Yukon XL (9th Gen) Z71 equivalent?

[thebmrust]

Get what’s best now and hit the wrecking yards for a G80.

 

[emdece]

Keep in mind the G80 in the 1500 'burbs has a different reputation for strength vs the one in the 2500 rear axles.

It may not matter to the soccer mom, but if you plan on doing any moderate trails it is worth a mention.

 

[mrpeterclark]

I think they called it the z55 package on the GMCs, but not certain if it went back to that generation. I have a GMT900 Denali and don't love the AWD simply because there is no selectable 4LOW. Otherewise they came with some good options. I'm doing a manual t-case swap on mine. I think there was an available 14 bolt rear diff on some of these older models as well which would be a plus. I would just look for something witht the 4L80 transmission, selectable 2 speed transfer case, and if possible the 14 bolt rear diff. Or the 2500 and get the 6.0L and pretty much everything else you would want. Some have 4.10 gears, some were 373. Learn the RPO codes you want and check the glove box for the G80 etc.
I'm a huge fan of Suburbans personally.

 

[GSP]

Carl,

Get the 2500.

I just bought a 2004 2500 LT with Autoride. 134k miles $5000. The rockers are rusted and I had to replace the front hubs and do a crank sensor relearn.

I wanted the 2500 because of the drivetrain. I only looked for 6.0 not 8.1. I have a 2004 3500 box truck with the 6.0 and 556k miles. That engine lasts forever. And the transmission is much more durable.

The Autoride on the 2500 does not have self leveling like it would on the 1500. On the 2500 it has self adjusting shocks.

The 2500 Suburban frame and drivetrain is completely different from the 1500. They also have 2 fuel tanks.

I get 13mpg.

Oh and if you look hard enough you could find a 4 Wheel Steering 2500.