Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra's w 8100/Allison

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Comments

  • cowboyjohn1cowboyjohn1 Member Posts: 125
    I have the same as you, but some of my driving is short distances like 5 to 10 miles. I have been getting 9.5 to 10.

    BIG RED? - NE OR OK?
  • nmkevinnmkevin Member Posts: 7
  • nmkevinnmkevin Member Posts: 7
    Finally ready to tow !!! Ordered a 2500 HD CC 4x4 w/ 8.1, Allison, 3.73 in Sept., 2000. Picked it up on April 13, 2001. Finally have over 1000 miles. Averaging 12.15 (40 percent Hwy, 40 percent city, 20 percent mountains) on the first four tanks (11.71, 11.73, 12.93, and 12.26).

    Anyone know how to program the memory seats. I think the dealer said to push "SET" and then hold #1 or 2 for 5 seconds. I have been trying miscellaneous combinations and made it work but couldn't find it in the owner's manual.

    Haven't heard any clinks or clanks with the Allison yet.
  • mgdvhmanmgdvhman Member Posts: 4,157
    ...put the seat where ya want....hit set...then 1 or 2....no holding for 2-5 secs...

    Ryan..I seen 3 Sunset Orange trucks Saturday....like it was a message from above!?..haha

    2 Ex cabs...1 Reg cab....1 ex.cab was a sierra..

    I really like how it changes in sun and shade.....damn nice color

    Just have to decide when to get one I guess?...still can't believe it's almost time to sell mine!

    - Tim
  • ryanbabryanbab Member Posts: 7,240
    Yes it was a very nice color. I seen a CC hehe

    maybe it was yours?
  • mgdvhmanmgdvhman Member Posts: 4,157
    perhaps?.......no wait....yours is the truck they took for a spin before you drove it ....that was it!

    LOL

    ...Only orange CC I seen was a guy here....sorry...can't remember his name.......he was trying 285's on stock wheels and some Welds....had a problem with Welds?...and said stock worked...but I doubt they will wear well in the long run...too skinny of a wheel and too much side bulge I'd imagine?

    - Tim
  • ryanbabryanbab Member Posts: 7,240
    this truck had 285's on the stock rims

    wonder if it was him?
  • mgdvhmanmgdvhman Member Posts: 4,157
    ...Todd was his name I think?

    - Tim
  • woolybackwoolyback Member Posts: 45
    n75v111 --- did you take off your rails yet to give yourself more room between the bed rails and the fifth wheel,better do it.
    I had a close call this weekend backing into a campsite on a hill, the site was level enough but the ramp going into it was not and I came within a 1/4 inch of contacting the 5th wheel with the bed rail.
    Any of you mechanical whizzes out there know about lowering the 2500 shortbed. Can it be done and how is it done.
    Will appreciate any suggestions.
  • mdirvinmdirvin Member Posts: 8
    My dealer called me at work today and told me they were unloading my 8.1/Allison/4.1/SLT/ext cab. Unfortunately I will not be able to pick it up until Sat morning at 9 am. Then I will be taking it on a 500 mi trip to visit my daughter in St. Louis for the weekend. I'm not going to take the interstate, that will give me about 500 miles on the truck while varying the engine speeds. My 5th wheel has been sitting at the dealers since April 15th, waiting for me to receive the truck. I will pick the 5th wheel up on May 12th. Then I will be able to see how well it tows a load.
  • mgdvhmanmgdvhman Member Posts: 4,157
    heavy towing supposed to be after a few thousand?

    - Tim
  • n75v111n75v111 Member Posts: 243
    Sorry for delay.

    Did not remove the rails either but I am still worried about how close it gets. Had similar deal except it was with the Dip/crown in road in from of my driveway backing it in when we got home this weekend.

    Interested also about lowering this 4x4 HD SB as it sets so d@#n high that the 32' Hitchiker doesn't set level now when in tow. (and i really need to set the reese back up to the top bolt row)

    I was super critical of Dodge/Ford for the same thing. Ford came out with deal to remove the blocks from the rear springs but didn't do a thing about the front so what good did that do!!! Don't want the thing to set low in the rear all the time -- Dah!!!

