tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126542872024-03-07T18:31:08.157-08:00The (unofficial) General Motors Truck BlogGMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.comBlogger54125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-26513183212340979422007-10-14T19:25:00.000-07:002007-10-14T20:38:56.956-07:00The Book's For Sale!It's official - I've sent in the copy, photos and captions to the publisher, and <u>Rapid Transit Series Buses: General Motors and Beyond</u> is on its way to print!<br /><br />I've still yet to see the test print which, according to plan, should arrive in the next few weeks. Once that's okayed, it's off to public printing! I'm currently hearing timeframes between January and March of 2008.<br /><br />That said, the book's showing up on Amazon - and they're currently accepting pre-orders. I'm not trying to be glib, but I think there's some neat historical content within the publication. I'm not calling it perfect, but if you're a fan of transit, bus or GM history, you may really enjoy this publication.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rapid-Transit-Buses-Enthusiasts-Reference/dp/158388209X/ref=sr_11_1/104-8654250-2462307?ie=UTF8&qid=1192411494&sr=11-1" target="_blank">Click here for the RTS book!</a><br /><br />I'd also be appreciative in those willing to convince their local booksellers into stocking the book, too. If you're interested, pass on ISBN number 978-1583882092. I'd be willing to autograph copies lying on bookshelves, too. I'd be willing to speak with any stockists and answer any questions, provided they contact me at:<br /><br />RTSHistory (at) gmail.com<br /><i>(remove the spaces and replace the (at) with @)</i><br /><br />Thanks for all the support and interest!<br /><br />-EvanGMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-38528437837601001092007-09-05T10:52:00.000-07:002007-09-05T11:20:15.279-07:00Cadillac SRX - Wrapup<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU763BYBnYdLaeHAvjFxnIuy7L17x6Md4Wt9pALQDWYvNQc0hlcRUYdoxnNxB5lnjLHQLMScqWb3d9BgQePbi40dne53pdgzVr_ViuakgRodwcCQJHQMo8zb178eNsiq7VwRcECQ/s1600-h/X07CA_SR007.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU763BYBnYdLaeHAvjFxnIuy7L17x6Md4Wt9pALQDWYvNQc0hlcRUYdoxnNxB5lnjLHQLMScqWb3d9BgQePbi40dne53pdgzVr_ViuakgRodwcCQJHQMo8zb178eNsiq7VwRcECQ/s320/X07CA_SR007.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106786570814513794" border="0" /></a><br />Goodbyes are always bittersweet, but it's hard to place what our departure from Cadillac's SRX was - was it more bitter or sweet?<br /><br />Certainly, our time with the sporty <strike>car</strike> <strike>wagon</strike> crossover-utility had its sweet moments. Like we said in the beginning, Cadillac's done quite a bit up in front to revise an otherwise dreary interior. Trim materials felt solid, and the overall appearance of the IP was quite impressive.<br /><br />Tick the $1,400 option box for the luxury seating pacakge, and front passengers will find themselves coddled by the most comfortable seats GM's ever purchased from a supplier. They're bolstered in just the right spaces but remain plush enough to provide occupants (provided they're not driving, mind you) the perfect space for a cat nap.<br /><br />But then there's the bitter. Those front seats are great, but the second-row is a cement slab rolled in leather. That giant moonroof was great for open-weather cruising or for navigating safari-style, but it was also prone to enter into resonance while closed. Not so much so that it rattled, but enough so to create an annoying high-pitched sqeak.<br /><br />That wasn't the only noise issue; in fact, Cadillac seemed to drop the ball in terms of NVH engineering. Sure, window seals kept road noise to a minimum, but engineers seemed to forget about placing insulation on the firewall: every noise that occured underhood poured into the cabin with little, if any, abatement.<br /><br />This wouldn't have been a problem, but the valvetrain on this particular example of the 3.6-liter V6 amplified engine noise to a new level. Some praise the motor for being relatively smooth (which it is), but we fail to see where this engine sets new records for NVH. Hopefully the new 3.9-liter with direct-injection improves on this; perhaps it too will rectify the occasional starting issues we had with the mill. On some cold starts (by cold we mean engine temperature; it was actually in 70-90 degree farenheit climates), the motor rocked side to side on its mounts, shuddering the entire vehicle. It almost felt as if it was missing or timed improperly, but the tachometer read a constant speed. No engine codes were triggered, but it would have been interesting to read the OBD-II output to see what was going on.<br /><br />Even more dissapointing is the SRX's fuel economy. The 3.6-liter V6, coupled through a 5-speed automatic and an all-wheel drive system delivered a combined economy of around 14.8 mpg - 17.4 if we put it on a long stretch of highway. Not as horrible as a Hummer H1, mind you, but in comparison, the '07 Silverado 4x4 with a 5.3-liter V8 averaged a combined fuel economy of around 16 mpg. You do the math while we craft an adjective for the SRX's performance: poor.<br /><br />So, given the money, would the GMT Blog buy an SRX?<br /><br />Perhaps, so long as we opted for these few options:<br /><br />-Northstar V8, 6-speed automatic and <i><b>no</b></i> all-wheel drive. <i>With Stabilitrak and traction control mitigating virtually all slip-n'-slide situations, why deal with the extra weight and fuel consumption of a transfer case and an extra differential?</i><br /><br />-Magnetic Ride Control - <i>the SRX doesn't ride all that bad, so long as you're not crossing pavement sections that lift above others. Magnetic ride control helps levy that, and if you live in a northern state, it's a must-buy.</i><br /><br />Are there other doo-dads that we'd like? Sure, what techophile wouldn't love the sunroof or the DVD-based sat-nav? Ultimately, we prefer mechanical competence over technological sophistication, and we hope Cadillac can improve on this point for future crossovers.GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-31014766606301638492007-08-02T12:08:00.000-07:002007-08-02T12:20:05.678-07:00The Divorce Is (almost) Final: Isuzu Leaves GM Commercial Truck Partnership<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0PDHlMuX59m6aWaE4GN2BQ02nAg4QffLAR7gKfPYGsCTIVMqXQ_P8zhlfYZHiS9VPC7Kw0ZM56su4PZWkcxQapFOLSwYSdllMTIquZf8dmBLdSMLqMIMneledQ4qKh_yA0lApQ/s1600-h/GMIsuzuLCFgas01.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0PDHlMuX59m6aWaE4GN2BQ02nAg4QffLAR7gKfPYGsCTIVMqXQ_P8zhlfYZHiS9VPC7Kw0ZM56su4PZWkcxQapFOLSwYSdllMTIquZf8dmBLdSMLqMIMneledQ4qKh_yA0lApQ/s320/GMIsuzuLCFgas01.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094184064596061650" border="0" /></a><br />If you've carefully read the news or regularly Googled "Isuzu" (I'll admit it; I haven't), you may have caught wind of the fact that, as of Wednesday, the GM-Isuzu Commercial Truck partnership is no more.<br /><br />This isn't at all surprising. Since the sale of GM's stake of Isuzu to Toyota, steps have been made that hinted such a divorce was waiting in the wings. First, there's the new factory Isuzu's building in the South, followed closely with rumblings that the next Duramax V8 won't be Isuzu-engineered (that much's true). News followed soon after that Isuzu would be working briskly on putting diesel engines into Toyota's European lineup - something GM did quite frequently in order to offer oil-burning Opels on the continent.<br /><br />But, the announcement that Isuzu's CV sales (isn't that all they have left?) in the U.S. will now be handled by their own organization out of California.<br /><br />Well, not exactly. According to the <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.gazetteextra.com/gm_isuzu080207.asp">Janesville Gazette</a><a href="http://www.gazetteextra.com/gm_isuzu080207.asp"></a>, assembly of gas-powered W-series trucks isn't affected. A factory spokesperson claims the dissolved partnership involves only the sale, not the manufacture, of commercial vehicles.<br /><br />So what's with the new plant then? No word as of yet, but we can look at it as one of two likely scenarios:<br /><br />1. Isuzu intends on dissolving the manufacturing liason with GM, and moving all W-series and F(T)-Series assembly to the new factory<br /><br />-or-<br /><br />2. This is something totally unrelated to GM but relevant to Toyota. We've heard rumblings of diesel-powered Toyota Tundras in the pipeline; what if instead of having Hino or Caterpillar (on odd rumor, for sure) building the motors Isuzu's placed in charge?<br /><br />We're waiting on follow-ups with GM and Isuzu representatives to see what impact this will have on the sale of W- and T-series trucks through GM dealers, but one early report claims Isuzu will still offer the "class 3-5" trucks (re: W-Series) through a limited number of Chevrolet and GMC outlets.<br /><a href="http://www.gazetteextra.com/gm_isuzu080207.asp"></a>GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-59917038414217579632007-06-13T13:22:00.000-07:002007-06-14T08:11:38.488-07:002008 Isuzu Forward - A Look at the GM T-Series To Come?<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizPljX-GxR8hrEXIA3RbadUhy3T-u7QJAFsoeU0JSDC7GlFNiYluqEeP6tBWaA2TJoSNY80kwW3R567TwRVL-1QpeJPKFrHyD8qpjdeJIkR9r4pA8SHZtqaPpPU0UzKSt0V1WY4A/s1600-h/gvw11t.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075931706525070066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizPljX-GxR8hrEXIA3RbadUhy3T-u7QJAFsoeU0JSDC7GlFNiYluqEeP6tBWaA2TJoSNY80kwW3R567TwRVL-1QpeJPKFrHyD8qpjdeJIkR9r4pA8SHZtqaPpPU0UzKSt0V1WY4A/s320/gvw11t.jpg" border="0" /></a>When Isuzu launched the new 'Hexacube' <i>(designer speak for 'hella boxy')</i> N-Series six to eight months back, they promised that the next Forward (F-Series/T-Series) would utilize a modified version of the square cabin.