2000 Chevy Silverado vibration

rshornsby · February 2000

I don't know the #, that you would have to look up. But according to the "Engine Oil Filter Overview" that is on the Internet, the anti-drainback filter is the AC Delco Duraguard. Write up on most brands can be found at:
http://minimopar.simplenet.com/oilfilters.html.

Have a nice day

!

Roger.

soccer10 · February 2000

I am currently looking to purchase a new 2500. I have read through all the comments and discussion and am having a hard time determing if the vibration and other driveline problems are just 1500's or do they also affect the 2500. If I find the problems are not with the 2500 I will continue to find my dream truck.

bg4dg · February 2000

Haven't heard of too many problems with the 3/4 ton. Trouble is, my Z71 didn't start the shakes until over 1000 miles, and it looks like GM is doing anything they can to NOT work on it. Rueblew, Bud Light Brain, Moparmonkey and the rest of the experts will pretend they don't bash the Toys, but if you don't need a 3/4 or 1 ton, look at the Tundra. For every one of the so called "Big 3" there is at least 8 different topics about their various problems, but I count only 2 for the Toy. Not bad for the first model year. It's what will replace this Chevy if it ends up a buy back, and that's too bad because other than that, it's a nice truck. My only other complaint is that it's just so damned low for a 4X4.

rgbacchus · February 2000

Bought a 2000 2WD Ext Cab. I am having weird front end probs. Front end is noisy, makes weird noise at slow forward speeds (10-30mph). Other weird noises when in reverse at 5 mph. Have not noticed vibration at higher speeds.
Saw a post that GM has fix coming in March. IS THIS FACT or fiction..? What is the fix...
Anyone have any recent info..? I'm new to the Town Hall and here to find answers to the problem..!

bg4dg · February 2000

Don't know. I was told that by cust. svc. also. I just asked them again to confirm or deny it so I can decide to wait and see, or tell them to shove the truck where the sun don't shine. It seems to me they must be trying to come up with something, otherwise they will probably lose an arbitration battle since they have all but admitted that there is a problem. It sounds like you have other problems not related to what they are trying to "fix". I was told by a former GM engineer that the problem most people seem to have is a bad combination of frame flex, spring rate, and shock valving. This makes the truck start shaking at highway speeds when you hit the right section of asphalt, and won't go away until you drop below 50 mph, or get above 80 mph. Unfortunately, there seems to be a hell of a lot of "wavy" freeway in So. Cal. but I still can't see why it didn't start until I had about a 1000 miles on my Z71. The problem is both 2 and 4 wheel drive, but I assume that the 3/4 ton is less prone because of the different suspension. Lots of other topics to read about these trucks. Good luck.

samrabbit · February 2000

Been awhile since I been here, I see vibration topic is dwindling, I take that as a good sign the problem is going away. I do not see any recent postings on the lateral vibration problem. It is my belief it was a case of out of spec tires being delivered. It has been 4500 miles since the last set of tires were installed on my Z-71. There is no noticeable shake anymore. The truck has 7900 miles on it now, and it is fine driving it at any sane sped you care to mention. To those who are new and considering a new truck but are spooked by this topic, I say shop hard and wisely. Drive what you intend to buy first and be your own judge. Salesman are there to sell vehicles, does not mean they know much or are gonna tell you anything negative, regardless of the brand they are selling. GM is an excellant product built by everyday ordinary people who do an outstanding job of it. Fort Wayne builds trucks second to none, despite what the engineers screw up. Pontiac and Flint truck plants as well all have highly skilled people doing the impossible day in and day out. If you want a GM truck do not hesitate, go for it. If you want a GM truck but are willing to buy another brand instead, I feel you will still want a GM truck very shortly after you purchase that other brand. I have had the pleasure of owning several GM Trucks and hope to enjoy several more before I get too old and State won't give me a license to drive anymore. My replacement for the Z-71 is on order now, due to come in around mid march, I am looking forward to getting behind the wheel of my first 2500 class truck, its gonna be big,bad, and Black and I like it. See ya on the road.

jed1894 · February 2000

Had an interesting conversation with the service manager at my dealer yesterday. He said that GM just repurchased a 00 Silverado there recently that had a vibration problem. The area service rep. told the service manager and customer that a cure for some of the vibration problems was in the works, but they were trying the cure on vibrating trucks to see if it actually worked.

