2wd Vs 4wd Avalanche 2500 - Conversion ? Diffrences ?

[tgrshark82]

Hey all,

I am going to purchase a 2500 avalanche, probabally used and am debating 4wd vs 2wd.

I would prefer the 4wd, but its a tough truck to find used, esp with all the options I want (sunroof, 10 way heated leather (neutral color), etc, basically every option you can get), and I would prefer the sunset orange color.

This being said, its a rare truck to find, and I found one in 2wd with all the options I want. Hence I have a tough decision to make......

I have always had 4wd in all my previous trucks, and it is a life (or at least truck) saver on slippery launch ramps, and in some rare situations where I find myself off pavement or on the snow.

Anyone know what other things are diffrent with the 2wd - I know some GM trucks, the 4wd has much heavier equipment all around. Is this true with the avalanche as well ?

Are the rear axles and susp. the same 2wd vs 4wd ?

What are the dry curb weights 2wd vs 4wd ?

Any things that I should consider 2wd to 4wd ?

How about lifting the 2wd 2500 - anyone with experience ?. Should be the simplest truck to lift with leafs in the back and spindles in the front from what I know.

I know the answer to this, but I am pretty crazy anyway (done engine swaps and other vehicle projects) and am wondering just how different the 2wd and 4wd front ends are. Would it ever be possible to do a conversion to 4wd if I found a transfer case and front suspension ?. Are the frames diffrent ? Would the 4wd suspension bolt up ?.

If anyone knows of a 2500 for sale for a good price, let me know.

Thanks for your input - really enjoy this list. I've been dreaming ever since the av was released and finally can get one !!!

Phil

 

[swatdoc]

something to consider - I have had both 2wd and 4wd trucks in the past. For occasional off roading and mud situations I have found that a 2wd with a locking rear diff will go just about anywhere a regular 4wd will go. Now - a 4wd with locking diffs will be much better, but 99% of people never put locking diffs in unless they're serious off roaders. The boat ramp could be the exception to my rule, as the front tires would be on dry ground and a 4wd would have better traction there. You can get a locking diff installed in the rear for around $500. For me, a 2wd with the locking diff (I'm probably going with an Auburn E-locker) gives me all the traction I need, with less expense, maintenence, and insurance costs.
For lift purposes, 2wd and 4wd AV's are the same. One difference is that you can actually lift the 2wd higher than the 4wd with some kits, but this only applies if you're going big with the lift - like 12".
I know there are some die-hard and serious off roaders out there who will say you definately need 4wd - and that's OK - but I've seen and done some pretty amazing things with that 2wd/locker stup, so it just boils down to how much and how radical you're going to be.
Doc

 

[Airwolf]

Made me smile to see that the exact truck you are looking for is the one I have! I've thought of selling from time to time, usually when I'm sending in the monthly payment, but I don't think I could ever part with it. Good luck with your search.

 

[bekind]

I think if you are never off-roading a 2wd w/ Eaton Locker would suffice.

Just curious swatdoc, are you going to replace the Eaton Locker, option G80, with the Auburn locker? What benefits does the Auburn have over the factory installed Eaton? I have had tremendous success with the Eaton, I love it...

~bekind

 

[swatdoc]

Hey Bekind - either fortunately or unfortunately, my truck didn't come with the G80 diff. MANY people have told me that the "G" in G80 stands for grenade. Supposed to be just fine with normal loads with the stock tires and regular off roading, but with the added stress of larger tires it's supposed to be a time bomb. Heard a few reports of these things exploding and taking the whole diff carrier with 'em.
Now that being said - I have no experience in that myself, so this is just hearsay - but I've heard it from reputable sources, and more than one. There are probably thousands of people who have never had a problem with it also.
I'm leaning toward the Auburn right now from good word of mouth about reliability, but haven't made up my mind for sure yet.
Doc

 

[Tgrshark]

Hey guys,

Thanks for the replies. Good points on the 2wd. I have to agree the 2wd is tempting, and for 98% of the time I would be fine. That 2% might be a problem though. On the beaches (we can drive on a few of them) the 2wd would be at a serious disadvantage, as well as the ramps. And chaining up when going to the snow is a drag. I might just have to buy new ..... not really looking forward to that payment, but it might be the only way to get what I want.

Thinking of lifting 4 to 6 inches to clear H2 wheels and tires. I've heard 4 inches is a little tight with the 35's. Might scale back to 33's to go with the 4 inch lift.

Airwolf - that looks like a fun toy in your avatar. I'm building a kitfox series 5 and look forward to the day it takes flight

thanks agian

 

[02-Z66]

if you are going to get an AV i say get the 4wd. i had a 2wd. i loved it. this is what drove me to upgrade to the 4wd with more options. i just think the truck becomes more capable with the 4wd option. it will help also help out on the other end of the spectrum should you decide to get rid of it. you said it yourself... "I would prefer the 4wd, but its a tough truck to find used...".

 

[TLB]

I guess your the only one who knows if you will ever use 4WD.
If you just want the lifted 4WD look without 4WD than lift the 2WD They look great lifted too

Terry