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075933175403885314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFWXKo4xZ2iyDymy-hpE9UpgdfbXhm9Ad9RFtxL19m0K-tF3rmlzn3yOYZJfvuWJEYCV9TcU-bR3lfSm6B4ddPKy31GZ1MFrtQ55SlDYBFL00omVTvIkzspYLqyV6DUuFLT5z3mQ/s320/exterior_img02.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><div>Boy, they weren't kidding.<br /><br />The new Forward launched on Isuzu's website last week, and it looks almost identical to the the N-/W-Series. <i>Identical.</i> If there's any change, it's slighty beefier, particuarly on the 11-ton FSR model. For whatever reason, the added size, weight and sight glass make the cab actually seem truck-worthy.<br /></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075937143953666850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2QTsPEhCSS8jY0qDXd_SkC1p7TJhDawV3pwwj2JcXgUVx_nONw9ooejG9tuQWE3xISqRhrwu7Tjv7YjZFwTKGLyBySvZNgyLNXYtTLNiJtimo-4xT5AR2m326bkji1KP6XLBVSg/s320/cab_img01.jpg" border="0" /><br />The interior's almost carry over from the N-/W-Series, meaning operators will now have a refined interior with plastic-trimmed surfaces, an ergonomic dash, and - a new first - a passenger-side airbag. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075933424511988498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4gG9tfJUZp8HJC_01k2b-MdY72YzfzJxQp5vKBZNt7AsWuEB9se6Ii2V9QqfKy05yDaCZw0J_q7Zp_zg4JgOYdRx0nOI3l-I_xsLbxFjAzc-UUsLcRitjT0qFM_Yn0GRzY3uRw/s320/img_01.jpg" border="0" /><br />But forget about the rest of Isuzu's jubilant press release. Why? Because should this cab make it to North America as the next GM T-Series, the rest of the underpinnings won't. Which is a shame; instead of featuring a clutchless manual transmission and 4-bag air suspension, the cab will lie on top of a modified GM medium duty frame. I'll guarantee you that chassis will be the epitomy of the word 'conservative'.<br /><br />Even that's a risky bet. The medium-duty cabover market (particuarly in the class 6-8 segment) is a quickly shrinking one, and with low production and sales of the T-Series, it wouldn't be surprising for GM to drop it altogether. There's also the possibility of Isuzu suddenly dropping its GM alliance for that of its new owner (re: Toyota), and the new questions stemming from Navistar's talks to purchase GM's medium duty operations.<br /></div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075937826853466930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZL878DYVy0jHAILp39cGOf-NHn51Fl8t2bQCVOJOWIltNPwNwpl4qpRLSWVYtuBGk1X82LzhM8y6ZXUgZbMyvFleThU_GUgrlSoHKzTGk7XWckjfo8lCBP-7vLR2_9c6ZYMbGQ/s320/exterior01.jpg" border="0" />In the meantime, we sit and wait to see what happens. If nothing else, maybe we'll see revisions to the Giga (other than this horrid rhinoplasty) that brings it in line with the rest of Isuzu's COEs.<br /><div></div><br /><div></div>GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-7213963346842674632007-06-13T11:30:00.000-07:002007-06-13T12:02:29.663-07:00WRAP-UP: 2007 Silverado LT2 Z714x4<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHUcbvPw1fnjRozGvfBCt8Ukj3tGIIv7IJO8OaNQw3y6RiKJxRHHuRXWGfn_VOTbOzfMuxn4-7DDFLZSuwQMy2Fou63VR7el3Jzz6iIWMQddT9Y-qlL_y-hOmSqiyCoXJ3gY4pAA/s1600-h/X07CT_SL072.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075626261335880418" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHUcbvPw1fnjRozGvfBCt8Ukj3tGIIv7IJO8OaNQw3y6RiKJxRHHuRXWGfn_VOTbOzfMuxn4-7DDFLZSuwQMy2Fou63VR7el3Jzz6iIWMQddT9Y-qlL_y-hOmSqiyCoXJ3gY4pAA/s320/X07CT_SL072.jpg" border="0" /></a>Four months ago, I left home seeing a '07 Suburban LT2 4x4 parked in the driveway, and I returned to find an '07 Silverado LT2 Z71 4x4 occupying approximately the same amount of space. Consider this: both use the same (approximate) GVWR, platform, 4x4 system and 5.3-liter V8 with cylinder deactivation.<br /><br />The more things change. C'mon - couldn't they have at least ticked the box for the VortecMAX 6.0-liter before handing it off to the GMT Blog?<br /><br />Still, even having driven both short- and long-wheelbase GMT 900 utilities, the Silverado makes for a different yet satisfying drive. The changes between it and its SUV siblings are relatively small, yet the differences are enough to make it much more endearing to the <strike>weirdo</strike><i> progressive-nonconformist</i> that I am.<br /><br />First and foremost: I love the pickup-only dashboard. Yes, it's only on the "lesser trims" (W/T and LT), but I find it much easier to live - and drive - with than that on upper trim levels or on Tahoes and Suburbans. HVAC and audio controls - consisting of a multitude of tiny buttons - are now at a level where they can be inspected with minimal distraction. The biggest improvement is the new location of the transfer case switch (right-hand side of steering column). I can now actually see what drivetrain mode I've selected, as opposed to ducking behind the turn signal switch to read the miniscule LED indicators.<br /><br />I've never owned a car without a front bench seat yet, so I'm enthralled that this truck has them as well. It took GM nearly ten years to copy what Dodge started, but the new span-to-span seat features spacious storage areas built within. The armrest features clips for papers and space for three Big-Gulps (simultaneously). In-seat storage keeps valuables both safe and (thanks to a 12-volt outlet) charged.<br /><br />I'm also surprised at the truck's ride prowess. Normally, I've found most any pickup to ride harsher over broken surfaces than their SUV counterpart. Not so with the Silverado. Even with the off-road inspired Z71 package, the suspension soaks up rough pavement, potholed gravel and rough trail much better than the base Suburban did.<br /><br />On the downside, room for rear seat passengers in the extended cab is tight, and the steering feels slightly sloppier than what was in the Suburban. Although the truck remains stable, the increase in feedback transmitted via the steering rack to the point where it almost feels twitchy. I'll attribute this mainly due to the weight bias of a pickup being over the front axle, but I'll be totally surprised - and in love - with a pickup that exhibits little to none of such bump steer.<br /><br />GM claims its full-size pickup sales are least effected by gas prices than any other competitor, but that didn't prevent them from aiming for good fuel economy. Let's face it - at 15-16 mpg city and gas retailing at close to $3.30 a gallon, it wasn't cheap to keep the grey behemoth's thirst quelled, but the fuel economy was decent for a full-size pickup. Consider this - the V6 SRX that's currently in the driveway gets the <b>same</b> fuel economy, if not worse, despite its smaller motor and stature.<br /><br />Some attribution for the reasonable fuel economy stems from the "Active Fuel Management" (re: cylinder deactivation), but my gripe with GM's system continues here. No, it's not noticible while switching between modes, nor does it impede accelleration all that much. My problem lies with the fact that it only seems to switch to four-cylinder mode when coasting. This system was designed to switch on during light accelleration as well, but no matter how gently the accellerator was touched, the 5.3 jumped back into eight-cylinder mode.<br /><br />GM, we know performance is important, but c'mon - can't you give us an economy mode? Can't we (those who pay not only for the truck but for its fuel) a choice between balls-out performance and miserly economy? May I suggest a simplistic button that switches between two types of calibration? And may I also join the groves of armchair quarterbacks and consumers alike calling for the roll-out<br /><br />My other qualm is surprising: the interior. Yes, I know I praised it not four paragraphs above, but there's still considerable room for improvement. The GM Truck Blog was invited out to GM's Milford Proving Grounds to flog their trucks against the competition. You'll hate me from a domestic-purist perspective, but from a 'all vehicles have an equal chance' point of view, Toyota's new Tundra should quickly become a benchmark for its interior, if nothing else. I've never been in a truck with so many creative storage compartments, including those in doors, armrests, seats, instrument panels, and elsewhere.<br /><br />I'm also happy to see that an organized center console, capable of hanging file folders, has returned to the segment after the death of the Sierra Professional. Altogether, outside of switchgear, GM should - no, <b>must</b> blow this interior away when it comes to a mid-cycle refresh for the GMT 900.<br /><br />But in terms of ride quality, performance and fuel economy, the Silverado's hard (if not impossible) to beat. It's been said about previous iterations, but it remains true for this generation of Silverado: it's one rock-solid package.GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-27617340806421710292007-06-09T12:01:00.000-07:002007-06-09T12:09:17.577-07:00INTRODUCTION - 2007 Cadillac SRX4<p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcxuVIjl-kp9Nig0syM1hixfekUOGEYt97jEJBHbR1mTz_jZdPxvGBUqxkLJ-LnxBIwFiHKc1NFFsAm6Y2CAe-80jUVlWG0qnYvj-X-9B9eRYRWuBg0kAWz9CY-_55UuQN3AfEA/s1600-h/DSC05475.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5074143320797721298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcxuVIjl-kp9Nig0syM1hixfekUOGEYt97jEJBHbR1mTz_jZdPxvGBUqxkLJ-LnxBIwFiHKc1NFFsAm6Y2CAe-80jUVlWG0qnYvj-X-9B9eRYRWuBg0kAWz9CY-_55UuQN3AfEA/s320/DSC05475.JPG" border="0" /></a></p><br /><br />Is it a car? Is it a wagon? No, it's Superman...err, the SRX. Honestly, Cadillac's second stab at some sort of sport-utility is just as androgenous as Audi's Allroad. Some describe it as a jacked-up CTS wagon; as it rides on the same Sigma platform, it's actually just that (which brings up the odd possibility of making an AWD CTS. Hmmm...).