Fixing what GM wont on my 2020 AT4 HD & Improving the Ride Quality

[@LawrenceTolman]

so far, I've put about 100 miles on it, and the Bilsteins are doing great!

[@mattward330]

Definitely like the Sulastic shackles idea I'm waiting to get a set myself. Why not go with the cognito 4" kit and turn it down to level it will definitely ride better then. Also you can get a higher end scanner to lower tpms settings.

[@3127cal]

do you have the 2500 or 3500. The link you provided says 3500. Will they also fit a 2500 or do i need to find a different part number?

[@mattward330]

@@3127cal they'll fit both 2500hd and 3500

[@3127cal]

@@mattward330 looks like they are the B8 5100s?

[@joshsiebold1419]

Just put a set of 5100's on my Cummins last weekend. Very happy with the ride so far!

[@Pressedsteelcustomsllc]

I guess if we keep buying from Amazon, well send Dr. Evil into space permanently.

[@BLocke88]

Why does it frraking matter... Someone gets rich no matter what

[@ZEPRATGERNODT]

My mom is an 80 year old hot rodder and if she saw me tightening studs clockwise or counterclockwise…I’d get the old Bill Cosby eye and no dessert with dinner.

[@bradcox5924]

Not to mention the torque wrench skill!

[@mikelaumaillier9271]

Bought a set of Rancho 5000 shock at Canadian Tire many years ago for my 1999 Silverado. Last fall, the two front shock were history. Contacted the local Canadian Tire store and got two new ones... FREE. They honored the lifetime warranty on the shocks (with invoice) !! Next, will be the two back ones. They're gone. Thanks for all the great videos. Best Regards - Mike

[@teaguegearhart9851]

Always improving and documenting making it easier for us to follow. Thanks LT. Keep em coming.

[@worrowp]

I put solastic shackles on my 2015 Ram 3500 flatbed dually a few years ago and they have been fantastic!

[@LawrenceTolman]

good to hear

[@Todd_S]

I love the Bilstein shocks that I put on the back of my 2012 Silverado 1500 4WD. I still need to have the front shocks replaced. No torsion bars on the 1500.

[@mjohnsongreen]

That spot on I-15 makes any vehicle bounce like you’re going to go off the interstate.

[@LawrenceTolman]

Yeah, it’s pretty bad

[@yrboogiemn]

I drive it about 6 times a month and know to hold on to my drink and take off my hat in my Ram dually. That button hurts when it hits the roof.

[@ocjohnweber9698]

I have had Sulastic Shackles for four years and love em...

[@LawrenceTolman]

Good to hear!

[@srtjesseb2837]

The ranchos on my old 19 2500hd were blown at 6k miles, dealer said they would replace but it would take time so I slapped fox 2.0 and kryptonite upper control arms and idler/pitman support kit and it rode like a dream 😍

[@lrodusmc925]

How much did you lift it????

[@jaimeoops]

You can do your own TPMS reset: Turn vehicle to ON/RUN. With parking brake on. Push the trip odometer reset stem until Tire Pressure is displayed. Push and hold trip reset stem to begin the sensor matching process. start with the front left tire, then front right, rear right and rear left at the end. You have to bleed air out of the valve stem with a pen or something like that, until you hear the horn beep on each wheel in that tire order. It takes like 4-6 seconds on each tire. Push trip reset again to confirm. Your welcome!

[@richardworsley8591]

Bilsteins are great! My 1997 Z-71 still has the original Bilsteins at 173,000 miles, and it still rides great!

[@diyeveryday67]

You need to replace those Bilsteins! Just picked up a 1995 with 157k - rode great, then I replaced the shocks with new Bilsteins and the ride is AMAZING! Yours are 24 years old.. they are garbage now.

[@RedBeardDevelopment]

You sir, have Stockholm syndrome, replace those things asap.

[@randybrechbiel9748]

A little tip for your grease gun, get another flex hose and couple them together. It makes it a lot easier to grease stuff because you don't have to get the gun so close

[@carlosr1060]

Good to see that you properly torque the wheel lug nuts. Most people use an impact gun which over tighten the lug nuts and stretch the studs.

[@PRZ_FABO]

lol thats not a torque wrench, just a breaker bar..

[@kmonto1971]

Just put the 5100s on my 2020 2500hd. The ride has greatly improved.

