FERM I got a GM Question for ya

csvencer · #1 02-25-2010, 08:31 AM

So I have been looking at 07-09 Suburban/Yukon XL's and found a couple I like, my only concern is some of the Denali XL's have the AWD system vs 4WD the Chevy's have. Do you know anything about the AWD setup? I have always been a 4WD kind of person, I don't like the ideat that it is always on and I don't have an option to drop into 4Low. The AWD ones do come with either the 6.0 or 6.2 and are the 6 speed tranny, so there are advantages to going with it. Thoughts?

-Svence

Skools Out · #2 02-25-2010, 09:16 AM

one difference the AWD is the front diff is locked in full time with a pin vs. the 4WD has actuator that locks the front diff in. same front end just the type of locking. personally i'd rather have the 4WD due to gas mileage.

i have a break down at home showing both drivetrains both same mostly all but the front is locked in 24/7.

this link may help too

http://www.cdxetextbook.com/trans/fi...ts/4wdawd.html

the 4wd use this to lock in and out

or

awd use this to stay locked in

csvencer · #3 02-25-2010, 09:48 AM

Thanks skools. I think I am leaning toward the 4WD, but the 6.2L is a beast and would be nice to drive. Although, the 6.2 with AWD would probably put me in the low teens as far as MPG...ouch.

-Svence

Skools Out · #4 02-25-2010, 10:27 AM

i looked at a 07 GMC truck with the AWD and the 6.2 it was rated @ 12 city 14 hwy i said no thanks lol

THEFERMANATOR · #5 02-25-2010, 02:37 PM

The 6.2L is a HP BEAST coming in at over 400HP in stock trim(and can be tuned to MUCH more). Most of them are also backed up by the new 6 speed auto that is an all new design(6L80E that is an all clutch pack unit like most of your euro deigned trans now have). As for the AWD, I'm not real familiar with the newer systems. Some of the older ones still used a CAD in the front end, but I have been told the new ones got rid of it. I do know that front diff failures have become common place now at around 80K miles in the AWD units as many of the DENALI and ESCALADE people HATE THEM WITH A PASSION! The transfer case's are also a pretty oddball unit and require the special SMURF oil be run in them and changed every 15K miles IIRC. It uses a hydraulicly actuated but electronically triggered clutch system in them to fully engage the front differentail even though it spins whenever the AWD is active. It is a nice unit for those who can't remember to turn 4X4 on when it is needed, but I persoanally like being able to decide when to turn it on.

csvencer · #6 02-25-2010, 03:06 PM

I think the AWD is out, bummer as that is the only setup with the 6.2L. I think I am going to end up with the 5.3 and 3.73 combo. It is the most popular and easiest to come by. If a 6.0 comes up, should I jump on it for a little more cash or not really worth waiting around, spending more for it?

-Svence