1500 HD or 2500?

Bushc · September 10, 2006

I have a 92 2500 with the Six lug what is the difference between the 2500 six lug and the 1500 is it just the rear end and leafs?

94redZ · September 12, 2006

The 1500 series is a 10 bolt rear with I believe a 8.5" ring gear. The 2500 is a six lug 14 bolt semi floater with a 9.5" ring gear. The springs on the 2500 have a higher weight rating, and I think the frame is a little more heavy duty. Also the front diff on the 2500 series is a 9.25" ring gear or something close, but it is interchangeable with a 1500 series front diff (bolt in). Other than that, I cant think of too much difference between the two. I have a 94 z71 i compared to my dads 90 2500. Hope this helps.

Rob

Bushc · September 12, 2006

Yeah thats what I kinda thought because I have worked on several 3/4 tons and I know the besides the 8 lug axles the front brakes are part of the hub and the leaf springs are different and possibly bigger drums?

95Sierra2500 · September 12, 2006

IIRC there's several differences between the 2500 and the 1500, and even between the 2500's themselves. The 1500 4x4s came with 6 lug 10 bolts, fewer leaves in the rear springs and IIRC smaller diameter torsion bars, along with different A-arms up front. Then there are the 2500s under 7200 GVW that have 6 lug 14-bolts with 11" brake drums and slightly larger brakes on the front, and like one more leaf in the rear and different A-arms and thicker torsion bars. Then there's the 2500s over 8600 GVW with 8-lug 14 bolt rearend and 1-ton (13" drums, I forget the size of the rotors up front) brakes.

GMSea97 · September 12, 2006

or like my 1500 a 6 lug 14 bolt rear with an extra leaf and thicker torsion bars. I have a 97 1500 with the F44 option.

Jacqson · September 23, 2006

Also the front diff on the 2500 series is a 9.25" ring gear or something close, but it is interchangeable with a 1500 series front diff (bolt in).

Rob

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The 9.25" IFS diff is not interchangeable with the 8.25" unit. Technically I suppose you could put the larger unit in a 1500 but it would take a lot of fabricating to make it fit. It really wouldn't be worth it.