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I have a 2002 ext cab z71. I would like to put on 6 inch lift and 35 inch tires. I continue to hear you dont want to go larger than 35 inch tires on a half ton, and ideally no larger than 33's. Is the problem just the axles? Would getting beefier axles take care of the problem of the larger tires? Or are their additional concerns on the half ton vs the larger truck? Thanks.
It all depends on what you plan on doing with the truck once you have the lift and tires on. If its more for looks and you dont plan on flogging it in the mud or try to climb mountains you should be fine. Ive seen guys around me running 44s on half tons they just dont get them off road. Even if you do intend to use your truck off road with the lift as long as you drive sensably you will be fine.
Alot of people have problems sending their 10 bolt readends that come on the halftons to the gear graveyard when they get larger tires. Like TFP mentioned above it has alot to do with your intentions after having the truck lifted. I have an OBS 1/2 with 35" boggers that I went through 10 bolt rearends every year or more often but I also drove the thing like it was a tank and challenged it to do things it shouldnt of ever been thought of.
Other things that factor into this is exactly what tires you are going to run, on my older 1/2 ton when i had 35" BFG AT on it, never had a problem, but any of the bias ply swampers, boggers, etc and I was back under the truck pulling the covers. Im not sure if it has to do with the added weight or what.
Also your front end components will wear prematurely and frequently, tie rods, balljoints, idler and pitman arm etc.
mainly its the Chevy IFS that wears out very quickly when you slap on large tires.
I have seen guys run 38's on their 10 bolts for a long time with no problems, its kinda hit or miss and it goes back to driving habits and whats you are doing with the truck.
A 6" with 35's if done properly should'nt give you too much trouble
I had 35's on my truck for a while and now have 37's and my steering system is holding up pretty well. I've had it offroad a few times and i drive it pretty hard, but i think the main thing to making your steering components last is a good alignment and try to NEVER dry-steer.
Thanks, i will go ahead with the 6" and 35's with little concern. It will be taken off road, but not often, and not driven very hard. Mainly, i just enjoy having a lifted truck. I like the driving position its nice to beable to see whats going on way up ahead. Tires that i'm thinking about are like a toyo open country m/t. Thanks again!