Goodyear dealer who installed the General Tires for my Chevy dealer said to keep at 35#. The door tag from GM also says 35# cold. My original front passenger tire could not balance so my dealer had requested one tire from General. To his surprise, they informed him that they would be sending five to replace on my truck. Figure they had to pay about $250 for air freight to Hawaii and the Goodyear dealer charged $150 to mount and balance for a total of $400 to install 5 tires worth $46 a piece or $270. Try and figure that one. I'm just wondering when they will give up. BTW, the dealer is also talking to the GM rep to see if we can use another brand rather than continue this farce. If it wasn't for the time I'm wasting on this I kind of find it hilarious to even think about replacing with another set of Generals. Will keep you informed of what happens next on my quest for "truck" and not car tires.
The reason a Goodyear dealer installed the General Tires was that there is no General dealer in Hawaii and my dealer does not mount tires on chrome rims. Sorry for the long post.
I`ll keep an eye on your posts. I hope your troubles are over.I`m just letting my truck sit until I can make up my mind. I really want to keep this truck. But on the other hand I cant tolerate the shimmy-shakes.And can anyone ever fix it? My 89 1500 rides like a caddilac. ps; still just 277 mi. on my 2000 model..
Feathering caused tire noise at 35+ mph, vibration at 50-65, and not sure about this one, and bouncing on concrete freeways at 45+ mph. This was on my original set. After replacing with second set, all of the above disappeared. After 450 miles, feathering along with tire noise and mile vibration has reappeared. So far no bouncing but the odds say that should be coming back at anytime.
Correction on post 226. Should have read as $230 not $270. Problems with typing and multiplying at the same time.
Have any 3/4 ton, 4wd, extended cab owners had these vibration problems? It seems like all the 1/2 tons are having problems and I'm not going to drop 30k on a vehicle then spend my time in the service department waiting for a fix. I've given up on owning a 1/2 ton, so unless the 3/4 tons are vibration free I guess I'll have to look at Ford Super Duties.
I have replaced the Goodyears with BFG's and it made no difference! I think the feathering is generated by the problem, not the cause. I still really believe the problem lies with this new rack and pinion, speed-sensitive steering set-up. I read a post a while back that someone by-passed the speed sensing part and that this fixed the problem, although defeated the variable assist. Surely this cannot be the only answer.
Now have about 150 miles since installing new Generals yesterday. The truck rides great now, but how long will it last? I've had everything done to my truck and I hope that what ever caused the vibration will not wear the tires down sooner than needed.
White6: I think you're exactly right about the rack and pinion, etc. Have you ever notice when you're crossing a R/R track or bump the extra little play in the steering wheel that usually clears up soon after the bump? I believe cure for rack and pinion may be some kind of bushing or something like that.
Croct: I know what you mean: I love my truck too. However, it's driving me crazy. I have a "buy back" pending and may take them up on buy back if it's offered. Should have word in couple of days. My 91 Silverado was also alot better than (ride at least) my 00 model.
Obyone: My service manager told me today that he is replacing other General tires because of recall from General. According to him, General put out a bad batch with weak side walls causing early feathering and wear. He said that General has already recalled/replaced all tires not yet installed, but some of the tires made their way to trucks of course. My question: is GM or General going to replace all General tires on existing trucks on street. Not a chance, I think, unless the customer makes some waves......
x281s: I think you'll have to give dealer a shot at fixing problem. In my case, I called GM directly who said that my dealer would have to fix the problem, or be allowed to try. However, they did let me pick my own tire person. They will pay him direct for his work. I not going to let the dealer touch my tires any more if I can help it. Four different dealers missed my two warped rims, or at least they didn't tell me about them.
causing play in steering. Do you also have aftershocks or little vibrations coming from the rear also? My understanding was that in trying to create a softer ride, GM may have made the springs on the 1/2 ton a little too soft. Read somewhere that some owners had dealer replace springs on front and back.
After the Goodyear dealer had mounted the new and improved Generals on my truck, he had asked what was the original problem where General was replacing all five tires. I explained to him about the soft sidewalls causing the feathering. He commented that passenger tires by design have a softer sidewall and less overall weight than a truck tire providing a better ride. He also commented that it could be a defect but more probable was that it was designed to be that way. Also said that the one tire that couldn't be balanced was defective but the other three were ok. At that point, I asked him if I would be seeing him again in another four to six weeks cause this new set would be feathering. He replied with a smile. Makes you wonder....
Hi all.. I have a 99 silverado 3/4 ton ex cab longbed tow pkg autotrack transfer case 3.73 gears skidplate and the optional forged aluminum wheels.. I had a vibration in the drive train when it was brand new very slight on take off and it seemed to have gone away with age.. The only other problem i had with vibration seems to be in the exhaust system I got a rattle at about 5,000 miles and the dealer replaced the exhaust and it went away. At 13,500 miles it has returned. I wonder if any other 3/4 ton ex cab longbed owners have seen this.It sounds like a bunch of tin cans rattling around under certain loads. Its not engine ping. Sounds like a baffle is loose in that giant muffler they have. But besides that thats the only problem ive had ( oh besides the infamous windshild popping noise that I got fixed with a little adhesive) I am going to take it in soon and find out exactly what the problem is i don't want to have this problem every 5,000 miles or so! I still love the truck and would buy another in a second.. The half ton trucks have rack and pinion steering and the 3/4 have the old recirculating ball steering box System. This is probley why there are not as much problems on the 3/4 tons. If any other 3/4 ton owners have run into this problem please let me know!! thanks
I've got a '99 Sierra SL 4.8, 3.42, auto, standard suspension and have had the vibrations for almost 8 months. I have had 5 General tires replaced, along with shackles, bushings, etc. and no improvement. BBB autoline now has my case and I'm hoping GM will buy it back. I've tried several times to have the dealer or GM pay their price for Generals and I would pay the difference to get some other brand of tire and they wouldn't do it. I'm tired of dealing with them on this one. I used to be a Ford owner and switched over because this truck was supposed to be on a different level. Even if GM will not buy it back, I'll go back to Ford. The truck pings, considered to be normal according to the owner's manual, vibrates at highway speeds and shifts roughly from 2nd. to 3rd. All of things have checked and double checked and have been told that it is within spec. or they don't know what else to do. How about starting with giving me my money back!
