The ULTIMATE Utility Vehicle

[@raptorsecurity8993]

We bought two(2) nearly identical 2005 Avalanches new - Still have both. 460K miles and 396k miles. 1x transmission each. Otherwise been amazing vehicles. We've added a 2007 LTZ and 2013 LTZ to our fleet as well. Like you said, it's great when engineers are allowed to create. Definitely under-rated vehicles during their time.

[@everyman_auto]

I couldn't agree more. The "magic" doesn't happen nearly enough. Thank you for watching the video!

[@dentman67]

What most people don't know is these things don't ride like the pick up truck. They are suburbans with a bed. Because of this ride like a town car.

[@everyman_auto]

That is so true. I was always impressed with the ride, loaded or unloaded. It never felt 'truck-ish. Thanks for watching!

[@cyclonus01]

They definitely don't ride like a town car.

[@brucesheehe6305]

There was a HD 2500 version of the first generation of the Avalanche - with a 8.1 liter V8 engine gas engine.

[@rjoetting7594]

I'm 61 years old, and I never knew about all the features of the Avalanche until six or seven years ago. I think that it's probably the most underrated truck in existence. I just recently purchased a 2004 Avalanche Z71 with 225,000 miles, no rust anywhere, and runs fantastic. It doesn't have body cladding (which I prefer), all leather interior, and has been well taken care of. I absolutely love it and actually prefer it over my 1997 silverado 4x4 k1500 extended cab. (I sold it to my son) It does everything I need it to do, including loading my 1982 FLT Shovelhead harley in the back and traveling back to Missouri to see family. (967 miles one way) In comfort. It was a great vehicle that should be brought back, but I'm sure it would cost an arm and a leg to purchase now. The majority of people can't afford a new truck these days, and that makes the Avalanche a bargain now. I'll add that I agree that after 2006, the displacement on demand in 2007 was a disaster and never should have happened. I would not have one unless it was deleted. Dodge did the same exact thing and had the same problems.

[@everyman_auto]

Congratulations! I completely agree, the Avalanche is very underrated. I have a '13 Vulcan 1800 full dresser and I can haul it without any issues. The Avalanche is back, in a sense. The new Silverado EV is essentially an Electric version. I actually posted a picture of the two nose to nose on the EMA Facebook page. They called is a Silverado for name recognition.

[@tonyb7748]

I have a "slick side '05" No third Catalytic converter, no DOD, and hardly any rust for 180k in the northeast. Tailgate latch is always breaking but I just use needle nose pliers to get it open. The truck has been fantastic for weekend trips to the mountains or the occasional appliance replacement. I have put probably 7k into it so far with restoration work. water pump fuel pump New passenger rear wheel (bolt broke and locked the caliper to the rim) all 4 calipers all four brake lines with a mix of stainless/copper/beryllium. master cylinder knock sensors 02 sensor upstream AC idler pulley plugs and wires for all 8 cylinders. Purge solenoid and charcoal canister.

[@jonathansalazar3207]

Yessss! yesterday I got my 2011 avy ltz all black. It had 120,000 miles on it. I drove it home from the lot yesterday and it drives like a freaking couch! It’s so comfortable and roomy and drives soooo smooth! My family loves it.

[@everyman_auto]

Congratulations! You are gonna love that truck!

[@thebigscooze]

I didn’t realize this truck had so many cool features. Great video!

[@everyman_auto]

Thanks for watching!

[@drewmorg.]

What a great freaking video. Well spoken above and beyond your subscriber count for sure. Hitting sub just for this vid.

[@everyman_auto]

Thank you very much. I'm glad you enjoyed it. We're still getting our process down since we're still a new channel.

[@joshuameldru4004]

Loved the very informative video about what I also believe to be the coolest 1/2 ton truck ever sold. I recently purchased a clean Texas 2005 Avalanche with 150k miles. I’m preparing to overhaul the front (2 wheel.), tune up to the 5.3, updates to the sound system and probably put on some new duck heads and bring the front end up a little. I’m going to be looking forward to your series on the minor restoration to your Avalanche. Thanks for the great content and looking forward to more!