    Anyway on the a positive note this 8.1/Alli/3.73 is supper. Set the cruse at 60 with some rolling hills - not real steep but enough - and the speedo never moved-In Tow/Haul-. Can't give the mpg numbers but on the same course with the o'l F150/351ci used about half the gas.

    Working on Aux. Gas tank to go inplace of the spare tire. First rough measurements (30x30x9 w/front sides angled in at bout 25degree to give plenty clearance with tail pipe on left and shock on right) 33.89gal. Now to make template to see how much bigger.

    75v
  • woolybackwoolyback Member Posts: 45
    Hi, I just got back from getting the truck lowered. They put on Belltech shackles which lowered the rear about 2 inches. My B. in Law has the same truck and he got Western Chassis shackles put on his.

    I've been raising my hitch 2 holes but it got too hot out there so I will wait until it cools off tonight and try hooking it up to the 5th wheel to see how it fits. I hope the weight of the fiver doesn't cause the front end of the truck to kick up too much. My B.in Law has a 32 ft. Automate and he had to get the front end lowered an inch to compensate. Mine weighs about 8000lbs so maybe it won't make a difference.


    Got news from the outfit that makes replacement gas tanks for this truck <http://www.transferflow.com/>

    and they said it would be about 2 or 3 months before they had one on the market.


    wooly.

  • n75v111n75v111 Member Posts: 243
    Assume you just lowered the rear about 2"?? But doesn't it set too low in back now if nothing done to the front also?? Even before you hook-up!!

    What was involved to install the shackles?

    Transfer's look a little pricy. Let you know what my fabricated deal cost turn out to be.

    Thks

    75v
  • eric2001eric2001 Member Posts: 482
    if GMC has a customer service similiar to Chevy's?
    I am trying to check on the status of my order and have given up on the dealer. Thanks for any replies.

    Eric
  • n75v111n75v111 Member Posts: 243
    GMC 800-462-8782

    Chev 800-222-1020

    You will need your Dealer Six Diget order number when you call.

    75v
  • gmcgtgmcgt Member Posts: 15
    Eric, I had to wait 7 months for my GMC SLT K3500. Customer service and the dealer provided me with absolutely zero information until the factory had a build date for me. That was 6 months waiting with no information. It drove me nuts. I tried every avenue the internet could provide. I ordered the PU 9/21, received a build date on 3/2 which stated the PU would be built on 3/26, truck arrived at the Dealer (New Mexico) on 4/12.
    Sit tight, its worth the wait. I have 1100 miles on mine and am amazed at the ride and performance everytime I get in it. I'll have the 5th wheel hitch installed this weekend and next weekend its off to the mountains.

    Good luck with yours.
  • woolybackwoolyback Member Posts: 45
    I've just lowered the rear for now until I see how it rides with the fiver hooked up. The truck was originally high in the rear anyhow so now it just sits level. I won't know for sure until I get it out on the road with the fiver on it and where it is level to see what it really looks like.

    It didn't seem to be a big job for the guy putting the shackles on, it took him about an hour. He said he had to cut away a piece of metal to get them to fit.

    Are you just making up the design for the fuel tank and then getting it fabbed. How do you get around the smog stuff or doesn't it matter where you are.
    Keep the board informed of your progress I'm sure there are lots out there wanting more capacity.
    Wooly
  • mbwhitleymbwhitley Member Posts: 32
    vary so much? I've been reading Silverado posts for a long while now (waiting to order my 2002 CC). Build dates have been from 6-8 weeks up to that many months. When I did my last GMO (in Fall 1989), it took about 8 weeks for delivery.

    I'm trying to pinpoint delivery to within a half month, but the reported build dates vary so much. Is there any way to control or influence it?

    Mike
  • n75v111n75v111 Member Posts: 243
    Wooly - Thanks for the lowering info. I know mine sets high empty also. Can you see specifically what they 'cut away'? With my fiver on - back looks just above level and the nose of the fiver is closer to the box/rail sides right at the rear (about 4" Clear.) as the hitch is about 2" too high so you may be ok. Waiting to hear how that works out for you.