I had a vibration in the front end at around 40 mph, and then again at 60 to 70 mph. It was a slight shake of the steering wheel that would come and go at random. I figured it was a bad tire as I could also hear an uneven rolling sound from the tires. I noticed it pretty much right from the start, but put up with it until around 3500 miles. The dealer put 2 new front tires on it and balanced the rears. The front end vibration is gone. Smooth sailing. I can however hear the same rolling noise from the RR with only a very slight vibration at around 70 mph. I'll have it checked/replaced soon. By the way, I have aluminum wheels with Firestone Wilderness A/T tires. No abnormal wear patterns. I Now have 4800 miles on the truck. I love my truck. I hope the rest of you get yours straightened out.
Had exact steering wheel shake as you described. Would come and go at random. Took it to dealer at around 1000 miles. Rotated tires and found one tire slightly out of balance. No more steering wheel shake. Did it again for a few days around 3500 miles but haven't experienced it since. Very odd. Front end seems to be overly sensitive to minor variations in tires, balance, alignment, etc.
Now on to overall vehicle vibration/ride problems(which I never really thought I had a problem with)
An earlier post mentioned vibration disappeared after he changed to his winter tire setup (steel wheels, different tires). The thought was that the extra weight played a factor.
I experienced something odd today. Had some mud buildup on the tires after an offroad venture (00'Z-71). On the way home (highway) I noticed the ride was different - very,very smooth. I never really had any complaints about overall vehicle vibration/ride problems before but the ride now was a step up in quality and noticeable. Got home (6 miles or so) and noticed tires still had a slight uniform coating of mud (sidewalls and in tread). Maybe this extra weight theory is the reason. I've noticed that the 3/4 tons seem to not have a vibration problem. They have the LT tires which are supposed to be heavier.
Took my 00 Sierra xtcab to an independent mechanic a few days ago to get a second opinion on my 40mph and 60-70mph vibrations.. The mechanic test drove my truck followed by putting the truck on the rack. He physically showed me how loose the drive shaft was at the carrier bearing and he stated that a loose drive shaft at this point would cause vibrations. He seemed to think that this may be the cause of the vibration. It is worth a shot as it requires less than one hour labor and the price of the carrier bearing/assembly. I will request that he put it in writing so that I can have some leverage when dealing with the GM AVM. He also stated that it is well known that the Goodyear Wrangler ST's are very difficult to get and keep balanced through the life of the tire. I plan on negotiating a cost difference for a better grade tire like Michelin.
BTW, called a drive shaft fabrication company today to inquire about a one-piece drive shaft. The carrier bearing cost vs. the one-piece drive shaft cost are about the same. May experiment with the one piece drive shaft. I was told that the distance from the u-joint at the slip yoke to the u-joint at the rear differential had to be less than 73 inches in order to fabricate one-piece shaft. I plan on mearsuring the distance this weekend.
I'll let you know how things turn out....probably after the New Year.
I have a 2000 Silverado ext 4x4 5800 Z-71.It seems to have a vibration in the right front wheel at 70-75 Its not always there.I have only talked to the service manager and he said a wheel balance should cure it.Now I see all the problems others are having.Just 3k miles.
I have a 2000 Silverado ext 4x4 5800 Z-71.It seems to have a vibration in the right front wheel at 70-75 Its not always there.I have only talked to the service manager and he said a wheel balance should cure it.Now I see all the problems others are having.Just 3k miles.
I have a base 2000 Silverado 1500, 2WD, V6,long bed, auto, A/C, cruise, PDL - thats it. Standard steel wheels, Goodyear Wrangler ST P235/75R16. Less than 500 miles -city driving. Out of curiosity, I just drove it out on the expressway - no vibrations of any significance at 65, 70, 75, 80 MPH. Gave it the half full cup of water in the cup holder test - water did not spill out, amount of shaking of water in cup was about the same at all speeds. Minor vibration at all speeds is what I would expect from a pickup. I did hear a metallic "boing/clunk" from the rear end upon acceleration from a dead stop when turning a few times, but is seems to have gone away. Just a tip for those thinking of buying a Silverado - compare a V6 to a V8 - I didn't see much difference (unless you plan to haul heavy loads or tow a lot) and you pay $500 less for a V6. My fairly stripped model is nice enough for me, and I'm hoping to trade it in every year for a new one with minimal depreciation. What I would tell GM if they would listen: 1) Offer true air suspension(front and rear) as an option. (Ford has this idea partially right.) This would solve the choppy ride, especially with an empty bed and maybe even solve some of this vibration problem. 2) Go back to a flat floor behind the pedals so you have a place to stretch out your left leg and foot. Also relocate the box hanging down from the dash by your left foot - very annoying. 3) Change the parking brake to a hand operated one, preferably on the right side of the driver - under dash or under middle jump seat - much more modern set up and not in your way when you get in and out of the truck.