Here's what they (GM area manager) wanted to do with this guy's truck: replace entire power steering system to include welding replace brackets, etc. to the frame. ..... He told me of several other things the area service wanted to try (I can't remember all) and all had to do with the front-end steering system from the tires to the steering wheel. However, the customer said "hell no" and wanted the truck repurchased. He got his wish.

I remember reading a while back about power steering sensitivity connected and related to the wheels and tires and how every bump, etc. was magnified. Sounds like GM is trying to adjust or experiment with this problem.

Anyway, GM took the truck and who knows what will come of it. Also, per service manager, GM is buying 99/00 trucks left and right. Alot of repurchasing going..... more than ever, according to service manager.

On a better note..... got a look at a white Z71 four door with gry leather interior...... what a truck...... great looking truck..... maybe four doors don't vibrate.....

John

kit1404 · February 2000

I do wonder sometimes about the American consumer. How many times does GM have to burn before it hurts? And, in my mine - why haven't they gotten this problem fixed by now? I think they had a NHTSA recall on the steering and the way it bolted up (or didn't) to the new lighter weight frame - that was early on. But, to get GM to fix a design problem will most likely take more than the government - the consumer has no chance. And you are looking at another one? Wow.

chevy4me · February 2000

In your earlier post you mention a "foam filled frame". what are you talking about?

llongoiii · February 2000

I bought my 00 silverado in july, excited about the benefits of rack and pinnion steering, disc brakes with rear proportioning, and a hydroformed frame that was stronger than any other by far. a week later I was in the shop for what I thought was a simple tire ballance problem. After a Road force ballance I drove the truck with no improvement. I figured I wanted bigger tires anyhow so I went out and bought a set. No luck again. The engine began making a horrible clattering sound at light acceleration(which is a normal take off position for me) So I took it back again. I was then informed that GM was working on a fix for the vibe problem and the engine noise problem and to keep driving it. A couple months later I tired of waiting and took the truck back in. Now I was told Gm had a fix but the engine prob needed approval from the epa so I would just have to keep driving it. The vibe prob needed approval from the National highway and safety administration. So I would just have to wait. OK I can be patient. A couple months later they put a new set of michellins on it. No help. then they pulled tires and wheels off another vehicle with no vibe and still no luck... In fact I was actually told that my truck has a specific problem that the others dont have.. So I coppied about 150 pages of complaints on the same problem... The dealers response? Well you can find anything on the internet, its all a bunch of garbage and never true... I have been to 3 dealers and tried to attain help from GM to no avail.. I just want a fixxed truck.. No arbitration, no lawyers, a fixxed truck. I have no other choice now and thanks to the dealer for telling me to keep driving it and racking up the miles, I have to loose money due to milage, they could have just told me from the beginning that they cant afford to accept responsibility for whatever this problem is and given me my money back then. I am an ASE L-1 certified Master Mechanic and I have alot of customers and family members that respect and trust my oppinion. Chevrolet has always been my number one choice for a recomendation and that has now drastically changed. I am disappointed and let down chevrolet.. I have been as loyal as a customer can be and have been disrespected and would never treat any of my customers like you have treated me. Perhaps thats why I have suck a large customer base that entrusts me to take care of their saftey and comfort.

jed1894 · February 2000

Yeah, I'm looking at another one..... I didn't say I was going to buy it!...... I can't help Chevy has the best looking truck.

By-the-way, my vibration problem was fixed and I got a pretty good settlement from GM regarding my BBB claim/action.

kingfishgus · February 2000

Some people gave up. Some sold their trucks back. But GM customer service is saying there is no buyback now. Maybe some who got it before are finishing up now since it takes several weeks, but they would not consider my request through them. Still have the BBB, Lemon Laws and arbitration through dealer to explore.

All of you who have problems please call Chevy immediately and get a case opened. What you tell you service manager doesn't mean a thing. Chevrolet and you need that case opened. You don't need to ask for a buyback, but get on record as having something wrong with your truck.

g8tr · February 2000

is true. Opening a file with GM lets them know that you are serious about getting the problem fixed. If you decide to go through arbitration with BBB, it definitely helps your case that you have spoken to members of management and Customer Service. GM is not going to voluntarily buy these trucks back. There are way too many of them. If you want most of your money back, you must file with the BBB and follow the guidelines of your states Lemon Law. I should get my check by the end of the month. GM has a pretty nice truck but the way they handle their customer leaves a lot to be desired.

gcambria · February 2000

Does anyone know if the GMC Sierra has a vibration problem also?

