I agree with ya man. I cant believe they took it out honestly. They have the 4WD auto option which I love, but 4 low should always be there... I am glad I got the Z71 option so I do have 4 low... I'd rather have it and not need it, than need it and not have it..
Yes exactly correct. I use 4wd lo every time I am backing my boat into the boat shed. Reason being is it’s geared so low I can creep it back slowly without spinning the tires. This is critical because it’s much more difficult to push a 7300lbs boat backwards up a hill that’s covered in gravel than pull. When I’m 4hi by the time the truck starts to move it spins. And 2wd just forget it couldn’t pull it out of the water with that.
Just saw a clip of an old 2wd Chevelle with posi track pulling a boat up the ramp with not much struggle, but the driver’s probably experienced to pull that off.
@@vr4787 Yup, I’ve seen 2wd get it done but normally they are smaller boats. Depends on the slope of the ramp, how far you have to put the trailer in, and if you have to get your wheels wet.
Terrain mode can do that quite well, it mimics the the low speed crawl without the torque multiplication. In the scenario described you need the slow movement not really the torque multiplication as the engine provides more than enough power in 1st gear. I would still prefer a 4 low but terrain mode does work well for my needs.
Strange. I have the 3.0 Duramax 1500 and it has no problem ripping my boat out of the water. I don't even put it in 4wd at all most of the time, unless the dock is wet. Which it almost never is since I don't go boating when it's raining..
Pulling a boat up a slippery ramp is another chance to use 4x4 low. Hockey reference was funny, we don't have hockey in the South. Then I remembered you are in Canada.
This is something potential GM truck buyers need to be aware of. Low range is not standard in all of their 4WD trucks. It is only available on the Z71 package, the Trail Boss, and surprisingly, the High Country. I actually with they had low range in 2WD which would be useful in slow speed, heavy load movement where you don't want to put excess wear on your transfer case. And most people probably never use low range. It's one of those things you don't miss until you don't have it.
Thank you for explaining the Gears in Low 4×4. My 2021 Z-71 3500 Silverado. Took a Load of Firewood up to brother in Laws cabin on top of are Mountain Pass, my inlaws like being able to just walk to ski area. Anyway we had heavy rains in lowlands, so Pass was very deep snow. The Freeway was cleared, but the County and local backhoe guy had not cleared out access to my brother in laws place. I started up the first incline street to his culd a sac in 4×4 High, the snow was up to running board, just started spinning. I backed back down. Stopped put in 4×4 LOW and used manual shift. I walked through that DEEP snow like no tomorrow. Very impressive. All my previous Pickups have been FORDS. This is my first off road type truck. I have taken her to are States Ocean beaches were we can drive next to surf. Went in deep sand that was very SOFT not hard packed, I thought I was stuck but like video says, in manual its the TORK that threw me, the Silverado was SLOWLY moving through deep soft sand, I just thought I was stuck. So happy on mine that the 2021 has the 4×4 OFF on the top control instead of the newer ones having AUTO on that controller, just my personal preference. Love the Duramax Allison, the milage is double what my GASSER Ford 10 cylinder got in city stop and go traffic. And it blows me away on freeway driving. Never have had a Pickup especially the 1 Ton that gets the MPG that this Chevy gets. Hope that GM doesn't do away with 4×4 Low on any model that has 4 by 4. In my Humble opinion I think for any part of USA that gets SNOW the customer will need 4×4 LOW at some time especially when there is a winter ❄️ season every year.
I was surprised to find out that my 2022 GMC Sierra with 3,0 Duramax and max tow package did not have 4 low. I think maybe it’s fine to take it out in certain car-ish configurations, but not having it with the max towing package? Ridiculous
I just got a brand new 2024 Sierra 1500 and was shocked to not find the 4WL button on the dash. I pull 2 heavy horses up a gravel drive to leave property and have used this function for years. I sure hope this 4WH with traction control can do the job. I have never had a 4WD vehicle without 4WL. I did not know that was a thing.
I couldn't believe it when I first heard about it a while back but then realized its actually true that the low range does not come standard in a four wheel drive half ton GM truck. All that is doing is pushing customers to Ford or Ram for a half ton equipped with a two speed transfer case as well as reducing resale value of all those GM half tons that are on the road with no low range. That's my view point as there is no way I would knowingly buy a 4x4 truck with no low range. Jeep years back already was pulling this stunt with some of their vehicles, some Grand Cherokees, even some of the old Wagoneers etc with no low range. An example was some years ago I met a couple of families that had flown into Denver and rented 2 Grand Cherokees and they headed into the back country where I happened to also be and it was then on the trail they realized WTF, wheres low range !!!. On the easy part of the trail both of their auto transmissions overheated ( the high temp light came on ) and when they got to the start of the trail where you NEED 4low, their torque converters stalled out as there is no way it could climb the hill and that was with the V8 hemi they had. So even Jeep of all companies have done this. Ironically I was driving a GM half ton and went up no problem in 4 low of course.