<br /><br />The last time a SRX fell into my hands was in 2003, eight months after they began rolling off the line in Lansing. That particular vehicle was completely loaded; Northstar V8, AWD, three-row seating, panoramic moonroof, etc.<br /><br />Despite the content levels and the atmospherically-high pricetag, it wasn't a knockout.<br /><br />Accelleration and performance was dogged by both the AWD and a slow-shifting tranny, while the CTS-cloned interior was pleasant - if you have a fetish for hard, triangular-patterned black plastics.<br /><br />Three years later, there's another one of Caddy's androno-wagons sitting in the driveway. Already, I can state matter-of-factly that it blows the old one out of the lake.<br /><br />The biggest change lies inside, with an all-new dash and instrument panel added for '07. After only two days of moderate driving, it's safe to say the changes are welcomed. Dash surfaces previously molded in rock-hard materials now have a pliable 'give' to them, while richly-stained birdseye maple (assuming it's real) and metalized-plastic vent trims break the otherwise-monotonous black interior. The seats resemble humanoid catchers' mitts; they're nicely bolstered and extremely comfortable even for long road trips. This particular example also is devoid of the third-row seating, which due to dimunitive size and a circus-like entry procedure, isn't missed.<br /><br />Although this SRX doesn't have the Northstar or the new 6L50 six-speed, it does have GM's High-Feature 3.6L V6 with DOHC and VVT. It's good for nearly 255 hp and 254 lb-ft of torque, and for a GM motor, is actually happy to rev quickly. The French-built 5L40 five-speed auto's smooth, and when in sport mode, extremely quick-shifting. Manual mode is available - and while it won't replicate your favorite clutched-cog box, it does allow some personal control for hill grades or stopping.<br /><br />Two things Cadillac hasn't touched are directly related to cost. The V6 SRX stickers at a meaty $38 grand, but with two option boxes ticked (V6 Premium Luxury Package and AWD), this example fetches just over $47,000. And with city fuel economy rated at 16 mpg, it looks to be a thirsty little bugger. Average fuel economy's still to early to call, but the in-dash multimeter's reading close to 17-18 mpg. At $3.18+ per gallon, it's nothing to sneeze at.<br /><br />Still, there's two or three months left to really flog this thing, including some good trailering sessions. If nothing else, hopefully by then I can finally nail down what type of vehicle this thing is.GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-79058520560707538802007-04-01T13:59:00.000-07:002007-04-01T14:37:14.822-07:00Can Your Rampside Do This? The Corvair AGL-4<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJ7G8R07FXnBdirWRopEHy5vriukaON2iKpvjPri4hekXdyhsKQ1d4-SmauDNwDk2SX7hhAmTesXoJjaxMoORH3CnrSqXIhRgkh2gCaJfK0WWOsplbQbT6UV4Y8Vn0VLFk1DfSw/s1600-h/AGL-4.mpg+020_0001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5048570732743687714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJ7G8R07FXnBdirWRopEHy5vriukaON2iKpvjPri4hekXdyhsKQ1d4-SmauDNwDk2SX7hhAmTesXoJjaxMoORH3CnrSqXIhRgkh2gCaJfK0WWOsplbQbT6UV4Y8Vn0VLFk1DfSw/s320/AGL-4.mpg+020_0001.jpg" border="0" /></a> <div></div><div></div><br /><div>My mind does the strangest things while I'm online - today, for instance, it steered me to a site on that blissfully bizarre military transporter, the M561 Gama Goat. What I ended up finding was footage of perhaps the sweetest Corvair prototype I've <b>EVER</b> seen <i>(bar the Monza GT and SS, of course...)</i>. <a href="http://www.gamagoat.com">GamaGoat.com</a> features a sales presentation for the AGL-4 <i>(embedded below)</i>, perhaps the most capable Corvair 95 pickup ever built by GM.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Born in the early 1960s, AGL-4 was GM's stab at a 4wd, articulated cargo hauler. Albeit the exact history is unknown, the "Research Defense Laboratories" title suggests this project may have been pushed by Uncle Sam to replace that ubiquitous Willys/Ford product. The result: an articulated tilt-cab pickup, capable of scaling some apparently rigorous terrain. Defense Research Labs didn't have a good eye for marketing; you'll note none of the scenarios pictured in the film resemble warfare in any sort.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>No further specifics on how this project transformed from the sweet semi-rigid you see here to that awkward six-wheel-drive creature the U.S. Army suffered with for ages. Interestingly, early Gama Goat prototypes did use the air-cooled Corvair mill for power, but the only piece of powertrain sourced from the General for production was the Detroit Diesel 3-53.</div><br /><br /><center><embed style="WIDTH: 370px; HEIGHT: 288px" src="http://www.gamagoat.com/images/video/AGL-4%20Pre-gamagoat%20low.wmv"></embed></center>GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1165282734207670132006-12-04T17:33:00.000-08:002006-12-27T20:58:23.173-08:00RTS Book - Coming Soon (As In A Year...)<a href="http://www.prevost-stuff.com/2004-06-22_14%20RTS%20buses%20for%20CAT.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://www.prevost-stuff.com/2004-06-22_14%20RTS%20buses%20for%20CAT.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I know I've not been a frequent blogger on this site.<br /><br />But, there's a good reason. And a better reason why I'll continue not to be.<br /><br />Over the past year, I've been researching the history and development of the Rapid Transit Series - or RTS - bus.<br /><br />In a stroke of luck, Iconografix Publishing has taken an interest in the project, and wants to put it in print by this time next year.<br /><br />In the meantime, however, I've got to continue researching, gathering images, and putting together a manuscript - within the next 6 months. All while continuing to work and attend sixteen credit hours of collegiate classes.<br /><br />I'll be busy. We'll put it that way.<br /><br />That said, thank all of you for your patronage, and I'll keep you all posted on the status of the book progress.<br /><br />-EvanGMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1159981403625121492006-10-18T03:11:00.000-07:002006-12-13T07:23:50.303-08:00How To Build an Astro 95 Gas Turbine Special<a href="http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/6329/copyofastro01ld6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/6329/copyofastro01ld6.jpg" border="0" alt="Astro Test Vehicles @ GM Proving Grounds, 1969. Can you find the Turbine?"/></a><br /><br />So you've finally done it. You've gone and dropped nearly $100 for an extremely rare AMT 1/25 GMC Astro 95, including that vaulted and scarce turbine engine option.<br /><br />Congratulations! You've not only captured a fine kit for your building hobby, but also my jealousy. I can only wish I could afford one.<br /><br />Regardless, building the kit you hold in your hands won't give you a 'perfect' replica of the Astro Turbine demonstrator built by GMC. While the majority of what follows may constitute as "nit-picking" due to my obsessive nature regarding GMC history, there are a few major areas that need correcting before assembly.<br /><br />That being said, here's at least a little bit of "detail oriented" specifics for how to "turbine" your rig. <span class="fullpost"><br /><br />http://img161.imageshack.us/img161/6783/astturbozh6.jpg<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">CAB DESIGN</span></strong><br /><br /><a href="http://img103.imageshack.us/img103/2263/astroturbinewb8.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://img103.imageshack.us/img103/2263/astroturbinewb8.jpg" border="0" alt="1969 GMC Astro 95 Turbine" /></a><br /><br />We may as well start here. Luckily, for the most part, any AMT Astro kit has a relatively early Astro cab that will work with this subject.<br /><br />However, there are a few matters that will need correcting. Perhaps the most obvious are the "bus-type" mirrors that mount on the front corners of the cab, as opposed to the doors. Additionally, the "L"-shaped grab rails need to be replaced by a short, diagonal rail that runs from behind the front doors to slightly above the sleeper storage compartment.<br /><br />Also worth noting are the long, bullet-style cab markers, and two individual train-type air horns on top of the cab.<br /><br />Do note that the grille insert differs from stock Astros in that it has a vertical and horizontal pattern. More information relevant to the grille is given below.<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">PAINT SCHEME</span></strong><br />The original issue of the Astro kit sported cover art that, in virtually all regards, was the Astro Turbine. A white cab, adorned with red wrap-around stripes that sandwiched a blue strip, is in fact the paint scheme GMC used on this particular truck.<br /><br />What isn't shown, however, is a pseudo-grille section that was painted just above the actual grille opening. Throughout its 18-year production run, the physical grille opening on the Astro's cab was never enlarged, and the Turbine was no exception. GMC simply made the grille appear larger by using a painted section that matched the pattern used in the truck's custom grille.<br /><br />And to further ease your painting woes, the remainder of the truck's chassis equipment - including battery boxes, steps, fuel tanks, suspension, and even wheels, were all painted a matching white. The front bumper, however, was chromed, as is the one included within the kit.