Posted 2015-09-11 7:57 AM (#164670) Subject: 2000 silverado to 2009 silverado
New User
Posts: 3
Location: Cambridge MN
I have a Kiefer Eagle xla 2 horse GN trailer. Looking at a new 2009 Silverado 3/4 ton and the bed height is taller and the box sides are taller. The GN hitch is as low as it can go. I'm worried that my short trailer won't ride level and put extra pressure on the rear axle/ tires. Anyone have any experience with transitioning to the newer style taller truck bodies. I think it's seen in Fords, Dodges etc. Any fixes for my dilemma would be appreciated.
Posted 2015-09-11 9:45 PM (#164679 - in reply to #164670) Subject: RE: 2000 silverado to 2009 silverado
Expert
Posts: 1989 Location: South Central OK
This is exactly why I have a flatbed on my new 2015 Ford 350. I don't have to worry about crushing my side rails or blowing up my rear axles/tires to save my tailgate. Also, I'm short and it's super nice to just reach across the bed and not have anything in the way. I've had several comments already (only 600 miles on it) from men stating that they wish they had put a flatbed on their trucks and a common reason is not having to worry about scratching the paint by using the truck as a truck. Makes having anyone spot me for hook-up a breeze as they don't have to peek over the rails or stand in an unsafe position under the neck of the trailer. Over the years truck manufactures kept raising the bed height, the problem is trailers didn't follow suit. I know a common option now is to raise the gooseneck height 4" for 4x4 clearance but really it isn't just the 4x4's that need it now. Keep in mind that if you block the axles your step-up height is now that much greater and if you have a short ramp it may now be too steep for the new "rise." Some smaller horses can't handle the greater distance and fall out/jump in...just imagine what it's like when you miss the last step on a set of stairs. FWIW, I live near both CM truck beds and J and I manufacturing and I have the J and I bed on my truck.
2000 silverado to 2009 silverado