Sounds like a good truck. That's exactly what I was going to get but the wife change my mind. You know kids and all....she wanted to make sure I couldn't slip off without her....no reason with ext. cab. Anyway.....finally got vibration out of my truck and it's great. Wife's in it now! Probably riding her boyfriend around in my truck while I'm putting together xmas presents all night. Merry xmas all.......John
Spoke with a guy (very reputable) who owns an alignment shop and hosts an automotive hour on a local radio show. He has seen many 1999 and 2000 Silverado trucks with bad factory alignments and drive shafts that are out of specs. One dealer brought him 30 trucks that the factory had improperly aligned. He talked to a manager at the factory that makes the drives shafts and the manager told him they make 15,000 drive shafts a day -- a few are bound to be bad. Real proud of his factory's quality, eh? The drive shafts being out of spec could definitely cause the vibration problems some people have experienced. Hope this info helps.
Sorry to hear about your problems. For those of us that have a truck on order, build problems like yours puts a little black cloud over the wait as we wonder if we too will get a `nightmare instead of a dream. However, a question. Why do you want to turn off the daytime running lights? Al
Dubel: I have a 2000 Sierra Xtcab 1500 series with the 4.8L and 3.42 rear gears. I have had a persistent problem with nagging vibrations at 45 and 60-70mph speeds. Additionally, I still have a rough idle and nagging clunking noise when accelerating while coasting at 10-15mph and when shifting from drive to reverse to drive, etc., etc. Oh, also, I have dead shift spots in my transmission...almost like it stalls at the shift points. Anyway, for the dead spots, the dealer service stated that the "turbine shaft seal is split". They replaced the shaft seal and reconditioned the transmission. This took place at 3057 miles (Nov. 23, 1999). This solved the dead spot and clunking problems at that time. Well, the dead spots are back and so is the clunking noises.
On another subject, I took it to an independent mechanic whom stated that the "carrier bearing exhibits freeplay and needs to be changed; this may be the cause of the vibrations (and clunking he stated during a followup visit)". He stated that the carrier assembly/bearing and Goodyear Wrangler ST tires should be replaced. He stated that the Wranglers are known to be the toughest tires to balance and keep balanced.
I have a new 2000 silverado with the 4.8 automatic . I have already changed out the original tires and wheels due to personel preferance.I think my vibration is a driveline vibration. It comes in about 42 to 45 miles an hour and comes back in about 70 miles per hour.But I have noticed when you take off from a cold start before the ecm lets the torque convertor lock up it does not due it. The dealer reprogramed the prom so the convertor does not lock up under 1500 rpm. This moved the vibration but did not fix it. Anyone been down the torque convertor road? I have bought 6 new Chevy trucks since 1977. I wish I had tried a new Ford
Al, it is not the daylight running lights that I wish to turn off but rather the regular headlights. General Motors in their infinite wisdom decided that the general public was no longer capable of making the decision of when to turn their regular headlight system on or off, so they made the new headlight systems on the Silverados an automated system. Now when you start your engine and its dark enough to have them on they will automatically come on by themselves. Then if you wish to turn them off and still want to keep the engine running to stay warm at a shopping mall or etc. you have to shut the engine off and then push the emergency break on and restart the engine and then your lights will stay off till you release the emergency brake. Some of the later 2000 models have an override to this problem. You push the dome light button 4 times within 6 seconds and then they will go out. This is real progress! I also had the reflash of the transmission to address the problem of the 40-45 mph vibration. It seems to have cured that problem. I forgot to mention this problem in my earlier posting. Dubel
There seems to be a ton of vibration problems. Question for all. Where are these trucks built that are having all these problems? Mostly the states? I have seen a bunch built in the states that have terrible alignments, and center steer being way out. Not suprised about tire vibration balancing problems after seeing the steering problems. Who QC's these vehicles?
There is another option you failed to mention for turning off the haedlights. A hammer. This is how I feel after driving this truck with the wonderful vibration at 40-50 mph. Did you Reflash your trans yourself? If so how? Can't get any dealer to work on my truck.
Now I see it... I see what you mean now about the lights and I agree it is a pain from what you describe.
Now I don't... This vibration problem has been happening from the first vehicle off the assembly line a year or so ago. What can GM be thinking of to allow this stupidity to continue? Surely if it was simply a tire problem GM would tell the supplier to take a hike. The 'too-stiff-frame' theory should mean all trucks should vibrate. I suspect it is quality control from low-bid suppliers and GM does not want to shut down in order to get better quality parts. Keep building them and sell them to the suckers and let the service departments absorb the flak! When I buy a lottery ticket, I take my chances (for a buck). When I buy a truck, why should I have to gamble with $30 grand? Al
In regard to the transmission reflash, I had the dealership perform this task. If I understand it right the reflash resets the computer module, which controls the rpm's of the engine and the shifting of the transmission, about 200 rpm's higher than it came from the assembly plant. This I guess doesn't let it lug down in rpm's and give it a vibration feel. My truck was assembled in Indiana.
I have a 2wd-ext cab-4800v8 with sb and locking differential on order and am expecting it to be delivered this week. This truck was built in Canada. Is anyone having trouble with the Canadian built units?
I want to know if anyone has had vibration problems with the Extented Cab 4WD 5.3 with 3.73 limited slip rear axle? What are the tires on your truck, P265?