<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">ORNAMENTATION</span></strong><br />The Turbine had some minute ornamentation changes, that, if you're anal to no end for authenticity, you may want to consider applying to your rig.<br /><br />The first - and most notable - is what to do with that "GMC" script on the front of the tractor. While stock Astros sported this on the metal header between the grille and the bottom of the windshield, the Turbine had this logo moved inside the grille. Position it as high within the grille as possible.<br /><br /><a href="http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/8678/npsd8.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/8678/npsd8.jpg" border="0" alt="Astro Turbine Nameplate" /></a><br /><br />Secondly, GMC modified the door nameplates. While normally they consisted of a large 'GMC' followed by a small "Astro 95" underneath, the Turbine changed the latter to read "Astro Turbine". Whether or not this detail is actually applicable, due to the scale size of the nameplate, is a debatable matter.<br /><br /><center><img src="http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/9236/textci1.jpg"></center><br /><br />Finally, like all GM test vehicles, the Astro Turbine sported some corporate insignia just aft of the cab doors. "GMC TRUCKS" is spelled out, with a small box below it reading "GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION". On the sleeper storage door, "ENGINEERING" is scripted in a similar font to the "TRUCKS" above, with a smaller "PONTIAC, MI" placed below that.<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">CHASSIS</span></strong><br />While my eyes may deceive me, AMT's Astro kit represents a dual-axled tractor sporting a short wheelbase.<br /><br />And while I don't have exact dimensional data for the Turbine, the photos I do have show a significant distance between the cab and the front of the trailer. Perhaps a 1/2" stretch of the frame rails would be in order to give an approximately correct look.<br /><br />Another major error is with the truck's rear suspension. AMT provides the Astro with a walking-beam dual axle set-up, when, in fact, the Turbine was equipped with the "Astro-Aire" suspension.<br /><br />At the time a relatively new design for GMC, this air-suspension system is better represented by the one included in AMT's GMC General or Chevrolet Bison kits. Consider swapping the former out for the latter - which may be a bit of work.<br /><br />Note too the side-mounted accessories. There are no rear-mounted battery boxes, only small boxes encased with cab steps. Additionally, the Turbine does not sport the cylindrical fuel tanks, but a modified rectangular format. Perhaps the best bet to model these would be to fill in the notched step on the tanks AMT includes.<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">ENGINE</span></strong><br />So what's the use of making a Astro Turbine look-alike if there's not actually a turbine under the cab? Absolutely none, if you ask me. I try to avoid curb-sides unless I'm extremely lazy.<br /><br />Thus brings up a big issue. "What in the hell color do I paint the engine?"<br /><br />While I trust the accuracy of the AMT of the past, I'm going to have to call "shenanigans" on this kit. The box illustration claims the motor included is the GT-404. As far as my records show, this particular Astro used the GT-309. It wasn't until the mid 1970s that an Astro SS was equipped with a GT-404, and sported a completely different paint scheme.<br /><br />To date, the only images I have of the GT-309 are completely in two colors - black and white. While this is great for detail specifics, it doesn't allow for discernation of pigmentation.<br /><br />That said, there are two routes to take with this:<br /><ul><br /><li><b>Fire Red:</b> Personally, I've only seen one GM gas turbine installed in a vehicle, and that was within Firebird I. This engine, the unrelated GT-302, was painted red, which also seems to match what AMT has depicted on the side of the box.</li><br /><li><b>Detroit Diesel Green</b>: The Astro Turbine was built sometime around 1970. What also happened that year was development of the GT-309, as well as all future commercial and industrial gas turbine development work, was sent from the GM Research labs to Detroit Diesel Allison (DDA). I've also seen a photo of a later GT-404 that was painted in DDA's infamous sage green. Subsequently, it could be argued that it would be an appropriate hue for the body.</li></ul><br /><br />You may be tempted to paint some additional metallic colors abound on the round sides of the engine, which are it's regenerative discs. In actuality, DDA was quite lazy, and painted the entire engine this color. Feel free, however, to detail the starter and control mechanisms on top of the engine in various shades of metal.<br /><br />Also note the enlarged exhaust stacks. Unlike most trucks, these stacks were not chromed; nor were they even metallic in color. These were entirely painted white, in an attempt to call attention to the clean-burning nature of the turbine powerplant.<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">TRAILER</span></strong><br />Like many of GM's dedicated show trucks of that era <em>(ummm...the Astro and the Turbo Titan III, I suppose...), </em>the Astro Turbine had it's own trailer, used both for display and for loaded testing.<br /><br />Should you want to construct this for a complete display, finding a standard US-style box trailer should provide you a fine baseline for construction. This was painted silver, and had a wild red, white, and blue stripe wrapping around the sides of the van.<br /><br /><i><b>Special thanks go to Frederic Brede for providing the majority of these images.</i></b><br /></span>GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1151620862158887942006-06-29T14:50:00.000-07:002006-07-28T19:24:37.573-07:00Coming Soon to a Speed Trap Near You - The 2007 Tahoe Police Package<a href="http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/9890/dsc011334jm.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/9890/dsc011334jm.jpg" border="0" alt="2007 Tahoe Police Vehicle" /></a><br /><br />While not mentioned in any part of GM's long lead press release for 2007, these are some of the first non-GM photographs of the new 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe Police Package.<br /><br />Externally, the Tahoe is discernable from it's height - or the lack therefore of. While the GMT 900 is a huge vehicle, the stance of the Police Vehicle is a bit lower than civilian models, perhaps attributable to the 17" steel wheels, shod with P265/60R17 tires. <br /><br /><a href="http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/8210/dsc011344zi.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/8210/dsc011344zi.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />The rear portal for trailering equipment is closed by a plastic plug. No mention of trailering equipment, let alone towing specifications, exists on the Police Vehicle page on GM's Online Order Guide.<br /><br /><a href="http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/2769/dsc011286kc.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/2769/dsc011286kc.jpg" border="0" alt="2007 Tahoe Police Vehicle Interior" /></a><br /><br />Internally, the Tahoe sports twin cloth buckets up front, and lacks a center console. Dashboard trim is in a silver argent color, and the cluster has been changed to sport a certified 160 mph speedometer. The rear bench seat is trimmed in grey vinyl, and all floor carpeting has been replaced with black vinyl trimmings.<br /><br />According to the order guide, the Tahoe Police Vehicle will only be available as a 2WD unit, powered by GM's 5.3L V8. Equipped with active-fuel management, E85 capability, and coupled through the 4L60-E automatic, this engine (code LMG) is identical in performance (320 hp, 340 lb-ft. torque) to the 5.3L available to the public. <br /><br />Additionally, while GM's write up of the "Z56 Suspension" on the Police Tahoe cites it as being "police duty", comparison of it's specifications show no change in sway bar and shock absorber diameters from a standard 2WD Tahoe. As this is still preliminary information, this is not yet certain.<br /><br />In addition to the above, Tahoe Police Vehicles will also come standard with:<br /><ul><br /><li>High-capacity air cleaner</li><br /><li>160 amp alternator and 760 CCA battery (duals available as SEO)</li><br /><li>Heavy-duty engine and transmission oil coolers</li><br /><li>3.73:1 Rear Axle Ratio</li><br /><li>Skid plate package</li><br /><li>"Police balanced" prop-shaft</li><br /><li>Grounding studs and radio suppression straps</li><br /></ul>GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1150862794182153152006-06-20T20:54:00.000-07:002007-01-15T06:19:51.630-08:00A "Smart" Looking Bus, Indeed...<a href="http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/686/copyofdsc010926ar.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/686/copyofdsc010926ar.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />With the retirement of their last set of 1995 Nova RTS's, Southeastern Michigan's SMART has been primarily an all-Gillig Advantage fleet.<br /><br />That is, with the exception of small buses. For more intricate links to surrounding communities, SMART operates what it deems "Community Transit" vehicles, which are usually built off of light-duty cutaway van chassis.<br /><br />For the most part, these have been built upon Ford F-450 cutaways, but having sold a vast number of Ford buses just recently, SMART's come up with some new machinery - Chevys, to be exact.