Differences in rear leaf springs 1500hd vs 2500hd vs 3500hd

tbhuge · September 30, 2013

I have a 2006 1500hd. What are the differences in the factory rear leaf springs between mine, 2500hd and 3500hd?? I have seen very limited info online. From what I have seen all the dimensions are the same except mine is a 5 leaf, 2500hd is 7 leaf and 3500hd is 9 leaf. Is this correct? I'm looking at trying to increase my rear height 2-3" as we'll as increase my payload capacity. If my info above is correct will the 7 leaf off the 2500hd give me 2-3" of unloaded height increase?? Thanks.

straasha · September 30, 2013

There is more than just rear leaf springs that increases the 2500HD and 3500HD payload capacity. The rear end is bigger, the axles are stronger, the frame is sturdier, and the engine and transmission are stronger. The brakes are also bigger in order to stop the heavier payload.

ATMINF · September 30, 2013

The Single rear wheel 2500HD and 3500 share the same frame on the GMT800 trucks. I believe the difference comes in the spring packs. The 1500HD is not the same frame.

Toolman82 · September 30, 2013

I have wondered the same thing since I have a 06 1500HD as well.

I have read that they are the same, but I am not sure of the height change. I am planning on changing to 2500HD springs in the future.

If you go through with the swap, let us know. I am interested in what you find out.

tbhuge · September 30, 2013

I know there are other differences between the 3 trucks. My only concern is the rear leaf springs. Are the dimensions the same with the exception of how many leafs are in the packs?? Is it a direct bolt in??

Chris · September 30, 2013

Well I bolted in 2500HD rear springs into my 1500. Just use the shackles that came with the springs

tbhuge · September 30, 2013

How much unloaded height did you gain from the upgrade? Center of rim to fender?

Chris · September 30, 2013

.25" I had a 1.25" block from a GMT-900. I pulled that out. From stock it raised it 1.5" unloaded

Chris · September 30, 2013

Also the 1500HD comes with the 2500HD spring pack I believe. It is a 4+1 pack.

scooby5121 · October 1, 2013

Just go to a spring shop and get them to price out extra leaf's for you first to see if it is worth while just to add to what you have.

Chris · October 1, 2013

I picked mine up at a wrrcking yard. Also if you change springs change U-bolts

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Badass69 · October 1, 2013

There is more than just rear leaf springs that increases the 2500HD and 3500HD payload capacity. The rear end is bigger, the axles are stronger, the frame is sturdier, and the engine and transmission are stronger. The brakes are also bigger in order to stop the heavier payload.

The only difference is actually the frame, rear diff and transfer case. Front diff, front suspension, brakes, engine and transmission are all the same. The rear brake rotors on the full floater 14 bolt has a bigger center opening..... that's it. And realistically forward of where the chassis transitions over the rear diff the 1500HD uses the same 8" channel as the 2500HD.... Height difference is just the cab mounts welded on lower on the 1500HD...... and 6" channel under the bed versus 8".

As far as springs go I would have to look but I think the 1500HD and 2500LD have the same rear springs as the 2500HD. Hell my 04 2500 light duty ( yes it's a 1500HD and identical in every way) has a higher tow capacity than a 2500HD of the same year..... based only on the fact the GCWR is identical and the light duty is a couple hundred pounds lighter truck lol.