On New Years Eve I`ll just mix drinks by setting them in my cup holders and drive down the hwy. at 65 mph. Anyone want a model 2000 chevy mixer??? No joke ,I had a can of pop in the cup holder and when i looked down at it the other day it was shaking so much that it looked fuzzy. better not set a full one in there. tc
I had the dealer flash the trans, first time for the locking diff that caused a grinding noise when it locked in at 40mph, then for hard shifts around 20mph. Now both problems are worse. Also, when you put in R I hear a loud clank like bad u-joints. This is my second GM truck and I had noisy valve guides from day 1. I think GM needs better quality control. Next time I will try FORD. Love the truck but can't stand paying 30grand for these problems.
I guess luck is going to play its part. My '99 5.3L, 4x4, reg cab, long bed, 4.10, Z71, P265 Wilderness A/T, has been utterly smooth at all speeds. It now has 19,700 miles. I rotated the tires once, did not need to balance them.
Some of the characteristics people are describing are either flaws, or normal for a truck, depending on your perspective. The drive line clunk, clank, clang, etc when you shift from R to D has been a normal characteristic in trucks for years. If you don't have some free-play in the drive line, or if every clearance is tightened to zero, what happens when there is expansion due to temperature?
Another common question is if the quality control is better in Fort Wayne, Pontiac, or Quebec. While not able to speak for everyone, my opinion based on reading lots of posts here is that there are good and bad coming from all three. (My truck was built in Pontiac)
I also infer that many problems could be resolved by the dealer, or communications between the owner and dealer service department. When there is an obvious fix for something, like the steering shaft Bob259 reported on, and one dealer like mine replaces it, and offers a smile, while another tells you they could not reproduce the problem, you can't blame GM for that. And if you take the vehicle to the service department with 10 nit-picks, along with routine chassis service and oil, and expect it back by 3:00 pm, that's not realistic either.
I won't discourage you from trying other brands. What I discourage is attributing too many car like qualities to trucks. After owning a few trucks, the bigger picture of what's important becomes clear.
I have 2000 Sierra SLE Ext Cab 5.3L Z71 G80 Aluminum Wheels and 265 Firestone Tires. My truck does not vibrate. Like Quadrunners it was built in Pontiac, MI. The biggest problem with vibrations appear to be Goodyear Tires and the chrome steel wheels. The dodge boys have been complaining about the Goodyear tires also.
Ordered a 2000 Silverado, LS, 4x4, 4.8, auto, 3.73 rear,autotrack,tow pack, reg cab, long bed, 265x16 BSW AT tires, alum wheels, Z-71. Truck came in after 10 wks with Firestone Wilderness At tires. Did test drive the other day & truck was pulling to right side from as slow as 35mph. Dealer said GM doesn't like to touch alignments until at least 500 mi on vehicle. I said fine for GM but not me & refused delivery. Dealer is aligning truck now & I will attempt to get it again. Just wondering if anyone else had same problem that may have led up to the "infamous wheel vibration" problem these folks have been talking about. I have been driving trucks since '78 & this will(may) be my 1st Chevy. Your comments are appreciated.
I had read on different post (Frame Failure) regarding alignment problems caused by shipping companies cranking down excessively on the tie downs when preparing trucks for transport, dealers are supposed to correct this problem if complaint made by customer regarding pulling/drifting of front end. Waiting 500 hundred miles is ridiculous, you have unnecessary tire wear happening if you wait. What does the dealer think is going to happen in 500 miles ? the problem will go way? You did the right thing in requesting the fix immediately.
As mentioned previously, while not having vibrations, I did have a slight steering pull to the right at about 5000 miles. They are separate problems. My steering pull was solved many miles ago. Here's how it went:
The dealer performed an alignment. He adjusted the left front camber, and adjusted ride height via the torsion bar adjuster. It drove straight after that until I rotated the wheels about 3000 miles later, whereupon the pull returned. I didn't notice at first, or see the connection.
One day, it annoyed me in particular, and decided to do something about it. Got an independent alignment at a Firestone tire dealer. They let me watch. The alignment was spot-on, in the center of the allowable tolerance for caster, camber and thrust angle. They made a slight adjustment to the toe. After this, it pulled worse on a test drive. Back up on the alignment rack...no changes, spot-on dead center according to the Hunter machine. The service advisor took a test drive with me, and agreed it was pulling still.
Next step, they crossed the wheels to the opposite side. Went for a test drive. Now it actually pulled very slightly in the opposite direction, to the left. At this point, it was concluded the steering pull was the result of radial tire bias. The factory tire warranty will give you replacement tires (pro-rated of course) for this condition.
My truck has tracked arrow straight since that day. I have not touched a thing. My conclusion is that radial tire bias has more influence on steering than even a front end that is out of alignment.
Byerspp: My 00 truck was built in Canada and it also had vibration.....If you read my previous post, you'll see what apparently corrected the problem. If you need a lenghty history....just ask.
Hogboy: Don't take it! That 500 mile business is a crock of s#@t. Also, if you can avoid it, don't let them touch your tires when you finally take delivery. Four (4) different GM dealers missed two (2) warped rims (apparent cause of my vibration). It took a private tire company to find and eventually correct the problem. GM paid for tab with purchase order.
