@ericnortan9012 THEYRE STILL NOT THE SAME. the gmt-800 and the gmt-400 platform are completely different. It would've been better to compare a 4x4 and a z71 gmt-800 vs 2 completely different generations
Kind of difficult to make an accurate comparison when one truck is a completely different platform than the other. The blue Z71 truck is a GMT 400 while the white 4x4 is a GMT 800 platform. Options on the gmt 800 platform were vastly different across the entire body style line from the base model 1500 all the way to the cab and chassis model 3500HD. Never mind from the gas engines to diesel. Like a few other people have mentioned it’s not too hard to take a bone stock gmt 400 base model 4x4 and add the skid plates, even better shocks than the bilsteins and even upgrade the springs for what it would cost you to buy an all stock used Z71.
The 88 to 98 GMT400s are flat out my favorite truck, good enough looking and pretty darn strong and are fairly simple to wrench on. I've had dozens of them over the years, the 3/4 and SRW 1 tons being the most useful to me for working in the mountains. In all my years of working them hard in the mountains/bush I've never walked home because of a mechanical failure. The few Fords I've bought and tried out, well sorry but they just can't handle the bush and being over-worked as well as my GMCs and that's that. I buy my trucks cheap, I pick the rust free ones that people have given up on, never paying more than $600 bucks and yep I tow them home, get them running, register and insure them and keep fixing on them until someone makes me a good offer and hell yeah I of course sell and start all over again. In my experience the Z71s have a decent skid plate package and as far as shocks go, well I honestly can't say if a plain 4x4's shocks are any better than the Z71s because by the time I get them they've usually been through a few different owners and a few sets of shocks as well. Personally I don't care if the truck I'm looking to buy is a Z71 or a non Z71 truck. All I initially care about is getting a rust free 4x4 with a clean interior, to me that's a truck worthy of being put back into service even if it needs an engine and/or transmission or transfer case and they always make me a few decent bucks in the end. What's even better for me are the LS engines, I can buy complete running but pretty rusted out or crash damaged '99 and up 'parts trucks' for as low as $500 bucks, cheap! It's a bit more work and tinkering and wiring but an LS powered GMT400 in nice shape's a minimum 5K truck up here in Canada all day. GM, gotta love 'em!
You missed several things. In the generation your blue truck is the z71 had a 7200 lb gvwr. Standard half ton was 6900. If you remember the early 90s 2500 truck with 6 bolt wheels that’s what they had. Z71 came with the gov lock rear axle standard was open diff. As far as springs go manufacturers use dozens of different spring packs based on how truck is specked out. I really enjoyed your video and wasn’t being critical. Just thought you might like more info. Both you and your dads trucks are nice
On my 2001 Z 71 it has larger U joints then the standard versions Also came standard with the Auto for will drive and aluminum skid plates the guys at the part store said it was hard to figure out what u joints these trucks take Because there were like four different options in that year depending on the truck plan it was made in and sure enough I had the largest ones available In the new trucks I’m sure it is just stickers and badging with high end options but in the older trucks it made a difference
According to forums and brochures I have for the OBS Chevy's like the blue one you have the Z71 package includes Skid Plate, Bilstein Shocks and the Z71 stickers. Honestly in my opinion the Z71 package isn't worth for me if I would have bought the truck brand new in 96. I put KYB monotube shocks on my 1996 and found skid plates off a ex Z71 and put them on my truck. So if you shop smart you can easily convert your truck over fairly cheaply and it may perform better than what GM put out from the factory
+BrettDN you are right that there wasn't very much to the Z 71 package. It was a lot of hype, and not a lot of parts. That being said, the resale value seems to be higher if it is Z 71, or if somebody put some $10 eBay Z 71 stickers on it. If you see a sticker in your glove box with the vehicle code of G80, it means that you have a locking rear differential. Some people say that part of the Z 71 package was that you also get the G 80 rear locker.
hoohoohoblin My 88 had the G80 code and it's not the Z71 package. I believe the Z71 came in the early 90s. I believe the LMC truck catalog tells you the first year of the package
there's more to it than that bud. trans cooler, larger diameter anti sway bars, lower gear ratio, electronic 4x4 engage switch, heavier duty frame, and the tow package was standard on z71 which included the front frame hooks.
@@raptorman2666 your right I have a 98 z71 and my buddy has a regular 4×4 mine has a 5 leaf springs and his has 4 and the stuff you said is spot on this guy dosent know much about the package at least where up to 98 is involved
Thanks for this video, my 2000 Silverado came completely de-badged when I bought it on Facebook I didn’t even know it was a Z71 until I looked in the glove box at the sticker I thought it was just a regular 4 x 4 lol
I think Z71 and Z28 are GM codes used at the assembly line when employees are assembling the vehicle and GM marketed it pretty well over the years. These I believe are suspension shock absorbers build codes
Reading comments here and losing my mind. The G80 rear is a LIMITED SLIP (aka Posi), correct?? It is NOT a locker. Someone please tell me this statement is correct. Thanks
The 4x4 if same year has only 4x4 but z71 has a different frame, heavy-duty radiator, upgraded rear springs, skid plates, a difrent gear ratio and a standard g80 (locking dif)
Zergling and a 12 bolt rear end. Bigger drum brakes. At least mine did. Z71 was more of a heavy half ton. Oh yeah. And an aluminum drive shaft. Probly some other small differences.
Okay. Yeah no. G80 was not standard. They all have the SAME frame. And the Z71 in 99-up actually came with LESS springs. The z71 came with one or two less springs than your regular 4x4. Z71 is literally stickers, skid plates, shocks, and on the newer trucks, springs. That's. It. No Z71 I ever had came stock with a g80. It's an order option. Also no 12 bolt. The 12 bolt hasn't existed since the 80s
Tommy Schulte then it was added. They had 10 bolt or 14 bolt. Do your research. GM killed the 12 bolt in the 80s. And I'm not saying they didn't come with g80 lockers. I have one. I'm saying it wasn't a z71 only option.
tvese1234 I have a 2011 Z71 4×4 and mine has a rear locking diff, it's all what you order in a truck. My GMC is not a off road Z71 but I did add the skid plates and other off road features.
I’m confused I have a 95 Chevy k1500 4x4 not z71 and it came with tow hooks,skid plates, and the g80 differential I put new heavy duty shocks in and it’s got fatter tires on it from 245-265s I don’t see much of a difference between the too at all
'93 Chev Z-71: Front 4WD doesn't want to come out of 4 easily and makes a rapping noise until it eventually pushes away. Is this a half-shaft that needs to be replaced? I just occurred to me in the last few days that about 2 years ago I started a drive, and the front end had a "buck". I got out and nothing was visibly wrong, and I have driven it since. Could that be related to the mis-disengagement? I'm thinking it may as well have been a gear tooth breaking off. Winter is coming, and it's something I should be doing. (New thermal actuator already installed)
+J Fike I don't know either, but I bet you could look up the code and see if it was printed in the glove box. I hope that they put that on hold or 2 Wheel Dr. trucks, because it would be nice to know that both wheels were pushing along equally well if you didn't have four-wheel-drive.