We have the single speed transfer case on our non-Z71 '21 Silverado. We use it to tow a camper, but we only stay at campgrounds with full hookups where 2WD class A or class C motorhomes have no problem maneuvering, and the rest of the time it's on pavement. We did "boondock" with the camper twice when we first got it, and the combination of 4HI, the G80 rear differential, and 1st gear made climbing relatively steep, wet, grassy hills to get to level ground no problem, even on the stock Michelin Primacy all season tires. If I were plowing snow or had to maneuver on loose, uneven surfaces with heavier loads, though, I definitely would see the merit of having 4LOW. It's odd that the current GM max tow packages don't include a 2-speed transfer case; that I don't understand.
Have owned several gm vehicles over the years and can only recall maybe 2 times I had to use 4low, most people don't even have a clue how to use a 4wd let alone any use of any kind of low speed in a transfer case. You don't need 4low to impress your neighbor when your picking up groceries or the mail down the street.
I agree that majority don’t use 4low however I myself am a farmer and use mine very often pulling nurse tanks in excess of 20 thousand lbs with a half ton it’s never more than a few miles at a time but still much needed nonetheless.I would never own a truck without it
I have a 22 Power Wagon, Manual shift lever. Wish it had locking hubs instead of diff actuator. Maybe when out of warranty, and front end goes south, Aftermarket diff assembly.
I'm glad you told me that I will never buy a truck with out 4 low but I use a truck for work not to go to Walmart that is the problem with all new trucks there trying to make them into car and all that does is make them cost more and make them less worth buying a new one for work I wish you could just get a new truck that was as simple as a old truck no tech just all work
In my raptor with the 10 speed there's so many gears that you practically wont need 4lo. That being said when on rocky trails (Not common place for the average truck), some sand situations, and the situations you mentioned its nice to have the option. Its also a nice piece of mind to have 4lo on boat ramps. Especially when they get icy.
That's what they said when they put Granny gears in manual transmission 4x4s... Guess what those ended up getting 4low too. You already made it 4wd, and they already make a 2spd tcase... Nothing new has to be invented
@@chrisurfer83 Those old trucks with the granny gear and low range were amazing to drive. You could idle up just about anything. Even on a slight hill the truck would come to a stop when shifting from 1st to 2nd because 1st was geared so low (when in low range).
My 2023 3.0 LZ0 with max tow package. So 3.73 gears. In all reality going forward four-wheel-drive low is not needed. In reverse I would love to have it like my old truck. Because I back my trailer into a spot that uphill and in rocks four-wheel-drive low makes it so much easier and more control.
I do maintenance on remote Radar / Communication sites, very poor conditions and very steep at times….4Low keeps my 2018 Tahoe from trashing my back, it’s suspension and it’s brakes on the way back down.
well, I guess I'm that guy... got this truck in elevation, didn't notice that there was no 4-low. I was skeptical of the 4-cyl turbo, but convinced myself after the test drive and thinking I'l have some savings in fuel cost. I live in Quebec in the country and I'm not comfortable not having the low. I've yet to NEED it, but, manI certainly have needed it a few times a year in the past...
Terrain mode will help with that. It might not work be as good as 4 low but I've used it with a trailer from parked on a steep hill and it kept it from rolling back.
Went from an awd suv to a 2020 sierra I don’t think I’ll need 4low bc I don’t tow mainly swapped bc I needed the bed so I wouldn’t ruin the interior when I go to home depot for concrete bags or lumbar
Low range was a $200 option on my 2022 GMC. It would have been a deal breaker for me to not have low range. I got mine in the lowest level Pro model and it also has the G80 rear locker and the 3.42 axle..
For kicks and giggles I went to GMC's site and configured a pro trim truck. 2 speed transfer case is still there for 2024 as a 200$ option so I'm not really sure what the problem is.
Typical GM, cheaping their trucks bit by bit. No 4x4 low was one reason I bought a ram back in 2019, and the amount of money they wanted to get into a 6.2 was nuts.
I have a 2wd. I wish I had 4wd in my truck when I had got stuck in some deep ass gravel rocks. G80 and 3.42 gears didn't even help. Getting a 4wd in the future.