I know I'll hear a lot of hate-mail responses - but, is it possible - the new frame is just not quite strong enough to allow for all the normal manufacturing tolerances - not just the factory, but the suppliers too. I read about tires (Generals are probably not the best, but they are decent tires - I've had several sets), driveshafts out of spec and seems like a possible multitude of other worries including alignments that are either not right or can't get them right. It is a new frame design - nobody but GM has tried this on a truck. Maybe they didn't try it long enough? Good luck in the long run folks - trucks don't usually get better with age - especially if used very hard at all. If I owned one - I would take a stock market approach - drop a loser before it is worth less tomorrow than today.
ckitchens - The new Silverado obviously has problems, but how many Silverados have problems? Stated another way, what percentage of the total population of new Silverados is represented by the vibrating Silverados? Silverado owners who don't have problems are not likely to post here. You may have noticed a few owners who have posted that they have not had problems. Fortunately, on line sites like this should help owners with problems narrow down the source of the problem. Unfortunately, many Silverado owners will be guinea pigs in the problem solving process. If I had a Silverado with a vibration I couln't get fixed, I would also probably look to unload it. If the problem was subsequently solved with a new set of tires, or replacement of bent rims - would I be an unwise "investor" who unloaded a good Silverado "stock" at a fire sale price, only to see it rise in value later? Just my two cents.
Hi all and Happy New Year. I have now put 1600 miles on truck after mounting four in-spec tires. I have to say the lateral vibration is no longer a annoying problem. The ride quality at freeway speeds is still rough,....but my coffee stays in the cup. I am meeting with GM Area Manager around the 5th of January to take an extended test drive down I-65. Will let you all know what the outcome of this meeting is. I also agree that not all the trucks being built can have our problem. This truck is absolutely a very good looking and well built truck. I have no complaints with power, appearance, or assembly of this truck. Built in Pontiac, Mi. The ride quality is an issue, I traded a 97 4X4 in on this truck and it was smooth riding all the way to the cut-off on the computer at 100 mph.
You may be able to find it in the list of Tech Service Bulletings maintained by the NHTSA. In addition you can look at the hundreds/thousands of customer complaints on these trucks (drop back to the main .gov link and go forward for this) Link is http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/tsb/servicemmy1.cfm
By the way, I've got a shaker too that I've outlined previously here.
Oh yes I have a 2000 long bed, reg. cab, 2x4 1/2 ton With the 4.3 v6. Vibrates at 65 mph and over .I haven`t reported it yet. but will soon. Also for what it`s worth ,I don`t care much for the seat in the center. too narrow and can`t adjust.steerring is too quick also.Very tough to get used to.I think the sheetmetal is thinner in these trucks too. Not near the quality as earlier models made in late 80`s or early 90`s in my opinion.
croct: I think we have sister vehicles, except mine is not shaking - yet. What type of tires and wheels do you have? I have stock wheels and Goodyear Wrangler tires. How bad is the vibration and how many miles do you have on your truck? When you have a half full glass of water in the cup holder at 65 mph, does the water splash completely out, or does is just shake? The stock seat is goofy - GM wants you to upgrade to the LS to get a better seat. I bought a contractor style arm rest from Pep Boys to put on the middle seat, since I usually drive alone. The driver's seat is comfortable, and I like the integral seat belt. The salesman who sold me the my base truck said that GM might be coming out with a flip down stock center seat to provide an armrest in the future. Sheet metal is thinner, but I think fit and finish is better - probably a trade off. Steering is quicker, but I'll bet you get used to it and think the old recirculating ball style is odd after you drive your Silverado for a while.
Just a little story on how I bought my truck. After visiting several dealerships I got tired of the usual sales hype and "no 4th door yet and we don't know when we will have one" stories. So I heard about a commercial sales lot one of our 2 local dealers (O Reilly Chevrolet) has in Tucson. This is just a gravel parking lot with a chain link fence around it and an old trailer for an office. This lot sells only commercial type trucks (stake beds, dump trucks, flat beds, box vans) and also sells basic pickups. All of the trucks are white (I mean all of the trucks.) In Arizona, white is the only practical color because of the severe fading caused by the intense sun. (It's like Henry Ford saying you can have any color you want as long as it's black.) They have two long rows of white pickups, almost all long bed, V6, base pickups. They will sell you any kind and color of truck or Chevrolet car you want, but all they have in stock at the commercial lot are white trucks. I drove into the lot, told a salesman I wanted a basic 2wd, regular cab, auto, a/c, cruise white pickup. He told me almost all of his pickups were exactly like that, except he did have and unusual one with power door locks. I told him I would buy the "loaded" truck with power door locks. I bought it on GMS so their was no haggle on the price. The deal was done in 10 minutes.
croct: I think we have sister vehicles, except mine is not shaking - yet. What type of tires and wheels do you have? I have stock wheels and Goodyear Wrangler tires. How bad is the vibration and how many miles do you have on your truck? When you have a half full glass of water in the cup holder at 65 mph, does the water splash completely out, or does is just shake? The stock seat is goofy - GM wants you to upgrade to the LS to get a better seat. I bought a contractor style arm rest from Pep Boys to put on the middle seat, since I usually drive alone. The driver's seat is comfortable, and I like the integral seat belt. The salesman who sold me the my base truck said that GM might be coming out with a flip down stock center seat to provide an armrest in the future. Sheet metal is thinner, but I think fit and finish is better - probably a trade off. Steering is quicker, but I'll bet you get used to it and think the old recirculating ball style is odd after you drive your Silverado for a while.