[@redoakmotors9918]

I did rough country premium shocks with my leveling kit on my 16 Duramax with 35/12.5/20’s, , great people, great service, I added Lift Rite air bags [ crew cab short box 4/4] … BY FAR the best mod for pulling trailers , I recently towed a 40’ + camp ground model camper 60+ miles 65-70 mph no problem. No sway and when big rigs passed I didn’t get the pulling in and pushing off effects

[@LuisHernandez-nb4nv]

I got what you are missing check out my AT4 I built a headache rack, bumper and installed a winch. Love the look of your wheens. I have now built 5 racks for Tacoma, Tundra Ram, and Ford

[@kevenhiemie]

I've had airbags on a few trucks in the past and they do work but their maintenance. I'm a much bigger fan of an airless airbag like to Sumo Springs. Sumosprings also offer a front bump stopper replacement. They really do a good job of increasing ride quality and take some of the load off of your shocks.

[@ShelbyvsViper]

My 2021 Sierra 1500 AT4 upper Arm broke right at the ball joint. The ball joint didn’t break, it was the aftermarket A-Arm that the AT4 package is installed. I think it is from BDS from what I am told don’t quote me on that. 18,000 miles just came off the interstate from running 80 mph for 60 miles. At the end of the trip before the off-ramp the truck felt ‘off’ or squirly or loose. Came up to a stop sign turned left and the r/f wheel cocked at 45 degrees and almost fell off. Luckily then I was only going 10 mph. Truck stranded me, but could have been much worse with me and my family. Towed to the dealer and they installed the same new upper A arm. I don’t own that truck any longer, got MAJOR trust issues. Loved the 6.2L engine though.

[@midwestdave33]

Inspect your steering rack bushings as you have someone else turn the wheel lock to lock. I had to have mine replaced with delrin (and a custom machined bushing holders) and got rid of the factory rubber. I have a 2014

[@ayoitsyayo]

I bought one of these as soon as they were available, wrecked it and got a fancy settlement after a month of owning it because there were 0 replacement parts, now I find out there’s gonna be a refresh so I am BEYOND hyped

[@lukesizemore1170]

I have a 2014 Silverado 1500 and it just rolled over 100,000 miles and I just installed the Eibach Pro truck stage 2 coil over kit. Wow what a huge improvement in ride quality and handling. Highly recommend them!

[@LawrenceTolman]

another good option

[@SteveNicholson-tk2se]

LT i bought bilsteins (silver type) for new shocks through summit racing limetime warranty ive gotten 3 sets total so far 2 were warrantied replacements throgh summit no cost and best part!!! I get to keep old shocks on my truck and when new ones arrive i then send old worn out set back and it works well not having downtime w no shocks on my truck

[@kensnyder2340]

I really like the LS engine platform but I'm amazed at all the engine failures I read about. This cylinder deactivation is total BS. Lifter failure in todays world is ridiculous and I've mostly been a Chevy Guy. I think this GMC is the best looking truck in my opinion there seems to be a lot of issues. I realize most of the whiners come to the internet to complain but they all can't be wrong.

[@liquidsmokemustang1537]

Can’t say for other trucks but, the Fox shocks that came on my 2013 Raptor had a great ride quality on and off road. They weren’t harsh at all.

[@jasonmorales1846]

I put a set of the yellow one's on my 05 2500hd and really didn't feel a difference in ride quality even though 3 out of the 4 were wasted.But at least I have new shocks.

[@Scottstunts]

Pitman and idler arms are worn out at 40k. Great engineering Chevy.

[@westongonzalez3450]

This is why cognito separately sells a pitman and idler arm kit.

[@michaelace4739]

I put some Icon shocks to level my F-150 and it rides like a Cadillac compared to stock and off-road is unbelievably smooth. Very pricey but well worth it.

[@davecamilleri9411]

I just installed a set of Fox 2.0 on a buddy's 2015 3500 duramax dually. He had Bilstein 5100's, but his leveling kit had them maxed out and it rode like crap. He likes the ride of the new Fox shocks. first set I have installed and went with a shock that will work with a 1.5 to 3.5 lift. My idler arm was shot at 28k on my 17 L5P 3500 and I also replaced my tie rods with PPE. I had two rancho shocks fail under warranty, but warranty on the shocks is only 3 year 36K. I might also try the Fox 2.0. I am a dealer and dealer cost is around 520.00 for the Fox, the lift style Bilstein 5100 were back ordered and were about 75.00 each dealer cost.

[@utahknivesandgearnick7647]

I ended up going through Filthy Motorsports out of Colorado to build me some King shocks for my AT4HD!!!! You can basically take railroad crossing as fast as you want and other aggressive off-roading!!! Made a massive difference to my ride quality!!!!

