Suspension upgrade suggestions

[Magnum705]

Hey all, I have a 2009 GMC Sierra sle crew cab short box, I’m looking for a much smoother suspension on and off road. I want t avoid lifting it just want something softer. Any suggestions?

[Mikebtte]

Most if not all aftermarket suspension will be firmer than factory. You may consider new shocks and struts if it's a little ruff. You could also move to a 17" rim if you have big rims.

A lot of the new springs are progressive for performance and If you lift it you can get something with travel that might be smoother but will increase body role. In this case you will need a sway bar to make up the difference and the sway bar would make it stiffer in the corner.

 

You could lower the truck and achieve a better ride but it would remove the off-road part of the conversation.

[Bad Bowtie2]

It's a little "tough" to get the best of both worlds....

[Magnum705]

18 hours ago, Mikebtte said:

Most if not all aftermarket suspension will be firmer than factory. You may consider new shocks and struts if it's a little ruff. You could also move to a 17" rim if you have big rims.

A lot of the new springs are progressive for performance and If you lift it you can get something with travel that might be smoother but will increase body role. In this case you will need a sway bar to make up the difference and the sway bar would make it stiffer in the corner.

 

You could lower the truck and achieve a better ride but it would remove the off-road part of the conversation.

Which after market struts and shocks would you recommend?

[swathdiver]

11 hours ago, Magnum705 said:

Which after market struts and shocks would you recommend?

Why not OE?  The original gear has been there ten years already.  Is it a Z71 with Rancho shocks and HD springs?

[Magnum705]

16 minutes ago, swathdiver said:

Why not OE?  The original gear has been there ten years already.  Is it a Z71 with Rancho shocks and HD springs?

No it’s a sle. is the z71 setup much better?? This is my first truck so it’s all new to me 

[Mikebtte]

19 hours ago, Magnum705 said:

Which after market struts and shocks would you recommend?

For OEM aftermarket Monroe or Gabriel will treat you well.

The Z71 will be a comparable shock just more durable and stiffer at first.

Rear shocks the same.

Bell tech and many others make a nice aftermarket shock that rides nice.

[swathdiver]

8 hours ago, Magnum705 said:

No it’s a sle. is the z71 setup much better?? This is my first truck so it’s all new to me 

Better is subjective.  Not for ride, the Z71 suspension is for off-road use, stiffer shocks and springs.  Michael has some good suggestions, my experience is with OE mostly which I prefer.