Just a little story on how I bought my truck. After visiting several dealerships I got tired of the usual sales hype and "no 4th door yet and we don't know when we will have one" stories. So I heard about a commercial sales lot one of our 2 local dealers (O Reilly Chevrolet) has in Tucson. This is just a gravel parking lot with a chain link fence around it and an old trailer for an office. This lot sells only commercial type trucks (stake beds, dump trucks, flat beds, box vans) and also sells basic pickups. All of the trucks are white (I mean all of the trucks.) In Arizona, white is the only practical color because of the severe fading caused by the intense sun. (It's like Henry Ford saying you can have any color you want as long as it's black.) They have two long rows of white pickups, almost all long bed, V6, base pickups. They will sell you any kind and color of truck or Chevrolet car you want, but all they have in stock at the commercial lot are white trucks. I drove into the lot, told a salesman I wanted a basic 2wd, regular cab, auto, a/c, cruise white pickup. He told me almost all of his pickups were exactly like that, except he did have and unusual one with power door locks. I told him I would buy the "loaded" truck with power door locks. I bought it on GMS so their was no haggle on the price. The deal was done in 10 minutes.
Comments
The reason a Goodyear dealer installed the General Tires was that there is no General dealer in Hawaii and my dealer does not mount tires on chrome rims. Sorry for the long post.
until I can make up my mind. I really want to keep this truck. But on the other hand I cant tolerate the shimmy-shakes.And can anyone ever
fix it? My 89 1500 rides like a caddilac.
ps; still just 277 mi. on my 2000 model..
Correction on post 226. Should have read as $230 not $270. Problems with typing and multiplying at the same time.
White6: I think you're exactly right about the rack and pinion, etc. Have you ever notice when you're crossing a R/R track or bump the extra little play in the steering wheel that usually clears up soon after the bump? I believe cure for rack and pinion may be some kind of bushing or something like that.
Croct: I know what you mean: I love my truck too. However, it's driving me crazy. I have a "buy back" pending and may take them up on buy back if it's offered. Should have word in couple of days. My 91 Silverado was also alot better than (ride at least) my 00 model.
Obyone: My service manager told me today that he is replacing other General tires because of recall from General. According to him, General put out a bad batch with weak side walls causing early feathering and wear. He said that General has already recalled/replaced all tires not yet installed, but some of the tires made their way to trucks of course. My question: is GM or General going to replace all General tires on existing trucks on street. Not a chance, I think, unless the customer makes some waves......
x281s: I think you'll have to give dealer a shot at fixing problem. In my case, I called GM directly who said that my dealer would have to fix the problem, or be allowed to try. However, they did let me pick my own tire person. They will pay him direct for his work. I not going to let the dealer touch my tires any more if I can help it. Four different dealers missed my two warped rims, or at least they didn't tell me about them.
John
After the Goodyear dealer had mounted the new and improved Generals on my truck, he had asked what was the original problem where General was replacing all five tires. I explained to him about the soft sidewalls causing the feathering. He commented that passenger tires by design have a softer sidewall and less overall weight than a truck tire providing a better ride. He also commented that it could be a defect but more probable was that it was designed to be that way. Also said that the one tire that couldn't be balanced was defective but the other three were ok. At that point, I asked him if I would be seeing him again in another four to six weeks cause this new set would be feathering. He replied with a smile. Makes you wonder....
I have a 99 silverado 3/4 ton ex cab longbed tow pkg autotrack transfer case 3.73 gears skidplate and the optional forged aluminum wheels.. I had a vibration in the drive train when it was brand new very slight on take off and it seemed to have gone away with age.. The only other problem i had with vibration seems to be in the exhaust system I got a rattle at about 5,000 miles and the dealer replaced the exhaust and it went away. At 13,500 miles it has returned. I wonder if any other 3/4 ton ex cab longbed owners have seen this.It sounds like a bunch of tin cans rattling around under certain loads. Its not engine ping. Sounds like a baffle is loose in that giant muffler they have. But besides that thats the only problem ive had ( oh besides the infamous windshild popping noise that I got fixed with a little adhesive) I am going to take it in soon and find out exactly what the problem is i don't want to have this problem every 5,000 miles or so! I still love the truck and would buy another in a second.. The half ton trucks have rack and pinion steering and the 3/4 have the old recirculating ball steering box System. This is probley why there are not as much problems on the 3/4 tons. If any other 3/4 ton owners have run into this problem please let me know!! thanks
DAVE K.
The truck pings, considered to be normal according to the owner's manual, vibrates at highway speeds and shifts roughly from 2nd. to 3rd. All of things have checked and double checked and have been told that it is within spec. or they don't know what else to do. How about starting with giving me my money back!
I love my truck. I hope the rest of you get yours straightened out.
Had exact steering wheel shake as you described. Would come and go at random. Took it to dealer at around 1000 miles. Rotated tires and found one tire slightly out of balance. No more steering wheel shake. Did it again for a few days around 3500 miles but haven't experienced it since. Very odd. Front end seems to be overly sensitive to minor variations in tires, balance, alignment, etc.
Now on to overall vehicle vibration/ride problems(which I never really thought I had a problem with)
An earlier post mentioned vibration disappeared after he changed to his winter tire setup (steel wheels, different tires). The thought was that the extra weight played a factor.
I experienced something odd today. Had some mud buildup on the tires after an offroad venture (00'Z-71). On the way home (highway) I noticed the ride was different - very,very smooth. I never really had any complaints about overall vehicle vibration/ride problems before but the ride now was a step up in quality and noticeable. Got home (6 miles or so) and noticed tires still had a slight uniform coating of mud (sidewalls and in tread). Maybe this extra weight theory is the reason. I've noticed that the 3/4 tons seem to not have a vibration problem. They have the LT tires which are supposed to be heavier.
