Frames on HD

oldtimer · May 5, 2004

Maybe some of you will know why GM frames hang down below the truck? I know the allison tranny is big and it needs room but could they have the frame higher. I just think the truck would look better if the frame wasn't hanging down.

Frank S · May 5, 2004

I could be mistaken but I believe the frame is taller on the 2500 HD and 3500 than other models.I believe they have something like a 10" rail but I could be wrong.If I am,someone will be along shortly and let you know what the difference is.

Roofer · May 5, 2004

Yep, 10" rails on 2500HD's. Everyone says it is for the Allison, but it is mainly for strength.

oldtimer · May 5, 2004

Thanks for the info, but wouldn't it be nice to have the frame not hanging down. I am a GM fan and want to continue to buy GM but Ford and Dodge trucks look nice and clean with frame not hanging down like GM trucks.

Frank S · May 5, 2004

I see what you're saying but it doesn't really bother me in the least.

I also see that you have a topic going on about lifting a D-Max.If you do this,you may want to put some steps on it such as nerf bars or something.This will also make the frame a lot less noticeable as I found this to be the result on my wife's C2500 HD with the D-Max after I installed a set of Westins on it.

oldtimer · May 5, 2004

The frame issue I have wouldn't stop me from buying GM. I like the look of the nerf bar as long as they are close to the body and not hanging down.

Frank S · May 6, 2004

Well,here's a shot of the Westins on my wife's '02 CC.

The truck's a little dirty but you get the idea.

Chevyfreek · May 6, 2004

I think the large frame just makes the truck look that much better, but to each their own....

1BADHD · May 6, 2004

The frame has to hang down. The body cant go much further down, or it would be sitting on the frame.

oldtimer · May 6, 2004

I was just wondering other peoples opinion on the frames. I guess my main problem is the truck looking like a two wheel drive truck instead of a four wheel drive truck. I also think GM is missing out on some sales because you can not have bigger tires on a GM 2500 HD without lifting the thing and spending money. Ford and Dodge allow you to put at 285 on them with out cutting the the plastic off the wheel in the front. I guess everybody has there own opinion.

Cpl Punishment · May 8, 2004

I like the exposed frame on the 2500HD & 3500 trucks. Gives it that tough, industrial look to differentiate from the sport-truck look of the 1500s. Different uses, different mindsets I guess. I don't however, understand why Chevy keeps their truck so much lower that Ford or Dodge. Hell, my old half ton Ford 4x4 sat higher than my 2500HD, and even 2wd F-250s seem to tower over me.

Mr Mojo · May 9, 2004

The 2500HD is not that low, tell me which truck in these pics is the 2500HD and which is a regular 2500, also one of these is a 4 x 4, which one?

usa56 · May 11, 2004

It appears that both trucks have the same frame of 8" for the exception that the 2500 HD has the body mounting bracket 1.75" or 2" higher then the 2500 LD.

Tom