I’ve been driving for over 30 years, and have not once used 4-low. I have spent a lot of time in the woods hunting, fishing, camping, and just having fun. If you are a serious off-roader, then sure, get something with 4-low.
Also, when you have this type of set-up without the low 4WD - you lose the neutral setting for flat towing. You can't flat tow an AWD vehicle without neutral. You are right - not a heavy-duty truck with the short bed anyway.
2 years in, I'd take auto 4wd over 4Low for a daily/street/tow rig any day. I've had exactly 1 instance where Low range would have helped, while I've spent a combined 5 months running Auto4.
Terrain Mode, off road mode and using L1 or L2 in those modes seem to mimic the 4wd Lo for this type of truck (LT trims). If it was an off-road model like a Trail Boss or better then yeah needs 4wd Lo
You never mentioned anything about the 10-speed transmissions. Is it possible they started to nix 4LO in several trims after the 10-speed was released simply because it's simply just redundant now with how short the first couple gears are?
I wouldn't buy a truck without low range. I use it to get out of the sand with my 5th wheel at glamis, or get up steep campground hills with the 5th wheel. Without it, I bury in the sand. Without it, I am up on the stall of the converter of campground hills and the truck is pissed. Granted, I don't know if this "option" exists on the 3500 trucks.
I found your video because I was trying to figure out how to put my 2023 silverado 1500 into 4 low... Excellent video, and you're right, I've owned the truck a year and finally had a reason to use 4 low.... I'm gonna be putting my boat in the water this weekend, and it's a pretty steep and rough launch. I will see how 4 high with terrain mode works tomorrow morning. I just assumed the goddamn thing had 4 low.... Pretty pissed off that I didn't realize this when I bought the truck....
I have a 23 colorado LT with the l3b and it only has 4 hi not 4 lo which id prefer having 4 lo as well but not a huge deal for me as id only ever use 4 high anyways
My only off road use case is driving in sand on the beach. I probably would he fine only having 4hi most of the time…. But I would much rather have 4lo and not need it, then need it and not have it. 4lo can be crucial to get unstuck in certain conditions. Any serious 4wd vehicle should have 4lo imo.
I don’t think you’re able to get the X31 package with the 2.7L. Pretty sure they make you upgrade the engine to 5.3 or 3.0, and it also adds some other stuff. Kinda sucks if you want a budget truck with the 2.7 that has some off-road upgrades.
Igwt the fact that so many people buy trucks, especially the loaded ones and will never use them as a truck so auto 4x4/high is fine but to not offer max towing package with 4x4 low in the lower trims for working towing people is criminal. But, it’s gm so nothing they do surprises me anymore. Old bow tie til they die guys that have passed must be rolling in their graves
I have a 2024 gmc sierra elevation, without 4wd low, it fits my needs perfectly, I’ve had a lot of 4wd trucks in my 66 years, lol I can count on one hand how many times I’ve used 4wd low. So my single speed transfer case suits me fine,
GM never fails to do something incredibly stupid. Its like policy with each model of vehicle, that GM wont let it off the drawing table until they've done at least one dickheaded design addition or omit.
It's scary, but not. Truck culture is weird and evolving. 90% of half-tons on the road are used for commuting, grocery getting, and maybe a single Ikea run a year. I'm not knocking it. My daily is a half ton. My tow pig is a 3500 SRW. I'm just stating facts.
Honestly, a good full time AWD would be better for a lot of truck drivers. Faster response to changing road conditions and less cost and weight in the truck. I like it how GM has it. Save the 4x4 low for the off road packages.
Even though I do not offroad, I would never buy a truck without 4L. Anyone who has ever towed at elevation has used it to control your descent on extreme grades, or ease the burden on the driveline on extreme climbs. A truck without it is simply a grocery getter.
What you are forgetting is that the new 10 speed has an almost 5:1 first and reverse (4.7 1st / 4.9 rev) - vs the old 3/4 speed autos that only had a 3:1 first/rev gear. With a 2:1 reduction via the torque converter, you really don’t need low range anymore for a street rig with a 10 speed auto. Put it in 1st and pull stumps with 430-460 ft lbs of torque on tap. You are fretting over nothing.
I took my 3.0 diesel Silverado up a Jeep trail this past weekend and found 4low to be too jerky with all the torque from the engine. I was able to easily climb very steep areas in just 4hi. Transmission temps did climb to 210 pretty quickly.
GREAT VIDEO LOOKING FOR THIS VIDEO, THINKING OF BUYING NEW 2.7 1500 SILVERADO, PISSED ME OFF, ONLY COMPANY TO DO THAT TERRAIN MODE, MAN OH MAN ARE THEY CHEAP, DODGE OR FORD DOES NOT DO THAT.....I LOVE GM ....THEY ARE CHEAP...OK!!!!, THX FOR INFO!!!!!
