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SUVs Chevrolet Suburban & Tahoe Chevy Tahoe
6309 messages, Last post on Aug 29, 2008 at 2:26 PM
You are in the Chevrolet Suburban & Tahoe Forum. Your Hosts are steve_ & tidester
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If you can afford to pay a little more, I might suggest a 2004 Chevy Tahoe Z71. These come with all the luxuries and Off Road Equipment, 4x4, skid plate, heavy-duty trans., etc. For the most part I have been extremely happy with mine. I did have to have the odometer R&R. But that was covered under warranty so I'm not complaining. I like mine because it is good looking and also is durable enough to tow trailers, boats and go 4 wheeling just about anywhere. Believe me I have done all of the above and enjoyed every minute. Then a wash-job later some tire cleaner and vacuumed out and you’re driving in style. I have added a few extra items onto mine since I bought it, but that is only because I do like to do all that I can with my Tahoe. So I want it to last. I've had the Transmission Pan and Rear Differential Cover replaced with MAG-HYTEC Pan and Cover. I also use Full Synthetic Trans fluid and Gear Oil. Doing all of the above will keep the wear and tear down and allow you to tow and 4 wheel without worrying. I have also recently added the Bully Dog Gas Power Pup, MSD Super Conductor Plug Wires, and E3 Plugs, 0Wx30 Mobile 1-engine oil. I have done all of this to get better mpg and to have more power when towing my trailer or 4 wheeling. I also recently purchased the Trailer Brake Controller for it. It was simple to install, basically all you have to do is plug it in under your dash. My Tahoe already had the 6" Full Traction Lift Kit, Center Line Rims, 305X70R16 Wide Dunlop Tires, Tow Package and Billet Grill on it when I bought it. For all those who have commented on my previous post about the fuel filter. The 2004 do not have an inline fuel filter. The dealership verified this. The only fuel filter it has is the one in the tank hooked up to the fuel pump. Some Tahoe’s do have a fuel filter on the left side rail just under the drivers door next to the ALB System and yet other Tahoe’s according to the Chiltons manual have it located on the right side back by the fuel tank. Another thing about the 2004 Chevy Tahoe Z71 is that there is no EGR Valve and no PVC Valve. The location where the EGR valve would be is empty and the vacuum hose going into the valve cover does not have Positive Crank Ventilation on it. These are only some of the things that I have found on my 2004 Chevy Tahoe Z71. I'm sure that there are even more things that I have yet to discover. Maybe this is one reason why my Tahoe runs so good. It doesn't have a lot of garbage on it. I have heard a lot of bad thing about the newer Tahoe’s. Problems, problems and even more problems. I think that Chevy worked out most of the bugs by the time the 2004 were produced. Then they had to start in with changing the way the engine operates from a 4 cylinder to an 8 cylinder, etc and there seems to be even more bugs that they have to work out all over again. No thank you. I will keep my 2004 running like new and R&R parts when it becomes necessary for it to be done. |
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Replying to: arrie (Apr 13, 2007 8:10 am)
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Replying to: whitall (Apr 13, 2007 9:42 am) Vortec 5300 V8 Engine The Vortec 5300 V8 engine is standard in every Tahoe LT and Z71, as well as Base and LS 4x4, and features: * 295 hp at 5200 rpm * 335 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm * A composite intake manifold with equal-length runners, which helps provide efficient combustion for crisp throttle response and high efficiency * Lightweight cast-aluminum cylinder heads and a low-friction valvetrain that features roller rocker arms and hydraulic roller lifters for lower internal friction and longer life * A high-strength cast-iron crankshaft is internally balanced and has undercut and rolled fillets to reduce stress loads. This design provides quiet running and reduces maintenance * Iridium-tip spark plugs that can travel up to 100,000 miles before they're scheduled to be replaced(1) * Engine coolant that won't require replacement for up to 5 years or 150,000 miles (whichever comes first)(1) * A deep-skirt block design limits crankshaft flex, stiffening the engine’s structure. This reduces overall vehicle vibration for smooth, long-lasting, quiet operation Suspensions Depending on the model, Chevy Tahoe can be equipped with one of these suspensions: Smooth Ride: Standard on Base, this suspension features a five-link coil-spring rear suspension for ride smoothness. Premium Ride: Standard on LS and LT 2WD and 4x4 and Z71 2WD, this suspension features monotube shocks that help provide a smooth ride on city streets as well as unpaved roads. Autoride: Available on LS and LT, this suspension automatically varies the amount of shock damping rate on a continual 20-millisecond basis by monitoring road surface, speed, gas and brake pedals, steering angle, and wheel height conditions to maximize handling and comfort. Also, a rear self-leveling feature on half-ton models helps maintain the rear suspension level with the front during heavy trailering or fully loaded conditions. Z71: Standard on Z71 4x4, along with skid plates and various rugged exterior