<br /><br />The C5500 above is one of SMART's newest vehicles. Equipped with the 6.6L Duramax turbo diesel V8, and an Allison automatic transmission, the chassis also sports an ElDorado National "Aero Elite 320" body measuring 32' in length, and sporting a front wheelchair lift.<br /><br />While the E-450 currently represents the majority of SMART's light-duty roster, expect more C5500's in the near future, should units like 25258 perform respectably.GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1141279301766597652006-03-07T21:33:00.000-08:002006-06-10T20:36:54.566-07:00The Taiwanese Connection - Part 1 of 4<a href="http://img457.imageshack.us/img457/9366/shanghaist5fe.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="Shanghai Blazers" src="http://img457.imageshack.us/img457/9366/shanghaist5fe.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Pop quiz: Was GM's joint venture with the Shanghai Automotive Industrial Company the assembly plant to build variants of GM's truck designs?<br /><br />If you answered that question affirmatively, you're informed - but incorrect. While that particular Chinese endevaor began in 1997 by building variants of the S/T pickup and utility, GM's first foray into the Asian truck market occured nearly two decades prior.<br /><br /><a href="http://img48.imageshack.us/img48/3427/odclogo6sw.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="ODC Logo" src="http://img48.imageshack.us/img48/3427/odclogo6sw.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />In 1981, GM entered into a joint-venture assembly in Taiwan. Working with Tua Hung Automotive, GM owned approximately 45% of the venture, which was based in Taipei. The plan was do send completely-knocked down kits of GMC trucks, and have them assembled and sold in Taiwan.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><br /><a href="http://img349.imageshack.us/img349/1261/fl8gm.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="Diversity..." src="http://img349.imageshack.us/img349/1261/fl8gm.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The product line was expansive, if not bizarre. While one could anticipate commercial-type vehicles for a developing market, GM apparently anticipated selling trucks that were more recreational in their nature as well.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/caballero.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/caballero.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Taking claim as the smallest and lightest truck in the lineup was the Caballero, GMC's clone of the G-body based Chevrolet ElCamino.<br /><br />For one reason or another, GM saw fit to bring the car-based truck to Taiwan, and sold it with a 3.8L V6 standard, albeit the 4.4L and 5.0L V8s were optional.<br /><br /><p><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/jmmy.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/jmmy.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The two-door Jimmy was sold in both 2WD and 4WD variants. While GM had discontinued the soft-top option on C/K Jimmys and Blazers nearly 4 years prior, it was once again available for the overseas market.<br /><br />The base engine was the 4.1 L inline-six, while the 5.0L and 5.7L V8s were available.<br /><br /><br /></p><p><a href="http://img468.imageshack.us/img468/940/suburban9qk.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="Suburban" src="http://img468.imageshack.us/img468/940/suburban9qk.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Suburban </p><p><br /><br />For those desiring an even longer SUV, the Suburban was brought to the east in 2WD and 4WD models of both the 1/2 ton and 3/4 ton series.<br /><br />The 5.7L V8 was standard. While the 6.6L V8 was available only on 4WD models, the massive 7.4L V8 was optional across all variants.<br /><br /></p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="Sierra C" src="http://img473.imageshack.us/img473/9991/cpu3xv.jpg" border="0" /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/kpu.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />In much the same way that it represented the majority of GMC's domestic line-up, the Sierra was the largest model line in the entire Taiwanese project.<p></p><p>The Sierra was offered in both 2 and 4 wheel drive variants, in either the 1/2 ton, 3/4 ton, or 1 ton series. As opposed to sticking with simply one bed design, buyers could choose between the wideside bed, or the flareside step bed. As pickups, the Sierras could be ordered as 1/2 tons, 3/4 tons, and 1 ton pickups.</p><p></p><p><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/kpu.jpg"></a><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="Sierra Crew Cab" src="http://img58.imageshack.us/img58/8634/ccab4ac.jpg" border="0" /></p><p>The 4 door crew or bonus cab was also available on 3/4 or 1 ton pickups. The only way to equip a 4WD pickup with this cab was to order a 1 ton model.</p><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/cccab.0.jpg" border="0" /></p><p>A wide variety of cab and chassis models were available. In 2WD form, one could order a Sierra chassis cab in 1/2 ton, 3/4 ton, and 1 ton models, usually with at least two different wheelbase models available. Like the crew cab, however, the only way one could attain a 4WD variant would be on 3/4 ton and one ton models.Unlike vehicles sold in the US, the Taiwanese-built Sierra chassis cabs could be equipped with a stake bed built and installed by the factory. Both 8 and 9 foot platforms were available.</p><p></p><p>All Sierras were capable of being equipped with the 4.1L L6, 4.8L L6, 5.6L V8, or the 6.6L V8. 2WD standard cab pickups also had the ubiquity of having a diesel option, but as it sadly was a year until the 6.2 V8 made it's debut, these Sierras were equipped with the infamous 5.7L Diesel V8. The 7.4L V8 was only available on Sierras equipped with either the crew/bonus cab, or as a cab/chassis model.<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/kpu.jpg"></p></a><br /><p></p><p><br /><br /></p><p><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="Vandura" src="http://img485.imageshack.us/img485/1491/vdura2ga.jpg" border="0" /></p><p></p><p></p><p><a href="http://img235.imageshack.us/img235/6812/rally5en.jpg"></a>G-vans were also well represented in the foreign model range. Both Vanduras and Rallys were offered in all three chassis ranges, and were available in 4 different wheelbases. The 4.1L inline-six was standard, with the 5.0L, 5.7L, and 6.6L V8s available on larger models.</p><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="Rally Vans" src="http://img235.imageshack.us/img235/6812/rally5en.jpg" border="0" /></p><p>Contrary to long-wheelbase Rally vans sold in North America, the Taiwanese-built Rallys seated a maximum capacity of 5 people.<a href="http://img485.imageshack.us/img485/1491/vdura2ga.jpg"></a> </p><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/gchass.jpg" border="0" /></p><p>Cutaway models were also offered, along with the Union City built "Magnavan" utility body. All G-special models were of the 1 ton variety, and could be equipped with either the 5.7L or the 6.6L V8. <a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/gchass.jpg"></a></p><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="NCO Dropside Pickup" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/gpu.jpg" border="0" /></p><p>Unique to the Asian market was a bizzare G-van based pickup truck. Referred to only as the "NCO Dropside Pickup", it essentially consisted of a 1 ton G-special equipped with a cap to provide a back to the cab, and a dropside flatbed.</p><p>The bed specs read out as 11.25' long, and that it sported a 28" loading height from the side or rear. Powertrain consisted of either the 5.7L or 6.6L V8 engines.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/pcchs.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="PCchs" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/pcchs.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://img53.imageshack.us/img53/6341/vvan3us.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="Value Vans" src="http://img53.imageshack.us/img53/6341/vvan3us.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></p><p>GM also apparently felt the need to market it's forward-control chassis overseas, as well.</p><p>Not only were bare P-chassis sold in 1500, 2500, and 3500 forms, but P-chassis equipped with steel or aluminum step-van bodies built by Union City Body Company were built and marketed overseas as well.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/bsrs.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/bsrs.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />And, being malcontent to let the bus market alone, GM also brought the B-series chassis-cowl model in CKD form. Available in 5 different wheelbases, the B-series could be equipped with the 5.7L, 6.0L, or 7.0L V8s. </p><p></p><p></p><p><a href="http://img235.imageshack.us/img235/6812/rally5en.jpg"></a></p>Before you can call out the hypocracy of no medium and heavy models being covered in this post, relax. Of all the literature obtained on this subject, we have the most on the Brigadier, Astro, and 7000 models offered in Taiwan, and will have more in-depth posts on those models in the coming days.<br /><br />For undetermined reasons, the foray was not successful in the least. By the end of 1982, GM sold it's stake of Hua Tung Automotive, and exited the Taiwanese market. By 1989, GM returned via Yulon Motors, but sold vehicles of a non-commercial matter. Hua Tung has since been purchased by a number of other consortiums, and it appears to currently be a manufacturer of Toyota vehicles under license. </span>GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1141663270079304162006-03-06T07:36:00.000-08:002006-03-06T08:45:17.976-08:00How Badge Engineering Should Work - The New Isuzu Gala<p></p><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.isuzu.co.jp/product/bus/gala_ss/image/shd_01.