kingfishgus · February 2000

You have the right number. Tell them you want to open a case with them about persistent vibration problems with your truck. Ask for the file number. This will be your ongoing case number. They will check with the dealership service mgr about what had been done thusfar. They will tell you that they will call you back in a few days, but if you don't hear from them call that same number back and ask what has been done with that case number.

espdixie · February 2000

Ken,
i haven't been on the site because have been reading others. I now have about 2200 miles on the truck since the tires were replaced and all is well. No vibration at any speed. As I said before....I have a little "road feel" but any vehicle I have driven with rack and pinion steering has that. I am happy with my truck and would recommend them to anyone. My son-in-law also has a 2K and he has never had the problem at all....he has black wall tires. I know that is not what some of you want to hear but that is the way it worked out for me. The Oct spec was re-affirmed to me by GM and GY. Mine are 945 and the originals were 940. If mine were 912 I would go back and insist on tires after 940.

ESP

jed1894 · February 2000

I don't understand why GM 800 number people are giving you the runaround. When I called, I told them I wanted to file a complaint ref. the vibration and they gave me a file number. Soon after that a rep. from GM called me and asked about my vibration. I told them I wanted new rims and different brand of tires. They approved it over the phone that day..... The file number definitely gets the ball rolling..... good luck

bradleysf · February 2000

I was going to order a 2000 GMC Sierra 4 door tomorrow. Have repeatedly been told there's very little difference between the Chevy & GMC 1500 4WD SB. After reading the above, I'm doubting if ordering at this time is a good thing. $300 over invoice in the Houston area isn't any good if there are unresolved problems with the manufacturer. Any comments?

rayt2 · February 2000

Kansan,
Make sure you keep a log on the dates/time/who you spoke to at customer assistance regarding anything you talk to them about, when it is needed to reference you'll be glad you did & they (GM) will realize that your not going to disappear until matter is resolved & worse case scenerio you'll need records for lemon law or whatever avenue you need to take should it go unresolved thru GM.

Dave,

Take the plunge & order your vehicle the probability of vehicle defects with any new vehicle is always there. This "vibe" problem is not with all the trucks but yes it is annoying with those that do have the "vibe". GM is working on it I'm sure but, they are also very quiet about it. Pressure from those experiencing this malady on GM & correspondance with NTSB should eventually get it taken care of.

My Y2K 2500 2WD Ext. cab shortbox is due to be delivered around end of month so if I run into this problem I'll post but I did not hesitate to order my truck because of "vibe" problems listed.

My thoughts.

Ray T.

kansan · February 2000

Thanks for the information. I got a case number today, so now my problem is on file with GM. I guess the reason they never did this before was because I didn't specifically request a case file be started, but just told them my problem and they told me to go to the dealer and have them take care of it. The guy I talked to said he had started a couple of other case files earlier today on the same problem.
I'll keep this board posted.

kit1404 · February 2000

Glad you think the GM product looks so nice - lots of folks think it will look very dated in a very short time. Just wondering - did they put super soft Michelins on your truck or something similar? Until your bad suspension ruins the new tires, it may very well ride fine - most folks report the vibration back within 1,000 miles of the new, soft tires.

ovalley · February 2000

I had made a post a little earlier about my contact with GY customer service. They told me that the tire spec was changed the 4th week of 1999, not the 45th as you were apparently told. Three of my original tires have a 289 date and one replacement (which did improve the ride) had 259. Still have problems though. Could you tell me the name of the customer service representative you spoke to? I'd like to confirm before I go back to my dealer. Thanks. Todd.

kansan · February 2000

Do you ever provide any basis to backup your statements? I've looked back at some of your previous posts and they are either unfounded statements with no basis or evidence backing them up or outright Chevy bashing.
In post 416 you made a statement that GM is probably putting softer tires on the trucks to compensate for other problems. Explain your basis or proof behind your statement. Did you bother to read posts 417 and 418? They responded to your 416 post, and explained why it was more likely firmer/harder tires that are curing the problem, and that with the right tires there is no problem. That obviously is not what you wanted to hear so you ignored those posts.

In post 425 you bashed the Chevy and said they ought to buy an F-150.

In post 438 you spouted off some nonesense about Chevy's foam filled frame. Post 449 asked you what you were talking about. You never responded. Now I'm asking what you're talking about. I've never heard anything about a foam filled frame. In the 2000 Silverado brochure they do mention "Hydroformed Cross Members", is that what you're talking about?

Your 448 is just some more baseless Chevy bashing.

