GMC Yukon / Yukon Denali

erinsquared · April 2003

...but more power never hurts

.

pmaggan, let us know how your Volant intake & scoop install goes. I have been seriously looking at this system primarily for the benefit of providing a cool air source plus maybe some benefits of the ram air effect.

pmaggan · April 2003

Obyone, I did order the "correct" unit that is designed for cold air intakes. Having been into BMWs for many years, I am no stranger to the arguments for and against various cold air intakes. We'll see what happens. My most immediate concern is that the Denali has been pulling to the left when accelerating. I'm taking it in on Friday to have it inspected. Has anyone else experience this? I'm hoping it is something simple and not something wrong with the drivetrain. BTW, just turn 1,000 miles today. I love this truck more everyday.

donahues · April 2003

Mine is a standard Yukon. Just turned 9k miles. Today I put on 200 highway miles with cruise control set to about 76. Only was able to get 14.8 mpg all highway miles according to DIC (I can get another 1 mpg without the ethenol blend). Running a winter blend. About 40 degrees outside. Tires are inflated properly. Got my last oil change at 6k from the dealership so I assume it is standard oil not synthetic. Will be making a 1000 mileage run next weekend. Maybe I'll get some Mobil 1 and see if that makes a difference.

jkpsaras · April 2003

I've been using synth and getting 1 more MPG.

pmaggan · April 2003

I've been getting about 15mpg in mixed city/highway driving. I've only got 1,200 miles on my Denali so far though.

xchicagoan5 · April 2003

Am very to close to ridding myself of 2000 BMW X5 4.4i. Have looked at Lexus GX470 and came to the conclusion that for the money and the space, the Denali is the way to go. I know the major differences in the 2003 vs 2002 are stabilitrak, front seat air bag sensor and revamped transfer case. The 2003 is also rated to get higher MPG - 18 on the highway versus 15 for the 2002. If I go with the 2002, is not having stabilitrak that big of a deal? I live in Tennessee, but travel to Chicago during winter for Thanksgiving and Christmas. The only cool thing I can say about my X5 is that it is fast as all get out and handles almost like a sedan. I will leave it at that.

avolvofan · April 2003

I don't know about the 15 mpg for 2002 Denalis. There is no difference in the engine size, weight, etc. between the 2003 and 2002 that would contribute to a reduction in mileage. If memory serves, the highway rating is 16 mpg. I have been reliably getting 18 mpg at 70 mph with a 2001 Denali.

Regrading the benefits of StabiliTrak, it is only operational on the front wheels, so it is not a true Active Handling system like what is available for the Corvette. I do not know if you are getting that much in a front-wheel only system. You really do need the ability to selectively brake all four wheels to be able to fight a spin.

mjwills · April 2003

I have had a 2001 and now a 2002 XL. Both pulled left. Alignment covered under warranty. I was told that it has to do with how they are transported and the wheels strapped to the truck. After the adjustment, mine drove straight. Please post again about the performance/installation of the upgrades - as I am very interested in them also. Good luck.

billwms01 · April 2003

My 2000 Yukon XL's engine (5.3L) died this morning going down the road. Wouldn't start back up. Had it towed home, but haven't had a chance to see whether it's fuel or fire. Anybody had similiar problems, and tracked the problem down? TIA.

Bill

pmaggan · April 2003

I took the Denali in on Friday for the pulling to the left problem. They agreed something was not right. They intially checked the alignment and it was not to spec. They corrected it, but were still not satisfied that the pulling problem was cured. They made some calls to the GM Tech line and tried some "updated" alignment settings. This helped, however, they admitted the pull is not completely cured. They are waiting for a shipment of Denalis at which point they want to drive my Denali and a brand new one back to back. Doesn't sound too promising, but the severity of the pulling is considerably better than before the alignment. I do get the feeling that they are serious about getting to the bottom of this problem.... which, of course, they should be. Hopefully some new Denalis will show up soon and they will be able to re-visit the issue. I'll keep you all posted.

donahues · April 2003

Had alignment issues my my new '02 and deler alignment did not seem to solve (still pulled to left). Took to another dealer and dealer said that the alignment was to spec. and actually was a "touque issue" that occured in transport. I don't recall sepecifically what the torque issue/adjustment was. Situation is much improved.

