So that is your truck then? I didn't realize that.

It is a nice looking truck but, the wheels are too much bling for the ride height.

Maybe you could do a comparison between your suspension now and a lowered setup in the future.

Any plans for a engine swap, that thing is dying for a LQ9 6.0L swap.

 

I think the 4L80 swap may be in the future after we bump the power levels up a bit.

Yep, that's my truck. Not sure about the bling factor on the wheels, I thought powdercoating them gray and that I was running 18's with 60 series tires was anti-bling. Did I just say bling twice in one sentence?

 

I am very non bling so any aftermarket wheels stand out to me, even powdercoated gray. I like the look of those wheels though.

Have you looked into the 4L80E swap yet? There is only one company that I know of that has pulled it off with an AWD transfercase. That is Wheel 2 Wheel Powertrain in Michigan. They did it with a couple one off custom pieces also.

When does the April GM Hi-Tech show up at the stores? Or has it already?

 

dont lower it just make it faster. oh and make a test on torque converters please.

 

Thanks for the tip on wheel 2 wheel, I will have to talk to those guys. I am sure its just a matter of time before I frag the stock trans.

I am not a big fan of the big shiny wheels but there is a place for a well chosen aftermarket wheel combo if you want better performance. THe 18's with the 265/60's work really well on the autocross, hook up with the AWD, and I can still drive in the snow if needed.

I lowered it to make it handle better, stock 4x4's sit up to high for handling purposes, and right now its just slightly lower than a stock 2wd. I can still haul a load of drywall and the ride is comfortable.

Torque converter, good idea.

The April issue should be hitting the stands after the 22nd I think.

 

Cool, it sounds like you've got the truck setup pretty good. I notice it is a little lower now that you mention it, at first I thought that was just body roll.

I will look for the April issue to come out. Your project is very interesting to me. A fun daily driveable(in any condition) truck that handles well and sounds like in the future is going to haul butt too. Pro Touring Truck....new craze?

 

John,
GMHTP is a great magazine, I have been a subscriber for a long time, and I have many issues cataloged in my library (read bathroom) keep up the good work. And more truck performance articles! ANY type of performance.

 

John, got my copy in the mail today. Page 63. Nice suspension article for sure.

First thing that jumps out at me is the Autotrac = AWD and the statement "just like the SS truck". That wouldn't be my first choice in wording. I don't think even GM calls the autotrac an "AWD system", more of an "auto-4WD".

 

I have the autotrac on my truck kinda handy.

 

speed engineering in fresno CA produces a 4l80 conversion kit... maybe u guys can try it out to see how complete and easy the kit is to put together and some tests on Before and after performance with th 60e and 80e being the only changes. so tht we can put to rest once and for all if the 4l80 is really the evil power sucking tranny some people say it is..........