[@Joerelaxx]

My shocks on my ram 2500 also were junk at 40k miles, gained a death wobble. New bilstiens and she was better than ever

[@isaiahschmidt7816]

Yes those fuel connectors are a bugger they used them on the 10th gen f150s to and really suck to reconnect after having to take them off a half a dozen times.

[@michaeldlacross1146]

I have a 2021 2500 Denali, I upgraded to the Bilsteins 5160 plus airbags. Woww what a difference, The Ranchos used to be a solid shock absorber.

[@brianwayne3029]

Lawrence, It sucks that dealers are always looking for a scapegoat out of warranty responsibility. FYI Your AT4 has a screw in the right front tire. I hope that you got it fixed. I was looking for a 2020 3500HD, but I could only find commercial trucks with limited options and GMC would not accept either my partner discount nor an order. I bought an 2020 F-350 6.7L STX and it was practically bulletproof with no problems! I sold it back to FORD, for a profit, and ordered a 2022 F-350 6.7L Lariat. Sadly, the chip shortage has caused a major delay since my 12/10/21 order. I am forced to use my 1997 GMC Suburban K2500 (HD) to tow my 31' Toyhauler. I would be glad to trade even with you, lol. I have to do a lot of work to it and your videos answer a lot of questions for me. The second time I took the RV to the dump station, my 4L80E started slipping and not shifting. It is being pulled apart today in the trans shop. As my 8,600lb RV can easily reach 10,000lbs loaded, I am upgrading to a class IV hitch, 7-wire plug and armored vehicle rear springs, 7 leaves plus overload. I'm having an 10,000lb trans cooler installed and 7.4L HD radiator. It may be Christmas before I see the new F-350, so the 'Burb has some work to do. I wish that I had the 7.4L vs. my Vortech 350. No long trips for this rig. Wish me luck.

[@donslick8464]

I put the entire Kryptonite front end kit on my 17 one ton Duramax and fox shocks 2.2 all around and it is GREAT!!!!

[@tysoncurrie7745]

I use the Bilsteins 5100's on my 2004 4x4 Suburban 1500 and 2007 trailblazer and it improved the ride where they just handle so much better and smooth over bumps. I live in AZ and drive off road and pn in the burban and love how they handle also installed moog springs in the rear of the burban and still want to upgrade the torsion bars. By the way Lawrence LT Tolman, I think I saw a screw in your front right stock wheel tire on the inner tread. 6:12

[@johncholmes643]

I fixed that many years ago by not buying garbage Ifs GM 4wd. 06 was my last year for Generic Motors. Basically 1982 Chevy S10 design.

[@crankshaft53]

Added Bilstien steering stabilizer to my 2016 GMC 3500 Denali, along with Bilstien shocks. Very low miles at the time. Could not believe that the standard shocks on this truck to be garbage. Then to find out they eliminated the mount for steering stabilizer just unbelievable. In order to install this, one bracket needed to be added, which I did. The ride was greatly improved , just couldn’t believe that on their flagship Denali this would be the case. Later looking at trading to a 1500, dealer refused to take my truck period, because this added bracket made it unsellable and refused to talk further!

[@LawrenceTolman]

Wow, that’s crazy for them not wanting the trade…

[@larryr8492]

No grease fitting “lubed for life” has led to how many recalls? Surprised actually driving the truck doesn’t void the warranty. No quality anymore from any manufacturer.

[@GIGABACHI]

You're probably the only one that knows what those are for. I haven't used a grease gun IN YEARS, perhaps decades. 99% of the buying public doesn't care enough about their cars or trucks to be lubing suspension parts according to a service schedule.

[@jmidwell]

As a dealer, I would agree. They are all junk.

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

They did away with most grease fitting because people who don’t known what they are doing were over greasing and splitting the boots, causing earlier failures.

[@gregorywieczorek4160]

My 2020 gmc 3500 definitely has grease fittings on the front end as did my 2916 3500hd and my 2002 2500hd chevy

[@larryr8492]

@@gregorywieczorek4160 In my 25 years with a dealer (been out last 13 years) watched them disappear, watched warranty denials and recalls follow (very irritating as a tech). Good to know there is a comeback, as long as they get used properly.

[@fflguy2658]

I have the same truck, 2020 GMC 2500hd AT4. I immediately installed a Suspension Maxx levelling kit with Cognito upper control arms. I bought the Fox 2.0, +2 shocks and love them. The stock Rancho shocks are garbage. Only have about 8k miles on the truck so far. I run 20 X 9 inch Fuel wheels with 35 X 12.50 Nitto Terra Grapplers. My only complaint is the braking system seems a little "squishy". Thanks for the great content.

