not to bad ,, but I would leave the 3500 model alone and offer a 3500HD with the solid front!!

 

   And while your at it,,, make the HD model look exactly like the 3500 model, with the exception of the front axle.  On the HD model, make the 502 motor the stock gas motor for it.....

 

 

     RedDog

[smokey]

Gee ya might as well just go out and but a Ford if you want the 3500 with the Dana 60 front axle  LOL.

[Jpshostr]

Back when the vacuum actutors were being used, I cussed those things everytime I had to use 4x4, by the time it got engaged it was too late, you were stuck.  Now that the electronics actuators are being used I've never had a problem, push the button and its engaged.  If I had a choice though, I'd go back to the floor shifter that is right on the case, none of this electronic engaging crap.  I also don't know what to think of the Autotrac deal, IMO its another gimic used to sell trucks to urban idiots who don't need 4x4 in the first place.

 

Axle wise, I don't care.  I've never had any trouble with IFS or SFA.  For a guy that is off-road all the time SFA would be  a better choice, but for a guy who spends lots of time on pavement but still needs 4x4 capability IFS is the best bet.  Too bad the ability to choose between the two on the same truck model is never going to happen.  I guess from my standpoint, the way our trucks are used, I'd go with the IFS.  No matter the axle used though, I would like to see air lockers such as an ARB put in both front and rear diffs.

[Roofer]

You guys must all live where there is no ice on the road. I really like the Autotrac. I think it is one of the best features. With autotrac, I can let my GF drive it in any conditions and she doesn't have to worry about switching in and out of 4HI. If it is icy or snowy, I just put it in Drive and push the auto trac button and there is no messing around. I see so many 4x4 HD's running around, and all they do is sit there and spin from the stoplights because they are in 2wd. Now if they were in 4x4 they would have to switch out of it when they get on the highway because the highway is dry and clean. Technology is advancing and it seems some people only like the older trucks. Well, maybe that's what you should buy. Or you could just buy a Ford or a pre '02 Ram.

[Import Hater]

Delphi's new Quadrasteer system looks good.  I never really done the whole off roading 4x4 thing, but it looks like it could only help.  Supposedly will be an option for like $4000 for 2002 1/2.  For now only the seriously overpriced Sierra Denali will have it.  I'm kinda surprised they don't have it in the new Hummer H2.  The thing is supposed to be wide anyways, I'm sure the axle would have fit.

 

Rob

[CMNTMXR81]

wooohooo, my old SN works again!!!

 

Anyway;

 

A) Make AutoTrac an option on all 2500HD's and 3500's.  I realize they're work trucks, but they act the same regardless of chassis designation.

 

B) Make a true selection for "neutral" on the push button system.

[General Lee 01]

Well, I'm surprised no one has said it yet, but I guess I'll be first at it.

 

Manual Locking Hubs!

[Kansas Kid]

Well, I'm surprised no one has said it yet, but I guess I'll be first at it.

 

Manual Locking Hubs!

Either that or you could read the first post, in the 2500HD and 3500 section....

[Guest]

Loosen up the Autotrac. It feels like it uses an old limited slip with tight clutches.

[CMNTMXR81]

Well, I'm surprised no one has said it yet, but I guess I'll be first at it.

 

Manual Locking Hubs!

Uhhh, right!!!

[Guest]

Speaking of manual hubs...are they available aftermarket?