Just my 2 cents worth. Any comments?
Took my 00 Sierra xtcab to an independent mechanic a few days ago to get a second opinion on my 40mph and 60-70mph vibrations.. The mechanic test drove my truck followed by putting the truck on the rack. He physically showed me how loose the drive shaft was at the carrier bearing and he stated that a loose drive shaft at this point would cause vibrations. He seemed to think that this may be the cause of the vibration. It is worth a shot as it requires less than one hour labor and the price of the carrier bearing/assembly. I will request that he put it in writing so that I can have some leverage when dealing with the GM AVM. He also stated that it is well known that the Goodyear Wrangler ST's are very difficult to get and keep balanced through the life of the tire. I plan on negotiating a cost difference for a better grade tire like Michelin.
BTW, called a drive shaft fabrication company today to inquire about a one-piece drive shaft. The carrier bearing cost vs. the one-piece drive shaft cost are about the same. May experiment with the one piece drive shaft. I was told that the distance from the u-joint at the slip yoke to the u-joint at the rear differential had to be less than 73 inches in order to fabricate one-piece shaft. I plan on mearsuring the distance this weekend.
I'll let you know how things turn out....probably after the New Year.
Jeff
I did hear a metallic "boing/clunk" from the rear end upon acceleration from a dead stop when turning a few times, but is seems to have gone away.
Just a tip for those thinking of buying a Silverado - compare a V6 to a V8 - I didn't see much difference (unless you plan to haul heavy loads or tow a lot) and you pay $500 less for a V6.
My fairly stripped model is nice enough for me, and I'm hoping to trade it in every year for a new one with minimal depreciation.
What I would tell GM if they would listen:
1) Offer true air suspension(front and rear)
as an option. (Ford has this idea partially
right.) This would solve the choppy ride,
especially with an empty bed and maybe
even solve some of this vibration problem.
2) Go back to a flat floor behind the pedals
so you have a place to stretch out your left
leg and foot. Also relocate the box hanging
down from the dash by your left foot - very
annoying.
3) Change the parking brake to a hand operated
one, preferably on the right side of the
driver - under dash or under middle jump
seat - much more modern set up and not in
your way when you get in and out of the
truck.
However, a question. Why do you want to turn off the daytime running lights?
Al
On another subject, I took it to an independent mechanic whom stated that the "carrier bearing exhibits freeplay and needs to be changed; this may be the cause of the vibrations (and clunking he stated during a followup visit)". He stated that the carrier assembly/bearing and Goodyear Wrangler ST tires should be replaced. He stated that the Wranglers are known to be the toughest tires to balance and keep balanced.
I also had the reflash of the transmission to address the problem of the 40-45 mph vibration. It seems to have cured that problem. I forgot to mention this problem in my earlier posting.
Dubel
Question for all. Where are these trucks built that are having all these problems? Mostly the states?
I have seen a bunch built in the states that have
terrible alignments, and center steer being way out.
Not suprised about tire vibration balancing problems after seeing the steering problems.
Who QC's these vehicles?
I see what you mean now about the lights and I agree it is a pain from what you describe.
Now I don't...
This vibration problem has been happening from the first vehicle off the assembly line a year or so ago. What can GM be thinking of to allow this stupidity to continue? Surely if it was simply a tire problem GM would tell the supplier to take a hike. The 'too-stiff-frame' theory should mean all trucks should vibrate. I suspect it is quality control from low-bid suppliers and GM does not want to shut down in order to get better quality parts. Keep building them and sell them to the suckers and let the service departments absorb the flak!
When I buy a lottery ticket, I take my chances (for a buck). When I buy a truck, why should I have to gamble with $30 grand?
Al
Jeff
No joke ,I had a can of pop in the cup holder and when i looked down at it the other day it was shaking so much that it looked fuzzy. better not set a full one in there.
tc
Love the truck but can't stand paying 30grand for these problems.
Some of the characteristics people are describing are either flaws, or normal for a truck, depending on your perspective. The drive line clunk, clank, clang, etc when you shift from R to D has been a normal characteristic in trucks for years. If you don't have some free-play in the drive line, or if every clearance is tightened to zero, what happens when there is expansion due to temperature?
Another common question is if the quality control is better in Fort Wayne, Pontiac, or Quebec. While not able to speak for everyone, my opinion based on reading lots of posts here is that there are good and bad coming from all three. (My truck was built in Pontiac)
I also infer that many problems could be resolved by the dealer, or communications between the owner and dealer service department. When there is an obvious fix for something, like the steering shaft Bob259 reported on, and one dealer like mine replaces it, and offers a smile, while another tells you they could not reproduce the problem, you can't blame GM for that. And if you take the vehicle to the service department with 10 nit-picks, along with routine chassis service and oil, and expect it back by 3:00 pm, that's not realistic either.
I won't discourage you from trying other brands. What I discourage is attributing too many car like qualities to trucks. After owning a few trucks, the bigger picture of what's important becomes clear.
I like my truck and have no complaints.
The Canadian truck plant is in Oshawa, Ontario. Quebec builds the Camaro & Firebird.
Waiting 500 hundred miles is ridiculous, you have unnecessary tire wear happening if you wait. What does the dealer think is going to happen in 500 miles ? the problem will go way? You did the right thing in requesting the fix immediately.
Ray T.