[@everyman_auto]

I'm glad you liked the video and congratulations on the new purchase! And yes, there will be a LOT of projects for my avalanche in the months to come. Stay tuned! 😀

[@brianflowers6079]

I have a 2003 Z66 Avalanche LM7 5.3 V8. One of the the things I like about mine is it does not have that plastic on the bottom of the door or on the back of the bed, white very sexy. Pristine condition, 160.000 miles rides and drives perfectly. I can get 140 miles to a quarter tank if driven easy even though at this moment it runs a little rich. I love my truck wouldn't trade it for nothing new!! I love that hood on that black Avalanche.

[@everyman_auto]

A lot of people liked the slick side versions as well as the cladded ones. It's really a matter of personal taste. 160,000 miles, is a great start for that truck. Keep it up! They are great vehicles, even after all this time. Thanks for watching!

[@raystarr4388]

Excellent job, Bro

[@everyman_auto]

Thanks a lot for waching!

[@philgrazi]

Great video, I'll be tuning in to your projects. Just bought One. I love the style of your video, and how you give the history. You could do more videos about the reliable cars of that era that are becoming classics. (Grand Marquis?)

[@winkydinkandyou]

I just scored an 05 1 owner carfaxed with 125000 miles great video

[@juanmendoza2262]

My 2002 Avalanche Z71 ow sports turn signal power folding mirrors, double din Navigation Radio, Electric fans and Dual batteries. Thinking about putting drive side grab handle!

[@brucesheehe6305]

The first generation also suffered from premature wear and tear of steering parts - tie rods, pitman arm, idler arm, etc. Good video Big Mike.

[@everyman_auto]

That's interesting. I've never experienced that myself with the 2 Avalanches I've owned. In fact, going through my records from my old 2002, I found that I didn't do any front end work on it for several years and over 100,000 miles. I do know that switching out to aftermarket components, (Larger wheels/tires or off-sets can create additional stress on components. Also, going with discount parts will usually result in shorter lifespans for those items. But staying stock with OEM parts hasn't really resulted in much that I would consider premature wear. Yes, I have occasionally gotten a "bad part" from a store that I've had to do twice, but that's really been about it. Thanks for watching!

[@brucesheehe6305]

@@everyman_auto Some of my steering components have worn out on a 2006 Silverado 2500 Duramax. Maybe the extra weight of the diesel engine. Newer trucks have rack and pinion steering - more precise but not heavy duty. If your steering gets sloppy, Kryptonite steering parts are highly recommended.

[@cyclonus01]

I think it would be better to get the escalade ext. Bigger engine and more horsepower. I have a 2002 suburban 1500 z71 and the 5.3 is a gutless motor unless you do a new cam and other mods but then the 4l60e won't hold up.

[@Forseen-vm1qs]

All vehicles that have those parts will need them replaced at some point , if you do it yourself it is a couple hundred bucks in parts , not bad at all

[@gageforet8234]

Heck yeah, I'll take some more avalanche content any day. Very versatile vehicle with excellent aftermarket support.

[@everyman_auto]

And what's really amazing is the support is still there after 20 years. Thanks for watching!

[@dave3657]

I had a 2002 Z66 when they came out. Drove it for eight years without any issues. It was a great truck. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@everyman_auto]

Thanks for watching!

[@ethandearman3965]

Getting a 2006 avalanche 2500 LT soon super exciting ige been wanting one of these since I was a kid i remember configuring one on the chevy website lol. Awesome video lots of quality my only complaint is wind noise but I have no idea how youd get around that.

[@everyman_auto]

Yeah, the wind picked up after I finished setting up to film, and even the noise filters on the mic couldn't negate it. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching!

[@johnvanabel7237]

I had a 2004 z71 4x4 , I love it. Can't wait to get my next one . which is going to be 2013 which it hasn't seen any snow. I m going to buy one from way down South?. See I'm from the upper Michigan. We get snow 5 months out of the year. I can go on talking more but I'll let go. Avalanche

[@everyman_auto]

I've noticed a pattern with Avalanche owners. Once you have one, you need to keep it. If you end up parting with it, (at least for me), you have to get another one, because any old truck just isn't enough. :-D Thank you for watching!