features, this suspension is designed for on-/off-road driving. It includes gas-charged shock absorbers and off-road jounce bumpers that are tuned to help minimize large suspension inputs. Locking Rear Differential When rear-wheel slippage is detected at lower speeds, the locking differential mechanism locks the rear axle, sending maximum drive power to both rear wheels. Locking rear differential benefits include: * Enhanced performance in a variety of conditions, including on- and off-road driving and towing * Free differential action in normal driving; full lockup when needed for maximum drive power to both rear wheels * Fully automatic engagement * No additional heat generated in the axle; no need for special axle lubricants * Speed-sensitive actuation provides axle lockup when one wheel spins faster than the other * Compatibility with the antilock brake system Skid Plate Package The Skid Plate Package is standard on Z71 and available on LS and LT 4x4 models. The package includes a frame-mounted underbody aluminum shield for the front underbody, oil pan, and differential case and a steel transfer case shield(1) for an extra measure of protection in off-road driving situations. # First- and second-row Custom Leather-appointed seats # AM/FM stereo with in-dash six-disc CD changer AVAILABLE ONSTAR HANDS-FREE CALLING (OPC):(1) When you need to make and receive important calls from the road, use this hands-free, voice-activated calling service that's built into the vehicle. And, with Virtual Advisor(1) included in this feature, you can check sports scores, news, weather, and traffic(2); track your portfolio's stock quotes; and listen and reply to your email from your vehicle. 1. OnStar Hands-free Calling requires an HFC enabled vehicle, existing OnStar service contract and prepaid calling minutes, and is not available in certain markets. Calls may be made to the U.S. and Canada only. OnStar voice recognition system may not work with some voices. OnStar services require vehicle electrical system and analog wireless service to be available and operating for features to function properly. OnStar relies on existing emergency service providers as well as analog wireless and satellite technologies and is subject to their limitations. The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ruled that wireless carriers will no longer be required to support the analog wireless network after February 16, 2008. As of January 1, 2008, OnStar plans to offer service only through equipment that operates on the digital network, which may require the purchase of a system upgrade. Call 1-888-4ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827), see your OnStar Owner's Guide, or visit onstar.com for system information and details. 2. Traffic service available in most major markets. Wheel Flare Package The Wheel Flare Package is standard on Z71 and available on LS and LT models. The stylish wheel flares provide an even bolder look and added exterior protection by helping to shield the Tahoe body from kicked-up road or trail debris. Shown are the standard wheel flares for Z71, which comes with extensions. Hydro-Boost Brake System With Four-Wheel ABS The antilock brake system in Tahoe features Dynamic Rear Proportioning (DRP), which optimizes performance under varying cargo load conditions. Plus, the brakes employ Hydro-Boost technology which delivers higher pressure to the braking system to help provide the driver with quick stopping response, improved pedal feel, and more consistent braking assist. GM Oil-Life System The patented GM Oil-Life System takes the guesswork out of when to change your oil while helping protect the environment from unnecessary oil changes. By tracking the engine's revolutions and temperature, as well as driver use, the system predicts the vehicle’s oil life and indicates when a change is necessary. See the Owner’s Manual for more information. Maintenance needs vary with different uses and driving conditions StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control System A standard StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control System helps improve stability, particularly on slick surfaces and in emergency maneuvers. How StabiliTrak Works StabiliTrak’s control module compares your steering input with the truck’s actual steering arc and then, if necessary, makes quick, individual brake applications to enhance control and keep you on track. Control Module The StabiliTrak control module measures the vehicle’s steering wheel angles, wheel speed, and brake pressure. Automatic Sensing StabiliTrak automatically intervenes when it senses wheel slippage, understeer (plowing), or oversteer (fishtailing). Brake Pressure In these situations, the system applies brake pressure and, if necessary, adjusts engine torque to he |