There are also 2wd z-71's where they just got the g80 diff, skid plates, shocks and stickers. I think my truck is the oddity, I have the z-71 rpo code, but no g-80 rpo code, and my diff is obviously an open diff.
its not a locker dude. its a limited slip. if it was a locker u couldnt drive it on the street. GM RPO Codes - Factory Identification Labels and Interpretation RPO Code Description Ratio G80 Not Open Diff - Positraction / Limited Slip / Typ. Gov-Lock G81 Positraction Rear Axle G82 Axle Rear 4.56 G84 Axle Rear 4.10 193 more rows
Joe p , I have a 2000 silverado z71 and just bought a 1996 gmc sierra z71 , I'll only buy a z71 cause back roads here in ohio you want the rearend to lock when you get in slippery conditions.
BAMA BOUND it's àn open differential when you have traction but it's automatic lock up when it detects a wheel slip it's doesn't stay locked up full time (had 98 burb 4x4 and z71 Silverado)
I plan to put the Z71 sticker on my new 2010 Chevy because the previous owner was a farmer who did not want to pay for the Z71 premium (where i live there is little to no competition between dealerships so the Z71 was 6k USD more than the most luxury truck on the lot) so he bought the standard edition and just put all the Z71 upgrades on himself for only $1750-$2250, so I get all the nice things on the inside from the LTZ and all the upgrades that him installing Z71 parts himself come with, plus I like the sticker
I wonder if they were separate options. Look in your glove box and see if there is a Z71 code on the sticker in there. Maybe it was a Z71 and someone peeled the sticker off.
No I am second owner an the first owner let this truck sit for 10 years. He only used it as a work truck. But I do kniw that he did custom order it from the factory. So that's probably why.
Bass_fishing_country_ 69 skip plates could be ordered as a separate option. Same with the posi rear and axle ratios. One thing Z71 has that very few people know about is the passenger side of the front differential is case iron. While the regular 4x4 is aluminum on the 1500
its kinda like the differance bewteen a lt and ls model. i think the z71 may have differant shocks, and gearing. all have skid plates. and a little more plush inside.
i have been in these trucks since i was 4 and ive always wondered wtf is the difference?!?!? from my 25 years of giving a damn ive come to the conclusion that no "factory z71" has ever been a "base" model 4 wheel drive pick up. Ever since z71 tagged trucks ever came out, you will find no manual locks or windows, always a "silverado" trim. no low geared rear end.." from factory". 10bolt rear ends 16" wheels, bilstien shocks and skid plates. basically a highway 4x4. now your tagged "4x4" pickups could be found in Cheyenne ,silverado, and Scottsdale trims. with base model options available such as roll up windows, manual locks, and available low gear ratios in the axles and even and upgraded 12 bolt or 14 bolt, not too sure. so long story short the z71 is a comfortable 4x4. The Regular 4x4 is more of the work truck style with more available options in the drive train and interiors..........i could also be full of shit too, which is more often the case.
I'm sure they add on a bunch of other expensive options on the Z71 trucks because they know people want them. My dad's regular 4x4 truck in the video was the last year they offered manual window cranks on a truck. They're all electric now.
Windows are not all manual. I had a 2014 with crank windows and manual locks. You just have to get a WT Trim level. Even the 2017 models have manual stuff in the WT trim.
I have a 94 6.5l turbo diesel with the Z71 package and you're not joking about that ride quality lol. After about an hour of driving around town my back is trashed!
It is harsh on the street, unless you're driving way too fast, but it is good off road. I've thought about getting some more streetable shocks but haven't got around to it. I am impressed that the original shocks are still working as well as they did when new after over 20 years.
really??? I'm not sure what all the complaining about. i have 2 Z71s. An 01 all stock that rides silky smooth down the highway at 85/90 & a 93 regular cab short bed w/a 6 in lift & have driven more than 8 hours in one day on road trips & while its not the smoothest, it still runs down the hwy at about 70 & my back is fine.
Next time: all you need to do is decode the GM's regular production option code ("RPO"), in this case "Z71". It will tell one exactly what the option Z71 includes... for starters, the Z option codes are top-end packages (ZR1, ZL1, et cetera). By the by, that sticker in the glove box is the key to everything when it comes decoding what your vehicle came with. I still find it ridiculous that even on the top trim, and in typical GM fashion the door is squeaking and squealing because it is already starting to rust and fall apart... I have an expensive, top-level trim GM vehicle myself with all the options, and had several in the past, and I have noticed that something always squeaks, squeals or rattles on a GM vehicle because they always cut costs on the wrong things (especially the interior with cheap Fisher-Price plastics, although they are changing that as of last several years). How are they not ashamed? GM vehicles require regular and paranoid maintenance in short intervals (6,000 km plus regular checks of various things) and on top of that come the factory defects and recalls, but the irony is, most people in the United States are poor and have neither the funds nor the mentality to be regularly checking and maintaining their vehicles... And if they by some miracle don't suffer from mechanical or factory defects, then the rust eats them, in spite of anodising the chassis at the factory, because they nickel and dime their customers on poor quality paint and only a few thin layers of it... Eh, GM, maybe someday the dumbass, greedy, corrupt, selfish managers there will finally learn: the long game is everything.
Go to the parts house and get shocks for either and see if you get a different shock absorber, hey you got a 8x10in. aluminum cookie sheet skid plate for a reason no worries. That's a high priced sticker.
I have a 2005 4x4 with lift and 37’s 249k. A guy wants to trade a 2004 z71 200k with smaller lift. What should I do? I love the look of the big lift but I don’t need it
That’s a tough question. If it were me, and my truck were running fine, I would stick with the one I have rather than trading. You never know what kind of problems you might be getting into if you buy somebody else’s used truck. Unless you can get them to throw in some cash as well with the trade, and you take the truck to a mechanic and do an Emissions test before you buy it.
hoohoohoblin my truck has 7.5 in the front with5.5 in the back. The engine is 4.8. His is 2 inch lift with 5.3 and it’s z71 with 50k less miles. I met the previous owner of my truck and he even said the other truck is nice. The lift with nittos just rides so rough. I’m just tired of it. I wish I could post pics. It’s a beautiful truck.
I have the 2017 Chevy Silverado Crew Cab 1500 LT 4x4 with All Star and Max Trailer Package with Eaton G80 rear auto locking differential and I have a 6” procomp lift on 35x12.5x20. The Z71 actually have Rancho Monotube Shocks, 18” AT Tires, colored bumpers, Z71 door plates, leather seats, under body transfer case shield, and a sticker but the real difference is the up charge of $2,000. (3.08 gears)
They have change what’s in the Z 71 package over the years, and it’s confusing to know what you get and what you don’t. There are so many different combinations of packages that equal just about the same thing, but it’s tough to tell. Your truck sounds like it is set up perfectly.
I have a single cab 1994 z71 5.7v8 silverado with 159xxx miles. Im rebuilding the transmission and adding some long tube headers. I want to lower it but not sure im in cali.
+Antraxx_5.7 I am not a fan of lowered trucks, because it's harder to haul motorcycles in them and they don't do as well Offroad, but I shot this video of a lowered Silverado of this generation, and it looks pretty nice. ua-cam.com/video/S1s3d-EK_-g/v-deo.html
That z71 decal is aftermarket.... doesn’t belong on that truck. Z71 is just an option code found in glove box. You get bilstein shocks and a skid plate. That’s it. Look for the g80 code. That will tell you it has an Eaton auto locker rear end.
