2008 Sierra Denali 1500 2WD Struts / Shocks Recommendations

[Boss Lady]

I've got 85,000 miles on my 08 Denali, and I can tell the ride is not what it used to be. I tow a boat occasionally, with a total weight of about 8,000 lbs. The only suspension changes I've made were on the Rear Shocks, and I went with the factory originals from my local GMC Dealership. I did notice an improvement, but that was 35,000 miles ago. Recently, I've experienced the back of the truck wanting "skip" when cornering on a rough road or hitting a bump when cornering. Do any of you have any suggestions on getting my ride quality back to when it was like when new? Also, is changing the Rear Leaf Springs and or the Coils / Springs on the Front Shocks a good idea? I've noticed that some Front Shocks come with the Coils / Springs already loaded, and was wondering if these were good options. Thanks!

[Mikebtte]

A preloaded front strut only makes your life easier. The springs on the truck are not easy to compress.

On the rear the rubber bushings in the shackles dose wear out and are not serviceable. You have to replace the shackle to repair it. Spring also have bushings and maybe a spring shop can install new bushings. 

As for steering, the sway bar endlinks wear out and kill the good control of the road.

 

I changed my front struts on my 08 at 150k miles and they respond as well as the new struts.

[Boss Lady]

Did you go back with factory original AC Delco Struts? Also, thanks for the information on the Rubber Bushings in the Leaf Spring Shackles. I'll take a look at them when I get in from offshore at work.

[Mikebtte]

1 hour ago, Boss Lady said:

Did you go back with factory original AC Delco Struts? Also, thanks for the information on the Rubber Bushings in the Leaf Spring Shackles. I'll take a look at them when I get in from offshore at work.

I went with aftermarket part recently. Was a preference. You will receive good results from OEM replacement parts on your truck. AC Delco offers a quality product and warranty but you can get the same from other quality brands like Gabriel and Monroe.

Being a Denali you may have the Electric Active Suspension. This will make yours a little different than my experience.

[Bill336]

Last week I had to replace the shocks on my 01 1500 Sierra. I went with Monroe's OESpectrum. Made a big difference in cornering. Time will tell how good they are.