    Aux. Fuel tanks - Yes, A shop here Fabs. tanks a fair amount. Don't know what his price will be yet so I'll post details soon as i get em worked out.
    For emission control i'm thinking you can also keep the Aux. a closed system (No Vent to Atmosphere) by teeing Aux. vent into the standard tank vent system but need to find schematic of the fuel system somehow plus figure out where the standard tank lines are - looks like their on top though. Here most just have a vented cap though.

    75v
  • obyoneobyone Member Posts: 7,841
    Asked service advisor if they were having any problems with the allison trans. Yep, was the answer. Said owners were complaining that the trans was really loud. He said that it is normal. I asked if it is normal for it to be louder than the Duramax. Advisor answers yep they all sound that way. I told him I think the owners don't believe them cause they used that line one too many times......
  • dinosierradinosierra Member Posts: 14
    Reading town hall for awhile. Learned a lot thanks to all.
    Dealer called, GMC arrived today. 2500HD w/8.1 alleson 373 locker.Color is gray.
    Ordered it Nov.18,dealer placed order Dec 5.
    Trading in my 99 2500. Got a fair price $22,300 With 15,000miles.
    Noticed one thing. On one door it has 2500HD, on the other door 3500. Guess gm couldn't make up their mind. dealer ordering new emblem.
    Does any one know of a good running boards.
    Had stainless ones on the 99 from J.&J. But think black would look better. I'd be thankful for any suggestions.
  • mgdvhmanmgdvhman Member Posts: 4,157
    the Allison will make clunks and whines....as it is a truck tranny...

    the dealers even got a video addressing this very thing..

    the 2 I drove seemed reasonable..

    - Tim
  • eric2001eric2001 Member Posts: 482
    For the first time last fall when GM was doing the travelling shows... They have greatly improved the sound levels since then. Back then, you couldn't hear the D-Max even at full acceleration over the transmission. I wouldn't have bought one then if you paid me. Since test driving the actual production versions, I am a believer. Besides, it is a truck...
  • quadrunner500quadrunner500 Member Posts: 2,721
    No tranny noise with 6 speed manual...

    Supposedly Tim, on 2002 'Burban, you can have a detuned (250 hp) Duramax mated to a strengthened 4L80 4 speed auto, biggest they can fit under a non-raised front end. If that's the case, makes you wonder if 8.1L will be offered this way too.
  • eric2001eric2001 Member Posts: 482
    Local Chevy dealer has 2500HD Burb with 8.1/Allison, LT with everything for $45K if your interested. Gorgeous truck, two-tone black/biege with nuetral leather... If I only had an extra 50 thou to pay for it...
  • quadrunner500quadrunner500 Member Posts: 2,721
    Thanks Eric, but I'm set for a while, with 2500HD Duramax 6 speed. Love it!

    Tim wants a 'burban (eventually) with 8.1L, auto and no Allison.
  • obyoneobyone Member Posts: 7,841
    Who knows if GM will make a burb by then. Maybe merge with yota and have an 8.1 Sequoia instead.
  • eric2001eric2001 Member Posts: 482
    If my HD never shows up... Then again, if Lexus offers the 8.1, who knows?
  • eric2001eric2001 Member Posts: 482
    My TPW is May 22nd, delivery to NY by first week in June... Should I just wait and get a 2002? For a few months more, wouldn't the book value alone make it worth the wait? Or are prices going to rise that much more???
  • quadrunner500quadrunner500 Member Posts: 2,721
    Eric, there is always big 1st year depreciation on a new vehicle. So if you buy now, and a month later the 2002's are out, the resale value of your 2001 drops a great deal. But the loss in value on a 2001 won't be realized until you sell it.

    Several things mitigate this. For example, your vehicle value drops big even if it is a 2002 because it immediately becomes a used vehicle as soon as you take delivery.

    If you hold on to the vehicle for 3-4 years, the difference between a 2001 now and a 2002 later will average out, since the 2001 will be low miles the first year, and the 2002 high miles the first year. Mileage, as much as the year of manufacture, has the greatest impact on used car value.
  • mgdvhmanmgdvhman Member Posts: 4,157
    the Texas Caddy is here to stay for a while..