[@kswan4235]

I've heard the opposite regarding bilstien riding smooth and fox being rougher ride. I'm not an expert but Bilstiens are digressive which means they are stiffer on smaller bumps and soak up the larger bumps smoother. Fox and king shocks are either progressive or linear and are smoother all around from everything I've read. Still undecided on what I want for my 4runner, like you said a lot of stuff is on back order so I'm just going to wait awhile.

[@Dr._Swash_Buckler]

First off, love the HD AT4!! I would have one but it would be overkill for what I need so I own a 2021 Trail Boss. Secondly, I’m surprised they run monotube shocks in the front. I have already upgraded my Ranchos and am running 6112 coilover Bilsteins in the from and 5160 Bilsteins with a remote reservoir in the rear. Worth every penny. No more annoying body roll.

[@supersami7748]

The problem you describe is true for most any new vehicle. We used to repair all makes (mainly Jeep’s) but Ford GMC and Dodge was big on the list also.

[@grants.9120]

I did the Bilstein 5100's on my F150 with the adjustable spring perch mount. Much better ride, especially compared to putting a spacer kit on.

[@islanderson691]

I did an upgrade on my front end of my f450 like you it was suspension upgrade, told ford dealership that I might have a death wobble, so they changed everything that has to do with my steering, free they said it's warranty from the manufacturer. FYI my truck is a 2017 so I just wanted everything that would cause death wobble to be changed, I didn't have a death wobble but now it's all new.

[@Volfan812]

The dealer can adjust your TPMS setting threshold to whatever you like which would allow you to run whatever pressure you want without setting off the TPMS light.

[@mikealexander4166]

Save the warranty for the P0420 and P20E8s and other P20 codes that are just around the corner. Love the diesel torque but getting tired of the emissions and reluctant codes. Going back to gas once I get the current problem fixed. Just have to leave home earlier. But at least I know there are no, "175 miles until reduced speed, see owners manual" messages in my future with a 6.2.

[@Sparkystacoma]

I did. Sulastic shackles on my 3500 crew cab long bed dually. Loaded with 3500 lbs made a nice difference. When empty unless I hit a giant pothole it rides like my wife's 2017 explorer.

[@Sparkystacoma]

Oh and bilstein 4600 all around too

[@LawrenceTolman]

thats great to hear, I wanna get a set now asap

[@edciasiii3308]

Nice welding on the fuel fittings!

[@PetesPlaceGarage]

I had Fox 2.0's on my Jeep and I HATED them. I replaced them with Bilstein 5100's and an very happy. I also have 5100's on my 8.1 Squarebody Suburban.

[@BadmunkyWRX]

Have your TPMS reprogramed!!!!! I had mine set so that the rear will not freak out until 42psi and the front at 45 psi. I run 45psi in the rear and 50 in the front when empty not towing and the ride is a lot better and the tires seem to last a lot longer like this as well. Also much better traction in the wet and snow. The last gen trucks also had problems with the Rancho factory shocks failing early. Even if you left everything stock. My rears on my old 2015 started leaking at 15k, dealer replaced them under warranty. At 38k both fronts where leaking as where both rears again. At 62k all 4 shocks where leaking again. I replaced them with proper Rancho RS9000s and those where much better and where still on the truck at 68k when I sold it with no problems. I loved that I could adjust them for the load. Ill be putting them on my new 2022 as soon as it comes in. I already have them sitting hear waiting for the truck to be built still though.

[@honestmechanic7974]

You can get your TPMS pressure low pressure point set to any pressure you want. Can be done with a factory or equivalent scanner

[@LawrenceTolman]

hmm... I need to learn more about this then

[@bruceshepard1136]

Can u do with Hp tuners? Or will a dealer do it ? Thank you

[@honestmechanic7974]

@@bruceshepard1136 I don't think HP can but dealer or even independent shop. I use Snap on Verus

[@kevincalvert7084]

Yep. My autel and snap on scan tool will do it.

[@morgan2678]

@@LawrenceTolman Any MDI type tool and a SPS subscription and you can adjust the warning level. Alternatively you can do it through BCM programming, look up BT Dieselworks

[@b3877896]

Excellent VLOG as always, LT. Thanks for producing posting it. Well done! Regards, Lloyd C. in Houston

[@LawrenceTolman]

Thanks for watching!

