New Truck Decision

[slez81]

Hello, new to this forum, looking for some opinions. I'm turning in a avalanche lease and buying a '08 silverado. Can't decide between Z71 or the "all-star package" (pretty sure its Z85 w/ 20" wheels). Any thoughts on pro's or con's of either suspension setup?

[VMax2007]

Hello, new to this forum, looking for some opinions. I'm turning in a avalanche lease and buying a '08 silverado. Can't decide between Z71 or the "all-star package" (pretty sure its Z85 w/ 20" wheels). Any thoughts on pro's or con's of either suspension setup?

 

20" wheels ONLY come with the Z60 "performance" suspension.

[omegafiler]

Some folks feel the Z71 suspension is a bit too harsh. Drive them both, see which one you like better.

[D&SYukonDenali]

Welcome to the forum.

[VMax2007]

Some folks feel the Z71 suspension is a bit too harsh. Drive them both, see which one you like better.

 

The Z60 suspension is alot harsher than the Z71 suspension.

[DofD]

Hi there and welcome to the forum!

 

Give each of the models you're interested in a good test drive. It's the only way you'll really know for sure what one is right for you.

[Outbacker]

I had a Z71 for 3 years, and recently traded it in for the truck I have now. The Z71 was nicer when it came to loading up the box with stuff, but empty, it was a bit of a stiffer ride. Day to day driving, I much perfer this truck as it offers a lot smoother ride.

[99silverado1500]

I dont really notice any difference between the Z71 and non Z71. My dads 2500 HD rides slightly harsher then mine, but thats a non Z71 HD so I guess the Z71 is a little harsh for what it is, I dont think its soft at all.

[wcortesi]

My 2000 Siverado was a Z71 and my new LTZ has the Z60 w/ 20" wheels. I don't think it rides harsh at all. Actually, neither of them were harsh unless you're on some really rough terrain.

The Z60 is supposed to have bigger sway bars, which is a good thing!

[slez81]

Thanks for all the advice, does anyone know how the Z85 (Handling/Trailering) suspension compares? I think its going to be between that and the Z71.

[soludsnake]

I have a Z71 and love it. I drove others w/o the Z71 suspension but honestly saw little to no difference at the wheel. One was slightly softer but the knowledge of having a tougher suspension when the situation permits (4X4) is reassuring enough to go with it.

 

The Z71 fit my needs and exceeded them for a off road suspension (from the factory of course). And you get the Z71 badge to you already stand out more then the 4x4 ones

 

Just kidding

[slez81]

yeah, i like the idea of the stiffer suspension, plus i have heard rumors of cons of getting larger rims. aside from the look, do the larger rim's effect anything? (handleing, MPG, transmission stress)

[soludsnake]

yeah, i like the idea of the stiffer suspension, plus i have heard rumors of cons of getting larger rims. aside from the look, do the larger rim's effect anything? (handleing, MPG, transmission stress)

Well the bigger the rim the more it weighs as well the more the truck has to turn to get the tire moving. You will probably see slightly less fuel eco, and not as much 'go' but not to the extent that you could call it night and day difference.

 

I wouldn't say your going to stress your transmission running stock 20's, but hell anything is possible.

[Nick The Great]

My 07 NBS CC 4x4 Z71 rides like a dream. It rides smoother than my 99 RCSB 2WD did.

 

It isn't quite as nice a ride as her NBS 07 Impala, but almost. Which is pretty good considering it is a truck.

[unit731]

Welcome !

 

 

Drive them both. Get the one you want/like. I certainly did !