    - Tim
  • ryanbabryanbab Member Posts: 7,240
    Doubt prices will change that much

    From 99-00 the price of the 5.3 went up $100. Then mid year 00 destination went up $25. Then the trans option went up $100.

    So it cost me $225 more than if i had a 99.

    Shouldnt be a major change

    I was pretty mad destination went up. especially since the truck didnt have to travel more than 30 miles from the factory to the dealership.
  • cbombcbomb Member Posts: 1
    I just changed my SLT CC order from 6.0/4L80E to the BB W/ Allison.I just couldn't help myself.
    I do see on "Wheels" that supply is limited for whatever reason of the 8.1.Does anyone have any insight or recent delivery experience?
    Also, comments on performance,mileage and problem areas are always appreciated.
  • mdirvinmdirvin Member Posts: 8
    I was suppose to pick up my new 81/A Sat morning but re-scheduled it for Friday afternoon. I put 200 miles on it Friday then filled up Sat morning the mileage was 11.2. I then drove down to my daughters house (270) miles and filled up again the mileage was 13.2. Now I will drive home and fill up again and check the mileage. Driving down here I took two lane highways and kept the speed below 65, mostly 55 and 60 . The truck is a 2500HD with ext cab, it rides much smoother than I was expecting. I really did not notice any excessive noise from the Allison, or jerky shifting. I know have approx 480 miles on it, so by time time I drive over and get on the interstate I will have the 500 miles on it. Driving home I will use the speed control set at 65 and see how it does. The only problem I have seen is that the oil pressure usually runs around 60 PSI, but occasionally it jumps of to 80+ and bounces around. I am assuming that it must be a bad sensor. I'll post the miles on the return trip after I get home this evening.
  • jblair1jblair1 Member Posts: 5
    Just picked up my new Silver ado. 2500HD, 8.1, Allison, Crew, 410, T. Just filled up -- 200 Miles on Vehicle. 8.9 MPG --- yikes!. City driving but I thought I was taking it real easy. Hate to see what would happen if I was having a bit of fun. Hopefully it will get better when the engine loosens up a bit. tranny seems to work well. No clunking and smooth shifts.