willardh3 · April 2003

Does anyone know if there is a way to adapt/mod a fitting to the Auto-Leveling air pump such that you could have use of the compressed air? I could see being able to blow up tires/beach toys, etc.

avolvofan · April 2003

Go to K-mart or Wal Mart, or whomever is near where you live and buy a portable compressor that works off the accessory power plugs. You will spend far less (approx. $20) for the portable compressor than you will spend attempting to modify the on-board compressor.

willardh3 · April 2003

Avovlofan,
That makes a lot of sense......I was hoping someone would reply that the setup was already there and all we needed was a hose...thanks.

orwoody · April 2003

I purchased a road kit that had a number of emergency items including air compressor, 12V adapter with a 10' hose. I thought it was a little funny that GMC overlooked having a pump and outlet on a high end SUV - funny our 1996 Bonneville had one, and hauling inner tubes, rafts, air mattresses etc... was much less convenient than the Denali!
Last tank of gas: 15.6mpg calculated/15.4ampg DIC - 36.7amph in mixed driving.
I love this big beast.

scottinssmd · April 2003

'00 Denali. Tires rotated last week and now there is a front end vibration between 40-60mph. Garage says its not from the rotation. I haven't taken it anywhere for a second opinion. Any ideas where to take this issue? The reason I am addressing this site is because the alignment issue seems pretty hot right now. I did check every single lug. In fact, I loosened and retightened each one, all around.

orwoody · April 2003

Good chance one of the wheels isn't balance quite right. The vibration would not be as noticeable when mounted on the rear. If the shop only rotated the wheels and tires, but didn't spin balance, well they were correct in stating ""its not from the rotation."

obyone · April 2003

have the tires balanced. Been there done that.

scottinssmd · April 2003

You know, the balancing was the first thing I though of, but knew they didn't balance when doing a rotation. Thanks again,gents.

pilko · April 2003

The 2003 uses an open center differential whereas the 2002 used a viscous center differential. The open differential has significantly fewer losses than the viscous unit. I presume this is the source of any mpg difference. My 2003 Denali XL is returning 16.5mpg at 75mph. Wind direction makes a difference. DIC is very accuracte though filling technique can make a difference on an individual filling. Over 15,000 miles I have averaged 15.5mpg.

The Stabilitrak system on the Denali can brake any of the four wheels, not just the fronts that avolvofan claimed.

avolvofan · April 2003

Can you provide documentation (published by GM as opposed to anecdotal) regarding your statement that StabiliTrak can brake any of the four wheels?

avolvofan · April 2003

GM posts the following at http://www.gmc.com/gmcjsp/yukon/specs_safety.jsp?vehicle=yukondenali:

StabiliTrak®:
Standard on the Yukon Denali and the Yukon XL Denali, the system senses your steering wheel position, vehicle speed, brake pressure, lateral acceleration, and turning rate to adjust the engine speed and brake pressure to the front wheels to help keep you on your intended path.

I imagine that all of the readers of this forum would appreciate any factual information on StabiliTrak. If there is information that is published by GM that confirms a four wheel brake pressure adjustment, then please post it.

erinsquared · April 2003

avolvofan, I was also wondering about the details behind the '03 Stabilitrak system and whether this is a four wheel traction system. Here is a link for the '02 Escalade which may provide a little insight, although this is clearly shown as a front wheel only system: <http://service.gm.com/gmtechlink/arcv_pdf/3_01_e.pdf>. In the '03 Denali, the rear LSD has been dropped and the transfer case is an open design instead of a limited slip. My guess is that the traction control system (also available on 2wd trucks) monitors rear wheel slip and the Stabilitrak monitors front wheel slip in addition to applying front brakes under certain turning situations. These two systems combined can provide the four wheel torque management and allow GM to drop the more expensive LSD units in the transfer case and rear differential. I have not seen any tests done that suggest this system provides superior traction over the older system (like on the '01-'02 Denalis), but there should possibly be improved road handling in emergency manuevers according to the literature.