If you go to Options when you build the truck online, you can select the full setup for $200 on the 2024 models. It is under Mechanical Options, titled 2-speed Autotrac Transfer Case.
Please. Stop trying to over rationalize this. GM did it to increase profit margins. It allows them to charge the same money for less product and charge premium money just to get what you want. And it’s up to us as consumers to NOT let them get away with this.
Nowadays with the 10 speed transmission, plus how much torque modern engines produce, theres not much of a point to have 4low for most people. Driving on sand, snow or some mud and 1st gear in high will be more than enough. If you want to rock crawl then maybe a pickup truck isn’t the best choice in the first place? 4 low would be good to have for that “just in case” scenario. But in reality it’s mostly unnecessary for the vast majority of people.
GM didn't take away your 4WD Low. It is still available, even in lower trim models. All they've done is add a lower end 4WD option. This isn't that different than most of the AWD SUVs that have been lacking low range for decades. These are not marketed as hardcore off-roaders, the AT4, AT4X, Trail Boss, and ZR2 fill that segment. The X31 or RST package (in the US) are really just a value option packages for those wanting the big boy truck look and some capability at a lower price. If you call yourself a truck person and unknowingly buy a 4WD full size truck without 4WD Low and don't figure it out until you get stuck, that's kinda on you. Also, let's not forget, there's plenty of "truck stuff" that can be done with a plain old 2WD pickup. GM just offered another option, options are good.
Another move toward a ridge line like vehicle. Pathetic! I use low every time I pull it on ramps for an oil change for extra control and when traversing creeks or ditches while off road to keep a constant momentum.
Unfortunately people like you are becoming the exception. The VAST majority of half ton owners are mall crawling, lifted bro-dozer, grocery getting, commuters. I don't like it either, and I think it's stupid of GM to do this, but I ALMOST see where they are coming from. I said almost.
These people who look at trucks and make their comments off the wall they're definitely not experts in the vehicle just listen to him you can tell them making half the stuff up talk to an expert before you listen to these guys I can find something about everyone that's wrong summer's right but listen to him all they're guessing you're motes yourself
There are two kinds of truck people, those who have a two speed transfer case and those who are going to wish they did!
I mean I live in the suburbs. 99% of the people who drive them out here consider the forest road to their cabin off roading.
💯
There are definitely people who need it but they are probably 7-10% of truck buyers.
“PART” time 4-WD with “4-LOW” a must also FLOOR SHIFT LEVER !!! No Rotary switch !!!!
If you get the x31 package you get 4hi and 4low
Terrain mode mimics the low speed crawl of a 4low just without the torque multiplication. It works great when maneuvering a trailer on a steep hill.
Glad to know this. Thanks!
This makes me feel better, but still wish I had 4W low
I agree with ya man. I cant believe they took it out honestly. They have the 4WD auto option which I love, but 4 low should always be there... I am glad I got the Z71 option so I do have 4 low... I'd rather have it and not need it, than need it and not have it..
I totally agree with 4low for towing. Use it for pulling camper up big hill at camp and it helps a ton. Great video as always too!
Yes exactly correct. I use 4wd lo every time I am backing my boat into the boat shed. Reason being is it’s geared so low I can creep it back slowly without spinning the tires. This is critical because it’s much more difficult to push a 7300lbs boat backwards up a hill that’s covered in gravel than pull. When I’m 4hi by the time the truck starts to move it spins. And 2wd just forget it couldn’t pull it out of the water with that.
Just saw a clip of an old 2wd Chevelle with posi track pulling a boat up the ramp with not much struggle, but the driver’s probably experienced to pull that off.
Me too, I use it when hooking up and backing our caravan into a tight spot.
@@vr4787 Yup, I’ve seen 2wd get it done but normally they are smaller boats. Depends on the slope of the ramp, how far you have to put the trailer in, and if you have to get your wheels wet.
Terrain mode can do that quite well, it mimics the the low speed crawl without the torque multiplication. In the scenario described you need the slow movement not really the torque multiplication as the engine provides more than enough power in 1st gear. I would still prefer a 4 low but terrain mode does work well for my needs.
Strange. I have the 3.0 Duramax 1500 and it has no problem ripping my boat out of the water. I don't even put it in 4wd at all most of the time, unless the dock is wet. Which it almost never is since I don't go boating when it's raining..
Pulling a boat up a slippery ramp is another chance to use 4x4 low. Hockey reference was funny, we don't have hockey in the South. Then I remembered you are in Canada.
