I am looking at buying an 06 GMC Denali Truck. I would rather have it 2WD with the option of 4WD. What all do I need to do to convert it, and about how much will it cost?

 

I converted my AWD to 2WD (and upgraded to an 80E). Most of the work was going to 2WD. Most of the challenge was in the 80E upgrade. Overall, it was very easy, but work intensive fabbing new mounts, etc.

What you are looking at:
1) Remove the AWD Xfer case
2) Computer reflash (probable, unless you do an manual 4wd xfer case -- don't know for sure)
3) Wiring changes -- PCM to Xfer case (possible -- I don't know, but sounds likely to me)
4) Wiring changes in the cab / shifter install (unless you want 2WD almost all the time, with crawling under the truck to shift into 4wd with a manual case).
5) Install new 4WD xfer case -- this may include fabrication of the mounts, adapting the transmission output shaft, changing 1 or both drive shafts (or adapting existing to mate with the xfer case outs)

You may need a new tranny cross member, but I don't think so.

The cost depends on how good your fab, tuning, wiring skills are, and how much of the above turns out to be required.

I drove mine AWD until my power level made AWD too expensive (and frustrating) due to reliability issues with the 65E.

I loved having AWD on the street. Traction is incredible and you never have to worry about it. Personally, I'd go drive an AWD truck somewhere and see how you like it (you need to beat on it a bit to see the benefit hehe).

 

You could find someone with a 4x4 who wants to go AWD and swap some components with them. I've done some research on this, and it appears that you will need the 4x4 transfer case, front driveshaft (different length), front axle assy, or just the pass side axle and tube (AWD has solid 1 piece r/s axle, while 4x4 has an actuator and a two piece axle that engages when 4x4 is selected), as well as the 4x4 select switch and 4x4 computer module. I've read that some guys say that the rear driveshaft will have to be modified while others say it wont, I think it depends on if the truck has been lowered or not. I have autotrak 4x4 and would like to eventually swap out my stuff for AWD...shoot me a PM if you'd consider swapping some parts straight up and save yourself some dough. I know that my transfer case is perfect as I opened it up a year ago when I did my trans swap, and inspected it. There is an upgraded t-case pump retaining clip that I installed as a preventive measure, after finding out that the original clip is prone to breaking and allowing the pump to rock around and wear through the magnesium case half, which is not repairable.

Where are you located, just in case you'd like to swap parts?

 

I really wanted the option of 4WD basically for the gas milage of the 2WD. I dont need 4WD all the time. I guess I would need to know the milage difference. I am located in Garrett IN, 46738. If I did end up getting this truck and we knew exactly what I needed I would really think about a swap.

 

Sounds good man...not sure on the mileage difference, but I honestly don't think that it's very much, maybe 1 or 2 mpg, but I could be wrong. Keep me posted if you decide to go this route, and I'll try to do some research to see if anything else is involved. I know that the mechanical parts are a direct swap, and the 4x4 switch is the same, only thing that I'm not sure of is if the 4x4 computer is compatible. Pretty sure that all of the wiring is already there, but not 100%

 

Sounds good. I just sold my truck a half an hour ago. So I am definatly going to go with it. If we could just find out all the info that would be great. Im buying a 2006 if that makes a difference

 

AWD truck do not have the 4x4 wiring harness. this is what it takes to properly install the wiring and buttons...




This was on a 2003 chevy 2500 6.0/4l80e. the truck came with torsion front suspension, and yes the PCM is set up to operate either 2wd/AWD and 4x4.

I'm sure it can be done easier, but the owner of this truck wanted to make sure that everything was installed to OEM specs.

 

Oh my, looks like it's a little more involved to go from AWD to 4WD than the other way around LOL. I wonder if the sub-harnesses for the 4x4 are available from GM...and how much they cost

 

The fuel mileage gained is not worth the swap at all.

 

Yes they are. I don't know the cost though