avolvofan · April 2003

Back in December, 2002 (when the original round of 0 down, 0% finance options were out), I was seriously considering trading my 2001 Denali for a 2003 model. If StabiliTrak had been a true four wheel system (like Active Handling on the Corvette), I would have traded my 2001 for a 2003. However, after learning that StabiliTrak was limited to the front wheels, (and after experiencing Active Handling in a big empty parking lot during a downpour) I passed. Simply put, being able to selectively brake on all four corners gives you the best chance of fighting a spin. There is no doubt that there are improvements to the 2003 Denali. Are they enough to trigger a trade of my 2001? In my opinion, not yet. However, the moment that a true four wheel system (like Active Handling) is available, I will be making an appointment to discuss a trade.

erinsquared · April 2003

If you look at comparable four wheel stability/traction systems from Mercedes and Toyota (new 4runner), it seems that GM really dropped the ball on developing a first class stability system. I was also weighing in purchasing an '03 Denali, but except for the HVAC/steering controls and folding mirrors, I did not think the difference merited the additional $ to buy new. In fact, the new Denali has been decontented in some ways; I really like the custom trim in the older models with the "Denali" embroidered logo, plus center twin storage console & courtesy lights.

jboater · April 2003

The EPA 18 mpg refers to the 5.3 V8. The 03 YD is 12/16. The 02 YD is rated 12/15.
I bought a used 02 the 1st of Feb. Cold weather mpg (manual calc) was running 12.8 - 13.4 daily driving, 50/50 mix. I've been using 87 octane and have switched to Mobil 1.
Most recently, just for giggles, I decided to try 89 octane. My results from the one tank I've run are;
Eliminated momentary hesitation at startup from stopped position.
Slight improvement in smoothness of engine at idle.
Sense of increased power.
MPG up to 15 or about 10% vs cost of fuel increase @ .10/gal or about 7%.
I don't know how some are able to achieve 17 - 18 mpg on the 6.0 engine.
Given the EPA 12/15 rating for the 2002 model I drive, I'm quite satisfied with my results. My fuel economy is equal to if not slightly better than the 2000 Ford Conversion van (5.4 V8) I was driving.
I really like this buggy and it has the makings of being the best vehicle I've ever had. My wife drives a Seville STS and she has no reservations about driving the YD. She loves the large exterior mirrors, high driving position, visibility, ride, and handling. She's not found anything she dislikes.

pilko · April 2003

There is plenty of info out there from GM. I presume you must be having difficulty using the internet. Try this:

On the address line of your browser enter 'Stabilitrak' and '2003' or 'Denali'. Either will do. Then press 'Enter'.

You should see the following links amongst the list. They aren't exactly difficult to find, the first one of these links was the second hit from Yahoo.

http://media.gm.com/division/2003_prodinfo/03_gmc/03_yukon_denali- - /pr.html
http://www.automotivetrends.com/2003gmcyukondenalireview.htm
http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/020315-1.htm
http://media.gm.com/news/releases/020314_safety.html
http://www.gm.com/company/news_events/events/02chicago/truck_over- - view.htm
http://autos.en.msn.ca/Vip/Description/GMC/Yukon%20Denali/2003.as- - p
http://autos.msn.com/advice/windowshop.aspx?contentid=2908&sr- - c=windowshopping

Also there is a Truck Trend magazine, July/August 2002 with an article on page 54 titled Traction Tech detailing and reviewing the four channel system standard on Escalade and Denali for 2003.

One page of the review can be seen at:

http://www.trucktrend.com/features/tech/163_0208_stab/index1.html

I hope that all of the readers of this forum appreciate this factual information on StabiliTrak and can ignore the non-factual comments (GM dropping the ball? - well someone did but not GM!). GM should take some of the blame though for not checking their own web site.

avolvofan · April 2003

It would appear as if there is a well-kept secret about a four channel StabiliTrak system. It is even a secret to some GMC product marketing staff - after my original research into the StabiliTrak system this past December, I contacted GMC at http://www.gmc.com/gmcjsp/contactus/emailus.jsp and asked if StabiliTrak was limited to the front wheels. The response was that it was. If I had saved the response, I would include it in this post for entertainment value.

pmaggan · April 2003

Relatively minor problem though. I got a flyer in the mail for 3 months of XM radio for free. I figured I'd give it a try.... but I couldn't tune into the XM Preview channel. The dealer said that my XM receiver, not the radio itself, needs to be replaced. I'll have the truck back today and will be jammin' to XM.