On current GM trucks, If you get the Z71 on Chevy or X31 on GMC, it adds a 2 speed transfer case and a Eaton locker in the rear end.
This is something potential GM truck buyers need to be aware of. Low range is not standard in all of their 4WD trucks. It is only available on the Z71 package, the Trail Boss, and surprisingly, the High Country. I actually with they had low range in 2WD which would be useful in slow speed, heavy load movement where you don't want to put excess wear on your transfer case. And most people probably never use low range. It's one of those things you don't miss until you don't have it.
Thank you for explaining the Gears in Low 4×4. My 2021 Z-71 3500 Silverado. Took a Load of Firewood up to brother in Laws cabin on top of are Mountain Pass, my inlaws like being able to just walk to ski area. Anyway we had heavy rains in lowlands, so Pass was very deep snow. The Freeway was cleared, but the County and local backhoe guy had not cleared out access to my brother in laws place. I started up the first incline street to his culd a sac in 4×4 High, the snow was up to running board, just started spinning. I backed back down. Stopped put in 4×4 LOW and used manual shift. I walked through that DEEP snow like no tomorrow. Very impressive. All my previous Pickups have been FORDS. This is my first off road type truck. I have taken her to are States Ocean beaches were we can drive next to surf. Went in deep sand that was very SOFT not hard packed, I thought I was stuck but like video says, in manual its the TORK that threw me, the Silverado was SLOWLY moving through deep soft sand, I just thought I was stuck. So happy on mine that the 2021 has the 4×4 OFF on the top control instead of the newer ones having AUTO on that controller, just my personal preference. Love the Duramax Allison, the milage is double what my GASSER Ford 10 cylinder got in city stop and go traffic. And it blows me away on freeway driving.
Never have had a Pickup especially the
1 Ton that gets the MPG that this Chevy gets. Hope that GM doesn't do away with 4×4 Low on any model that has 4 by 4. In my Humble opinion I think for any part of USA that gets SNOW the customer will need 4×4 LOW at some time especially when there is a winter ❄️ season every year.
I was surprised to find out that my 2022 GMC Sierra with 3,0 Duramax and max tow package did not have 4 low. I think maybe it’s fine to take it out in certain car-ish configurations, but not having it with the max towing package? Ridiculous
I just got a brand new 2024 Sierra 1500 and was shocked to not find the 4WL button on the dash. I pull 2 heavy horses up a gravel drive to leave property and have used this function for years. I sure hope this 4WH with traction control can do the job. I have never had a 4WD vehicle without 4WL. I did not know that was a thing.
I couldn't believe it when I first heard about it a while back but then realized its actually true that the low range does not come standard in a four wheel drive half ton GM truck. All that is doing is pushing customers to Ford or Ram for a half ton equipped with a two speed transfer case as well as reducing resale value of all those GM half tons that are on the road with no low range. That's my view point as there is no way I would knowingly buy a 4x4 truck with no low range. Jeep years back already was pulling this stunt with some of their vehicles, some Grand Cherokees, even some of the old Wagoneers etc with no low range. An example was some years ago I met a couple of families that had flown into Denver and rented 2 Grand Cherokees and they headed into the back country where I happened to also be and it was then on the trail they realized WTF, wheres low range !!!. On the easy part of the trail both of their auto transmissions overheated ( the high temp light came on ) and when they got to the start of the trail where you NEED 4low, their torque converters stalled out as there is no way it could climb the hill and that was with the V8 hemi they had. So even Jeep of all companies have done this. Ironically I was driving a GM half ton and went up no problem in 4 low of course.
GM is a joke. Has been for a very long time.
Perfect explanation and analysis, i use mine pulling my boat up my steep gravel switchback driveway ,several times a year.
Your videos are always so good. I really like how scientific you are and the way you explain things. Please keep making videos.
Honestly I never used it but definitely glad to have it
We have the single speed transfer case on our non-Z71 '21 Silverado. We use it to tow a camper, but we only stay at campgrounds with full hookups where 2WD class A or class C motorhomes have no problem maneuvering, and the rest of the time it's on pavement. We did "boondock" with the camper twice when we first got it, and the combination of 4HI, the G80 rear differential, and 1st gear made climbing relatively steep, wet, grassy hills to get to level ground no problem, even on the stock Michelin Primacy all season tires. If I were plowing snow or had to maneuver on loose, uneven surfaces with heavier loads, though, I definitely would see the merit of having 4LOW. It's odd that the current GM max tow packages don't include a 2-speed transfer case; that I don't understand.
I use 4 low at least a few times a year on my Ram 2500 Cummins. Wouldn’t buy a truck without a low range.