[@RJ_Cormac]

F-150, I hope you're going to put a large ground wire on one of those ignition coil mounting bolts. That plastic fender liner won't make a connection and good spark. Might melt or burn something trying to ground the circuit to the plugs. 😳

[@Derekgt15]

I used to work at an auto parts store and from my experience Rancho shocks are not the same quality as they used to be and bilstein are hard to beat for the cost. I used to warranty alot of Ranchos.

[@supersami7748]

I’m retired now but we quit using Ranchos almost 20 years ago at the shop. You assessment is spot on, Bilstein has to be the best bang for the buck.

[@oldcoot3459]

Great video, as always. Just the next time you use the vise as an anvil, tighten it up first.

[@LawrenceTolman]

Yup, should’ve.

[@patrickmansfield3967]

I have Bilsteins on my 15 2500 Denali. Awesome shocks!

[@bassackwards8821]

You'd think they'd have a unbreakable rack on it for what the truck costs

[@adubbelde1]

My 2015 Denali 3500 with 133,000 miles probably still has the original shocks. It does ride like a lumber wagon. Guess it's time. :)

[@s.gossett5966]

Welcome to Road Construction season in Utah. Thankfully it only lasts from January to December.

[@danielalamo2075]

Better than califuckya, they never repair the roads. They either just drop shovels full of crap in the crater size potholes or they do nothing.

[@thetruthyes]

Yup in Portland Oregon, they seems to have tons of money to update the bike lanes, pedestrian sidewalks , build pedestrian bicycle bridges, and closing a line of road to build those. I gotta tell you they are so smart. I can't wait to move out this idiotic state.

[@weremember5954]

Have a 2020 Denali Hd with cognito leveling kit, 35 tires and fox shocks. Rides amazing. Now have a new problem. All the sudden, getting warning light to service power steering.

[@LawrenceTolman]

that's one I haven't come across yet

[@kh5063]

100% a shock change will not void your warranty, dealer is full of it. I use Bilstiens and really like them.

[@melloyello89]

Had the same problem on the 2017 1500, 36k and the rears were leaking, ordered them on amazon, they came in the morning Iand crawled under it and did them during my lunch. I think the dealer wanted 500 for just the rear installed. On the other hand my 2000 silverado that has had a set of 5100s on it for probably 8 years and at leaast 120k are just starting to seep when i checked during the last oil change

[@johnathanvanstrien2504]

Don’t know if this has already been done. But the pitman arm issue could be the steering intermediate shaft. 2020 and up I believe had a tsb. “Clunky” steering wheel feel. Had 2 replaced in 40,000km on a 21 3500. Again just another angle to look at.

[@pierluigimancuso1225]

Bilstein shocks are the best! I have them on my truck.

[@jamesobert8972]

I drive a 2005 cummins 2500 with a 6 inch lift. I had since hard-core off road guys tell me not to go with the fox 2.0 because they blow all the time. They recommend the Bilstien that I have. Love the truck BTW.

[@LawrenceTolman]

I've heard that a lot about the Fox 2.0s

[@MichaelFletcher-to7mm]

Sounds like another part gm cheaped out on, my 2011 f150 4x4 didn’t have front suspension issues until around 150k miles, replaced it with a 2inch rough country strut and it fixed it. Before I fixed the truck had a sort of hop on smooth roads

[@JHM81]

Go full on Kryptonite Stage 3 man. Best components if you’re leveling your truck. Maybe a pair of Deaver leafs and airbags when you want to tow too.

[@jeffmcintyre757]

Hey LT! Loved you on Truck Tech, man. I could see GM, in this case, voiding the front end warranty after an owner lifts his/her truck and puts on larger tires. They'll claim the angles are jacked and the remaining stock components weren't designed for the add-ons. But some of the components in other systems, like the fuel filter on my '19 AT4 Sierra Dmax, is crap. The plastic housing is notorious for breaking or stripping out when simply doing a fuel filter change. In anticipation of this, I'm putting on a Fleece Performance fuel filter kit. The main body is made of billet aluminum that takes either a Donaldson, spin-on filter. It makes the job 10 times easier and cleaner but I bet GM would give me or someone a hassle if there were ever a fuel-related issue. Anyway, I checked out a couple of your KZbin vids and subscribed. A shock upgrade will be in my future, some day so thanks for this vid. Any feedback on the Rancho 9000-series shocks? I put those on my old 1500 a few years ago and they were sick! I loved the adjustability.

