I just picked up a new 06 GMC Vortec Max 6.0 Crew Cab and have a couple questions.....

This particular truck has the Magnetic Ride control.....can the rear shocks handle a 4 inch drop? The fronts will be fine if I use 2 inch drop spindle, right?

Also, how can I tell which transmission is in the truck? It's listed as a "super duty" transmission. Does that mean it's a 4L70 or a 4L80E?

 

Its a 4L70 tranny with the lq9 engine. Not really sure what magnetic ride control is but I'm guessing its just adjustable shocks. You should be fine with a 4 in. drop in the rear, and spindles will work well and give you a factory ride. Also since 17" wheels are factory now you should be able to run them with the spindles.

 

The Magnetic Ride Control is similar to the system on the C6 corvette. One setting results in a nice smooth ride for cruising. Engage the switch and it uses an electromagnetic charge in the shock to change the fluid properties of the fluid in the shock and result in a much stiffer ride and improved handling. I was just concerned that with a 4 inch drop there would not be enough shock travel.

Thanks!

 

There should be enough travel. There are a lot around here running stock shocks with a 4 in. drop. You can use shock extenders, which wouldn't be a bad idea anyway since you are changing the distance the shock travels.

 

my factory shocks rode like **** with the 4" drop. You are operating the shock outside of its normal operating range. You might be able to buy some shock relocator brackets like come with the tahoe/yukon drop kits to keep the factory shocks installed.

 

I definately wouldn't be changing out those factory shocks. Those shocks sound pretty interesting. Go with the shock extender brakets like mentioned above. The front will stay the same. Just the spindle raises the wheel higher.
The rear shocks are the only ones that will need the extenders.

Jim