The dealer performed an alignment. He adjusted the left front camber, and adjusted ride height via the torsion bar adjuster. It drove straight after that until I rotated the wheels about 3000 miles later, whereupon the pull returned. I didn't notice at first, or see the connection.
One day, it annoyed me in particular, and decided to do something about it. Got an independent alignment at a Firestone tire dealer. They let me watch. The alignment was spot-on, in the center of the allowable tolerance for caster, camber and thrust angle. They made a slight adjustment to the toe. After this, it pulled worse on a test drive. Back up on the alignment rack...no changes, spot-on dead center according to the Hunter machine. The service advisor took a test drive with me, and agreed it was pulling still.
Next step, they crossed the wheels to the opposite side. Went for a test drive. Now it actually pulled very slightly in the opposite direction, to the left. At this point, it was concluded the steering pull was the result of radial tire bias. The factory tire warranty will give you replacement tires (pro-rated of course) for this condition.
My truck has tracked arrow straight since that day. I have not touched a thing. My conclusion is that radial tire bias has more influence on steering than even a front end that is out of alignment.
Hogboy: Don't take it! That 500 mile business is a crock of s#@t. Also, if you can avoid it, don't let them touch your tires when you finally take delivery. Four (4) different GM dealers missed two (2) warped rims (apparent cause of my vibration). It took a private tire company to find and eventually correct the problem. GM paid for tab with purchase order.
I also agree that not all the trucks being built can have our problem. This truck is absolutely a very good looking and well built truck. I have no complaints with power, appearance, or assembly of this truck. Built in Pontiac, Mi. The ride quality is an issue, I traded a 97 4X4 in on this truck and it was smooth riding all the way to the cut-off on the computer at 100 mph.
Link is http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/tsb/servicemmy1.cfm
By the way, I've got a shaker too that I've outlined previously here.
1/2 ton With the 4.3 v6. Vibrates at 65 mph and over .I haven`t reported it yet. but will soon. Also for what it`s worth ,I don`t care much for the seat in the center. too narrow and can`t adjust.steerring is too quick also.Very tough to get used to.I think the sheetmetal is thinner
in these trucks too. Not near the quality as earlier models made in late 80`s or early 90`s
in my opinion.
The stock seat is goofy - GM wants you to upgrade to the LS to get a better seat. I bought a contractor style arm rest from Pep Boys to put on the middle seat, since I usually drive alone. The driver's seat is comfortable, and I like the integral seat belt. The salesman who sold me the my base truck said that GM might be coming out with a flip down stock center seat to provide an armrest in the future.
Sheet metal is thinner, but I think fit and finish is better - probably a trade off.
Steering is quicker, but I'll bet you get used to it and think the old recirculating ball style is odd after you drive your Silverado for a while.
Just a little story on how I bought my truck. After visiting several dealerships I got tired of the usual sales hype and "no 4th door yet and we don't know when we will have one" stories. So I heard about a commercial sales lot one of our 2 local dealers (O Reilly Chevrolet) has in Tucson.
This is just a gravel parking lot with a chain link fence around it and an old trailer for an office. This lot sells only commercial type trucks
(stake beds, dump trucks, flat beds, box vans) and also sells basic pickups. All of the trucks are white (I mean all of the trucks.) In Arizona, white is the only practical color because of the severe fading caused by the intense sun. (It's like Henry Ford saying you can have any color you want as long as it's black.) They have two long rows of white pickups, almost all long bed, V6, base pickups. They will sell you any kind and color of truck or Chevrolet car you want, but all they have in stock at the commercial lot are white trucks.
I drove into the lot, told a salesman I wanted a basic 2wd, regular cab, auto, a/c, cruise white pickup. He told me almost all of his pickups were exactly like that, except he did have and unusual one with power door locks. I told him I would buy the "loaded" truck with power door locks. I bought it on GMS so their was no haggle on the price. The deal was done in 10 minutes.
The stock seat is goofy - GM wants you to upgrade to the LS to get a better seat. I bought a contractor style arm rest from Pep Boys to put on the middle seat, since I usually drive alone. The driver's seat is comfortable, and I like the integral seat belt. The salesman who sold me the my base truck said that GM might be coming out with a flip down stock center seat to provide an armrest in the future.
Sheet metal is thinner, but I think fit and finish is better - probably a trade off.
Steering is quicker, but I'll bet you get used to it and think the old recirculating ball style is odd after you drive your Silverado for a while.
Just a little story on how I bought my truck. After visiting several dealerships I got tired of the usual sales hype and "no 4th door yet and we don't know when we will have one" stories. So I heard about a commercial sales lot one of our 2 local dealers (O Reilly Chevrolet) has in Tucson.
This is just a gravel parking lot with a chain link fence around it and an old trailer for an office. This lot sells only commercial type trucks
(stake beds, dump trucks, flat beds, box vans) and also sells basic pickups. All of the trucks are white (I mean all of the trucks.) In Arizona, white is the only practical color because of the severe fading caused by the intense sun. (It's like Henry Ford saying you can have any color you want as long as it's black.) They have two long rows of white pickups, almost all long bed, V6, base pickups. They will sell you any kind and color of truck or Chevrolet car you want, but all they have in stock at the commercial lot are white trucks.
I drove into the lot, told a salesman I wanted a basic 2wd, regular cab, auto, a/c, cruise white pickup. He told me almost all of his pickups were exactly like that, except he did have and unusual one with power door locks. I told him I would buy the "loaded" truck with power door locks. I bought it on GMS so their was no haggle on the price. The deal was done in 10 minutes.