Have owned several gm vehicles over the years and can only recall maybe 2 times I had to use 4low, most people don't even have a clue how to use a 4wd let alone any use of any kind of low speed in a transfer case. You don't need 4low to impress your neighbor when your picking up groceries or the mail down the street.
I had a 2008 Chevrolet Silverado and I can only remember 1 time that I used 4 wheel low. But at that time I did need.
I agree that majority don’t use 4low however I myself am a farmer and use mine very often pulling nurse tanks in excess of 20 thousand lbs with a half ton it’s never more than a few miles at a time but still much needed nonetheless.I would never own a truck without it
I have a 22 Power Wagon, Manual shift lever. Wish it had locking hubs instead of diff actuator. Maybe when out of warranty, and front end goes south, Aftermarket diff assembly.
I'm glad you told me that I will never buy a truck with out 4 low but I use a truck for work not to go to Walmart that is the problem with all new trucks there trying to make them into car and all that does is make them cost more and make them less worth buying a new one for work I wish you could just get a new truck that was as simple as a old truck no tech just all work
In my raptor with the 10 speed there's so many gears that you practically wont need 4lo. That being said when on rocky trails (Not common place for the average truck), some sand situations, and the situations you mentioned its nice to have the option. Its also a nice piece of mind to have 4lo on boat ramps. Especially when they get icy.
That's what they said when they put Granny gears in manual transmission 4x4s... Guess what those ended up getting 4low too.
You already made it 4wd, and they already make a 2spd tcase... Nothing new has to be invented
@@chrisurfer83 Those old trucks with the granny gear and low range were amazing to drive. You could idle up just about anything. Even on a slight hill the truck would come to a stop when shifting from 1st to 2nd because 1st was geared so low (when in low range).
@chrisurfer83 Not all manual transmissions vehicles have a granny gear. Jeeps have never used granny gears so they need 4 low.
My 2023 3.0 LZ0 with max tow package. So 3.73 gears. In all reality going forward four-wheel-drive low is not needed. In reverse I would love to have it like my old truck. Because I back my trailer into a spot that uphill and in rocks four-wheel-drive low makes it so much easier and more control.
One of many reasons why i wont own another gm.
GREAT VIDEO , I AM AN OLD MAN OLD THINKING, BUT I LOVE CHEVY TRUCKS!!!!!,
I do maintenance on remote Radar / Communication sites, very poor conditions and very steep at times….4Low keeps my 2018 Tahoe from trashing my back, it’s suspension and it’s brakes on the way back down.
well, I guess I'm that guy... got this truck in elevation, didn't notice that there was no 4-low. I was skeptical of the 4-cyl turbo, but convinced myself after the test drive and thinking I'l have some savings in fuel cost. I live in Quebec in the country and I'm not comfortable not having the low. I've yet to NEED it, but, manI certainly have needed it a few times a year in the past...
A heavy boat on a slick ramp your gonna need it
Terrain mode will help with that. It might not work be as good as 4 low but I've used it with a trailer from parked on a steep hill and it kept it from rolling back.
Went from an awd suv to a 2020 sierra I don’t think I’ll need 4low bc I don’t tow mainly swapped bc I needed the bed so I wouldn’t ruin the interior when I go to home depot for concrete bags or lumbar
Low range was a $200 option on my 2022 GMC. It would have been a deal breaker for me to not have low range. I got mine in the lowest level Pro model and it also has the G80 rear locker and the 3.42 axle..
For kicks and giggles I went to GMC's site and configured a pro trim truck. 2 speed transfer case is still there for 2024 as a 200$ option so I'm not really sure what the problem is.
The only time that I actually use four low is in tight places where speed needs to be kept to a minimum
Typical GM, cheaping their trucks bit by bit. No 4x4 low was one reason I bought a ram back in 2019, and the amount of money they wanted to get into a 6.2 was nuts.
I have a 2wd. I wish I had 4wd in my truck when I had got stuck in some deep ass gravel rocks. G80 and 3.42 gears didn't even help. Getting a 4wd in the future.
I’ve been driving for over 30 years, and have not once used 4-low. I have spent a lot of time in the woods hunting, fishing, camping, and just having fun. If you are a serious off-roader, then sure, get something with 4-low.
Also, when you have this type of set-up without the low 4WD - you lose the neutral setting for flat towing. You can't flat tow an AWD vehicle without neutral. You are right - not a heavy-duty truck with the short bed anyway.