I have a 2001 Chevy Suburban Z71 LT 4X4, which comes with a completely different body kit, roof rack, running boards and wheels than a regular Suburban, and everything on the exterior is painted to match.
I don’t know. You can buy used ones on eBay, but they are usually pretty beat up. I don’t know if anybody sells new ones or not. They made a ton of these trucks, so somebody somewhere probably is making replacement parts.
Z71 is just a suspension package, same drive train, also you cant compare your 90s vs 2ks chevys, that 90s has a sbc and that 2ks has an LS motor, literally the only thing thoes 2 trucks share is the 4l60 transmission
My '89 K1500 is not a Z71. That being said, it still has the big tow hooks up front and both skid plates like this truck does. I guess I need to look at all the vehicle codes to find out what else it has. I think it has a limited-slip rear diff.
Yes. This Z 71 thing is really confusing because you can order different parts individually that are included in the Z 71 package. G80 is the code for the limited slip differential. If you see G 80 in your glove box, then you have one.
Hey man... nice channel. Just picked up a 93 suburban, coincidentally, here in Alaska. Just wanted to say thanks for the content and I am really happy with my investment. The plan was to buy a 99 pathfinder but after some swaying; part due to your channel, part my buddy telling me I am being a dumb ass. I am the proud owner of a pretty, bad-ass, boaty, suburban. Anyhow just thought I'd show some appreciation.
Wise choice. You’re going to love it. These trucks do have some problems, but they are easy to fix, and parts are cheap. And the suburban is super functional because it’s so big. You could even live in it if you wanted to.
Wow. The comments in here DID NOT disappoint! My favorite is the "MY FOR WILL DRIVE CAN GO ANY WHERE 71 CAN HOSS" 🤣 Drive ya for will drive back to school and learn to read bro 🤣
i'm not sure about the shocks, however, everything else except the stickers is available on a regular 4x4. The code NZZ is for skid plates. i've seen many Z71s w/o them listed in the glove box. there is no locker available on either one. There is code G80 which is a limited slip, often called positraction, but it is a limited slip & a separate option as well. U cant drive a locker on the street. On ure truck there is code GT4 which means u have 3.73 gears. I've also seen Z71s with code GU6 which would be 3.42 gears. I dont know of any code for the tow hooks but have seen them on many regular 4x4s. This only applies to 90s trucks & possibly early 2000s. As someone else already said, chevy got cheap & started putting Z71 on 2wd. Also in the 90s, I've only seen Z71s on 1500s. Now they come on who knows but who cares. And lastly, if u can't read the sticker in the glove box or think it's been changed, u can always go down to any GM dealership, go to the parts dept & give them just the last 8 digits of the VIN# & they can print out the RPO code list with description of each code. There, i think that should about cover it.
+BAMA BOUND Thanks. That was very thorough. I wonder if the Z71 code just means you are getting a $2000 sticker on the side of the truck. I think at least it includes the Billstein shocks.
The Z71 is a suspension package and doesnt include 4x4. Its the shocks and skid plate. You can get them in 2wd if you want, but most z71s are pretty decked out and 4x4. Yes you can order a regular 4x4 with most of the z71 options but it would cost the same and you would have to put the blistien or monroe shocks on yourself
The G80 in GM trucks is not limited slip like Ram trucks. If one rear wheel is completely off the ground. The wheel will continue to spin and then the whole axle locks, making the other wheel begin to turn. Thus, both wheels will turn. On limited-slip only the wheel with traction will spin.
GM sold & still sells the Z71 package in 2WD. a lot of people don't know this & buy a Z71 thinking it's automatically going to be 4WD. just some info to throw out there. buy the way... I've worked at a GM dealership for 20 years.
+Alan Marshall thanks. People have been telling me that, and it was hard to believe. Myself and a lot of people have always just assumed that Z 71 means it’s a special four-wheel-drive version.
I'm buying one because I need a truck for hunting where I go off roading in Montana terrain so I go on river beds with sand, rocks, mud snow and everything else
I have a 97 Silverado and I bought it over a z71 mainly because of the front seats and middle console. And if you know these trucks then you know what I mean.
+Kyle Bergeron I don't know. I have only had the truck for a couple of years, and it didn't have stickers on it when I got it. I bet they faded and peeled off. I bought these stickers on eBay, and didn't really check to see if they were for the right year. I just bought the ones I like the look of best. This truck is a real Z 71 though. It has the code on the sticker in the glove box.
I don't know my 02 Chevy S10 ZR2 has the same bilstein shocks and it rides smooth I always get complements on how smooth it rides people think it will ride rough like a jeep especially with 31inch mud tires and the resale value is $5,000 so I'm happy with it
hoohoohoblin no man ZR2 lol and yeah the only S10s that really have good resale value is the ZR2 and xtreme yeah they are really rare they come with 4 inch wider fenders with fender flares,bigger ring and pinion gear,bilstein shocks, 3inch body lift, and some of them come with a G80 locker. now the new colorado has a ZR2 package with a bunch more goodies for $50,000 😲
I have 2012 Colorado Z71. 18" wheels, 32" tires. Rides great. Awesome on the Northern Michigan two tracks. I prefer it off road over a full sized, much easier to maneuver through the trails. Just as capable on most terrain. Has just as much ground clearance or more tham most factory full sized. The only thing it really lags behind in is power and capacity.
And having those upgraded shocks on a Z71 does make it ride much smother on road & off... replace those shocks with even the cheapest ones from an auto parts store and you will know what I mean - I'd assume those shocks you currently have are well beyond there prime. I've owned a 2000 Chevy 1500 "4x4" and a 2002 Chevy 1500 "Z71 4x4"...Both great trucks!
+Ryan2845 _ thanks for all the info. I've heard from other Z 71 owners that the shocks are pretty harsh as well. I have thought about changing them, but they work really well at higher speeds over bigger bumps, which we sometimes do off-road.
hoohoohoblin for sure - after all, it is a truck and they aren't know for having the best ride! - wish my trucks were as clean as yours tho - we have rusty stuff up here in MN. Good lookin truck!
Patrick Blackmore You’re incorrect sir. 1988-1998 is the Body Style like the Blue z71. The White 4x4, goes from 1999-2002. So no, they cannot both be 99s, but the white one can be.
@@tristanwibel4250 get your shit together. Not how chevys work. They go in half years. You can actually have an obs 99 and a nbs 99. Not even limited to trucks. I had a late 95 camaro. Options were spliced. Stop running that trap and learn something.
+TheFarmerfitz I am kind of surprised that even band new trucks don’t get much better gas mileage. I figured some engineer would have found a way to get more miles per gallon out of a truck by now.
+caydon schleder Mine has the G80 locker on it. The G80 code is in the glove box along with the Z71. Not sure if they were packaged together, but it makes sense that they would be.
Just so you know you're not even comparing the same trucks the Z71 truck is an older one probably 1998 has the 5.7 engine in it and the 4x4 that you are comparing has the 5.3 probably 2001 in it they're completely different trucks completely different frames completely different years and in the newer ones 2000 to 2007 the the Z71 package only added stuff on the inside of it the under side stayed the same (Chevy trying to save money) the older 1994 to 1999 if you did z71 i believe where were differences but there so old it has all been replaced at least once by now or needs to be replaced.
