Suspension & Steering | 1992-2000 GM 6.5L Detroit

From 1992 to 2000, GM made significant improvements to their 6.5L diesel-powered trucks, transitioning from the older 6.2L diesel to a more powerful and capable engine. Introducing a turbocharger in the 6.5L diesel provided a noticeable boost in power and torque, addressing the performance limitations of the naturally aspirated 6.2L that came before it.

Among that, these also saw improvements in the steering and suspension systems. The most significant is the shift to independent front suspension on all four wheel drive models. This started in 1988 and continued through this era for all models including the 3500 series pickups.

The IFS system with torsion bars improved ride quality and handling compared to the older straight axles used before and in other competitors' trucks like Dodge and Ford. For the two wheel drive models, GM used coil-sprung IFS suspension, but on the rear, they were all equipped with a solid rear axle and leaf springs to handle towing and heavy duty tasks.

Although the ride quality improved when switching to IFS, the number of moving parts increased. Therefore, more frequent maintenance was required for parts like ball joints, pitman arms, and idler arms that were prone to wear. Other known wear items on these trucks were the steering gear box and upper control arms.

The stock steering gear box in these trucks can be worn enough that drivers will experience a lack of steering response, particularly in lifted models. Upgrading to one of Red-Head’s steering gear boxes allows you to turn smoother and increases the response of your steering wheel. These also allow you to retain the factory pitman arm and come with pre-drilled, optional hydraulic assist ports, for those looking to upgrade down the road.

Along with upgrading the steering box to improve responsiveness, it’s also important to consider the alignment components to ensure proper handling. Stock 1992-2000 GM trucks come with alignment cam bolts, which can bend or crush over time, making proper alignment difficult. Upgrading to Kryptonite’s alignment cam pins is an essential upgrade.

These pins are durable and adjustable, making them ideal for upgraded and lifted trucks. These pins allow for control over camber and caster angles which also help aid in steering response and handling. And for those of you who are towing, you’re more than likely experiencing the classic “sag” in the rear suspension. The rear straight axle with leaf springs can only handle so much.

To address this sagging issue and to improve your suspension performance, upgrading to a reliable system like Pacbrake’s Alpha HD kit is a smart choice. An air spring kit like this will provide better braking when towing, load handling for those who tow heavy, and keep a safe, level ride when on the clock.

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