This may be a silly question...

[Slckls1]

I'd like to start off by saying that I did use the search function! I'm not a TOTAL n00b.

That being said, I am quite new to utility vehicles, and have a question about suspension.

I'm not necessarily looking to change ride height, but I would like to stiffen up the suspension some.
I just bought a 2005 GMC Yukon 4WD, and it seems like some things may need to be freshened up. However, I really know about modern car suspension.

Also, how would this affect towing capability, if at all?


Thanks in advance!

 

[iamdub]

About the only thing that would affect towing capability would be stiffer springs. Really, even springs don't affect that because the capability is derived from more factors than just what the springs can support. You can put in springs that'll support a dump truck, but the engine power, trans gearing, rear end gearing, frame strength, etc. play a bigger role. For starters, the best you can do is replace all the bushings with new stock replacements or polyurethane and replace the springs with new stock replacements or some heavier-duty replacements if you tow a lot and need to combat sag. If you want to maintain a better ride quality, you can install helper air bags so you can increase the spring rate only when you're loaded to keep the truck level.

 

[Rocket Man]

You didn't mention if you have Autoride or not. If you do, it may not be functioning right. Alot of this model SUV are sold with non functioning, disabled Autoride. If you have it and it's not wortking right, the suspension will feel very soft, in which case you need to fix that first or convert to non Autoride rear springs and shocks.

 

[Slckls1]

For starters, the best you can do is replace all the bushings with new stock replacements or polyurethane and replace the springs with new stock replacements or some heavier-duty replacements if you tow a lot and need to combat sag. If you want to maintain a better ride quality, you can install helper air bags so you can increase the spring rate only when you're loaded to keep the truck level.

my friend was telling me about helper springs that go in the leaf pack. I don't mind a harsh ride, is that the only downside of that vs. an airbag? I also agree with you about the bushings. They're probably thrashed.

You didn't mention if you have Autoride or not.

what is autoride? Is that a factory equipped air bag system? Sorry, I'm totally new to this type of vehicle.

 

[Rocket Man]

my friend was telling me about helper springs that go in the leaf pack. I don't mind a harsh ride, is that the only downside of that vs. an airbag? I also agree with you about the bushings. They're probably thrashed.



what is autoride? Is that a factory equipped air bag system? Sorry, I'm totally new to this type of vehicle.

Yes Autoride is easily identified by looking at the shocks. If they have air lines and electrical connections to the rear shocks you have Autoride , part of which is airbags on the rear shocks for self leveling.

 

[Slckls1]

Yes Autoride is easily identified by looking at the shocks. If they have air lines and electrical connections to the rear shocks you have Autoride , part of which is airbags on the rear shocks for self leveling.

that kind of sounds like a PITA. Do most people leave it, or remove it? Like I said, I know nothing of truck suspension. If I saw bags on a car I'd remove it ASAP

 

[Slckls1]

but I can tell you anything about this!

 

[Rocket Man]

that kind of sounds like a PITA. Do most people leave it, or remove it? Like I said, I know nothing of truck suspension. If I saw bags on a car I'd remove it ASAP

Some leave it, some remove it. Personally I love it because I can run my rig lowered on 26" rims with very little tire to fender clearance and still tow a pretty heavy trailer. As soon as I hook up the trailer and start the truck, the rear levels and my fender clearance stays the same. No tires rubbing. And it still handles great.

 

[Slckls1]

hmmm, well, I am actually picking the car up in about ten minutes. (It's still at the dealer) I'll have to see what it actually is.

Also, is yours 4x4, AWD, or 2WD?

 

[Rocket Man]

hmmm, well, I am actually picking the car up in about ten minutes. (It's still at the dealer) I'll have to see what it actually is.

Also, is yours 4x4, AWD, or 2WD?

Mine's a Denali, which are AWD.