I own 2 90s Chevy's reg cab short box step sides both 4x4 one z71 one not , only differences I see is , the non z71 has 3.73 gears ,z71 has 3.43 , the z71 does ride like a Cadillac over bumps better but after time I have decided it's because it has the split bench seat compared to the buckets in the non z71, , z71 (1992 is the last year of the 700r4 transmission, non z71(1993) is first year of the 4l60e, like the shifting better on the 700r4, compared to the computerized shifting of the 4l60e,. Both are 5.7l, use all the same parts . Both Are Silverado with power every thing.
+Brian Perry thanks. I didn’t know about the gearing. I will have to do some research and see what kind of gearing I have on my truck. I thought it was just stickers and skid plates and shock absorbers they were selling with the Z 71 package.
The regular 4x4 have the gov locks also. Skid plates, shocks who cares. I think the biggest advantage is my 93' had an external trans cooler instead of in the radiator. Honestly waist of money. You can get the locker in ANY CONFIGURATION. My 03' two wheel drive had both tow hooks also. I have a 14' 4x4 with the g80 rear locker and there is no performing difference between the two. I guess you can argue the shocks but seriously they both slam when removed from the earth and returned😂 and know I don't do that intentionally.
+eric rush Yup. Most of what people pay extra for is the sticker. You’re right about the locker. Look for a G80 code in the glove box to see if your truck has one. Mine has a G80 code and a Z71 code, proving they are separate options.
My 2004 has skid plate bigger tires I put blisten shocks there is no difference between it and a z71 except the sticker mines not but my insurance said a z71 is 15 dollars a month more makes no since since they are identical except the decal witch is ugly anyways
You can get Z71 stickers on eBay for ten bucks. If you ever sell your truck, the stickers will get you an extra $1,000 for it. Z71 really didn't mean much back then. Not sure if it is the same now, or if they've added more parts to the package. But I guarantee when Ford stamps Raptor on their off road truck, it isn't just shocks and some skid plates that make up the difference between it and an F150.
Dude, don’t really know what you are talking about. Z71 comes with locking rear end as well. Newer ones come with z71 gauge and sills too. New ones are rancho shocks. Ride quality doesn’t really suffer like you state either.
I have a 99 suburban, street vehicle, 2 wheel drive, over Christmas I was parked on a wet driveway and started slipping because of all the leaves on the surface. LMAO
If ur gonna be this clueless about trucks just drive a ford.
lol
RIP no mercy LOL I agree 100%
🤣🤣🤣
The z71 just means you can write songs about your truck like florida Georgia line
Buncha Chevy queers
That's luke Bryan
@@jasonlittlefield6347 punk...
@@gostate009 *Puke Bryan
@@jasonlittlefield6347 nah, an obs is like a perfect first truck. that model can last forever.
He's comparing 2 different generations of trucks with different engines transmissions and powertrain. Completely different 😂😂😂
Right, that's the point, comparing the difference
@ericnortan9012 THEYRE STILL NOT THE SAME. the gmt-800 and the gmt-400 platform are completely different. It would've been better to compare a 4x4 and a z71 gmt-800 vs 2 completely different generations
You are comparing two vastly different generations of Chev's. (1994 vs. 2000) I give this video a fail.
Not a 94. That dash is either 95 or 96.
Not only that I have two 2000 Chevy Silverado one new body style one old body style it's got the same dash
Here is an Idea maybe the blue one is a 99 classic and the white one is the 99 new model that was an option for that year
Do you even Chevy
Alejandro Olguin who are you replying to
Kind of difficult to make an accurate comparison when one truck is a completely different platform than the other. The blue Z71 truck is a GMT 400 while the white 4x4 is a GMT 800 platform. Options on the gmt 800 platform were vastly different across the entire body style line from the base model 1500 all the way to the cab and chassis model 3500HD. Never mind from the gas engines to diesel. Like a few other people have mentioned it’s not too hard to take a bone stock gmt 400 base model 4x4 and add the skid plates, even better shocks than the bilsteins and even upgrade the springs for what it would cost you to buy an all stock used Z71.
You are correct. Thanks.
The Z71 package is the package that I think people would use on farms because of the shocks
When they first came out, the difference was $1500 more and a Z71 sticker.
GMC 3500, 7.2 engine, 187 thousand km, no 4x4 but never had troubles getting stuck at the dump, I love my truck has never let me down
7.4?
The 88 to 98 GMT400s are flat out my favorite truck, good enough looking and pretty darn strong and are fairly simple to wrench on. I've had dozens of them over the years, the 3/4 and SRW 1 tons being the most useful to me for working in the mountains. In all my years of working them hard in the mountains/bush I've never walked home because of a mechanical failure. The few Fords I've bought and tried out, well sorry but they just can't handle the bush and being over-worked as well as my GMCs and that's that. I buy my trucks cheap, I pick the rust free ones that people have given up on, never paying more than $600 bucks and yep I tow them home, get them running, register and insure them and keep fixing on them until someone makes me a good offer and hell yeah I of course sell and start all over again.
In my experience the Z71s have a decent skid plate package and as far as shocks go, well I honestly can't say if a plain 4x4's shocks are any better than the Z71s because by the time I get them they've usually been through a few different owners and a few sets of shocks as well.
Personally I don't care if the truck I'm looking to buy is a Z71 or a non Z71 truck. All I initially care about is getting a rust free 4x4 with a clean interior, to me that's a truck worthy of being put back into service even if it needs an engine and/or transmission or transfer case and they always make me a few decent bucks in the end.
What's even better for me are the LS engines, I can buy complete running but pretty rusted out or crash damaged '99 and up 'parts trucks' for as low as $500 bucks, cheap! It's a bit more work and tinkering and wiring but an LS powered GMT400 in nice shape's a minimum 5K truck up here in Canada all day. GM, gotta love 'em!
Good info. These are great old trucks, and you can always find one in decent shape pretty cheap.
My 19' Blue Duramax Diesel LT crew cab 4x4 Z71 Off-Road package 2 inch lift stock.
You missed several things. In the generation your blue truck is the z71 had a 7200 lb gvwr. Standard half ton was 6900. If you remember the early 90s 2500 truck with 6 bolt wheels that’s what they had. Z71 came with the gov lock rear axle standard was open diff. As far as springs go manufacturers use dozens of different spring packs based on how truck is specked out. I really enjoyed your video and wasn’t being critical. Just thought you might like more info. Both you and your dads trucks are nice
+Bigben1971 thanks for the extra info. Keep on truckin’!!
On my 2001 Z 71 it has larger U joints then the standard versions Also came standard with the Auto for will drive and aluminum skid plates the guys at the part store said it was hard to figure out what u joints these trucks take Because there were like four different options in that year depending on the truck plan it was made in and sure enough I had the largest ones available In the new trucks I’m sure it is just stickers and badging with high end options but in the older trucks it made a difference
I peeled off my 4x4 stickers on my 2004 silverado and added the z71 stickers
And now your truck will be worth $1000 more whenever you decide to sell it!