[@Spartansrule118]

You deserve more views! Great information in this video. What do you think of a 2011 Avalanche with 120k miles? Worth for 6K usd?

[@everyman_auto]

I like the gen 2 Avalanches. As I said in the video, though, after 100,000 miles, the AFM was prone to having issues. If it's clean, with no rust, then $6000 is actually on the low side. I would ask them if they're experiencing oil consumption and any driving issues. I would also budget another 2-3k to have the DoD delete done, then you'll have a truck that will last for years. Thanks for watching!

[@lancelewin6492]

I have an 07 4x2 LTZ with the z55 suspension.. its a cadillac with a bed... great ride .. bone stock 120k miles

[@polishedbrother]

Still RockN my 2004 Avalanche with 196,000 miles

[@everyman_auto]

These trucks are like Timex,😀 They take a lickin and just keep tickin. Thanks for watching! 😀

[@tatatatarata4429]

Short truck full cab with 8 foot bed. I have 07 LTZ black restored no rust beautiful. Get one while you can

[@everyman_auto]

Yep, these are definitely becoming more and more rare, and now that they are passing the 20 year mark, they will probably start to be come more of a "Car Show" vehicle from here out. The time to grab one is definitely now. Thanks for watching!

[@lloydsnapp8735]

Slide the tonneau forward up to window & next over it most cases all you do strap-fix in place if are taking a drive

[@lloydsnapp8735]

lloyd again what i mean is in most normal temporary use you slide #3 (the very back tonneau section) up over others up to the rear window area then #2 place up on top of them fix with load or straps so they cannot move then back in place in reverse sequence these trucks are awesome

[@dahgenyahsayahbenyahudahis8494]

Proud owner of three Avalanches 02 and two 04’s now I’m aiming for that 02 8.1

[@everyman_auto]

Yep, I'm on the prowl for an 8.1 2500 as well. Thanks for watching!

[@thaddeuslarimer5703]

There was very little... This truck could do!!!!

[@everyman_auto]

lol. Nice catch! I meant to say "couldn't do." That flub got past me in the edit.

[@LarryCortes-sb5rq]

I love your Darth Vader scene, I am a Star Wars fan...

[@everyman_auto]

Yeah, as soon as I saw him say that on his video I had to poke the bear a bit. lol

[@pippo702]

Hi,I'm about to take a look at a 2005 Avalanche here in Italy, 200000km,it looks good. My first choice was a same era Tahoe but the Avalanche is growing on me..only problem it is too long for European roads,cities and parking..but I'll manage

[@everyman_auto]

I would image the issue would be the same with the Tahoe as well. The Tahoe, Suburban, Silverado, and Avalanche were all variants of the GMT800 platform and similar in size. 200000 km (124000 miles) Is nothing for that truck. If it's clean and the frame is in good condition, you may want to grab it. Not only will it be a reliable vehicle for many years, you'll be getting a collector vehicle, especially in Europe. Thanks for watching!

[@yoannybatista4202]

Did you ever have to replace the heater core on the Avalanche?

[@everyman_auto]

@@yoannybatista4202 Not yet. I've been fortunate that I've never had one go bad.

[@1234597114]

What’s with the tape covering the rust on the bedside?

[@everyman_auto]

Jump to 29:55 and I explain that. Thanks for commenting!

[@nickdial8528]

I never use my coolers. Have tools in them.

[@tonyb7748]

Yup, flat tire plugs and towing winch bloc and recovery straps.

[@LarryCortes-sb5rq]

I would get a classic Avalanche anytime and have Big Mike take care of business..

[@everyman_auto]

LOL

[@carloshumbertoduenasrojas310]

super video gracias gringo educado

[@toxiccolin1797]

Never heard the word “4L60” followed by “not bad” lol

[@everyman_auto]

I've never really understood why the 4L60 had such a bad reputation. I have had 4 vehicles with that transmission, (I own 2 now), and I've never had an issue with them, even when towing. All 4 of my vehicles never needed a rebuild or replacement transmission. Thanks for watching!

