04 suburban, back story and plans
- Thread starter BradyD
- Start date
aero
Adventurer
I installed the vette servo on my 2002 Tahoe z71 with 200k a while ago.
It tightened up the shifts (didn't do anything to gas mileage). The only thing I THINK it changed (other than making the shifts solid) was that it doesn't do much engine braking in drive. I never drove it in the mountains prior to the install but it seems like there should be more resistance. Even just straight line if you let off the gas, it won't slow much. But I would definitely install it again as the transmission seems much better.
It tightened up the shifts (didn't do anything to gas mileage). The only thing I THINK it changed (other than making the shifts solid) was that it doesn't do much engine braking in drive. I never drove it in the mountains prior to the install but it seems like there should be more resistance. Even just straight line if you let off the gas, it won't slow much. But I would definitely install it again as the transmission seems much better.
Sentinelist
Adventurer
I love it, the story and the rig. Full-length safari rack on top, stat! I really like this gen Suburban (have an 05 Escalade ESV instead though) and wouldn't mind a Z71 for a similar build.
BradyD
Observer
no sir. I live in Texas. im a little too old for college. thanks for reading my post.
BradyD
Observer
Thanks for the kind words my friend. I have been working on a few custom rack designs. nothing solid yet but it is in the works
BradyD
Observer
I don't plan to ever go bigger. it is very under powered now. I don't pull a lot with it but when I do its a struggle. heck, its a struggle going up an overpass with a head wind. Thanks for the input!
I think you will be going to the trans shop soon for a rebuild. Mine started doing that, then there was a catastrophic failure of the gears. Had 1st and that's it. good thing is the trans in these are easily rebuildable. I had a shift kit put in as well. and it works great now.
BradyD
Observer
thanks for the heads up. if you don't mind me asking, how much did the rebuild set you back?
BradyD
Observer
Thank you. and yes im very lucky. I have some pretty awesome in-laws
rayra
Expedition Leader
Thanks for posting that, been considering building a platform / drawer system in my newly-purchased '02 suburban and was thinking to do the same, box as high as the 3rd row. But that's just too high for my liking and I've been leaning towards taking out the 3rd row and going with a longer shallower drawer system. 6-7" deep, to the 2nd row seats. We've got a couple big dogs as well, they'll need that extra 6" of headroom walking around back there.