Why no Auto-4wd on the HD models?

[BKColeman]

What is different between the 1500 and the the HD models that makes them not put Auto-4wd on them?

 

I personally don't care for the auto, but a coworker (who has a 1500) asked me this morning and I couldn't come up with a good answer.

 

--Brad

 

2003 Chevrolet 2500HD D/A Crew Cab

[Shaners]

The transfer case in the 2500HD's and 3500's is a heavier transfer case.

 

The 1500HD and the 2500 are available with "autotrac" just like all the 1500 Series trucks.

[BKColeman]

I realized they had a heavier transfer case, but that doesn't tell me why no auto-4wd.  

 

Is there a technical reason they don't offer it (e.g. too much torque or weight)?  Or is it just not enough interest to justify the cost of developing it on the heavier models?

[RyanbabZ71]

bk there is a technical reason.  I dont exactly remember but it has something to do with that it cannot handle the auto mod.  I think there is to much torque like you stated generated and it would possibly break it

[BDBWTE]

1500-2500LD Transfer case=Not heavy, not manly, thus autotrac works

 

2500HD-3500 Transfer case=Heavy, Manly, thus autotrac doesn't work.

 

   

[odoh]

Thats it. When I ordered my 02, I asked the same question and the techies at GM said the same thing. The auto couldn't handle the amano mano of the HD. The 1500 auto works good according to my friends that have it.

[Blue Line Dave]

Yo, pull your head out of your @**,it's the same motor and tranny,in the 1500HD hence the word Heavy Duty, get a clue,not glue  

[BKColeman]

Yo, pull your head out of your @**,it's the same motor and tranny,in the 1500HD hence the word Heavy Duty, get a clue,not glue  

I don't believe the 8100 gas engine is available in the 1500HD, and the Duramax definitely isn't.  So it isn't always the same engine.

[RyanbabZ71]

Posted on Mar. 04 2003,5:05

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Yo, pull your head out of your @**,it's the same motor and tranny,in the 1500HD hence the word Heavy Duty, get a clue,not glue  

 

the 1500 has a Different frame, engine (6 liter), brakes, GVWR (8600 vs 9200 for the 2500HD)

 

They arent the same  

[als1984z28]

I believe that the 6.0 engine and 4L80-E transmission are standard on all 1500HD, 2500, 2500HD and 3500 models.

The 8.1, Duramax, Allison 1000 and ZF S6-540 are options only on the 2500HD and 3500 models.

My 1500HD is not on a 1500 frame it is based off of the 2500 frame, also I have the same hydraulic brakes as the 2500HD.

I am not trying to say anyone is right or wrong here, but the 1500HD is no more a 1500 than it is a 2500HD.

[02 2500 Avalanche]

My 2500 has the 4l80e and the auto trac with the 8.1L, so I would think that it will handle the power. It has been working flawlessly in my truck for 45k miles  

 

Alex