2 years in, I'd take auto 4wd over 4Low for a daily/street/tow rig any day. I've had exactly 1 instance where Low range would have helped, while I've spent a combined 5 months running Auto4.
tahoe and suburbans have a one speed transfer case , 2 speed with the factory tow package which very few dealers order , so no luck finding a used one
I don’t even use 4low when I plow snow…
Got a ram 2500 6.4. I use my 4 low a couple of times a year. The main use would be. On muddy farm roads with controled hill desent.
I have a ram 2500 and there have been a few time 4 low saved me with a big heavy trailer
I don't often need it my 15 Sierra z71 crew but I know it's always there. Same with the adjustable pedals. Gm cost cutting at its finest.
Terrain Mode, off road mode and using L1 or L2 in those modes seem to mimic the 4wd Lo for this type of truck (LT trims). If it was an off-road model like a Trail Boss or better then yeah needs 4wd Lo
You never mentioned anything about the 10-speed transmissions. Is it possible they started to nix 4LO in several trims after the 10-speed was released simply because it's simply just redundant now with how short the first couple gears are?
I think most truck owners don't need it.....I've had 4x4 in my trucks for yrs but don't ever recall needing 4Lo,have never used it
I wouldn't buy a truck without low range. I use it to get out of the sand with my 5th wheel at glamis, or get up steep campground hills with the 5th wheel. Without it, I bury in the sand. Without it, I am up on the stall of the converter of campground hills and the truck is pissed. Granted, I don't know if this "option" exists on the 3500 trucks.
Great video and explanation!
I use low range when backing up to hook up my caravan. ( Nissan Patrol).
I found your video because I was trying to figure out how to put my 2023 silverado 1500 into 4 low...
Excellent video, and you're right, I've owned the truck a year and finally had a reason to use 4 low.... I'm gonna be putting my boat in the water this weekend, and it's a pretty steep and rough launch. I will see how 4 high with terrain mode works tomorrow morning. I just assumed the goddamn thing had 4 low.... Pretty pissed off that I didn't realize this when I bought the truck....
The 4 wheel drive with terrain mode Works pretty good, very pleased. Is it as good as 4 low? No, but it's probably 90% as good
I have a 23 colorado LT with the l3b and it only has 4 hi not 4 lo which id prefer having 4 lo as well but not a huge deal for me as id only ever use 4 high anyways
My only off road use case is driving in sand on the beach. I probably would he fine only having 4hi most of the time…. But I would much rather have 4lo and not need it, then need it and not have it. 4lo can be crucial to get unstuck in certain conditions. Any serious 4wd vehicle should have 4lo imo.
If you get the x31 package you get the 2speed transfer case.
I don’t think you’re able to get the X31 package with the 2.7L. Pretty sure they make you upgrade the engine to 5.3 or 3.0, and it also adds some other stuff. Kinda sucks if you want a budget truck with the 2.7 that has some off-road upgrades.
@@MetalMike81 yea you can’t, I saw that after I posted this
Classic case of better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it. Not good GMC. Tsk tsk.
Igwt the fact that so many people buy trucks, especially the loaded ones and will never use them as a truck so auto 4x4/high is fine but to not offer max towing package with 4x4 low in the lower trims for working towing people is criminal. But, it’s gm so nothing they do surprises me anymore. Old bow tie til they die guys that have passed must be rolling in their graves
My Z71 has the 2 speed transfer case.
I have a 2024 gmc sierra elevation, without 4wd low, it fits my needs perfectly, I’ve had a lot of 4wd trucks in my 66 years, lol I can count on one hand how many times I’ve used 4wd low. So my single speed transfer case suits me fine,
Pulling a boat out of the water on a slippery ramp you'll wish you had 4wd low when you gas it up and all you get is wheel spin...
GM never fails to do something incredibly stupid. Its like policy with each model of vehicle, that GM wont let it off the drawing table until they've done at least one dickheaded design addition or omit.
Subaru had low range in the 70s, early 80s. Scary to realize that we've become so soft as to not even need it in a truck
It's scary, but not. Truck culture is weird and evolving. 90% of half-tons on the road are used for commuting, grocery getting, and maybe a single Ikea run a year. I'm not knocking it. My daily is a half ton. My tow pig is a 3500 SRW. I'm just stating facts.
its a 4x4 4wd low should be included period regardless which model you buy they want you to bump up price
Honestly, a good full time AWD would be better for a lot of truck drivers. Faster response to changing road conditions and less cost and weight in the truck. I like it how GM has it. Save the 4x4 low for the off road packages.
Even though I do not offroad, I would never buy a truck without 4L. Anyone who has ever towed at elevation has used it to control your descent on extreme grades, or ease the burden on the driveline on extreme climbs. A truck without it is simply a grocery getter.