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Brake Pressure In these situations, the system applies brake pressure and, if necessary, adjusts engine torque to help the driver get the vehicle back on track. Automatic Activation StabiliTrak is always ready to activate when needed, so you never have to worry about having to turn it on. And if you ever need to turn StabiliTrak off, simply use the deactivation switch. Tire Pressure Monitor (part of the Driver Information Center) monitors tire inflation levels and alerts driver of any tires that fall below or rise above a specified safe pressure Tow/Haul Mode When engaged, Tow/Haul mode reprograms the automatic transmission to reduce the frequency of gear shifts while towing or hauling heavy loads, especially on steep grades. Trailering equipment, heavy-duty includes trailering hitch platform, seven-lead wiring connector, auxiliary transmission oil cooler, and trailer brake prewire harness Autotrac 4x4 System The Autotrac active transfer case, standard on 4x4 models, helps Tahoe adjust to varying road conditions. The Autotrac system features four drive modes (2HI, AUTO/4WD, 4HI, and 4LO), plus a neutral setting. * 2HI provides the most efficient driving mode * When engaged, AUTO/4WD detects rear-wheel slippage and automatically shifts into 4WD as road conditions dictate * 4HI helps handle snow, ice, mud, and most off-road conditions * 4LO helps handle extreme conditions, such as steep hills, deep sand, mud, or snow * Neutral allows Tahoe to be flat-towed1 Z71 Off-Road Package The Z71 Off-Road Package is specifically designed with increased capability and durability when you want to travel where the pavement ends. In addition, Z71 4x4 has 46 mm high-pressure gas-charged shocks that offer increased damping to help make off-road journeys more comfortable. Additional Tahoe Z71 features: * 17-inch on-/off-road tires * 17-inch machined cast-aluminum wheels * Skid Plate Package * Tubular assist steps * Wheel flares with extensions * Locking rear differential * Specially designed luggage rack with cross rails and rear roller * Round foglamps * High-capacity air cleaner * Lower rocker moldings * Heated Custom Leather-appointed front bucket seats with 10-way power Side-Impact Air Bags All Tahoe models are available with driver and right-front passenger side-impact air bags.(1) Front-seat side-impact air bags help reduce the risk of injuries to front-seat occupants in certain side impacts. 1. A NOTE ON CHILD SAFETY: Always use safety belts and proper child restraints, even with vehicles equipped with frontal air bags. Even with the Passenger Sensing System, children are safer when properly secured in a rear seat. Never place a rear-facing infant restraint in the front seat of any vehicle equipped with an active frontal air bag. See the Owner’s Manual and child safety seat instructions for more safety information. Dual-Stage Front Air Bags With Passenger Sensing System Standard driver and right-front passenger dual-stage front air bags(1) are designed to supplement the safety belt system in the event of a frontal collision. Dual-stage air bags sense the severity of a crash to determine if the air bags should be deployed and whether a full or less-than-full amount of inflation will be used. Standard on all Tahoe models is a Passenger Sensing System(1) that automatically switches the right-front passenger front air bag on or off based on the passenger’s weight and the type of pressure on the seat. A lighted indicator is located on the rearview mirror. Even with this innovative feature, you should always wear your safety belts and be sure children are properly restrained in a rear seat. 1. A NOTE ON CHILD SAFETY: Always use safety belts and proper child restraints, even with vehicles equipped with frontal air bags. Even with the Passenger Sensing System, children are safer when properly secured in a rear seat. Never place a rear-facing infant restraint in the front seat of any vehicle equipped with an active frontal air bag. See the Owner’s Manual and child safety seat instructions for more safety information. Driver Information Center The standard Driver Information Center (DIC) in every Tahoe continuously monitors and reports on numerous vehicle functions. With the steering wheel-mounted controls, you can personalize your locking/unlocking preferences, headlamp delay upon exit, and more. Other available DIC features include displays for fuel range, fuel used, trip odometer, and stopwatch functionality. CHILD SAFETY SEAT CONFIGURATIONS Use the navigation links at right for the positions of child seats using both safety belts and the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Top tethers for Children) system. (NOTE: LATCH-equipped child safety seats can also be installed using seat belts.) For information about child safety seat installation, see your vehicle Owner's Manual. For specific instructions on proper installation, please carefully review the owner's manual from your child safety seat manufacturer. TOP TETHER ANCHORS Shown above and at right are top tether anchor points located on the back of the second row. For a close-up view of the lower anchor points, use the navigation (at top right). Both the lower anchors and top tethers comprise the system. AM/FM stereo with in-dash six-disc CD changer includes seek-scan, digital clock, auto tone control, automatic volume, TheftLock, and Radio Data System (RDS). Bose speaker system includes digital signal processing six-channel amplifier and nine custom-arranged speakers (including subwoofer). Rear-seat audio controls include volume, station selection, and media; dual headphone jacks (headphones not included) and power outlet. Seats Front-row heated Custom Leather-appointed full-feature buckets with 10-way power, two-position driver memory, driver and passenger power recline, power lumbar support, seatback bolster, and manually adjustable head restraints. Second-row leather-appointed 60/40 split-folding bench with fold-down center console armrest. 