For those who are interested, the pull to the left still exists, but no new Denalis at the dealer, so we are still waiting.

xchicagoan5 · April 2003

Thanks for all the comments regarding my inquiry about 2002 vs. 2003 YD. It seems as if the differences are few, depending on how much value one places upon Stabilitrak and its merits. Overall, there is an abundance of vehicles on the market 2001 through 2003. I am leaning towards a 2003 YD program car from the factory with less than 5,000 miles since it is only a few hundred dollars higher than a 2002 with about 12,000 miles. Again, your comments have been insightful and much appreciated.

pmaggan · April 2003

It may be too late now, but don't forget the 60 month 0% financing. It's possible that a new Denali may be cheaper than a used one after considering interest expenses. I wonder if GM will continue the "Zero to Sixty" offer in May?

erinsquared · May 2003

pmaggan, did you ever install the Volant air intake system on your Denali. If you did, could you relate your experience with this system?

willardh3 · May 2003

Have any new owners or others had any opportunity to use the Navigation system? Is it any good or is a separate unit--Garmin/Magellan etc. still the way to go?

pmaggan · May 2003

I did install the Volant intake & Granatelli MAS this weekend. I was a little disappointed because the Volant air box did not bolt right into the existing holes. I had to slightly enlarge two of the holes on the Volant box in order to get them to line up. Not a big deal, but I shouldn't have had to do that. The rest of the install was straightforward. It was kinda tough to get the sleeve on that attaches to the tube that goes to the throttle body, but once I got it, it was nice and tight. I still do not have the air scoop which mounts to the bottom of the Volant air box and draws cool air from behind the bumper. It should be here next week. So far I can't really notice any power gains, but my primary goal is to get a little better MPG. I only have 1400 miles on my Denali so the engine isn't even broken in yet. After the air scoop is installed, I will report again. I can't believe how the stock setup works at all. It draws air from the right front fender area. I'm quite sure that the Volant air scoop will work quite well. I probably should have taken pictures during the install, but I forgot. The Volant box and tube are well made and probably justify their cost. There is no way any of the hot underhood air will enter the intake.

pmaggan · May 2003

I wanted to get the navigation system, but someone in this forum (message # 1573) said it was pretty worthless. No touch screen for one, and the buttons aren't the most easy thing to use while driving. I decided to pass, even though I would have really like to have it. BTW, I just check the GM incentives and the Denali rebate up until yesterday was $4,000 cash back or $1,000 with 0% financing. I definitely should have waited an extra month to buy my Denali. Oh well.

fievel · May 2003

I have been considering installing the Volant air intake, and I definitely will be installing a Gibson exhaust. I pull a 4,000 lb. travel trailer with my 2003 GMC and want to get the best gas mileage possible. I will be interested to know what gains in gas mileage are possible with these modifications. Regarding the Granatelli MAS, the people I've talked to say that this may increase power but not gas mileage.

erinsquared · May 2003

Here is a link to Kenne Bell's website that might provide some insight into finding more power out of the 6.0L Vortec. Kenne Bell is a respected aftermarket tuner that sells performance products for various makes. <http://www.kennebell.net/techinfo/gm-tech/gm-vortec-engines.pdf> I find it interesting to note that he mentions little power gains are available through the aftermarket short of supercharging (which he sells) and cool air intake systems. Not to dissuade you from your exhaust purchase, but don't expect to see performance gains. It will probably look sharp and your neighbors will hear you cruising through the neighborhood.

Of course, I am assuming you are not planning to do anything extreme like having the whole engine rebuilt by Lingenfelter or something of that nature....

fievel · May 2003

The exhaust modification I am planning is relatively mild, and frankly, I'm not expecting any great power gains. Gibson makes a stainless-steel cat-back system that bolts on exactly as the stock single exhaust system, and provides a deeper sound, but not the annoying "too loud" sound inside the truck of the dual after-market systems that are so common. Since this is stainless steel, it will be the only system I ever put on the vehicle. I'm hoping I may see a small increase in gas mileage, but even that may not happen.

obyone · May 2003

my truck. After 6 months of in cab resonance and loss of low end torque, I'd finally given in and bought another system. What happened to the Gibson? Took a torch to it and cut it into 20 or so pieces. I guess you could say I had gotten my revenge for 6 months of drone....

obyone · May 2003

I've gotten my results back from Blackstone lab and the results are less than stellar. In fact, there maybe reason for concern due to the high levels of copper and lead found in the sample. If any of you are wondering, I did the sample after 4000 miles on Mobil1 10w-30. The sampling took place between miles 4700 to 8700 on the odometer on a '02 Denali.

