Hi guys, it's been a while

[Big_Ed]

Hi everyone, I haven't posted in a long time. Mostly due to the fact that I went through a flood back in August. I lost my 1997 GMC z71, my 1956 Oldsmobile 88, all of my furniture, and many of the contents of my duplex. Both vehicles were totalled. My Olds was flooded all the way up to the dashboard, and the truck was flooded up to the seats. My insurance company took pretty good care of me as far as my vehicles were concerned, and now I'm thinking of getting another truck.

I'd like to get a 96-2001 Chevy/GMC extended cab 4x4. I've seen some 2500's for about the same price as some 1500's. I've heard the 2500's have a heavier duty auto trans, and heavier duty suspension. What are the other differences between the 1500's and 2500's? Also, what are the differences between the 2500 HD and the standard 2500 models? Are the frames boxed on the HD models?
Thanks!

[Big_Ed]

Anyone?

[Palf70Step]

The 2500 would be geared lower more than likely, thus if you are not really using it regularly for the HD stuff, you'll probably see less gas mileage.

Not sure of the total differences in the frames, but their is some reinforcement differences between the 1/2 & 3/4 ton.

3/4 ton would be a lot stiffer/rougher ride than the 1/2 ton. Around here the difference in tags would be a big deal also.

If you are going to use it regularly, yes I would go with the 2500, otherwise I think your better off with the 1500.

Just my $.02

Sorry to hear about the flooding. It's a pain when nature claims our babies.

[Big_Ed]

Thanks. I think I'll look for a z71 ext cab just like I had. I liked the ride quality, and it was plenty of truck for my use. I'd hate to lose the mileage and ride quality. The higher license fees make me think that maybe insurance could be higher too.

I've been looking around and I've seen lots of z71's, but most of them have bad cab corners. Does someone make covers or repair panels?

[Palf70Step]

I'm sure you can still get repair panels from the dealer, if not I know LMC deals with these year trucks also.

[ChevLoRay]

There's a company called LateModelRestoration aka CKResto, in Texas who have specialized in the '88-up trucks. They have a lot of the stuff other than sheet metal to restore, if that is your choice. I have used them and they are good to deal with. If you are in the military, they ship free to you, I believe.