[@LawrenceTolman]

I put the very same filter on the truck in a video that drops tomorrow as a matter of fact. thanks for the subscription! i don't have any personal feedback on the 9000 series shocks though...

[@jeffmcintyre757]

@@LawrenceTolman I eagerly await. I tried and could not get the electrical connector off the top of the filter. I wanted to do that first before disconnecting the fuel lines then remove the bracket. I may have to remove the fuel lines first then the filter bracket to better access that connector. Hopefully, your video details that.

[@carl16760]

Just what I said about GMs Rancho....their JUNK.....Thank you Lawrence....you got a nice ride now........I hear Fox do ride like a dream...issue I do not like with Fox King Icon Falcon...is you have to rebuild all these every 30 or 40 thousand miles and having to deal with coil-over set-ups would really suck it. Bilsteins are lifetime...the yellows and blue for the Cadilac ride and the 5100 for a more stable manly rig...and a 2 inch lift possible with adjustable coil-overs...BDS control arms...Helwigs rear sway bar kit....5100 shocks coil-overs level 5 Bilstein rear special edition coils...and Wildpeaks....NOW were done here...or maybe we should go to the 6100 bilstein...a 2.5 inch 5100......lmao......enjoy

[@patricknavarro2013]

I’m having the same Issue with my 2020 AT4 Duramax. The Ride is so Rough and I’m at 40k miles. This video is making me think I need new shocks as well. Did the New shocks ride a lot smoother over bumps?

[@bdugle1]

I had a Z71 ‘92 GMC regular cab short box (I know, about as far as you can get from your AT4) that came with Bilsteins. At 200,000 miles or so I got some new shocks from the parts store-those old ones had to be worn out, right? Wrong! The Bilsteins were still soooo much better that I put them back on. They were still on it when I sold it to my nephew at 280,000. Good choice for your truck, I’m thinking!

[@chitownhp83]

I put Fox 2.0 in my 02 Tahoe and it is kinda rough. I don’t do any off roading either but if I could go back I would go with the Bilstein.

[@LawrenceTolman]

makes me glad I went the way I did

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

Check the specs for idler arms, people change them when they see play, but many allow 1/8” to 1/4” at up to 25 lbs force. Also, use the center link to check the measurement.

[@chazgeisler6213]

Selastic shackles is the thing that you might have been mentioning. They take the act as there own spring

[@andrewayersman6923]

I just discovered your channel today. You’ve earned a new subscriber. Love your house/garage setup by the way. I have a 2020 HD just like yours. OK, not exactly like yours. It’s a Chevy but same front end. I just did the Pitman arm and idler arm on mine. I noticed you mentioned that in this video. Mine had just a tiny little bit of them and I wanted to get an alignment and the steering stabilizer that you mentioned in another video. I ordered the exact one that you pinned in the post. I am hoping that with the steering stabilizer, it fixes everything because I’m having the wandering problem it’ll pull left and it’ll pull right. They aligned it today, no loose parts or anything. Granted it wasn’t the best alignment shop, but it was still aligned. Mine has crazy bad bump steer. Are they all like this? Mines only one ive ever drove. Did you experience any of these problems with yours? I know that you’ve been tinkering with your front end for four years now.

[@reacew7624]

Did I just see you tighten those wheel clockwise or weird camera angle?

[@killercan10]

The factory stabilizer left for the 2011 model year when the GMT-900 HD frame came out (early GMT-900 were still on GMT-800 frames 07-10). GM claims that because the gearbox was near doubled in size and had larger parts inside, that it was deemed able to handle the needs of the front end without the stabilizer shock. GM ironically in the bulletin for it had a steering stabilizer kit you could purchase if you felt one was necessary to have.

[@LawrenceTolman]

thats funny... you don't need a stabilizer, but we made it easy for you to install one if you want

[@EricErnst]

I can't believe your pitman arm and idler arms are junk already. Gm should step up. It's not from your leveling kit. It's a duramax. Factory parts can't handle 35s? That's horse shit. I hope the new parts work out well for you.

[@feelingtardy]

no kidding, i was just thinking for as much as these things cost today, a hd truck should go way longer and be trouble free

[@benjaminreinhardt259]

So.... you're upset the OEM did not manufacture the vehicle to hold up to aftermarket modifications? Deviate from OEM specs and things fail, they didn't design fluff into the components. That's the dice you roll when you modify a vehicle.