In your latest post #462, which is a reply to post 451 by jed1984, you mention lots of folks think the GM products will look dated very soon, and asked if they put super soft Michelins on his truck to cure the problem. If you had bothered reading past posts you would have known that Generals were the tires that cured his truck vibration problem. As far as your claim of GM products looking dated very soon, that is totally subjective, and could also be said about the 57 Chevy, the 50s and 60s Corvettes, the 1964 Impala etc. Looks are a matter of taste. Personally, I think the Chevy and GMC trucks look the best too.

I drove the new Fords and Dodges also, and bought the 2000 Silverado because I thought it was the best truck overall. I still think it's the best truck and am not going to let a little Goodyear Wrangler tire problem change my mind.

You can post all the unfounded nonesense you want to. I think you're probably a Ford owner that can only be happy about his truck by putting everyone elses down.

espdixie · February 2000

As I have said before....I don't know the name of the person I spoke to at GM and GY. I do know that GY told me GM changed the speck in the 1 Oct 99 timeframe and tires built after that date would meet the new spec. I also know that the 459 tires fixed my problem.

To KIT 1404......I totally agree with # 464 above !! Don't bash a truck for tire problems. The fact that GY can't make a round tire or a tire with a consistent side-wall is not GM's fault. Yes they put them on their truck but the also are replacing them, by the thousands, I suspect. I prefer to think of my 2000 Reg Cab Sport-side as a "classic" Chevy look rather than "dated". If the preview of the new trucks (by all manufacturers) at the recent auto shows is what its replacements are going to look like I will keep my "classic" for a LONG time.

Most of the people on this site bought the truck they did because they liked the look.....they sure aren't the cheapest !! I also read that a bunch of them would buy another in spite of the problems they have had. I got lucky and found a dealer that cares and knows what he is talking about. I deal with him as a friend and not a crook trying to steal my money. It works for me.

As far as the "foam" frame goes....I wondered about that when I read it too. I suspect you are right about the "hydro-formed" too. I don't see any "foam" in mine...how 'bout you?

We have all become a bunch of s--t house lawyers on this......I for one am satisfied with my truck. How about you guys that also are SPEAKING UP!!!

ESP

espdixie · February 2000

Guys....if you double click on the blue "kit1404" in post # 462 you will see that the guy is shopping for a ford (notice I don't capitalize that word) and owns one too.

That explains a lot to me !!

ESP

kansan · February 2000

in reference to kit1404. It makes you wonder what some peoples motives are. I look at this forum as a mechanism to help each other out by sharing our experiences and resolutions to problems. I just talked to a guy here at work over break who bought a 2000 Silverado Ext. Cab 2WD just like mine at about the same time I did. The only difference was he had the 255 tires and aluminum wheels. Guess what? He hasn't had any vibrations or shimmying at all and he already has over 4000 miles on his truck. He must have those "super soft" tires kit1404 was talking about!!! It couldn't be that there's nothing wrong with his truck, after all it's a Chevy and kit1404 says Chevys are no good. From now on I won't waste any more time reading kit1404's posts.
Ken

quadrunner500 · February 2000

Strong post. I think you may have silenced him.

But just for your info, I like the way the new Silverado looks, partly because I still like the way the old one looks also. Good conservative styling, not a fashion statement.

My '99 has no vibes. Have 22,000 happy miles, even counting the foam frame! (Cuts shipping costs)

espdixie · February 2000

T.R and Ken,

I hope so....I'm tired of reading his crap and it turns our he's a ford (there's that word again!!)guy.

My truck now has 3600 miles on it and about 2K with the replacements...no problem. I must say it is a heck of a truck!!

Honestly I have nothing against the other two of the "big three" but I think the Chevy and GMC have it all over them....looks and performance. Sure that is my opinion BUT it was my money too....of course I am willing to back up the performance opinion with a demonstration any time as I'm sure most of you are.

I will continue to pass on experiences with my "classic", both good and bad, as the occur. I will do my best to be truthful and honest. I will also give my dealer, and GM if necessary, a chance to fix the problems before I panic. I am adult enough to accept the fact that all things made by man are imperfect. Some are just more so than others.....mine must be more perfect because some nice fella in Indiana put a BOWTIE on mine when he wrapped it. (nope that wasn't a dig at GMC....I was just having fun....please excuse me)

Now if those ford guys would get a sense of humor....

ESP

espdixie · February 2000

Guys,

Guess what....for grins I went to the 2K ford comsumer Comment area of Edmunds and "kit1404" is all over that area too. He says that he had vibration with HIS ford that was fixed by "vibrating" his tires.....I think he meant rotating but.....imagine that....a vibrating ford!!