    The truck is way too high. I considered lowering it a couple of inches until I talked with the Dealer. They said drive train warranties would be void if I had the truck lowered. They said lowering the truck changes the angles on the drive train and can caused increased stress on the tranny ect. Considering some of the concern re: the tranny on this post and considering the first model year, I thought I better not give Chev an excuse to back out if I had a problem. Thought others might find this info useful.
  • loyalgmcguyloyalgmcguy Member Posts: 64
    I noticed my local dealers (Montana) have at least two (one red, one white) crew cab 4x4, 8.1 allison, 3.73 loaded HD short box trucks. $500-1000 over invoice will probably buy one and there is no sales tax in Montana. Still wondering what happened to the waiting lists.
  • gleesglees Member Posts: 3
    I, after much careful consideration, just purchased a 2500HD with the Duramax/Allison combination. It is an extended cab, 4WD LT with Lockers, etc.. Before I bought the truck, I called the Chevy.com product specialists, they told me (3 separate times) the HD series (w/D-Max/Allsion) trucks had more ground clearance than the 1500 Z71 with same cab and trim levels. My dealership said the same thing, they actually looked it up on their vehicle spec. system. I was suspicious, but felt I should trust both GM and the dealer. I got my truck and just couldn't believe what I was being told. I called GM again (4th time) and this time they said they had changed their data and were now saying the HD's had less ground clearance. With the D-Max/Allison, it's even worse, due to extra weight. I need a good daily driver, so fuel economy is important, but when I need a 4WD for hunting, I really need one. I'm afraid I've made a huge mistake (due to incorrect information I was given.) Anybody out there tried a vehicle like mine in the mud? Even with bigger tires, it looks as if I would only get my truck back to a 1500Z71 height with stock tires. (All my calls were recorded by GM and the last specialist I talked with is researching my concerns.)
  • gleesglees Member Posts: 3
    I, after much careful consideration, just purchased a 2500HD with the Duramax/Allison combination. It is an extended cab, 4WD LT with Lockers, etc.. Before I bought the truck, I called the Chevy.com product specialists, they told me (3 separate times) the HD series (w/D-Max/Allsion) trucks had more ground clearance than the 1500 Z71 with same cab and trim levels. My dealership said the same thing, they actually looked it up on their vehicle spec. system. I was suspicious, but felt I should trust both GM and the dealer. I got my truck and just couldn't believe what I was being told. I called GM again (4th time) and this time they said they had changed their data and were now saying the HD's had less ground clearance. With the D-Max/Allison, it's even worse, due to extra weight. I need a good daily driver, so fuel economy is important, but when I need a 4WD for hunting, I really need one. I'm afraid I've made a huge mistake (due to incorrect information I was given.) Anybody out there tried a vehicle like mine in the mud? Even with bigger tires, it looks as if I would only get my truck back to a 1500Z71 height with stock tires. (All my calls were recorded by GM and the last specialist I talked with is researching my concerns.)
  • obyoneobyone Member Posts: 7,841
    Just curious. Before making a $40k purchase, why didn't you physically measure both trucks on the lot? Am I missing something here?
  • mdirvinmdirvin Member Posts: 8
    I completed my last leg of my weekend trip to my daughters with my new 2400HD/ext cab/8.1/allison/4.1. Since I completed my 500 mi break in I came home on the interstate with the cruise control set on 65. I was really pleased with the mileage, however I think it was somewhat of a fluke. I was traveling Northeast and there was a strong wind from the south, the mileage was 14.66. I expect to see something like the mid 13's for highway driving, and 11's in stop and go driving.
  • gleesglees Member Posts: 3
    Both trucks were not available on the lot to measure side-by-side. Since the D-Max is so scarce, I had to agree to purchase before delivery. Additionally, the 6.0L motor in the 2500HD (w/the MT1 trans.) is higher than the D-Max, and I did measure it. Basically, my complaint is with GM, not my dealership. Both the dealership and I were operating from the same set of data. My concern arose from my subsequent call to GM and was told of the "new" data they were releasing to the media.
  • obyoneobyone Member Posts: 7,841
    I know that would be a hassle. But it might have been easier. Good luck with GM.
  • elderdog1elderdog1 Member Posts: 10
    just turned over 4000 miles today last tank of gas 11.96 50/50 interstate and city,installed 5th wheel hitch but haven't towed yet ,no rattles ,trans smooth, at 2500 miles installed mobil one oil and filter, check trailer life website they have done a in depeth report on both the 8.1 and duramax. its worth reading nothing but high remarks
  • mgdvhmanmgdvhman Member Posts: 4,157
    what rear axe ratio?

    - Tim
  • quadrunner500quadrunner500 Member Posts: 2,721
    http://www.trailerlife.com/test/0010v8.cfm


    http://popularmechanics.com/popmech/auto3/0103AUNCCM.html#

  • animal7animal7 Member Posts: 6
    Anyone have mpg figures with a 2001 crew cab 8.1 allison 4:10 dual wheels 3500?
    Can't decide between 6.0 or 8.1. mpg could make the difference.
  • nmkevinnmkevin Member Posts: 7
    I have about 1600 miles on my 8.1 w/ Allison (2500 HD CC 4x4 w/ 3.73) and started hearing a new whine when traveling around 10 to 15 mph and when slightly applying or depressing the throttle. It is about three or four times louder than the Allison whine (or what I thought was the Allison whine) that I have heard since I purchased it. I know this is a subject that many of you have discussed but would appreciate a response if anyone can relate.
  • animal7animal7 Member Posts: 6
    Hey Kev
    Sorry, nothing to do with your whine. But, have you had a chance to check your gas mileage
    yet with that cc 8.1? You have dual wheels or single? Chev or GMC? Thanks
  • gmcgtgmcgt Member Posts: 15
    animal7,
    I have a GMC CC K3500 (4wd), 8.1/Alli/4.10.
    first tank was 12.1, 50/50 city/highway. Second tank was 10.0, 100% city with several stoplight blasts. There is no substitute for cubic inches!
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