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Mine also not only has all of the above it has: 4" Full Traction Lift kit. 16" Centerline Rims with 305x70R16 Off Road Tires, K&N 5700 Cold Air Intake System, MSD Super Conductor Spark Plug Wires, E3 Spark Plugs, Bully Dog Gas Power Pup Programmer, MAG-HYTEC Transmission Pan & Rear Differential Cover, FULL SYNTHETIC GEAR OIL, TRANSMISSION FLUID AND ENGINE OIL a must when Towing or doing a lot of 4 Wheeling. An upgraded 4" exhaust system. And an added intertainment system, DVD player with two screens, one behind the headrest of both front seats for the grandkids to watch their movies. Yeah I've spoiled myself on this vehicle. But it was time and I also drive it 55mph on the Hwy instead of 70mph so I get about 18mpg Hwy and 15 City even with all of the above. The Programmer helps out with the gas mileage also and I run 45psi in my tires.
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Replying to: thesnausage (Mar 04, 2005 5:54 am) |
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Replying to: johnny4016 (Apr 13, 2007 4:18 pm) Bully Dog has since had a few updates, which I've downloaded and updated onto my Tahoe. I'm now getting 20+ mpg on the Hwy, and averaging 16.2-mpg City. And this is with all of the extra add-on that I mention in the previous post. If any of you who own a SUV or Pick-Up and want to increase your mpg I suggest buying a Bully Dog Programmer. Shop around as the prices fluctuate quit a bit for the same product. You could save up to $400.00 just by surfing and finding the best price. My programmer has already paid for it self with the mpg that I now get. I use to get about 300 miles to a tank. I now get 420+ miles to a tank. That's an extra 120 miles I get on each tank of gas. Not to shabby for a big SUV with Off Road Tires, etc. I have notice one problem with my Tahoe. It has happen 3 times now. The engine light comes on when I'm going slow and not giving it any gas. I've checked the codes with the scanner and find out that they are saying that my engine is running lean. This only happens when I'm off road, going about 20 mph and going down hill or on a downward grade. Of course you don't have to give it any fuel and occasionally hit the brakes to keep from going to fast as dirt roads tend to be bumpy. I've cleared the codes each time and have never had any problems with the engine. This happened once before I put the programmer in and twice afterwards now. So it's just something that I guess nothing can be done about unless you want to go fast on a dirt road and bump all over the place, not me. I'll just clear the codes afterwards if need be. Sorry I haven’t had any other problems to speak of and can’t comment on the black box under the seat or steering problems, etc yet? I’m one very happy customer and very proud of my 2004 Chevy Tahoe Z71 that has been excellent in performance, handling, etc. If you want more power the Bully Dog does add quit a bit. It has 3 different settings so you can choose how much power you want to add. I personally run my in the middle mode which is called Tow Mode for better fuel economy, more power when needed, like when I’m towing my Trailer, etc.
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I am hoping that someone has owned or regularly driven both a Honda Pilot and a full size GM SUV (Tahoe/Suburban/Yukon w/ 5.3L engine) and can give a direct comparison. Given that mileage varies on driving style, it is difficult to review posts here and on the Pilot board and attempt to estimate what the same driver would get in each vehicle. So those of you that have had/driven both, did you notice a big difference in gas use in the Pilot? Was it worth the trade-off? My main goal in buying the Pilot would be to increase gas mileage over the Tahoe. However, the Pilot would force us to compromise on the 10% of the time where we tow, go off-road (our SUV has actually been in 4-lo!), carry lots of people and/or cargo, or do all three at the same time. So, I want to see if the mileage improvement is worth it. I posted this in the Pilot forum as well; it will be interesting to see the different responses!
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Replying to: tsf7 (Jun 21, 2007 2:48 pm) |
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Replying to: tsf7 (Jun 21, 2007 2:48 pm) Or a Hybrid Tahoe thats coming out late this year or early next?
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