18
SILVERADO 1500
ENGINEERING
FRAME
With Silverado’s tremendously strong
frame, form follows function. Every
part of the frame is engineered for
the specific demands placed on it. For
example, a hydroformed fully-boxed
section is used in the front for added
strength. Further back along the frame,
a fully-boxed section, fabricated from
high-strength steel, is used back to
the spare tire cross member, where
it becomes a C-channel. The frame
achieves extraordinary torsional rigidity,
without adding unnecessary weight.
This helps boost payload capacity
and contributes to its road isolation,
as well as its ride quality.
FRONT AND REAR SUSPENSIONS
A coil-over-shock front suspension,
combined with a wide track and
monotube shocks, significantly enhance
ride and handling. The configuration
provides excellent on-centre feel and
stability. The rear shocks are also
positioned to optimize ride quality.
Better yet, the smooth ride is achieved
without sacrificing hauling capabilities.
QUIET RIDE
Reducing noise and vibration was a real
priority in the development of Silverado.
This was accomplished through the
use of hydraulic engine mounts on the
Vortec 5.3L and VortecMAX 6.0L V8
engines, optimized exhaust and
induction tuning, acoustic mats in the
front and back of the cab, in addition
to an aerodynamic shape.
HYDRA-MATIC AUTOMATIC
TRANSMISSIONS
The Hydra-Matic 4-speed electronically
controlled automatic transmissions
optimize the shift sequence, based on
driver input. Overdrive and Tow/Haul
mode are both included. And these
smooth, quiet transmissions require
minimal maintenance. The Dexron® V
transmission fluid is validated “fill for
life”, meaning the original fluid is
designed to last the service life of the
truck, under normal driving conditions.*
FIRST WE RAISED THE BAR.
THEN WE SAILED OVER IT.
It begins with “what if?” And it is refined through exhaustive
testing. To build a new standard for full-size pickups, our
development process required both analysis and ingenuity.
There’s no other way to tackle complex challenges like the need
to engineer a frame with strength concentrated in areas that
require the most support. The higher you set the bar, the more
you have to innovate. The new generation of Silverado delivers
on the promise with major strides forward in strength, power,
safety, ride quality, electronic architecture and aerodynamics.
The more capable it is, the more capable you are. Silverado.
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AUTOMATIC LOCKING REAR
DIFFERENTIAL
The available automatic locking rear
differential adds traction in slippery
conditions. It intervenes when rear wheel
slippage is detected at lower speeds.
If one rear wheel slips, the locking rear
axle automatically sends power to the
wheel with grip, providing full lockup
for maximum drive power to both rear
wheels. Activation is fully automatic.
SUSPENSION CHOICES
Silverado suspension systems include:
• Z83 Solid Smooth Ride with 46 mm
monotube front shock absorbers,
twin-tube rear shocks, and a 32 mm
front stabilizer bar
• Z85 Handling/Trailering with
increased capacity from its 46 mm
rear monotube shocks and a 34 mm
stabilizer bar
• Z60 High-Performance employs
monotube shocks and a lowered
ride height
• Z71 Off-Road with 46 mm monotube
shock absorbers, off-road jounce
bumpers and a heavy-duty front
stabilizer. Also includes a high
capacity air cleaner, skid plates,
locking differential and Z71 decals.
QUICK AND SMOOTH AUTOTRAC
TM
4x4 SYSTEM
The Autotrac system adapts precisely
to changing road conditions. The system
features lightweight transfer case
assemblies, optimized low-range gears,
and more reliable contact-less sensors.
In addition to the traditional 2HI, 4HI,
Neutral and 4LO modes, there’s an Auto
4x4 setting that can sense wheelspin and
automatically transfer power between
the front and rear wheels. Autotrac is
standard on 1500 LT and LT2 4x4 models.
QUIET, STRONG AXLES
The front and rear axles provide smooth
operation and excellent durability.
A thick rear cover provides added
strength, while stiff mounting brackets
help reduce noise and vibration.
FLAT BLADE WINDSHIELD WIPERS
The flat wiper blade design is preformed
to match the curvature of the windshield.
This minimizes blind spots, streaking,
wind lift and noise. The wipers also
reduce wind resistance, contributing to
Silverado’s impressive aerodynamics.
RAINSENSE
TM
WINDSHIELD
WIPER SYSTEM
When the Rainsense moisture-sensing
windshield wiper system’s infrared
sensor detects water or mist on the
windshield, it automatically activates
the wipers. The system adjusts the
wiper speed, based on the intensity
of precipitation. You can also select
conventional low and high-speed modes.
Rainsense wipers are standard on Crew
Cab LTZ models.
EZ LIFT TAILGATE
Easy does it. The available EZ Lift
tailgate requires only about 7.25 kg (16 lb.)
of effort to operate. That makes it easier
than ever to gain access to the pickup box.
The tailgate can be easily removed – and
it locks to reduce the possibility of theft.
ULTRASONIC REAR PARKING ASSIST
When in reverse at low speeds, the
available ultrasonic rear parking assist
detects objects in your path up to
2.4 m (8 ft.) behind the vehicle and
activates audio and LED warnings.
HEATED WINDSHIELD WASHER SYSTEM
By quickly heating windshield washer
fluid up to 70 degrees Celsius and using
the wipers, you can remove a thin layer
of ice from the windshield without
having to use a scraper. This factory-
installed system makes short work of
frost, light ice build-up, insect spatter –
even tree sap. Standard on LTZ and
available on LT.
BEST-IN-CLASS AERODYNAMICS
From the steeply raked windshield, right
through to the tailgate end cap, Silverado
was designed with aerodynamic performance
in mind. Extensive wind tunnel testing
helped refine the shape, enabling
Silverado to achieve the lowest drag
coefficient of any full-size pickup on the
road today. It also helps reduce noise
and enhance fuel efficiency.
CONFIGURABILITY
With 7 engines, 3 cab types and 3 box
lengths, Silverado offers many combinations,
so you will be able to find the right one
for your needs.
*Maintenance needs vary with different uses and
driving conditions. Please refer to the vehicle
Owner’s Manual for more information.
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