I for one just reduced the # of complaints on this site by a bunch....I think we are dealing with some kid that has nothing better to do than play games.

Since his posts were so inconsistent I suspected as much but now it is proven!!

I hope this eases the mind of some of you guys thinking about buying one of the great GM TRUCKS (note the capitals). You can ignore the "kit1404" posts and press on.

Chec it out for yourself!!

ESP

jed1894 · February 2000

I don't think I need to respond about the tires, but I will anyway. As KANSAN so eloquently put it--General tires corrected my problem. I don't think their any special "soft" tire either. Since installation of new tires and new rims (4200 miles ago), I've had NO vibration problem at all. Believe me, if it vibrated I would be posting it here.

At one point (if you read back) I was very very frustrated with GM and may have even bashed them here on this site; I called my truck "junk" or something like that. But after blowing off steam and calming down, I realize that GM is the best product for me. The truck just looks better (to me) than the others. My opinion of course.

Now that my truck is fixed (including towing vibration), I'm ready to get on to enjoying it and offer advice to anyone on this site with a vibration problem. I don't come back here to discuss my problem anymore, I come back because I want to talk truck and relay information on the vibration topic.

In my case, GM has been responsive to my problem. Also, I have no doubt that if I had bought my truck with different rims and General tires, I wouldn't be typing this message tonight.

obyone · February 2000

Generals 255/70R16. First set had bad feathering at 1100 miles. I have driven another 3500 miles and am ready to have dealer replace this set also. I guess the dealer and GM rep figured that this would probably be endless so we negotiated a deal. They would credit me for a "new" set of Generals and I can pick up any set of tires that I wanted. So...truck goes in for new Michelins on Friday. BTW, the actual value of the Generals is $35.00 each. Even the Service Manager couldn't believe it.

I think that it doesn't matter which tire you get. You will inevitably upgrade sooner than you would probably want. The tires that come with this truck are definitely NOT top of the line...more like an embarrassment for a $30K truck. Good luck!!

clarkmcbrayer · February 2000

I got my new 2K Silverado LS 4dr on Feb 03. I now have over 1,000 miles on it. I have GY Wranger ST tires and sometime after 900 miles, they started vibrating. I first noticed it between 43-48 MPH. It also happens at 70 or above. I have an appt with the dealership on Monday, 02/21/2000. I will wait and see what they tell me. As far as some of the shimmy, it is a truck. It has stiff suspension. And mine has standard suspension with 235x16x16 tires. As far as how it looks,,, I love my truck.

kingfishgus · February 2000

That's about all they are worth. I still have the vibration after 14 replacement tires.
Not saying it is necessarily caused by the Generals, but past experience with other General tires has not been good.

bg4dg · February 2000

The vibes are NOT your tires. I've heard of no complaints about the Firestone Steeltex, but I have them, and my Z71 is a paint shaker. GM and 2 different dealers have tried nothing lately because they know the problem is the truck, not the tires. It DOES have something to do with the relationship between tire, frame, and suspension stiffness though. When I bought the truck, it had way over inflated tires. (about 42 front and rear). The shakes started at about 1000 miles. Balancing did nothing because they weren't out of balance. Lowering the tire pressure made things much worse. Now I'm stuck waiting until the "fix" sometime in March. Changing your tires is only covering up what the problem is, if it helps at all.

clarkmcbrayer · February 2000

Mine also started at about 1000 miles. I have a 2WD 1500 LS 4dr with 235x16x75 Goodyear Wranger ST tires. I also noticed my tires had around 40-43 psi. Mine doesn't shake that bad. Mostly around 43-48 MPH when slowing down. And also above 70 MPH, though not bad. My feels like tires because of how it does it when slowing down. I have an appointment on Monday. We will see. Since my 1st cousin is the service mgr at the dealership, I hope he can get something done. However, no one seems to have the correct answer to the problem.