According to forums and brochures I have for the OBS Chevy's like the blue one you have the Z71 package includes
Skid Plate, Bilstein Shocks and the Z71 stickers. Honestly in my opinion the Z71 package isn't worth for me if I would have bought the truck brand new in 96. I put KYB monotube shocks on my 1996 and found skid plates off a ex Z71 and put them on my truck. So if you shop smart you can easily convert your truck over fairly cheaply and it may perform better than what GM put out from the factory
+BrettDN you are right that there wasn't very much to the Z 71 package. It was a lot of hype, and not a lot of parts. That being said, the resale value seems to be higher if it is Z 71, or if somebody put some $10 eBay Z 71 stickers on it. If you see a sticker in your glove box with the vehicle code of G80, it means that you have a locking rear differential. Some people say that part of the Z 71 package was that you also get the G 80 rear locker.
hoohoohoblin My 88 had the G80 code and it's not the Z71 package. I believe the Z71 came in the early 90s. I believe the LMC truck catalog tells you the first year of the package
there's more to it than that bud. trans cooler, larger diameter anti sway bars, lower gear ratio, electronic 4x4 engage switch, heavier duty frame, and the tow package was standard on z71 which included the front frame hooks.
@@raptorman2666 your right I have a 98 z71 and my buddy has a regular 4×4 mine has a 5 leaf springs and his has 4 and the stuff you said is spot on this guy dosent know much about the package at least where up to 98 is involved
Doesn’t the z71 come with posi as well
Thanks for this video, my 2000 Silverado came completely de-badged when I bought it on Facebook I didn’t even know it was a Z71 until I looked in the glove box at the sticker I thought it was just a regular 4 x 4 lol
I think Z71 and Z28 are GM codes used at the assembly line when employees are assembling the vehicle and GM marketed it pretty well over the years. These I believe are suspension shock absorbers build codes
Yes you are correct
The Z71 option is just shocks and some thin skid plates
Reading comments here and losing my mind. The G80 rear is a LIMITED SLIP (aka Posi), correct?? It is NOT a locker. Someone please tell me this statement is correct. Thanks
That is correct.
The 4x4 if same year has only 4x4 but z71 has a different frame, heavy-duty radiator, upgraded rear springs, skid plates, a difrent gear ratio and a standard g80 (locking dif)
Zergling and a 12 bolt rear end. Bigger drum brakes. At least mine did. Z71 was more of a heavy half ton. Oh yeah. And an aluminum drive shaft. Probly some other small differences.
Okay. Yeah no. G80 was not standard. They all have the SAME frame. And the Z71 in 99-up actually came with LESS springs. The z71 came with one or two less springs than your regular 4x4. Z71 is literally stickers, skid plates, shocks, and on the newer trucks, springs. That's. It. No Z71 I ever had came stock with a g80. It's an order option. Also no 12 bolt. The 12 bolt hasn't existed since the 80s
Will Livingston my 95 half ton had a 12 bolt rear end with a locker in it. And the bigger drum brakes. Much like a 3/4 ton truck.
Tommy Schulte then it was added. They had 10 bolt or 14 bolt. Do your research. GM killed the 12 bolt in the 80s. And I'm not saying they didn't come with g80 lockers. I have one. I'm saying it wasn't a z71 only option.
No z71 has the same frame the only difference is skid plates and rancho shocks on rear
the z71 has a rear lock also
posi rear diff
They might have added more features to the Z71 package on newer models, including positraction.
on GMT400 (88-99) the z71 did not have a lock. it was an option but not standard
I have an 05 Lt with g60 locker.
My Lt has leather sets
My neighbors z71 has a bench seat cloth.
tvese1234 I have a 2011 Z71 4×4 and mine has a rear locking diff, it's all what you order in a truck. My GMC is not a off road Z71 but I did add the skid plates and other off road features.
I’m confused I have a 95 Chevy k1500 4x4 not z71 and it came with tow hooks,skid plates, and the g80 differential I put new heavy duty shocks in and it’s got fatter tires on it from 245-265s I don’t see much of a difference between the too at all
The main thing too note here are the parts are more when replacing on a Z71 like shocks and tires etc...
"shut up bird" 😂😂
Thanks.
Love the z71...beautiful truck and era for the truck!
Me too! It's the last of the real trucks.
'93 Chev Z-71: Front 4WD doesn't want to come out of 4 easily and makes a rapping noise until it eventually pushes away. Is this a half-shaft that needs to be replaced? I just occurred to me in the last few days that about 2 years ago I started a drive, and the front end had a "buck". I got out and nothing was visibly wrong, and I have driven it since. Could that be related to the mis-disengagement? I'm thinking it may as well have been a gear tooth breaking off. Winter is coming, and it's something I should be doing. (New thermal actuator already installed)
+Lou Fazio I don’t know what that is. It could be a broken gear tooth.
Im not sure the 4x4 models come standard with the G80 locker as the Z71 does ?
+J Fike I don't know either, but I bet you could look up the code and see if it was printed in the glove box. I hope that they put that on hold or 2 Wheel Dr. trucks, because it would be nice to know that both wheels were pushing along equally well if you didn't have four-wheel-drive.
has to be a 1500hd or 2500hd to have locking diff. z71 is crappy option package.
There are also 2wd z-71's where they just got the g80 diff, skid plates, shocks and stickers. I think my truck is the oddity, I have the z-71 rpo code, but no g-80 rpo code, and my diff is obviously an open diff.
The Z71 came with the Eaton G80 Mechanical locking rear diff. You can find the code in the glove box also. I saw the coe when he opened it up.
its not a locker dude. its a limited slip. if it was a locker u couldnt drive it on the street. GM RPO Codes - Factory Identification Labels and Interpretation
RPO Code Description Ratio
G80 Not Open Diff - Positraction / Limited Slip / Typ. Gov-Lock
G81 Positraction Rear Axle
G82 Axle Rear 4.56
G84 Axle Rear 4.10
193 more rows
Joe p , I have a 2000 silverado z71 and just bought a 1996 gmc sierra z71 , I'll only buy a z71 cause back roads here in ohio you want the rearend to lock when you get in slippery conditions.
BAMA BOUND it's àn open differential when you have traction but it's automatic lock up when it detects a wheel slip it's doesn't stay locked up full time (had 98 burb 4x4 and z71 Silverado)
@@bamabound9495 G80 is Gov-loc in pickups.
@@brandedmcgowan7688 supposed to unlock at 20mph and faster.
Good info on the sticker in the glove box. Never occurred to me that I might buy a fake Z71. Thanks
You’re welcome
shure would like to know if z71 trucks had 4 bolt mains,rest of the truck are of no interest to me
You can tell if it's a different glove box door or sticker. The sticker has the VIN on it.
Good point. Thanks.
What' s a VIN? Something like ID Number?
I plan to put the Z71 sticker on my new 2010 Chevy because the previous owner was a farmer who did not want to pay for the Z71 premium (where i live there is little to no competition between dealerships so the Z71 was 6k USD more than the most luxury truck on the lot) so he bought the standard edition and just put all the Z71 upgrades on himself for only $1750-$2250, so I get all the nice things on the inside from the LTZ and all the upgrades that him installing Z71 parts himself come with, plus I like the sticker
Do it! These stickers are super cheap on eBay.
@@hoohoohoblin also $5 on amazon
Can you pull a Chevy 1500 Silverado Ltz behind a R V?
I don’t know. It depends on how strong the RV is. These are really heavy trucks, especially the older ones.