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />Unlike the blatantly-ripped off i280, i350, and Ascender, Isuzu's newest piece of badge-engineering technology not only looks good, but is quite impressive with it's physical design. And, it will never make it to North American shores.<br /><br /></p><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.isuzu.co.jp/product/bus/gala_ss/image/shd_01back.jpg" border="0" /><br />Enter the new Isuzu Gala, unveiled at the beginning of the year. Having merged it's bus operations with those of Hino in 2004 (<a href="http://www.isuzu.co.jp/world/press/2004/p_0830.html">the new J-Bus consortium</a>) in dire economic times, the new Gala is literally a re-badged twin of the new Hino Selega.</p><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.hino.co.jp/selega/exterior/images/1_20.jpg" border="0" /></p><p>But that's far from a bad thing. The new Gala abandons the boxy and disproportionate look of traditional Japanese highway coaches, and emulates instead European coaches, particuarly those of <a href="http://www.setra-coaches.com/html/coaches/s417.html">Setra</a>.</p><span class="fullpost"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.hino.co.jp/selega/exterior/images/1_02.jpg" border="0" /> <p></p><p>The front fascia is aggressive, featuring raked front glass, and and an upward-moving side greenhouse. Headlamps are of a HID design, and rear lamps feature individual lenses in a stylized housing. </p><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.isuzu.co.jp/product/bus/gala_ss/image/shd_02.jpg" border="0" /></p><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.hino.co.jp/selega/interior/images/1_13.jpg" border="0" /></p><p>The dramatically modern styling doesn't stop inside, either. Passengers are seated within a smooth, flowing interior, surrounded by panoramic glass, and accentuated by colored LED mood lighting. Even the operator is given an ergonomic and enclosed interior, shown below.</p><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.isuzu.co.jp/product/bus/gala_hw/image/operation_01.jpg" border="0" /></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.hino.co.jp/selega/activity/images/4_13.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://www.hino.co.jp/selega/activity/images/4_13.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p><a href="http://www.hino.co.jp/selega/activity/images/4_17.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://www.hino.co.jp/selega/activity/images/4_17.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p>And, in a move uncommon to North American coaches, the Gala features safety devices typical of automobiles. Not only is the operator provided with an airbag, but passenger seating is equipped with available 3-point seatbelts - something not found on your typical MCI coach.</p><p></p><p></p><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.isuzu.co.jp/product/bus/gala_hw/image/engine_11.jpg" border="0" /></p><p>Under the skin, the Gala rides on an electronically-controlled air suspension, with independant front arms, and a semi-independant trailing rear suspension. Power comes from a range of Hino's turbocharged inline-six cylinder motors, ranging from 12.9 to 13 L, and providing a maximum output of 450 horsepower. Shifts are controlled by a 6-speed transmission, which appears to be a clutchless-manual design.</p><p>So, how exactly does a re-badged twin benefit Isuzu? Simple. Not only does the new Gala fill a hole in their bus line-up, but it's also one of the most technologically advanced and stylish coaches in the Japanese market, let alone anywhere. The fact that such a coach can only be attained from either of the two companies is sure to benefit sales for either brand, and may draw more attention into Isuzu's Japanese showrooms - something that's always needed.</p><p></p><p> For more information, visit either <a href="http://www.isuzu.co.jp/product/bus/gala_ss/index.html">Isuzu's webpage on the Gala</a>, or <a href="http://www.hino.co.jp/selega/menu.html">Hino's on the Selega.</a> </p></span>GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1141623090577240072006-03-05T21:19:00.000-08:002006-03-05T21:31:30.590-08:00Rare Beast In Stock - T8500 Tandem<a href="http://www.autobase.com/photos/large/02056002a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://www.autobase.com/photos/large/02056002a.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I love medium-duty GM trucks to no end, but I've a special place in my heart for certain models or configurations that I don't see all that often.<br /><br />Case in point is the T-8500 tandem you see here. While the vast majority of T-series produced are in the 6500 or 7500 range, it's very rare to see an 8500, particuarly one spec'ed as a tandem rear drive - in stock at a dealer, no less.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.autobase.com/photos/large/02056002b.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://www.autobase.com/photos/large/02056002b.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />And, if that weren't enough, the truck's equipped with an extremely long wheelbase. While it's wheelbase isn't not mentioned on the website, it could very likely be the EK7-code 260" variant.<br /><br />This truck's equipped with a 245 hp version of the Duramax 7800, coupled through an Allison MDS3000 automatic transmission, and is available at <a href="http://www.diamondlot.com/hardychevrolet/medium%2Dduty/">Hardy Chevrolet</a> of Gainesville, GA.GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1141059474575031532006-02-27T08:43:00.000-08:002006-05-24T10:39:57.053-07:00MerchandisingI don't like to ask much of my readership here, but it's moderately expensive to attain historical research for these products. <br /><br />Given that fact, I've gone and launched a way that anyone can not only support the growth of the blog, but also get some stylish wear, in addition.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cafepress.com/gmtblog">http://www.cafepress.com/gmtblog</a> is The (un-official) General Motors Truck Blog Store.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/49127076_F_tn.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/49127076_F_tn.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.cafepress.com/gmtblog.49127076">The first design</a> I've put out for the blog is that of an old '60s GMC D-series cab-over truck, popularly known as a "Crackerbox". <br /><br />The drawing is based upon an original advertisement for the truck, but has been completely drawn in Flash by me, and is directly printed upon a "ringer" baseball-style T-shirt.<br /><br />I'm not attempting to rip anyone off, either. To break even, products have a baseline price. I'm only adding $1 of overhead for each item.<br /><br />There are other drawings and designs in the pipeline, so if you don't see something you like at the moment, don't sweat it. And, should you not be crazy for a shirt, I can add other types of products (e.g. mousepads), should you be interested.GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1139661793483108912006-02-11T04:23:00.000-08:002006-02-11T04:43:13.506-08:00I'm Still Alive, I Swear...No, I'm still alive. And no, I haven't been captured by GM's PR department.<br /><br />Not that I've had any reason to be treated in such a manner. Although, it would be cool to be part of a kidnapping video with myself in front of a GMT 900 prototype...<br /><br />Regardless, I apologize for the lack of posting here. But, as means of a "filler" post until some more news/history is suited to be posted, consider this an all points bulletin for the moment...<br /><br /><ul><br /><li><b>The Opel Spy Shots:</b> While photographer Chris claims that the truck portrayed <i>did</i> have GM NAO tags, along with a large tag reading <i>"OPEL"</i> in the windshield, he wasn't able to snap a photo of the tags.<br /><br />And, seeing as the vehicle is otherwise a Ssangyong Kyron from the exterior, we can only speculate as to what the truck really was. Could have easily been a body transplant on the platform of the new Frontera, but as the Kyron's not sold here in the states, and as Ssangyong has more ties to DCX than GM, it's unlikely.<br /><br />The pics have come down for the moment, as there's no solid way we can relate them to GM Trucks.</li><br /><li><b>Gunnell on eBay:</b> Apparently, John Gunnell, author of many automotive books, including <i>"GMC: The First 100 Years"</i>, is <a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/GMC-HISTORY-WITH-4-MILLION-PARADE-of-PROGRESS-BUS_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ34222QQitemZ8033851379QQrdZ1">selling autographed copies of his works</a> on eBay.<br /><br />While the GMC book listing I've linked to has since ended, you can look at his other items. Or drop him a note that his GMC book skimps out on some critical facts on medium duty, heavy duty, and bus history.</li><br /><li><B>NAIAS:</b> Yeah, I'm way too late on this one. Not to mention, my photographs at the show turned out kinda crappy, mainly due to equipment failure and massive crowds. The latter particuarly around the Monroe Kodiak C4500 Pickup.</li><br /><li><b>Chicago Auto Show:</b> Currently, the only truck introduction of note at the show has been that of the GMT 900 based Avalanche. I doubt GM will do much else at the show, but should hell indeed freeze over, you'll see the icicles here.</li><br /></ul><br /><br />We'll have more historical posts coming soon.