Anyone know why the new 2011 Colorado LT2 with 4X4 Z71 5.3 V8 only comes with a 4.10 axle ratio? Checked with person that makes all orders for dealership and he doesn't know but says it's a written law from GM engineers. This model comes with 17" wheels.
I'm still keeping my duramax!:rolleyes:

Not sure why you posted this in Med Duty?

I would think it would have to do with the motor/transmission combo.

Not sure why you posted this in Med Duty?

I would think it would have to do with the motor/transmission combo.

Probably thought if 2500/3500 were "heavy-duty", then a Colorado would be Med. duty!

To the OP.....where did you see it had a 4.10 ratio only? Was it the order form? If you know for a fact, then I can't really explain why....but, if you saw it on the order form or something similar, then it could likely be wrong. The order form for the LML's originally said it was a "dual-turbo"!! I found this: "A locking rear differential is available on 2WD models and 4WD models. Additionally, three rear-end gear ratios are available for V-8 models: 3.42:1, 3.73:1 and 4.10:1; four- and five-cylinder models have a standard 3.73 rear axle.".....here: http://truckszine.com/2011-chevrolet-colorado/ .......but not sure how true it is?

The salesman said those ratios are available for V8s except with the Z71 off road package. I'm wondering why that suspension package requires a 4.10 ratio. Maybe an overheating problem with past two years vehicles and that suspension? Possible running off road there is a airflow problem? Any GM engineers out there?

The salesman said those ratios are available for V8s except with the Z71 off road package. I'm wondering why that suspension package requires a 4.10 ratio. Maybe an overheating problem with past two years vehicles and that suspension? Possible running off road there is a airflow problem? Any GM engineers out there?


You posted this in the medium duty forum, for 4500 and 5500 trucks and bigger. Your aren't going to get a very good response here. Its medium duty, not mid sized.

But to answer your question Z71 is off road package and 4.10 would be a lot better off road then 3.73 or 3.42. I'm sure the truck has slightly bigger tires so deeper gears for the bigger tires.

Yes, 17" wheels/tires are standard with the Z71 package. 18" are available on that V8 Z71 package.

moved to gassers