What you are forgetting is that the new 10 speed has an almost 5:1 first and reverse (4.7 1st / 4.9 rev) - vs the old 3/4 speed autos that only had a 3:1 first/rev gear. With a 2:1 reduction via the torque converter, you really don’t need low range anymore for a street rig with a 10 speed auto. Put it in 1st and pull stumps with 430-460 ft lbs of torque on tap. You are fretting over nothing.
I took my 3.0 diesel Silverado up a Jeep trail this past weekend and found 4low to be too jerky with all the torque from the engine. I was able to easily climb very steep areas in just 4hi. Transmission temps did climb to 210 pretty quickly.
Anything with the turbomax is an 8 speed
great video!
Is this something you can get done aftermarket 😭🤔
Ive had several vehicles with drive modes , limited to no difference imo
GREAT VIDEO LOOKING FOR THIS VIDEO, THINKING OF BUYING NEW 2.7 1500 SILVERADO, PISSED ME OFF, ONLY COMPANY TO DO THAT TERRAIN MODE, MAN OH MAN ARE THEY CHEAP, DODGE OR FORD DOES NOT DO THAT.....I LOVE GM ....THEY ARE CHEAP...OK!!!!, THX FOR INFO!!!!!
If you go to Options when you build the truck online, you can select the full setup for $200 on the 2024 models. It is under Mechanical Options, titled 2-speed Autotrac Transfer Case.
Its not a bold strategy from GM its a cost cutting strategy. Full stop.
Yeah, my 23 LT Silverado doesn't have it.
Call me crazy but when my grill is pushing snow I am in low
Chevy needs to stop this crap. If you don't want 4 low get a 2wd truck.
Now it’s no better than an awd suv.
That's not true. It has a true locked 4wd with a locked 50 - 50 split. 4 auto mode is more like an awd SUV.
@@PlayWaves1 no four low is like a littl crossover 🤣
If you don't have four-wheel drive then what is the point in getting on truck
Per my wife
Not really a truck anymore....
If you live on a farm north of the Ohio river you’ve used 4wd low
Asphalt "Queen". Do not use this vehicle for work, for highway ONLY. 😅
Please. Stop trying to over rationalize this. GM did it to increase profit margins. It allows them to charge the same money for less product and charge premium money just to get what you want. And it’s up to us as consumers to NOT let them get away with this.
Nowadays with the 10 speed transmission, plus how much torque modern engines produce, theres not much of a point to have 4low for most people. Driving on sand, snow or some mud and 1st gear in high will be more than enough. If you want to rock crawl then maybe a pickup truck isn’t the best choice in the first place? 4 low would be good to have for that “just in case” scenario. But in reality it’s mostly unnecessary for the vast majority of people.
3/4 TON
GM didn't take away your 4WD Low. It is still available, even in lower trim models. All they've done is add a lower end 4WD option. This isn't that different than most of the AWD SUVs that have been lacking low range for decades. These are not marketed as hardcore off-roaders, the AT4, AT4X, Trail Boss, and ZR2 fill that segment. The X31 or RST package (in the US) are really just a value option packages for those wanting the big boy truck look and some capability at a lower price. If you call yourself a truck person and unknowingly buy a 4WD full size truck without 4WD Low and don't figure it out until you get stuck, that's kinda on you. Also, let's not forget, there's plenty of "truck stuff" that can be done with a plain old 2WD pickup. GM just offered another option, options are good.
Another move toward a ridge line like vehicle. Pathetic! I use low every time I pull it on ramps for an oil change for extra control and when traversing creeks or ditches while off road to keep a constant momentum.
Unfortunately people like you are becoming the exception. The VAST majority of half ton owners are mall crawling, lifted bro-dozer, grocery getting, commuters. I don't like it either, and I think it's stupid of GM to do this, but I ALMOST see where they are coming from. I said almost.
I BOUGHT A 20 1500 CHEVY WITHOUT KNOWING TILL I BOUGHT IT PLEASE WHAT A DIRT BAG COMPANY CHEAP!!!!!
in other words, just buy a Ford F-150 instead? It's been the best selling half ton for years & for good reason
I agree. The lighting has been a fantastic hit and a miss.
These people who look at trucks and make their comments off the wall they're definitely not experts in the vehicle just listen to him you can tell them making half the stuff up talk to an expert before you listen to these guys I can find something about everyone that's wrong summer's right but listen to him all they're guessing you're motes yourself
first comment. ha GOT IT
LOL mall crawler
I’m sure they don’t have lockers either.
You can get a locking rear differential without a 2-speed transfer case.
Mine has one.
Garbage Motors 🗑 🚮