BC backroader's build - '05 Chev TB EXT

[BC backroader]

Year Make Model

2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT LT

Drivetrain Specs:

Vortec 4.2I6, 3.42 gears, G80 diff

Suspension Modifications:

MarkMC 2.5" lift/level
Z71 rear springs
BDS 55619 rear shocks

Tire upgrade to Motomaster 245/70/17 Total Terrain AT2

Exterior Modifications:

Front air dam delete

Engine Modifications:

Completely stock

Interior Modifications:

3rd row seat delete
Rear cargo platform with drawers - to come.

Recovery Equipment:

2 tow straps
1 1" x 15' tow rope with eyes
1 small cable come-along
6 ratchet load straps
shovel
axe
brush hook
GM 2500 scissors jack
jumper cables
cable chains (for rear only)

Electrical Modifications:

None yet

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

The "Big Blue Bus" as I bought it in July, 2014, with 127,000 km (79,00 mi)

[BC backroader]

After buying the truck, I spent some time and money getting it "Up to snuff", with new front brake pads and rotors, both front hubs, drivers side UBJ, and 1 coil pack, as well as drain and refill oil, trans. fluid, and transfer case lube. Before taking it in to the shop for the lift install, I took some shots of the stock ride height and the lift parts:

[BC backroader]

The shop was very busy Friday, so only the hub replacement, UBJ, and front lift got done. The rear axle was dropped, and springs removed, then left for completion on Saturday. Saturday, they had some difficulty getting the sway bar links undone, so I gave the OK to torch them off and install new ones, another $88 on the bill! They had it all finished and road tested by 3:00, so I went over and took care of the hard work, paying the bill.

I'm very pleased with the new stance of the truck, it looks like it should have when new. Now, of course, it needs some bigger boots to fill the wheel arches, so that's next on the list. My first impression, on climbing in, was that it "felt" higher, more truck-like, just as I wanted, as all my other driving is in my GMC 3500, so that's what feels right to me. The ride is stiffer in the rear, with the Z71 springs and BDS shocks, most noticeable on speed bumps, but with the amount of gear I usually haul in the back, it needed the extra load capacity. Next up is a trail run tomorrow, to see how it handles on the logging roads and fire trails.

[BC backroader]

The test run today to check out the repairs and lift went very well. Though the BDS5500/Z71 combo is stiffer than the stock setup, it's just right for my taste, giving firm cornering at speed on the highway, yet not too much jounce in the potholes and washboard common on the logging roads I love. In places where I had been bumping and scraping the skid plates, running boards, and frame before, I was able to drive through with no touching at all; perfect!

[BC backroader]

I finally got the AT tires I've wanted for the truck since I bought it about 18 months ago. Canadian Tire had a very good sale price on their Motomaster Total Terrain AT2s, 245/70/17, at $142.49 each, $660 CDN with all taxes and enviro fees in, for the set of 4. I had a local shop install and balance for 1/2 what Canadian tire quoted. I gained between 3/4" and 1" of ground clearance, and of course much improved traction on the trails than the all seasons that were on the truck when I bought it. A bonus benefit is that the Cobra cable chains for my GMC 3500 now fit the TB as well, though I have to cinch them up to the very last catch to get them tight enough.

My impression so far is that they hum a little at low speed, but are no louder than the old Hankook all seasons at highway speed. I'll update info after I get them out in the wet, in snow, and on the logging roads. I'm sure they'll do much better than what was on there before.