cgoddard · February 2000

SERVICE MGR TOLD ME GM IS GOING TO REPLACE ALL THE RUBBER MOUNTS WITH A NEW SOFTER RUBBER,(BODY AND ENGIN)

cgoddard · February 2000

SERVICE MGR TOLD ME GM IS GOING TO REPLACE ALL THE RUBBER MOUNTS WITH A NEW SOFTER RUBBER,(BODY AND ENGIN)

nahn75 · February 2000

Although some have found temporary relief with new tires, the tires are not the source of the problem. Better tires do seem to reduce the vibes, but seem to always return. I have been reading posts on this topic in this forum and others for several months now. Unfortunately, many have had the vibes with Generals, GY, Firestone, and even Mich. The trucks seem to be very sensitive and vibrate with any brand of tire. In many posts, they have tried several sets of tires of each brand. Most of the people with earlier problems have implemented GM buy back. Some one posted a while back that the Generals are no longer sold on these trucks because of all the vibration problems these trucks are experiencing. I don't know if this is true or not, but if it is, that might be why very few are posting problems with Generals.

rayt2 · February 2000

You own a 1999 FORD F150! How can you possibly relate to the problems the Silverado's are having with vibration, it's well documented by the CHEVY owners!

Please leave your summations on the FORD pages, but you are welcome to read about the better full size truck here.

Ray T.

kansan · February 2000

Do you know if are they going to turn this into a technical service bulletin (TSB)? Would you mind posting the name/number of the person at GM that you talked to so I could give it to the service department at my local dealer? I'm still somewhat optimistic that tires with the later date code may take care of my vibration based on others experience, but if they don't it would be nice to have another option to try.
Thanks,
Ken

jed1894 · February 2000

I agree with the previous post. However, I have chrome/steel rims and originally GY tires. When the warped rim was isolated, I demanded that GM also change the brand of tires I had. They agreed but only approved the Generals. If I would have thought it out, I probably could have gotton a better tire.

Anyway, since my new rims and Generals were installed (same day), I have had no vibration for 4000 miles. I check the tires daily for feathering, wear, etc. but so far they look okay. I know in my case the rim was causing the vibration, but I also had a low speed roar/grumble/vibration that a new transmission fix before I isolated the warped rim. I think it was two separate problems. My truck apparently does not have the severe vibration problem that many are posting about because it was finally cured, or at least for now it's cured.

If you have the alum. wheels, I think you're okay, at least for the rims. You'll probably get GY or Firestone tires. Test drive it GOOD. If I had been paying attention when I drove my truck, I would have caught the problem before I bought it.
If I can help anymore let me know..... If I didn't answer your question, let me know.

Good luck..... John

tucsonjwt · February 2000

I have had my base Silverado 2WD long bed V6 since last November. It has base steel wheels, GY Wrangler tires. Only 1500 miles (city driving) but no trace of what I would call a vibration. This is probably the best money I have ever spent on a vehicle.(First new vehicle I ever owned, although I have owned Chevy pickups for 20 years.) I will probably trade up to a LS ext. cab this November. Hope the new truck doesn't let me down.
Just thought we might keep in perspective that most of the new Silverados are OK, but I know that doesn't make a guy with a shaker feel any better.

nahn75 · February 2000

Sorry that I hit a raw nerve. Just because I own a Ford doesn't mean that I don't like chevy's. I realize Ford guys get on here sometimes and bash chevys, but I'm not one of those guys. I was looking at buying a chevy when I heard of the vibration problem. The first truck I drove had the vibration, and I didn't want to take a chance, so I purchased a ford. Also, I found a deal that I couldn't refuse on my F150. The reason I continue to read these posts is because I have a friend that is considering buying a silverado soon. I have read many posts on suspected tire cause, and I was only trying to help with my last post. Do a search and you'll see that many other trucks with other brands of tires have had the vibes. I hope they get this figured out soon. By the way, Chevy's have always been the best looking trucks!

g8tr · February 2000

My truck (and soon to be GMs)was bought back in 3/99. It is a 2wd SL with aluminum wheels and General tires. There are a few folks with warped wheels and bad tires and the fix has come easy for them. The rest of us are still in the dark as for a cause. As for the fix that is supposed to come out in March, why March? If GM has the problem figured out, let's have it and stop stalling.

As for me, I don't know what to do. I think I'm going back to a Ford. I know that upsets a bunch of y'all but dealing with GM on this one tested my patience. Good luck to those who choose to stick it out and I hope the fix comes soon and it gets the job done.

llongoiii · February 2000

I have had my truck worked on since july. I have had the original tires, a set of Goodyears that I bought, Michelins that the dealer bought, wheels from another truck, and here I sit at 13300 with the same vibration and steering wheel shake. I see replaced axles, tires, wheels, axleshafts, transmissions, bushings, Rack and pinions, and god only knows what else. Surely GM isnt making all these mistakes because they have overlooked a tire problem. And it is absolutely true about the harder tires.. If I put 80 lbs in the michellins the vibe would almost dissappear. I have also noticed that the end play on the left side axle is almost non existant while the right side has maybe .005 end play. Running the truck in the air the left side is solid and the right seems to wobble a bit and shake a little. But this shouldnt make the steering wheel shake back and forth 3 inches..I have always been a chevy enthusiest and want to keep my truck but am wondering how long it takes to fix a vibe. I have seen pposting on this problem as far back as january of last year.

