Staying in Sync

Staying in Sync

 LIFE USED TO be simpler, before the age of computers. Now we wonder how we ever lived without them. Controlling everything from toaster ovens to space shuttles, you can’t get away from these electronic taskmasters. Today, computer software also even comes into play with the hard- ware on pickup trucks, complicating something as straightforward as a suspension lift. 

For instance, StabiliTrack, now standard on all GM Trucks, SUVs and vans sold in the U.S. and Canada, is a sophisticat- ed system that senses the pitch, yawl and wheelspin, and automatically corrects the attitude of the chassis if it appears to be dangerously out of control. It can detect the difference between the steering wheel angle and the direction you’re actually turning and, depending on the situation, applies quick, precise force to the appropriate brakes to help the driver control the vehicle’s direction to help keep it on course.

                                                                                         Trouble is, off-roaders push the envelope of the computer’s definition of what’s “out of control.” And when you factor in a taller ride height on tough terrain, the readouts can become even more extreme, sending off all sorts of silent alarms in the vehicle’s brain box (even though you know everything’s just business-as-usual when heading up that tough trail). So a new suspension lift, such as Pro Comp’s six-incher for ’99 to ’09 GM 2500HD trucks, needs to be just as smart to keep up with the computer, and prevent it from over-reacting to your latest off-road adventure.

That’s why the company engineers gathered a lot of test data to determine precisely when the Stabilitrak kicks on, so they could engineer lift com- ponents to work in sync with the computer. After all, the last thing you probably want is for the brakes to start pumping when you’re scrambling up a rocky slope. Besides keeping the computer happy, Pro Comp’s setup features heavy-duty CNC machined steering knuckles and laser-cut drop-down cross members for improved ground clearance. It also maintains the factory steering and suspen- sion geometry specs to allow for ease of alignment.

The six inches of lift allows use of 35x12.50-tires on 16-inch- plus wheels up to nine inches wide and with up to 5.25 inches backspacing.

                                                                                                                                                                                 This kit is available with a variety of performance shock options including: Fox Racing Shox, MX6 monotube adjustable shocks, or ES9000 gas-charged shocks. There’s also an option for dual shock hoops, to enhance both performance and style. Installation can be completed in as little as half a day using standard shop tools, with no welding or cutting, and minimal track width increase to help keep the tires under the fenders. All of which means that you can upgrade your Chevy HD with a heavy-duty lifted suspension that’s both durable and doable.

1. In addition to a dual setup of Fox Racing Shox, also available are adjustable MX6 monotube ES9000 gas-charged shocks.

2. The tubular traction bars limit axle wrap under heavy loads.

3. The six-inch lift makes room for these Pro Comp Series 6047 chrome-plated alloy rims shod with Xtreme A/Ts (35x12.5R20LT).

4. A skid plate provides protection for the high-clearance cross member.

5. Kit includes drop-down brackets for the traction bars.

6. A drop-down bracket for the rear bump stop makes up for the extra travel of the lifted suspension.

7. With the skid plate removed, the stout, high-clearance cross member is clearly visible.

8. The swaybar endlinks feature new fit- tings for additional articulation to minimize binding and increase durability.

9. A tubular upper A-arm is included with the dual-shock hoop. The spindle features the latest in knuckle technology for improved steering with a low scrub ratio.