Dear Truck Trend,
I agree to a point that GMC should build this truck. It's a feasible option from a marketing standpoint. However, from a different perspective, since most of the truck is production-based, except for the bed and front clip, my suggestion to GMC is to offer it in all three bed lengths with the bed boxes as an option; retain the rear bumper treatment; modify the stock front bumper to achieve similar ground clearance (cover to the bottom of the front frame horns and raise up to the smile configuration with a visible front skidplate from the front of the frame down to the front crossmember); add the 3-inch suspension lift package to accommodate 35- to 37-inch tires; and then market it. This would follow in the spirit of the competition's offerings and keep the tooling cost down for the manufacturer. The suspension system, wheel and tire, and high-clearance bumper package alone would boost sales beyond expectations. So, yes, GMC, build it, offer it as an off-road/work package with a 6.0-liter gas engine or the 6.6-liter diesel with gear ratios including 3.73:1, 4.11:1, or 4.56:1, and all three bed sizes and cab configurations (regular, extended, and crew). Offer it in a half-ton with a 9.5-inch rear axle or a 3/4- or one-ton with the appropriate rear axles. Keep the half-ton an eight-lug (like the 1500 Heavy Duty from a few years ago) and use the same front axle in all versions. A credible factory designed and built GM truck has been missing from the market for too long!
Chris Cuzynski
Alta Loma, Califonia
Dear Reader,
Those all sound like great ideas! Instead of limiting it to one truck