116 · February 2000

I have basically copied and reposted my previous post 162 of Nov 99. I am really surprised that all of the posts regarding the obvious realizations that the trucks speed sensitive steering problem is the real source of the steering wheel vibration problem. There are a hell of a lot of posts talking about this issue since my Nov 99 5spd man post). The slightly out of balance rims and tires (doesnt matter the brand) amplifies this design problem. If you are lucky enough to have rims and tires that are really true and balanced or maybe your pressure pump is not as stout as other trucks then your not having any problems and that is fantastic. If your not so lucky then maybe you ought to read this post again or maybe again or maybe twenty times till it sinks in and motivates you to go out a make something happen. There has to be a hell of alot of people reading these posts.
I took the time and effort to give the entire nation this vital information back in Nov 99. Its now jan 18 2000 and noone to this date has even pursued this fix. In my opinion (a huge insight to a fix on my part "the 5spd man"). I am taking my time again to reply to everyone reading. I hope that everyone reading is seriously trying to find a solution and not just killing time because they are borred. I have some vital insight to what may help alot of people. The problem is I got this information from a friend on mine's uncle who is a mechanic for over 35 years and I was fortunate enough to speak with him at this friends B-day party and he gave me the info. I have no opportunity to get in touch with since and can't get real detailed info. on this fix. However he assured me it doesn't take a Rocket Scientist to figure it out. All it takes is an owner of a 99 00 Chevy truck with steering wheel vibration problems to get off their tale end and try. How many people have popped their hoods and just looked at the power steering pumps to see what I'm talking about. Print this post out and take it down to the service department and pop the hood with the advisor standing right there and don't leave till you get something going. How many of you out there have relatives or friends who are professional mechanics or even shade tree mechanics or just like to work on vehicles. Print this out take it with you to there house. Pop the hood and see if you can figure it out. How are you ever going to fix it if you dont try.

This is my original post back in Nov 99 Read it. I'll check in later on to see how many people read and really try to make use of it.

I have ordered a 2000 Z71 'Ext Cab Feb 14,2000 and can't check this out myself because #1 I dont have a vibration problem yet. #2 I dont have the truck yet. But when I do I'm going to pop the hood call a friend maybe call two friends and figure the Damn thing out and not just type posts all day.

Good luck to all.

162 of 487: 5-Speed Manual 4.8L 2WD (116) Mon 29 Nov '99 (07:34 AM)

I have read all the posts concerning this
Vibration issue on the 99 and 00 trucks. I am very
concerned because I want to order a 00 model 2wd,
4-door, Ext-cab swb, 5-speed manual, 4.8L, Chevy
truck. But I want to wait until GM has definitely
fixed this vibration problem. I was talking to a
Mechanic who has been working on cars for about 35
years and he services Chevy work trucks for the
government. He told me that he has had several 99
2wd trucks come through his repair/service shop
with this same steering vibration problem. He told
me that what he did to fix this problem on these
trucks was to bypass the variable assist pressure
pump which is external to the power steering pump.
I may not be using the correct terminology here but
bear with me on this. There is a pressure pump
located on the back side of the power steeing pump
which produces a variation in pressure for the
power steering pump as the speed of the vehicle
changes. This is used to make the steering much
easier at low cornering speeds and stiffer at
faster highway speeds. This mechanic took the hose
off of this pressure pump and looped it back into
the power steering pump which basically bypasses
this pressure pump. Now the speed sensing sensor
will still continue to sense a change in speed and
send a signal to this pump but it will have no
effect on the steering. He said that this bypass
of the pressure pump has fixed the vibration
problem on all the trucks he has tried this on. He
said this has also fixed another steering problem
which involved the trucks pulling to the right very
quickly with just a slight turn of the steering
wheel to the right. Keep in mind I'm sure that A
Chevy dealer will not do this for you as a warranty
fix or even as a payable repair just because GM
may not stand behind the fix for liability reasons.
This mechanic has no problem doing it for the
government so use your own judgement there. You
could always try the bypass temporarily to see if
it works for you and then put it back the way it
was if it doesn't fix your problem or you dont like
the way it steers.