My stock 96 Silverado 4x4 has a skid plate and tow hooks
I wonder if they were separate options. Look in your glove box and see if there is a Z71 code on the sticker in there. Maybe it was a Z71 and someone peeled the sticker off.
No I am second owner an the first owner let this truck sit for 10 years. He only used it as a work truck. But I do kniw that he did custom order it from the factory. So that's probably why.
Bass_fishing_country_ 69 skip plates could be ordered as a separate option. Same with the posi rear and axle ratios. One thing Z71 has that very few people know about is the passenger side of the front differential is case iron. While the regular 4x4 is aluminum on the 1500
its kinda like the differance bewteen a lt and ls model. i think the z71 may have differant shocks, and gearing. all have skid plates. and a little more plush inside.
i have been in these trucks since i was 4 and ive always wondered wtf is the difference?!?!? from my 25 years of giving a damn ive come to the conclusion that no "factory z71" has ever been a "base" model 4 wheel drive pick up. Ever since z71 tagged trucks ever came out, you will find no manual locks or windows, always a "silverado" trim. no low geared rear end.." from factory". 10bolt rear ends 16" wheels, bilstien shocks and skid plates. basically a highway 4x4. now your tagged "4x4" pickups could be found in Cheyenne ,silverado, and Scottsdale trims. with base model options available such as roll up windows, manual locks, and available low gear ratios in the axles and even and upgraded 12 bolt or 14 bolt, not too sure. so long story short the z71 is a comfortable 4x4. The Regular 4x4 is more of the work truck style with more available options in the drive train and interiors..........i could also be full of shit too, which is more often the case.
I'm sure they add on a bunch of other expensive options on the Z71 trucks because they know people want them. My dad's regular 4x4 truck in the video was the last year they offered manual window cranks on a truck. They're all electric now.
Windows are not all manual. I had a 2014 with crank windows and manual locks. You just have to get a WT Trim level. Even the 2017 models have manual stuff in the WT trim.
martin navarro you're not right, I owned a Silverado that had manual locks and windows. It was kind of a pain in the ass.
martin navarro Im full of shit too... ask my wife
martin navarro kk
Is z71 Floor Shift or always push button 4x4 ??
Newer ones are push button.
I have a 94 6.5l turbo diesel with the Z71 package and you're not joking about that ride quality lol. After about an hour of driving around town my back is trashed!
It is harsh on the street, unless you're driving way too fast, but it is good off road. I've thought about getting some more streetable shocks but haven't got around to it. I am impressed that the original shocks are still working as well as they did when new after over 20 years.
really??? I'm not sure what all the complaining about. i have 2 Z71s. An 01 all stock that rides silky smooth down the highway at 85/90 & a 93 regular cab short bed w/a 6 in lift & have driven more than 8 hours in one day on road trips & while its not the smoothest, it still runs down the hwy at about 70 & my back is fine.
how do u tell if its a z71 or not if they dont have the z71 sticker?
Look in the glove box. There is a sticker inside with vehicle codes on it. If one of them is Z71, then it is one.
i only have pics of the 2 trucks
The new 2017 Z71 ride nicer than a 4x4 on ruff road, plus they come with a high capacity air intake
LOL, I'm trying to convince the old lady to get one of those for our Z71
The only difference is the decals because I changed the shocks on mine it's not a z71 but there is no other difference mine came with skid plate
Next time: all you need to do is decode the GM's regular production option code ("RPO"), in this case "Z71". It will tell one exactly what the option Z71 includes... for starters, the Z option codes are top-end packages (ZR1, ZL1, et cetera). By the by, that sticker in the glove box is the key to everything when it comes decoding what your vehicle came with. I still find it ridiculous that even on the top trim, and in typical GM fashion the door is squeaking and squealing because it is already starting to rust and fall apart... I have an expensive, top-level trim GM vehicle myself with all the options, and had several in the past, and I have noticed that something always squeaks, squeals or rattles on a GM vehicle because they always cut costs on the wrong things (especially the interior with cheap Fisher-Price plastics, although they are changing that as of last several years). How are they not ashamed? GM vehicles require regular and paranoid maintenance in short intervals (6,000 km plus regular checks of various things) and on top of that come the factory defects and recalls, but the irony is, most people in the United States are poor and have neither the funds nor the mentality to be regularly checking and maintaining their vehicles... And if they by some miracle don't suffer from mechanical or factory defects, then the rust eats them, in spite of anodising the chassis at the factory, because they nickel and dime their customers on poor quality paint and only a few thin layers of it... Eh, GM, maybe someday the dumbass, greedy, corrupt, selfish managers there will finally learn: the long game is everything.
Go to the parts house and get shocks for either and see if you get a different shock absorber, hey you got a 8x10in. aluminum cookie sheet skid plate for a reason no worries. That's a high priced sticker.
My 05 z71 sits on 20s and rides smoother than a cadi
That’s a nice truck man if you don’t mind me asking does it have to 350 and also how many miles is on it I’m just curious also what did you pay for it
I paid $3200 for it 4 or 5 years ago. It is a 350 with around 130,000 miles on it.
If he changed the glove box door just look at the vin on the sticker.
+Dave the Barbarian Thanks.
I have a 2005 4x4 with lift and 37’s 249k. A guy wants to trade a 2004 z71 200k with smaller lift. What should I do? I love the look of the big lift but I don’t need it
That’s a tough question. If it were me, and my truck were running fine, I would stick with the one I have rather than trading. You never know what kind of problems you might be getting into if you buy somebody else’s used truck. Unless you can get them to throw in some cash as well with the trade, and you take the truck to a mechanic and do an Emissions test before you buy it.
hoohoohoblin my truck has 7.5 in the front with5.5 in the back. The engine is 4.8. His is 2 inch lift with 5.3 and it’s z71 with 50k less miles. I met the previous owner of my truck and he even said the other truck is nice. The lift with nittos just rides so rough. I’m just tired of it. I wish I could post pics. It’s a beautiful truck.
Informative and entertaining, I learned a lot in less than 4 minutes.
Thanks
I have the 2017 Chevy Silverado Crew Cab 1500 LT 4x4 with All Star and Max Trailer Package with Eaton G80 rear auto locking differential and I have a 6” procomp lift on 35x12.5x20.
The Z71 actually have Rancho Monotube Shocks, 18” AT Tires, colored bumpers, Z71 door plates, leather seats, under body transfer case shield, and a sticker but the real difference is the up charge of $2,000. (3.08 gears)
They have change what’s in the Z 71 package over the years, and it’s confusing to know what you get and what you don’t. There are so many different combinations of packages that equal just about the same thing, but it’s tough to tell. Your truck sounds like it is set up perfectly.
My 98 k1500 z71 still has the sale sticker, locking rear axle was $252, and the z71 package in total is another $272.
That’s a pretty good deal. I thought it would’ve been a lot more than that. Maybe it is if you adjusted it for inflation.
I have a single cab 1994 z71 5.7v8 silverado with 159xxx miles. Im rebuilding the transmission and adding some long tube headers. I want to lower it but not sure im in cali.
+Antraxx_5.7 I am not a fan of lowered trucks, because it's harder to haul motorcycles in them and they don't do as well Offroad, but I shot this video of a lowered Silverado of this generation, and it looks pretty nice. ua-cam.com/video/S1s3d-EK_-g/v-deo.html
Does yours have rear diff lock? I assume all z71 have one
+Harmbae Mafia Yes. It is a separate code in the glove box, G80. Look for it if you are buying a used truck.