Whats bad about the high copper and lead? It shows wear on the bearings. We will see on the next analysis if this trend continues.

avolvofan · May 2003

You may be seeing proof of further break-in. I have been told by one of the mechanics at the dealer where I have my Denali serviced that break-in continues until around 7k to 8k miles. It will be interesting to see what the oil analysis results are at say, 10k or 15k miles.

iskowitz · May 2003

I am about the purchase a used 2002 YDXL 12k Miles, price is $37.9k . How does that price seem? Vehicle is in great shape?

Was mainly looking at YXL's but wanted autoride and a few other features which drove a new one up to about 44k.

hda

erinsquared · May 2003

obyone, I just sent away for my oil analysis kit. I have an '01 Denali with 38k which has a documented service history of oil changes every 3,000 miles; I'll update the group once I take a sample and get the analysis done. Your engine could well be still in the break-in period. How soon did you start using synthetic oil? I have heard some individuals recommending using conventional oils or whatever came from the manufacturer until 7K miles, since synthetics are so lubricating that they interfere with the normal wear-in associated with parts break-in.

iskowitz, 37.9 sounds reasonable, although you may be able to do a little better. Shop around until you feel comfortable you are getting the cleanest vehicle for the best price: then enjoy!

obyone · May 2003

First oil change was at 300 miles. Used Lubriplate 10w30. Great oil. If the local distributor had brought in their synthetic I would've been using that instead.

The second oil change at 4700 was when I switched to Mobil1 synthetic and of course changed again with Mobil1 at 8700 miles.

I own a '00 Silverado with the 5.3 and have done numerous oil tests. None of which turned up the results like that on the Denali. The 5.3 and 6.0 are pretty much identical except for the bore and stroke. The next oil sampling will give me more info.

Regarding the break in period, I've heard it could be anywhere up to 10k miles. What I haven't heard before was high content of bearing material showing in any of the tests.

erinsquared · May 2003

Has anyone replaced the factory headlights with aftermarket bulbs that improve low beam and high beam performance similar to HID systems? I am looking for a DOT legal bulb replacement of the same wattage that will not overload the factory wiring or melt anything. I have seen many different varieties offered in the aftermarket and just want to know what your experiences are.

avolvofan · May 2003

PIAA make a set of bulbs for both high and low beams that provide a brighter blue-ish white light. While better than the factory bulbs, PIAAs are not HID units. PIAA bulbs use less wattage than the factory bulbs as well and are available at a number of auto parts stores.

jboater · May 2003

I bought my 02 YD (not XL) the 1st of Feb with 13.4 k miles on it. Price I paid was 36.9k plus tax. It does have the power sunroof and Autoride. It's a great ride.

pmaggan · May 2003

Does anyone here own a GM service manual? I have been checking the helminc.com website since I bought my truck, but the manuals are still out of stock. Wondering if it is worth the $120?

cornellpinoy · May 2003

I promptly installed Sylvania SilverStar bulbs on my '02 Denali. These bulbs are DOT approved for street-use and they sell for about $20 each. On my previous cars, I have installed PIAAs and other "HID" style bulbs that cost much more but was never impressed with the results for the money I spent. With the SilverStar bulbs, the light is "whiter" than the original halogens and I'm happy with the upgrade. I have noticed the '03 Escalades now come equipped with low beams that give an "HID" look. I've been meaning to see if Cadillac is just specifing a different bulb for their trucks or if Escalades now have a true HID system similar to the STS. A final note, I have yet to come across a bulb replacement that comes close to a true HID (xenon bulb and ballast) system - and I've bought plenty!

cornellpinoy · May 2003

I ordered the Helm manuals shortly after buying my '02 Denali. They are definitely worth the price. You receive 4 large volumes that cover EVERYTHING on the truck. Since they are written for GM techs, its best if you are mechanically inclined. What I like most about them are the very specific troubleshooting guides and the very clear diagrams for removing and installing nearly every part on the truck. The Chilton and Haynes manuals don't come close - not by a long shot. I should point out that after I received my order, I saw another owner at the dealer receive the identical manuals from the parts department for less money.

GMC Yukon / Yukon Denali

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