Ford vs Chevy - No, it's not about your favorite brand...

[CompactTractorFan]

Is it just me or have others noticed this too:

After looking at pics online, I noticed that Chevy trucks seem to nosedive in the front and their beds seem to ride very high while Ford trucks seem to be level. Also on the Chevy trucks they seem to have a very large rear wheel well...So, is it just me or have all of you noticed this too???

DISCLAIMER: This is not intented to start a Ford vs Chevy debate, just an observation.

 

[Duffster]

I have observed this as well.

 

[CompactTractorFan]

I have observed this as well.

OK, I was wondering if it was just me...

 

[George2615]

Are you talking about new trucks? 1/2T or 3/4T? My 08 sits level. I'd rather it sit a little higher in back but it doesn't. Wheelwells seem to be right on mine but I'm running P265/65/R18's which were optional.. The last pic is a 2011 2500HD side view. Looks like it sits level to me.

 

[om21braz]

It's GM aiming for higher fuel mileage. At least that's what I've heard behind Chevrolet or GMC's slight rake to stance.

 

[MMagis]

It's possible to adjust the nose of a GM up to get it closer to level. Just a couple of bolts. I did mine, but it'll take someone with more knowledge than me to explain just what I did.

 

[George2615]

It's GM aiming for higher fuel mileage. At least that's what I've heard behind Chevrolet or GMC's slight rake to stance.

Back in 2005 I think they were very close in getting the mileage up. I had an 05 3/4T Ext Cab Dmax that was getting 20 MPG empty and 14.5 MPG while towing 7K and it wasn't even broke in yet with only 20K miles on it.
Then they went and changed things again adding DPF on the exhaust system dropped the MPG down and now UREA systems.
I haven't seen a Chevy truck since 05 get 20 MPG. My 08 1/2T only gets 15 max empty. I'm still kicking myself for not keeping my 05.

 

[CompactTractorFan]

Are you talking about new trucks? 1/2T or 3/4T? My 08 sits level. I'd rather it sit a little higher in back but it doesn't. Wheelwells seem to be right on mine but I'm running P265/65/R18's which were optional.. The last pic is a 2011 2500HD side view. Looks like it sits level to me.

Yes, yours seems pretty level. Here is what I'm talking about:

(photos copyright truckpaper.com)

The Chevy is a 2010 while the Ford is a 2011. Both are one ton crew cab long beds.

 

[jmanatee2]

It's possible to adjust the nose of a GM up to get it closer to level. Just a couple of bolts. I did mine, but it'll take someone with more knowledge than me to explain just what I did.

You tightened the key on the torsion bars. This is a simple adjustment. I did mine as well. You can also get replacement keys that will crank them up a lot further.

Note that if you really crank them up you need to get a front end alignment. Also if you crank them to far you risk damaging the front axles and handling can be affected.

Note two. You should adjust both sides even amounts. Left side 3 turns right side 3 turns etc...

 

[Oleozz]

I have a 2011 half ton Silverado and you are right about the large rear wheel well, not sure what the purpose is?