[@EricErnst]

@@benjaminreinhardt259 it is a heavy duty trucks. It is advertised for towing/hauling. People don't buy these trucks for commuter vehicles. The stock size tires are 33" tall. He said he rarely tows with his.. and he only has 40k miles on it.. 20k of which were with stock tires. The slightly bigger tires should not cause the stock "heavy duty" parts to wear out that quickly. Yes, he modified his suspension. But realistically, if it's supposed to be a tough truck, it should not wear out that quickly.. compared to a truck that is actually used to tow heavy loads constantly. This truck has had an easy life and it's steering and suspension is already junk.

[@711slimshawny]

@@EricErnst heavy duty doesn't mean overbuilt. lol. the companies build the vehicles right on the edge of quality and performance. I know what your saying but I've worked on lots of 200-250K duramax in stock form with stock wheels and tires with all original front suspension. To say they build junk is not totally true if the truck is left alone. All disclosure though I HATE leveling kits. Just lift the thing is its not sitting high enough.

[@claytoncoolidge992]

Recommendation from factory for shocks and struts is 50k miles so your pretty spot on for them to fail. According to my labor guide its 2 hours labor for all 4 shocks and average shop rate here in my area is 80$/hour at the stealership. So 160$ plus tax labor. According to my price guide on the factory shocks is 65$/shock. So 260$ plus tax for parts. You spent more on just the shocks than the stealership could install a new set of factory units

[@trailbosschrispayne5454]

That's a clean AT4. Ya those ranchos suck.. Replaced mine with Bilsteins 5100

[@Volfan812]

You mentioned the dealer said your pitman and idler arms were shot and needed to be replaced. That's a bit premature at only 40K miles. Do you think the leveling kit caused the premature wear?

[@ictcarguy3162]

Hahaha LT now you know why GM guys never have rusty tools and everybody has their parts memorized! Parts that are changed at 150-200k on other makes are changed every 50k-75k on GMs. The rule around me is everyone else must drive Toyota, Honda, or Ford so they don't interfere with my GM repair weekends! If it were not for the affordability and the plentiful performance parts for the LSx platform I'd probably stop buying them myself. Think of some of the GM silliness: one DRL light constantly burning out, bad instrument clusters, steering column rattles, pitman/idler arm failures, sloppy steering gear boxes, broken hood latch release lever, broken seat recliner levers, poor shutting doors and the list goes on. After listing this out I'm wondering why I do this to myself. Everybody who works on cars can fix GMs and something like 80% of all hard parts store sales at the big three aftermarket chains are replacement parts for GM vehicles. How can this be unless we have just become numb to replacing parts and having to upgrade because the factory designs leave much to be desired and it has become normal for us GM guys? Tundra owners don't accept these things why should we? FWIW I think this is a product of many domestic manufacturers racing to the bottom dollar supplier/parts "saving money" and then wondering how the hell we ended up at the bottom collecting unemployment checks while the CEOs and Wall Street people ended up with all the money. This is why the JPN OEMs outperform in reliability because they place value on quality while domestic OEMs place top value on cost. This is happening on US domestic airplanes now sadly and we see the results those cost savings delivered as evidenced by recent aviation history. RANT OFF but I could easily go on.

[@LawrenceTolman]

Hey you’re not wrong, but I still love my old chevys!

[@liamjerkins7259]

I know it’s not a Duramax, but my 1992 C1500 1/2 ton pitman and idler arms, ball joint and tie rod ends lasted to 165,000 miles, and was not being greased often as it was a farm truck before I got it. New GM or really anything is garbage in terms of longevity and reliability.

[@cfrank925]

I just bought a 2022 Silverado RST 1500 and the rancho shocks are literally garbage. They come on all Z71 models. I drove a 1500 without the z71 package that had different shocks and it rode a lot better. I'll be replacing the Ranchos shortly.

[@SteveNicholson-tk2se]

Truck is absolutely beautiful btw.

[@firemanjay1472]

Ok, not trying to create controversy, but mainstream thinking on this videos' topic is a little misguided. Im not disagreeing with you, but presenting some additional info. (But I like the video to see what is available, and what guys are doing to their trucks) Here's a shocker-- Shocks don't change the ride quality as much as you think!! They are not carrying the weight of the vehicle, the SPRINGS are. While a set of worn out/leaking/ damaged/ seized shocks being replaced will definitely cure some ride quality issues, the shocks' main function is to control the motion of the springs, ie, keep it from bouncing, cuz thats what springs like to do. I've confirmed this as a service manager working with various suspension companies on custom builds, and chassis issue diagnostics with OEM's. If you have a really stiff spring that is so strong the weight of the (empty) truck cant compress the suspension going over a bump, it will ride rough. Take that same truck with a ton of weight in it, suddenly it rides nicer. We cant expect a 3/4 ton or 1 ton truck to ride like a car empty, but then be able to carry 2000 to 4000lbs on the flip side. no engineer can overcome this basic fact of physics. Springs give the ride, and the shocks control the springs motion. The closest compromise to this is Air bag suspensions, where you can increase/decrease the pressure depending on the weight being carried. Sadly, empty 3/4 ton and 1 ton trucks will ride rough! Keep up the good videos!

