Updated GM Pickup
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Cross-Country
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 78
Likes: 0
Updated GM Pickup
I don't believe in the "updated" GM Pickup.
It still isn't anywhere as good as the upcoming Super Duty.
I also can't believe GM is resuming "full-speed ahead" in the developent of their next generation of full-size trucks and SUVs. Especially with the declining interest in truck based frame on body SUVs, and especially; full-size SUVs.
I think GM is the same as they always have been before; only reorganized and reiterated under their bankruptcy.
It still isn't anywhere as good as the upcoming Super Duty.
I also can't believe GM is resuming "full-speed ahead" in the developent of their next generation of full-size trucks and SUVs. Especially with the declining interest in truck based frame on body SUVs, and especially; full-size SUVs.
I think GM is the same as they always have been before; only reorganized and reiterated under their bankruptcy.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 1,520
Likes: 199
I have seen pictures of the new chassis that will be under the 2011 Sierra and Silverado HD's. It looks pretty impressive, substantial improvements in strength and stiffness. Doesn't look like ground clearance has improved much though.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 5,228
Likes: 5
From: Running Springs CA
"Maximum Bob" Lutz may retire in May. That might change product plans.
The full size truck is still the most profitable part of the Big 2.5, Ford included. Failing to update product is fatal in this business. Look at Chrysler's passenger cars. Well, I cant actually look at a Sebring without a gag reflex.
Ground clearance is an issue for what, one percent or less of those who actually need it. Off-pavement driving I do on my property and on Forest Service roads could easily be done with a Ranger on 14's. With today's 17-20 inch rim sizes, clearance has to be more than a few years ago when 15's were standard.
Jim
The full size truck is still the most profitable part of the Big 2.5, Ford included. Failing to update product is fatal in this business. Look at Chrysler's passenger cars. Well, I cant actually look at a Sebring without a gag reflex.
Ground clearance is an issue for what, one percent or less of those who actually need it. Off-pavement driving I do on my property and on Forest Service roads could easily be done with a Ranger on 14's. With today's 17-20 inch rim sizes, clearance has to be more than a few years ago when 15's were standard.
Jim
Logistics Pro
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 4,788
Likes: 20
From: Mansfield, TX USA
Ground clearance is an issue for what, one percent or less of those who actually need it. Off-pavement driving I do on my property and on Forest Service roads could easily be done with a Ranger on 14's. With today's 17-20 inch rim sizes, clearance has to be more than a few years ago when 15's were standard.
Jim
Jim
Ride height, with the corresponding easy of entry and exit, is the more primary concern over ground clearance off road.
Postmaster
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 3,924
Likes: 6
From: Richmond BC
I suspect that the ability of a 5'-2" woman to be able to strap a kid into a car seat easily without standing on the running boards is a bigger concern to GM engineers than off-road clearance.
Ride height, with the corresponding easy of entry and exit, is the more primary concern over ground clearance off road.
Ride height, with the corresponding easy of entry and exit, is the more primary concern over ground clearance off road.
GM trucks have been ride tuned to be "just like cars" for years.. its a selling feature to them...
Ford and Dodge are the only ones building HD trucks anymore.
Hotshot
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 10,101
Likes: 40
From: Pa
Ground clearence is somewhat of a concern for me. Have had my SD in snow up past the frame several times. Its nice to have some ground clearence on washed out rutted mountain roads too. Also easier to work on the truck when you have wiggle room underneath. I've always hated the way GMs frames stick down way below the bottom of cab, you need some big honking running boards to hide the frame.