<br /><br />Thanks for sticking with us.GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1135201078938951492005-12-22T13:03:00.000-08:002005-12-22T11:46:20.890-08:00Another One Bites The Dust: Historic GM Truck Building DemolishedA quick drive past GM's Truck Product Center in Pontiac, MI, led me to do a double take while passing the facility. Something didn't look right.<br /><br /><a href="http://img251.imageshack.us/img251/3862/dscf00020fq.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://img251.imageshack.us/img251/3862/dscf00020fq.jpg" border="0" alt="What Currently Remains of the former GM Truck & Bus Engineering Offices" /></a><br /><br />And it hit me: the oldest remaining building on the property, the former Truck & Coach Engineering Office, was no longer a two-story yellow brick building, but a giant pile of rubble with a vast number of CAT excavators crawling over it's remains.<br /><br /><a href="http://img403.imageshack.us/img403/7962/dem17st.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://img403.imageshack.us/img403/7962/dem17st.png" border="0" alt="Aerial View of GM Truck & Coach in Pontiac, Circa 1950. Red Building Demolished This Week" /></a><br /><br /><span class="fullpost"><br />While the property on the corner of South Boulevard and Opdyke Road had been owned by GM since the late 1920s, the Engineering Building was part of a series of additions that were built in the late 1940s. The building, circled in red, is visible in this postcard image from approximately 1950.<br /><br /><a href="http://img403.imageshack.us/img403/1605/dem26lm.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://img403.imageshack.us/img403/1605/dem26lm.png" border="0" alt="The Major Changes Made to This Property Are As Follows" /></a><br /><br />Over the years, this setting's changed immensely. With the liquidation of the Heavy-Duty truck assets to Volvo, the bus lines to Dial Corporation, and the movement of full-size truck production to a new Pontiac plant closer to Square Lake Road, GM no longer had need for the plant structure by the early 1990s, and soon went to work redeveloping the land. <br /><br />The section in green was sold to developer EJ Atkin, and was developed into Centerpoint, a business campus, home to a few restaurants, office buildings, and hotels. The biggest resident of this park is, of course, GM, who built it's Truck Product Center (TPC) in this area.<br /><br />This building, intended to be GM's truck engineering hub, is very empty at present date, thanks to the movement of truck engineering staff to the Tech Center in Warren, MI. You can see TPC in the background of the photo at the top of this page.<br /><br />The section in blue is the old powerplant for the plants, dating back to the 1920s. This was torn down in 1999 or 2000 to allow for further expansion and development of the facility, which never happened.<br /><br />The section in yellow, however, still exists to date. These buildings have always been the experimental garages, and continue to be used as such for preproduction prototypes.<br /><br />No information is known on what will happen to the land formerly occupied by the offices, but more than likely it will simply be paved over for additional parking spots.<br /></span>GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1131736051245278032005-11-11T10:40:00.000-08:002005-11-11T11:07:31.256-08:00The 'Sclade Emerges...<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/GMC2005111005038_PV.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/GMC2005111005038_PV.jpg" border="0" alt="'07 Escalade" /></a><br /><br />Finally pulling the wraps off it's final short-wheelbase GMT 900 based sport ute <i>(until the new H2 emerges)</i>, GM unveiled the 2007 Cadillac Escalade in Hollywood yesterday.<br /><br />My reaction. <br /><br />" ".<br /><br />And that's not good.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />I anticipated the Escalade as being the styling leader of all the 900 variations. And to be completely blunt, it really just looks like a modified Denali.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/GMC2005111005049_PV.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/GMC2005111005049_PV.jpg" border="0" alt="'07 Escalade" /></a><br /><br />Do I know that the headlamps are xenon projectors that differ? Yes. Do I know the grille and side portholes are taken from the Sixteen concept? Of course.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/GMC2005111004804_PV.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/GMC2005111004804_PV.jpg" border="0" alt="'07 Escalade" /></a><br /><br />I just don't find it to truly be a Cadillac. They had a chance to make it a bold, dramatic, 'halo' vehicle, and instead, it's a nicely trimmed up Yukon.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/GMC2005111004917_PV.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/GMC2005111004917_PV.jpg" border="0" alt="'07 Escalade" /></a><br /><br />I will complement GM on the interior, which I feel looks nicer than the new Tahoe and Yukon, but I'm still shocked to see how similar it appears to be to it's more 'spartan' brethren.<br /><br />And I can't argue with the 6.2L VVT V8, coupled through a tiptronic 6-speed manual transmission. The combination puts out 403 hp, and 417 lb.ft. of torque.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/GMC2005111004862_PV.0.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/GMC2005111004862_PV.0.jpg" border="0" alt="'07 Escalade" /></a><br /><br />But we'll see. Until I see it in person, my vote is if you're searching for a luxury 900, just load up a Tahoe. It'll be cheaper, and won't vary equipment wise as much as you'd imagine...<br /></span>GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1131654129941848402005-11-10T11:36:00.000-08:002005-11-17T07:57:43.076-08:00The Chevrolet MTX Kodiak - Somehow Not Noticed at SEMA<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/kblog_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/kblog_1.jpg" border="0" alt="Chevrolet MTX Kodiak" /></a><br /><br />The term ‘tuner’ usually conjures up images of vehicular mounted spoilers, ground effects, and audio systems that are, for lack of a better term, ludicrous in both their size and execution. <br /><br />For the GMT 560’s third appearance at the Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas, NV, those same levels have been applied to a vehicle whose size and purpose is easily just as ludicrous. And, for reasons unknown, the pimped-out behemoth has been relatively ignored during press coverage of the show.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />A partnership between GM Fleet & Commercial Group (FCO), Monroe Truck Equipment, and MTX Audio started with the 2005 Chevrolet Kodiak C4500 Crew cab. It was then installed with the oft-popular composite pickup bed by Monroe, along with their uplevel seat package, and air suspension for the front seats, cab, and rear springs.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/kblog_2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/kblog_2.jpg" border="0" alt="Chevrolet MTX Kodiak" /></a><br /><br />In addition to body colored grille and headlamp surrounds, the Kodiak is treated to a graphics package that could be described as Salvador Dali's interpretation of Eddie Van Halen’s guitar. The truck also sports Alcoa rims, Monroe’s chrome bully bar with four 8-inch KC driving lights, polished stainless steel running boards, and a custom quad exhaust system.<br /><br />MTX's handicraft was applied to the Kodiak;'s cavernous interior to ensure that both front and rear passengers are treated to a first-rate multimedia experience.<br /><br />The archaic GM stock radio was ripped out with a Kenwood DVD/CD/MP3 receiver, with a flip-out LCD display. The receiver also displays navigation data, and thanks to Delphi componentry, receives XM satellite radio broadcasts. Rear seat occupants are treated to two 6.5-inch wide-screen LCD monitors in the headrests and one 7-inch wide screen monitor in the center console.<br /><br />A variety of MTX Thunder Axe speakers are used throughout the truck, with a 3-way system in front door panelss, and seperates in the rear. A 15" Jackhammer Thunder 8500 subwoofer is mounted in the customized center console. Two amplifiers for the subwoofer, and two amplifiers for all door speakers crank out a total of 2,000 watts of power at 4 ohms.<br /><br />Unlike other GM concepts at SEMA, this truck is very much unlikely to roll as equipped from Flint Assembly anytime in the future. Yet be prepared: with the help of aftermarket accessories, this sort of tricked-out 560 may very well be the next 'in' vehicle for athletes, rappers, and urban cowboys...<br /></span>GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1129929348655565372005-10-21T14:11:00.000-07:002005-10-21T14:15:48.666-07:00Rare 1987 GMC General Set Back Front Axle Tractor on Ebay<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/16_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/16_1.jpg" border="0" alt="1987 GMC General Set-Back Front Axle on Ebay" /></a><br />A quick browse of eBay led to finding this, a 1987 General, equipped with the set-back front axle (SBFA) option.<br /><br />This option was first offered on 116" BBC Generals during the 1987 model year, which proved to also be it's last. The regular fenders were equipped with new fiberglass units that sported staggered rectangular headlamps. It's rumoured that no more than 20 or so ever left the factory.<br /><br />The truck is equipped with a Cat 3408 diesel engine, and appears to be in decent shape - aside from some damage to the right hand side fender.