[@tim3kgt]

fox 2.0 res shocks on jeep jk vs bilstein 5100: fox are firm and forgiving. quite nice. 5100s are not nearly as nice. too firm through the full stroke. much less refined (but they're cheap @75$ each and work well enough when the fox come off for bi-annual fluid change / rebuild).

[@adampinczesgarageandfabric9930]

steering stabilizer is a bandaid. people lean on them because they install inferior chassis components or refuse to replace worn components that allow too much play in your steering causing the tires to push you around. a good front end with no play in the components with a properly adjusted steering gear and correctly adjusted alignment done by someone who understands the #'s and what they do, not just "red and green seekers" is the best replacement for any steering stabilizer. and yes people have forgotten the art but the steering gear can be adjusted if done properly to perform as good as a rack and pinion. sorry for the rant in case you haven't guessed I'm not a fan of steering stabilizers. the person with their hand on the wheel is the stabilizer. you should have control of your vehicle through properly maintaining it. I like the channel and not trying to be a hater just ask yourself why would a properly functioning steering system need stabilizing? I feel like it's one of those things like when I used to see people with the big diff covers and they would complain they blew their rear end apart then they would put another big diff cover on it and come to find out Banks did real research on these and found they can cause more damage then they ever stopped through "cooling and capacity".

[@michaellawrence9041]

Had a 71 Torino GT in 76 as a kid and my Dad tweaked something in the steering box I think and it was awesome. The old man was no dummy!

[@711slimshawny]

They say the steering stabilizer isn't needed due to the steering gear being increased in size on the 2011 model year. i installed one on my 14 dmax and could not tell it was even on there, if anything it just made it harder to get to the lock during parking lot maneuvers. Install one for a video and give your thoughts.

[@thomaseverley3847]

I dislike the les shwab in ogden on harrison. They wanted to charge me $60 for a tpms reset on my cts. I went across the street to big o. They did it for free. Les shwab was always more expensive on everything else as well.

[@johnwise6956]

I just put Ranco 5000x shocks on my 15 2500hd. Big difference.

[@ltarter2975]

Hey LT, love the show. I want to make a comment on your future upgrades. I have experience on this as I had a 2500hd and was trying to make it ride smoother. I have found that suspension comfort is very subjective. There is a wide array of opinions on what is smooth and comfortable compared to stiff and harsh. I don’t have experience in Bilsteins, but tried just about every other brand. I tried the solastic shackles and Cognito leveling all with no avail to my liking. I felt it still rode like a 3/4 ton pickup. May I suggest you research and give a great deal of consideration to the Carli suspension. I think it will be what you’re looking for.

[@LawrenceTolman]

Carli makes some awesome stuff for Ram/Dodge and Ford, but not much for GM

[@JMASON-qy7ki]

Helper bags are a must

[@parrotfish72]

Love the work on all the trucks

[@DblA760]

Thanks for the video! Do the shock bolts need be torqued to spec or just a couple forearm veins?

[@stellingbanjodude]

It’s out of bumper to bumper warranty any way, and it’s been modified. Yep your on your own.

[@jonathanallen2530]

Mods only void a warranty if those mods are what caused the failure, and in this case... Yup. Level a GM truck/SUV and you're gonna wear out the front end. It's been that way since the dawn of time.

[@xforce687]

@@jonathanallen2530 I think he meant the 3 year/36k mile warranty is gone. At least last I heard GM still had that duration, so even if he had factory suspension they wouldn't cover it.

[@nikobouchard2003]

At the dealer you can have your tire pressures reprogrammed for lower pressure that’s what I did on my Dinali I had it set so I can go as low as 40 pounds

[@Jamesn0323]

Try out Cognito comfort ride torsion bar. Do a review on that. Very interested in doing that for my truck as well.

[@DepressedGiantsFan]

great video btw, just got a 2020 denali 2500, wanted to swap out the ranchos with the bilstein on all four corners, instead of getting the leveling kit for the front end, can i just get the sulastic shackle for the rear and level the truck that way?