Looking at a new 05 Z71

[Domano 68]

Just wanted to get some info on the 05s if there are any problems out there to look for before buying. Thanks!

 

 

[Ape0r]

The 2005 half-ton models have drum brakes on the rear. Don't know if that makes a difference to you.

 

The upside to that is you won't have any parking brake problems.

[SteveSierra]

Just wanted to get some info on the 05s if there are any problems out there to look for before buying.  Thanks! 

 

 

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

I just bought one last Saturday. The only problems I had were scratches

on the side of the bed and on the tailgate. But these were dealer installed

options, not factory They have since gotten them out and all is good

so far. Oh yeah, if you are considering installing an aftermarket stereo,

I would recommend not opting for the Bose stereo. IMO, it is still weak.

No knocking, but it is less than a week old. Everything seems solid with it.

[Domano 68]

The 2005 half-ton models have drum brakes on the rear. Don't know if that makes a difference to you.

 

The upside to that is you won't have any parking brake problems.

 

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Didn't the older models have discs on all four?

 

Also, any opinions on XM Sattellite radio?

[2004GMC1500CC]

The 2005 half-ton models have drum brakes on the rear. Don't know if that makes a difference to you.

 

The upside to that is you won't have any parking brake problems.

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

 

My 04 with rear disc's doesn't have any parking brake problems.

[lrymal]

Just wanted to get some info on the 05s if there are any problems out there to look for before buying.  Thanks! 

 

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Simply the "best" Z71 I have purchased. Go here:

 

http://www.gm-trucks.com/forums/index.php?...topic=36468&hl=

[lrymal]

Regarding the 2005 full-sized 1/2 ton pickup brakes, here is a link explaining why these are so much better than the 4 disc system that GM used on the 2003 - 2004 models, even though drums are used in the back:

 

http://www.detnews.com/2004/autosinsider/0.../b06-162606.htm

[kevenn]

The new 05 brake system is better, but alot of magazines are bashing GM for going to and older "cheaper system. The new system is made by Bosch and it is not cheap, also Toyota Tundras have the same rear drum system and they make good trucks too.

[Ape0r]

The 2005 half-ton models have drum brakes on the rear. Don't know if that makes a difference to you.

 

The upside to that is you won't have any parking brake problems.

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

 

Didn't the older models have discs on all four?

 

Also, any opinions on XM Sattellite radio?

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

 

 

Older models did have four wheel discs, now I'm no one to say if the new system is better or worse, just stating a fact =)

 

I didn't get XM with the truck, but I did end up installing it via an aftermarket kit that interfaces with the existing radio. Same cost as getting it as an option, and the antenna will look better if you get it with the new truck.

 

Programming on XM leaves something to be desired, but I still prefer it over FM radio, ESPECIALLY in mornings when all anyone on the radio wants to do is run their d**n mouths!

 

Real nice on long trips, which is about 95% of my driving, no fading in and out of radio stations.

 

Signal does drop sometimes going under an overpass or driving next to a very steep hill (e.g. blocking line of site with the satellite).

 

Overall quality is outstanding, quality holds as you crank the volume. FM radio has a tendency to sound like crap when you turn it up =).

[Roostman]

Also, just so you know, if your gettin the Crew Cab, the bed is shorter than that of a standard short bed. I think its 5'7" insted of 6'7". Too short for me so I opted for a 3/4 ton.

 

I also think gettin the XM radio would be better if given the choice. I didnt get it in mine but sure wish I did (not enough to go and buy it now). Better to have it than not IMO.

[AG Bill 05 Z71]

Some other items to consider on a 05 Z71:

 

Engine:

The 310 HP all aluminum engine is only available on the Extended Cab model. If you want a Crew Cab, only the 295 HP iron block engine is available.

 

Rear End Ratio:

The aluminum block engine is only available with either a 3.42 or a 4.10 ratio. If you do a search, there are many threads on the +/- on this issue...

 

The other two major changes this year are the electric cooling fans (instead of engine driven fans) and the rear drum brakes (instead of rear discs). It is probably too early yet to see if either of these changes will cause problems.

 

The only other option I recommend is the steering wheel radio control buttons. It is only $125 on the window sticker and you have more features on your DIC (wait a minute...) Driver Information Center display on the dash...

 

I only have 800 miles on mine, and it is the best truck I have ever owned..