<br /><br /><a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1987-GMC-GENERAL-TRACTOR_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ6783QQitemZ8009016516QQrdZ1">You can see the auction here</a>.GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1129414012649312752005-10-15T14:33:00.000-07:002005-12-05T06:10:54.726-08:00New RTS Order from Boston<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/Demonstrator_Millennium_RTSExtremea.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/Demonstrator_Millennium_RTSExtremea.jpg" border="0" alt="Millenium RTS Extreme Low Floor - photo by Trevor Logan - TTMG" /></a><br /><br />Even after 30+ years of existance, the RTS is continuing to find acceptance in transit fleets across the US. It's become apparent that Boston's MBTA may be yet another. Millennium Transit Services, LLC, is the low-bidder for 150 low-floor RTS Extreme coaches.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/normal_rtsextreme1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/normal_rtsextreme1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />The RTS Extreme is yet another chapter in the RTS' heritage that stems from it's inception by GM in the early 1970s. Based upon a Nova Bus prototype from the late 1990s, it sports a low-floor from the front doors to the rear doors, therefore eliminating the need for any wheelchair and/or entry assist mechanisms. Nova chose not to produce this coach in order to promote their total low-floor LFS design.<br /><br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><a href="http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/2575/demonstratormillenniumrtsextre.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/2575/demonstratormillenniumrtsextre.jpg" border="0" alt="RTS Extreme Interior - Photo by Trevor Logan" /></a><br /><br />As can be seen from these photos by <a href="http://www.transitalk.info/">Trevor Logan of Transit Talk</a>, the Extreme's rear sections are higher than the low floor section. For the most part, this rear structure sections of the coach are unchanged from previous RTS coaches. The only exception to this is some re-arrangement of modules to accomodate a T-Drive powertrain configuration.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/Demonstrator_Millennium_RTSExtremeb.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/Demonstrator_Millennium_RTSExtremeb.jpg" border="0" alt="RTS Extreme Demo - Photos by Trevor Logan - TTMG"/></a><br /><br />While Millennium is the low bidder on this project, it is subject to the approval of the MBTA Board of Directors. Should it receive approval, it will be the second order for both the Extreme design, and for Millenium Transit.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.millenniumtransit.com/">Millennium Transit</a>, founded in December 2003, is the 3rd owner and builder of the RTS coach design since GM sold it's transit interests in 1987.</span>GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1129040887499697542005-10-11T07:25:00.000-07:002006-04-09T00:02:21.000-07:00GM Heritage Center to Restore; Preserve Rare GMC Aero Astro<a href="http://img380.imageshack.us/img380/533/aastro9cb.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://img380.imageshack.us/img380/533/aastro9cb.jpg" border="0" alt="GM Heritage Center's GMC Aero Astro" /></a><br /><br />During a recent visit to the GM Heritage Center, I briefly spoke with manager Greg Wallace regarding the status of their GMC Aero Astro.<br /><br />Wallace has confirmed that the truck was used by Oldsmobile Motorsports throughout the 1980s and 1990s, but was unable to confirm any usage of the truck by GM Design Studios, as had previously been suggested.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><br /><a href="http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/8157/aastro20cu.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/8157/aastro20cu.jpg" border="0" alt="1984 GMC Aero Astro" /></a><br /><br />Between 1983 and 1984, an estimated less than 300 Aero Astros were built. Based upon the Astro cab-over class 8 tractor, the Aero Astro was intended to improve fuel economy, particuarly when hauling loads. In addition to fiberglass front panels, cab fairings, bumper caps, and flush mounted headlamps, the Aero Astro sported an adjustable roof mounted airfoil to match various trailer heights. <br /><br />At any rate, Wallace was able to save the Aero Astro from being scrapped around two years ago by making a 'buisness case' for its acquisition.<br />Overall, it's in very good unrestored shape, with little to no rust on the chassis equipment, and no damage to the fiberglass aero panels.<br /><br />Cosmetic restoration of the truck should occur sometime within a year. Exact details on the truck's powertrain are currently unknown.<br /></span>GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1128520943510949922005-10-05T06:40:00.000-07:002005-10-05T07:02:23.516-07:00GMT 900 Revealed - Pt. II<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/X07GM_YU002.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/X07GM_YU002.jpg" border="0" alt="2007 GMC Yukon" /></a><br /><br />At midnight today, GM unveiled it's next version of the highly-anticipated GMT 900 SUV, the GMC Yukon and Yukon Denali.<br /><br />While typically I argue that there are inherent differences between the brands and products, I'm sorry to say that aside from slightly different content levels, and front sheetmetal, there's little to differentiate the base Yukon.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/X07GM_YU003.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/X07GM_YU003.jpg" border="0" alt="2007 GMC Yukon" /></a><br /><br />While the '07 Tahoe can be described as conservatively progressive, I can't put any other description on the Yukon than conservative. Much as anticipated from the Flex N Gate CAD drawings, the GMT variant of the 900 bears close resemblance to the Envoy, GMC's GMT 360/370 platform offering.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/X07GM_YU006.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/X07GM_YU006.jpg" border="0" alt="2007 GMC Yukon" /></a><br /><br />For one reason or another, I find the headlamps to be the most disconcerting factor of the front end. They seem better suited on a Cadillac <i>(last-gen DTS)</i> or Buick <i>(Lucerne)</i>, and don't tie into GMC's current design themes.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/X07GM_DN002.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/X07GM_DN002.jpg" border="0" alt="2007 GMC Yukon Denali" /></a><br /><br />That's not to say it's unattractive. However, the Denali variant seems much more sophisticated, with the billet upper and lower grilles, monotone trim, and larger chrome wheels. Depending on taste, you'll either be amused or appalled at the standard clear-lense rear tailight housings.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/X07GM_DN004.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/X07GM_DN004.jpg" border="0" alt="2007 GMC Yukon Denali" /></a><br /><br />The 2007 Denali is also the first GMT 900 variant to use the new 6.2L Vortec V8, and the Hydra-matic 6L80 six-speed transmission. The 6.2 features variable valve timing, and cranks out 380 horsepower and 415 lb.-ft. of torque.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/X07GM_DN010.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/X07GM_DN010.jpg" border="0" alt="2007 GMC Yukon Denali Interior" /></a><br /><br />Only the Denali interior was photographed for this release, and doesn't show much change from the Tahoe's interior, save for the addition of brushed aluminum accents throughout the IP region. <br /><br />For more information on the GMT 900, and what will likely be offered on the standard '07 Yukon, please refer to the <a href="http://gmtblog.blogspot.com/2005/09/gmt-900-revealed.html">GMT Blog's posting regarding the 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe.</a><br /></span>GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1127749673298527842005-09-26T08:30:00.000-07:002005-09-26T11:21:56.046-07:00Isuzu Pulls Out of 2006 Detroit NAIAS<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/i-350_rear.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/i-350_rear.jpg" border="0" alt="Isuzu I-Series" /></a><br />The jokes about that headline are numerous, so we'll avoid them...<br /><br />On Saturday, the <a href="http://www.detnews.com/2005/autosinsider/0509/24/0auto-325750.htm">Detroit News</a> published that Isuzu Motors America will not be displaying its product at the 2006 Detroit North American International Autoshow.<br /><br />This marks the first time that Isuzu will not display vehicles at the show, but it's not the first step in such a decline. Three years ago, Isuzu's display moved from the back of the first level of Cobo Hall, to a small, rudimentary stand in the basement. <br /><br />Isuzu's reasoning is that Detroit isn't a large volume market for their sales, and will therefore focus their marketing on cities where the company is moderately more successful.<br /><br />The downside is that these shows are smaller, or independant in nature - and have little to none of the press exposure that NAIAS has.GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12654287.post-1127325777769602552005-09-21T10:56:00.000-07:002005-09-21T11:02:57.776-07:00Testing<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/1600/TB_03.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7072/1082/320/TB_03.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Things on Blogger have been spotty lately, particuarly when it comes to photo hosting.<br /><br />If anyone knows a cheap, high-bandwith photo hosting facility, please let me know. I hate to abandon Blogger altogether quite yet.GMTManhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03448115398980954377noreply@blogger.com0