Suspension and control systems (Chevrolet Tahoe 2)

On both GMT800 and GMT900 platforms, the front suspension is, so to speak, no different. On light series 1500 models, as a rule, the front suspension is spring. On heavy series models - torsion. Of course, 2WD 1500 series models are extremely rare for our market, so springs are rarely remembered. On the new platform, spring suspension is also found on all-wheel drive models, but again, on the light 1500 series.

Torsion bar suspension

Spring suspension

The rear suspension is spring or leaf spring, depending on the series of the car. There were no major changes between the GMT800 and 900.

Both generations are also equipped with systems for changing the stiffness of the shock absorbers (ESC - Electronic Suspension Control) and body support system (ALC - Automatic Level Control).



The ALC system controls only the height of the rear part of the car, although the body height sensors are installed on the front suspension, but are used exclusively by the ESC system. Moreover, it is structurally made in the "American style" without any separate pneumatic cylinders and chambers. The pneumatic cylinders or chambers are made in the shock absorbers themselves.

The system is similar to a ride height adjustment system, which can change the height depending on the driver's preference and the vehicle's speed.

The ALC system only maintains the rear ride height depending on the vehicle load (passengers, cargo) and when towing a trailer. It does not take into account the speed of movement. Fully automatic, the driver cannot change the operating mode.



The ESC system uses the compressor and ALC sensors, as if installed "on top". Both systems are fully automatic, and there are no switching buttons. The presence of the systems can be indicated by indicators on the instrument cluster. The ESC system constantly maintains the rigidity of the shock absorbers at a level specified by the manufacturer, depending on many factors. The input data for this system are the following:

• car speed;
• steering wheel position;
• body height;
• aLC system status;
• using trailer towing mode.

The system can be called not a system for changing the rigidity of shock absorbers, but a system for maintaining the characteristics of shock absorbers at a level specified by the manufacturer. It remains to be hoped that upon reaching a certain speed, "the suspension will switch to sport mode".

Depending on the configuration, either one or both systems may be installed. So, on Escalade models, as on models of a more prestigious class, both systems are usually installed. It is also worth noting the lack of unambiguous terminology of the GM concern - the designation of the system for changing the rigidity of shock absorbers as RSS is encountered (Road Sensing Suspension).

[The article is reprinted from the website: CHEVYMAN.RU]