I replace my Z71 shocks with AC Delco premiums in the front and spring assist shocks in the back so does that mean I still have a Z71!
As long as you still have the sticker, it’s still a Z 71.
@@hoohoohoblin I have updated Z71 stickers. The originals rolled up in the sun.
I had the same truck and took me anywhere I wanted to go off road or on road . It never got me stuck . I wish I never sold it
These are great old trucks.
That z71 decal is aftermarket.... doesn’t belong on that truck. Z71 is just an option code found in glove box. You get bilstein shocks and a skid plate. That’s it. Look for the g80 code. That will tell you it has an Eaton auto locker rear end.
I have a 2001 Chevy Suburban Z71 LT 4X4, which comes with a completely different body kit, roof rack, running boards and wheels than a regular Suburban, and everything on the exterior is painted to match.
I love the z71
Me too. Thanks!
I love the color of the inside I'm wanting to go either gray our blue. On my truck I'm redoing where would I find interior parts.
I don’t know. You can buy used ones on eBay, but they are usually pretty beat up. I don’t know if anybody sells new ones or not. They made a ton of these trucks, so somebody somewhere probably is making replacement parts.
Z71 has a off road package verses 4×4 means is can haul heaven loads go where the 4×4 can't
Z71 is just a suspension package, same drive train, also you cant compare your 90s vs 2ks chevys, that 90s has a sbc and that 2ks has an LS motor, literally the only thing thoes 2 trucks share is the 4l60 transmission
Ls my ass, it's ls based...its not an ls
My '89 K1500 is not a Z71. That being said, it still has the big tow hooks up front and both skid plates like this truck does. I guess I need to look at all the vehicle codes to find out what else it has. I think it has a limited-slip rear diff.
Yes. This Z 71 thing is really confusing because you can order different parts individually that are included in the Z 71 package. G80 is the code for the limited slip differential. If you see G 80 in your glove box, then you have one.
I like my tahoe and Silverado NOT showing if I have 4 wheel drive. They both are the beasts!
Hey man... nice channel. Just picked up a 93 suburban, coincidentally, here in Alaska. Just wanted to say thanks for the content and I am really happy with my investment. The plan was to buy a 99 pathfinder but after some swaying; part due to your channel, part my buddy telling me I am being a dumb ass. I am the proud owner of a pretty, bad-ass, boaty, suburban. Anyhow just thought I'd show some appreciation.
Wise choice. You’re going to love it. These trucks do have some problems, but they are easy to fix, and parts are cheap. And the suburban is super functional because it’s so big. You could even live in it if you wanted to.
hoohoohoblin Definitely. Road trips will be taken in this beast. Thanks again sir.
Wow. The comments in here DID NOT disappoint! My favorite is the "MY FOR WILL DRIVE CAN GO ANY WHERE 71 CAN HOSS" 🤣
Drive ya for will drive back to school and learn to read bro 🤣
Haha!
i'm not sure about the shocks, however, everything else except the stickers is available on a regular 4x4. The code NZZ is for skid plates. i've seen many Z71s w/o them listed in the glove box. there is no locker available on either one. There is code G80 which is a limited slip, often called positraction, but it is a limited slip & a separate option as well. U cant drive a locker on the street. On ure truck there is code GT4 which means u have 3.73 gears. I've also seen Z71s with code GU6 which would be 3.42 gears. I dont know of any code for the tow hooks but have seen them on many regular 4x4s. This only applies to 90s trucks & possibly early 2000s. As someone else already said, chevy got cheap & started putting Z71 on 2wd. Also in the 90s, I've only seen Z71s on 1500s. Now they come on who knows but who cares. And lastly, if u can't read the sticker in the glove box or think it's been changed, u can always go down to any GM dealership, go to the parts dept & give them just the last 8 digits of the VIN# & they can print out the RPO code list with description of each code. There, i think that should about cover it.
+BAMA BOUND Thanks. That was very thorough. I wonder if the Z71 code just means you are getting a $2000 sticker on the side of the truck. I think at least it includes the Billstein shocks.
The Z71 is a suspension package and doesnt include 4x4. Its the shocks and skid plate. You can get them in 2wd if you want, but most z71s are pretty decked out and 4x4. Yes you can order a regular 4x4 with most of the z71 options but it would cost the same and you would have to put the blistien or monroe shocks on yourself
The G80 in GM trucks is not limited slip like Ram trucks. If one rear wheel is completely off the ground. The wheel will continue to spin and then the whole axle locks, making the other wheel begin to turn. Thus, both wheels will turn. On limited-slip only the wheel with traction will spin.
1:36 or the Meijer parking lot if you’re from Michigan/the Midwest.
Go Blue!
My 1994 K1500 sierra slt has skid plates, leather seats and it's not a z71
GMC needs to come up with a cool marketing designation and sticker for their four-wheel-drive truck like Z71. Maybe G71?
GM sold & still sells the Z71 package in 2WD. a lot of people don't know this & buy a Z71 thinking it's automatically going to be 4WD. just some info to throw out there. buy the way... I've worked at a GM dealership for 20 years.
+Alan Marshall thanks. People have been telling me that, and it was hard to believe. Myself and a lot of people have always just assumed that Z 71 means it’s a special four-wheel-drive version.
I'm buying one because I need a truck for hunting where I go off roading in Montana terrain so I go on river beds with sand, rocks, mud snow and everything else
One of these trucks will do great out there.
I bought a k2500 2001 suburban 8.1. It came with plates, locker, and can pull anything I want it to....
Thats a nice looking older Gen z71 silverado tale care of that truck not to many out there anymore! In that kinda of shape
+Kyle Hereygers Thanks!
I love chevy and Ford both make great trucks
You have no clue what your talking about Two skid plates, trans cooler shocks and stickers.
I have a 97 Silverado and I bought it over a z71 mainly because of the front seats and middle console. And if you know these trucks then you know what I mean.
you can verify the sticker in the glove box by matching the VIN number on the sticker to the VIN on the truck.
Good point. It’s always possible that somebody swapped out the glove box with one from the junkyard.
Z71,s have lowered geared differentials which uses more fuel but better for off road
These are not the original z71 stickers for this gen Chevy what happened to the factory ones
+Kyle Bergeron I don't know. I have only had the truck for a couple of years, and it didn't have stickers on it when I got it. I bet they faded and peeled off. I bought these stickers on eBay, and didn't really check to see if they were for the right year. I just bought the ones I like the look of best. This truck is a real Z 71 though. It has the code on the sticker in the glove box.
Not just z71s have tow hooks and skid plates. You're reviewing two different yea trucks so of course it's different
That truck would have come with Rancho's as a part of the Z-71 package not Bilstien, the Bilstien's are not original to that truck.