Basically, my opinion on this vibration problem is
that this variable pressure assist steering design
is extremely sensitive to any vibration picked up
in the truck. Another words if you have tires out
of balance, rims out of balance, driveshaft out of
balance, transmission causing some vibration,
suspension not just right causing some vibration
(You get the point) this extremely sensitive
pressure assist steerng system tends to amplify the
vibration and make it very noticable at the
steering wheel as your going down the road.
Whatever slightly off of balanced part your truck
tends to have would normally not show up, but
because Cheverolet has designed there steering
system so sensitive it picks up the slightest out
of balance problems and amplifies them. Take the
out of balance tires and rims your having problems
with vibration on your 99 or 00 chevy truck and put
them on the same earlier model chevy truck say a
94-97 and see if you experience vibration on those
trucks. I bet you won't notice it near as much if
at all because the older models did not have this
new extremely sensitive steering system on them.
Somebody that can try this please do and respond to
all in anxious await of your findings. Also, has
anyone heard if the 5-speed manual, 4.8L, 2wd
chevys are having this vibration problem. This may
help to tell us all if the manual transmissions
also can contribute to the vibration. Anyone
please respond it really helps all us bowtie
lovers. We all want to find the real source of the
problem and not just quick little fixes. Wait
till your chevy 99 or 00 gets older and loosens up
a bit dont you think this sensitive steering system
will continue to pick up more and more out of
balance things as the truck wears and gets older?

Please respond,

5spdman

jed1894 · February 2000

I agree with your post now and then. But you don't have to be so condescending. Back whey I had a problem, I took your post to the service manager. After he got finished laughing, he advised that the work you suggested would void the warranty without a TSB or recall, etc. from GM. I confirmed that with a representative from GM during my buyback with BBB.

You suggestion makes good sense and would probably cure some of the problems, not all. If you read my previous post....I talked to my service manager who advised that GM was attempting to do something like you have talked about.

Don't be so hard on us here..... we're all trying . Thanks again for info.

kingfishgus · February 2000

If I had a noticeable shake in the steering wheel I'd do this as a test since it should be easy. I do seem to notice the steering wheel is much too sensative to the wheels hitting bumps/potholes etc, but my main vibration is felt in my rear end and seen in the passenger seat and drinkholder shaking. I may try this bypass bypass to see if the bump steering feels better. I wonder if the hoses just change over or if any extra length hose or fittings are needed??? If anybody tries, please post info here on process and results.

clarkmcbrayer · February 2000

I did research before I bought my Chevrolet. Number 1 - I wanted a truck with a back seat large enough for a person could get in to (Chevy won that one). 2. I wanted a truck that looks sharp (Chevy won that one too.) 3. I wanted a truck that did not turn into each and every gas station. (Chevy won that one big time.)

Besides, my brother-in-law has a 1999 Dodge PU. He continuously complains that it cost him a fortune to KEEP gas in it. Once he even suspected it to have a gas leak. (Dream on) Their mileage stinks. And besides that, if I wanted a truck with a front-end that looks like a 18-wheeler, I would have bought a Mack truck. He bought his extended cab and didn't even get rear doors and he has 2 kids. Go figure.

ctm098 · February 2000

I've had my share of Ford and Chrysler products. No one can come close to the customer service you get from GM. I bought a 2000 Chev Z71 ext. cab about 6 months ago. I haven't had this vibration problem, yet, but if I do, I know that GM will take good care of me. My wife owns a 99 Bonnevile SLE and she just loves that car. Ford, last time I had a problem, pretty much told me to take a flying leap. They even admitted that there was a problem, but they didn't feel the need to help me with it. Ford can go take that flying leap, they lost a good customer. Chrysler corp. won't even admit when they have a potential problem, they just look the other way. I've owned 3 different GM vehicles before I had gone to Ford and Chrysler, why I ever left GM is beyond me. I will never, ever own anything but GM from now on. In 2 years I plan on trading in my Silverado, and guess what I'll buy again. Another Silverado. Nobody compares to Chevy in in trucks. Look around, how many old Fords and Dodges do you see on the road? Not very many, but everywhere you go, there's another old chevy still truckin'! Nobody can match the leg rooom (front and back), headroom, body styling (Dodge does look like a Mack truck and Ford looks like an old fart's truck). Chevy has the most class of them all.

2000 Chevy Silverado vibration

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