1500 vs 1500HD

[GMCSierra04]

I've seen some 1500HD's driving around and they look like they sit up higher than the 1500's, what are the differences between the two? I'd like to get my Sierra to sit up a little higher but not ready for a lift, are different torsion bars used or is it more? Thanks.

[Ben]

Marketing stuff for those who won't buy a 3/4 ton truck, even if their requirements says "NEED" a 3/4 ton.

 

Anything GM with a "HD" after the model number means next size up.

 

A 1500HD is a 3/4 ton truck. A 2500HD is a 1 ton truck.

 

Larger engine choices, larger tranny, larger brakes, larger diff, larger frame (main reason sits approx 2 inches taller than 1500, both in stock form). Plus bunch of other stuff not readily visiable or apparent.

 

Similar to the bogus marketing driven "curb" weight and "max trailer" weight listings. Marketing/sales language designed for that "hook line and sinker" stuff, which sometimes, often times gets them a 2nd vehicle sales.

[AlanTDickey]

The biggest difference has to be in the axles and cargo capacity. E.g., the 2500HDs have a rear axle capacity of 6,800 lbs and the 2500s (aka 1500HDs) have a rear axle capacity of 6,000 lbs. The 1500s have between 3,750 lbs and 4,000 lbs of rear axle capacity depending on the model. That means that the 2500s and 2500HDs have axles that are at least 50% stronger than the 1500s'. That means the 3/4 and 1 ton trucks and carry a lot more and can punish thier axles off road more without doing any damage.