You will know it’s a real Z 71 by the motor. I have a 5.3 L in my Z 71💪🏾
I don't know my 02 Chevy S10 ZR2 has the same bilstein shocks and it rides smooth I always get complements on how smooth it rides people think it will ride rough like a jeep especially with 31inch mud tires and the resale value is $5,000 so I'm happy with it
+Dillon Koch I didn’t even know they made a Z 701S 10. That’s great resale value.
hoohoohoblin no man ZR2 lol and yeah the only S10s that really have good resale value is the ZR2 and xtreme yeah they are really rare they come with 4 inch wider fenders with fender flares,bigger ring and pinion gear,bilstein shocks, 3inch body lift, and some of them come with a G80 locker. now the new colorado has a ZR2 package with a bunch more goodies for $50,000 😲
I have 2012 Colorado Z71. 18" wheels, 32" tires. Rides great. Awesome on the Northern Michigan two tracks. I prefer it off road over a full sized, much easier to maneuver through the trails. Just as capable on most terrain. Has just as much ground clearance or more tham most factory full sized. The only thing it really lags behind in is power and capacity.
@@dillonkoch72 the new ZR2s are kick ass
@@ericnortan9012 yeah they are if I could afford one I'd get one. But I'll settle for my 4.7 v8 tundra with 332,000 miles
Not all Z-71’s came with Bilsteins. GM also used Black Tenneco shocks on later Z-71’s
Ranchro
And having those upgraded shocks on a Z71 does make it ride much smother on road & off... replace those shocks with even the cheapest ones from an auto parts store and you will know what I mean - I'd assume those shocks you currently have are well beyond there prime. I've owned a 2000 Chevy 1500 "4x4" and a 2002 Chevy 1500 "Z71 4x4"...Both great trucks!
+Ryan2845 _ thanks for all the info. I've heard from other Z 71 owners that the shocks are pretty harsh as well. I have thought about changing them, but they work really well at higher speeds over bigger bumps, which we sometimes do off-road.
hoohoohoblin for sure - after all, it is a truck and they aren't know for having the best ride! - wish my trucks were as clean as yours tho - we have rusty stuff up here in MN. Good lookin truck!
I've had such a hard time find shocks for my 94 z71
Oh no! My shocks are getting really rusty, but they still work. I figured they would be easy to find replacements for.
@@hoohoohoblin yeah all the places I've looked say they'll fit the k1500 4x4 except for z71
Frame are wax coated instead of painted. They rust out in a short period of time.
I thought the z71 was just a towing package to pull a trailer behind your truck from factory
Z82 is the towing package. This is what’s in it. What is in the Chevrolet Truck Towing Packageua-cam.com/video/r83PWkDHA5w/v-deo.html
The blue truck is a 1995. The white truck is newer.
My passenger door makes the exact same noice when I open and close it 😂
years are to far off to compare
Jacob Smart same effing chassis for the most part. different motor and thats about damn near it.
They could both be 99s dude
Patrick Blackmore You’re incorrect sir. 1988-1998 is the Body Style like the Blue z71. The White 4x4, goes from 1999-2002. So no, they cannot both be 99s, but the white one can be.
Jacob King Don’t compare 2 Different Trucks. Same Make and Model, but Different Years. That’s like Comparing an 88 Silverado, to an 87. Have Fun. Lol.
@@tristanwibel4250 get your shit together. Not how chevys work. They go in half years. You can actually have an obs 99 and a nbs 99. Not even limited to trucks. I had a late 95 camaro. Options were spliced. Stop running that trap and learn something.
Cuál es el precio de ésa camioneta
I have a 96 Chev Z71 Silverado and a 06 chev Silverado.. Both good trucks... With over 300 000 kms the 96 still beats the 06 in gas milage...
+TheFarmerfitz I am kind of surprised that even band new trucks don’t get much better gas mileage. I figured some engineer would have found a way to get more miles per gallon out of a truck by now.
I'm pretty sure z71 has a locked differential also
+caydon schleder Mine has the G80 locker on it. The G80 code is in the glove box along with the Z71. Not sure if they were packaged together, but it makes sense that they would be.
The 4x4 should have a locker too, no?
Just so you know you're not even comparing the same trucks the Z71 truck is an older one probably 1998 has the 5.7 engine in it and the 4x4 that you are comparing has the 5.3 probably 2001 in it they're completely different trucks completely different frames completely different years and in the newer ones 2000 to 2007 the the Z71 package only added stuff on the inside of it the under side stayed the same (Chevy trying to save money) the older 1994 to 1999 if you did z71 i believe where were differences but there so old it has all been replaced at least once by now or needs to be replaced.
One common misconception is that all Z71 trucks are 4WD. It may have only been during a certain generation where they also made a Z71 with 2WD.
Please tell me we’re you heard this
I own 2 90s Chevy's reg cab short box step sides both 4x4 one z71 one not , only differences I see is , the non z71 has 3.73 gears ,z71 has 3.43 , the z71 does ride like a Cadillac over bumps better but after time I have decided it's because it has the split bench seat compared to the buckets in the non z71, , z71 (1992 is the last year of the 700r4 transmission, non z71(1993) is first year of the 4l60e, like the shifting better on the 700r4, compared to the computerized shifting of the 4l60e,. Both are 5.7l, use all the same parts . Both Are Silverado with power every thing.
+Brian Perry thanks. I didn’t know about the gearing. I will have to do some research and see what kind of gearing I have on my truck. I thought it was just stickers and skid plates and shock absorbers they were selling with the Z 71 package.
The regular 4x4 have the gov locks also. Skid plates, shocks who cares. I think the biggest advantage is my 93' had an external trans cooler instead of in the radiator. Honestly waist of money. You can get the locker in ANY CONFIGURATION. My 03' two wheel drive had both tow hooks also. I have a 14' 4x4 with the g80 rear locker and there is no performing difference between the two. I guess you can argue the shocks but seriously they both slam when removed from the earth and returned😂 and know I don't do that intentionally.
+eric rush Yup. Most of what people pay extra for is the sticker. You’re right about the locker. Look for a G80 code in the glove box to see if your truck has one. Mine has a G80 code and a Z71 code, proving they are separate options.
You also have the G80 rear end. Posi locker
+Gage Bishop True.
Great video
Thanks
Not all Z-71’s came with Bilstein Shocks. Mine did not.
if its a 99 and up they come with monroe shocks. nd if yours is older than 99 then someone took em off
My 2004 has skid plate bigger tires I put blisten shocks there is no difference between it and a z71 except the sticker mines not but my insurance said a z71 is 15 dollars a month more makes no since since they are identical except the decal witch is ugly anyways
You can get Z71 stickers on eBay for ten bucks. If you ever sell your truck, the stickers will get you an extra $1,000 for it. Z71 really didn't mean much back then. Not sure if it is the same now, or if they've added more parts to the package. But I guarantee when Ford stamps Raptor on their off road truck, it isn't just shocks and some skid plates that make up the difference between it and an F150.
You suggesting he buy stickers to try and scam someone when he sells his vehicle? lol...
Dude, don’t really know what you are talking about. Z71 comes with locking rear end as well. Newer ones come with z71 gauge and sills too. New ones are rancho shocks. Ride quality doesn’t really suffer like you state either.
Thanks. They changed a lot over the years. I am overdue for shock absorber replacement.
I have a 4x4 instead of the z71, i would rather have posi now becuase its easy to make the passenger rear tire spin
They should really put positraction on all of their trucks.
@@hoohoohoblin front and back
I have a 99 suburban, street vehicle, 2 wheel drive, over Christmas I was parked on a wet driveway and started slipping because of all the leaves on the surface. LMAO
You need a Z71!