[@JamesRWeber-ee1kr]

8.1l 2500 please

[@everyman_auto]

Yep, they are an absolute beast when it came to towing/hauling. Thanks for watching!

[@MatteoLC]

I'm about the same size as the presenter here (6'3" and husky) - I just test drove a 2011 Avalanche, and I can't believe he didn't mention how small/uncomfortable it is for larger drivers. The seat did not go back far enough, and the headroom is much less than even in my wife's VW Golf. With the sunroof, my head was touching the ceiling - and I had to tilt my head to drive it. This is with the seat in it's lowest position. I was so disappointed that something so big - was so small inside. Horrible use of space (for big guys). I really wanted it - but couldn't do it. Maybe I'll find one without a sunroof and find it roomier for my head...

[@everyman_auto]

That's interesting. I am also 6'3" and over 300 lbs and I am quite comfortable in mine. Granted, mine is a 1st generation avalanche (02 - 06). Plenty of head room and the seat goes back far enough for me to be comfortable, and I have long legs. I've never driven a 2nd generation Avalanche, so not really sure if something changed between Gen 1 and Gen 2, but it may have.

[@cyclonus01]

I think the cadillac ext is better with a more beefy engine. Unfortunatley it looks hideous and has an identity crisis. I have a 2002 suburban with the z71 and the 5.3 is gutless without major mods but then you have to worry about the 4l60e.

[@everyman_auto]

That's an interesting point of view. While the 6.0 in the Escalade EXT is good (345 hp) - I've never considered the 5.3 lacking in power (295 hp). Also, I've never understood the concern over the 4L60E transmissions. I've had 4 vehicles with them and I have never had any issue with them at all. All combined, the four transmissions have a total of 986,000 original miles with no slip issues and no rebuilds - just regular maintenance. (2 Avalanches and 2 Trailblazers).

[@DNS_Plumbing_NYC]

I’ve got a 2011 avalanche with 220k miles. I’ve never felt it was underpowered. But I’ve never had a fast car.

[@everyman_auto]

@@DNS_Plumbing_NYC Yeah, same here. A lot of people try and attribute "car" performance to trucks. Cars are built for speed and agility. Trucks are built to haul the cars with speed and agility. 😄 Thanks for watching!

[@recyclespinning9839]

I'd buy one, but they are only good till 2006 before the AFM system . They are all rust buckets now . I like the closing bed and the versitility for work . GM making garbage today , as all the car companies. , Also they are toooo expensive and the grill in front is like a,brick wall going 70mph down a highway. Seems like they regressing. What were the engineers thinking ?? Even semi-trucks take aerodynamics into their design..

[@everyman_auto]

Actually, if you get one of the 2nd gen (07-13) and do a DoD delete, then they can be just as reliable as the gen 1 Avalanches. The cost of a DoD delete is around $2000 - $3000 if done correctly, but well worth the investment. You can still find clean ones for a good price if you look. Thanks for watching!

[@recyclespinning9839]

@@everyman_auto thanks for the tip.

[@nickdial8528]

My 2003 Z71 Avalanche manual says it will tow 8200 pounds. Don't know where you're getting 6000 lbs from.

[@everyman_auto]

Stats I provided for my 04 were based on original window sticker and user manual data as well as via VIN search of the actual build of the truck in the GM database. All of the information was provided from GM sources at the time the truck was manufactured in the GM Silao plant in Mexico in 2003.

[@nickdial8528]

@@everyman_auto Weird. My 03 have very different tow numbers. Even when it's looked up separate from the manual.

[@everyman_auto]

@@nickdial8528 It's possible that the lower tow capacity is a result of not having an additional transmission cooler as part of the build. That was not listed on the build sheet.

[@CrossLakeJake]

I believe the difference in towing capacity comes down to the vehicles final drive ratio.

[@allenhenry1113]

We have a 2012 with 5.3 4x4 ltz model. It's totally awesome, trk!! Wish I had the bigger engine though.

[@everyman_auto]

Yeah, that 2500 with the 8.1L is an absolute beast. Thanks for watching!