Are all Z71 4 wheel drive? The fact that you are reading this post tells us that you are wondering about this question yourself. Well, I can gladly say that you are in the right place.
I am going to give you the low down on what exactly these two things are and if they are related. In 1988, Chevrolet and GM introduced the Z71 to the market.
This was a package introduced on their range of truck offerings that added a different dimension to the options that GM and Chevy truck buyers had.
Are All Z71 4×4?
In short, Not all Z71 trucks come with 4×4 capabilities. Though the package adds additional off-road capability in terms of suspension and underbody protection, the Z71 package is also available in two-wheel drive (2wd) variations of GM and Chevy trucks.
That’s round about the summary of what I will be talking about here but now, let’s get into the specifics so we help you gain a better appreciation of it all.
What is Z71?
The Z71 is a performance package that is offered by GM on its GMC and Chevrolet trucks. Basically, it is a suspension, appearance under-armor package that gives your truck improved capability off-road. This package includes:
- Metal sill plates
- Skid plates
- Heavy-duty filter
- Heavy-duty automatic locking rear differential
- Recovery hooks
- All-terrain tires
- Rancho shocks
- 18” and 20” tires
These additions allow your truck to perform better in extreme off-road conditions. They don’t necessarily mean that your truck is a 4×4 even though it pretty much has all the bells and whistles of a 4×4.
In short, what you get from the Z71 package is a tuck that is able to hold its own in the roughest of terrain. Over and above this, you also get a better-looking truck fitted with bigger tires and with a slight lift.
What defines a 4×4?
Now, let’s look at what exactly a 4×4 vehicle is. When we talk about a 4×4, we are talking about a vehicle that has all 4 wheels of the vehicle being powered by the engine.
Most vehicles on the market are powered by either the front two or rear two wheels. The 4×4 function in most vehicles can be switched on or off.
This is due to the fact that 4 wheel drive gives you better traction and the needed power to get through rough terrain or out of sticky situations but will take away from the maximum speeds you can reach when it is engaged. For example, you should not drive in 4×4 mode on the highway at cruising speed.
However, if the road is snow-filled or icy, four wheel drive mode will help give you greater traction but it’s not a good idea to be speeding in those situations anyway.
Is it Beneficial to Get Z71 With 4×4?
The answer to that will have to be yes and no depending on what purpose you have for the truck. The Z71 performance package is best suited for people who are actively using their trucks for rigorous work on a consistent basis.
That being said, this does not always include going off-road and hitting the trails. In most cases, owners just need to have a situation where they can use their truck to haul and tow great loads and take them to the construction site. The Z71 package offers the suspension and protection necessary for getting the job done.
On the other hand, if you want to go into situations that demand a lot more traction, then there is definitely a need to have the 4×4 option. Once you have weighed the options, you can then choose which one is best suited for you. Going for the 4×4 option will give you the choice when the need does arise but you will be paying slightly more at the onset.
Conclusion on Are all Z71 4×4
To cap it all off, not all trucks with the Z71 package are 4×4. You will have to make a choice on which option serves you best and go with that. We hope this article has brought some level of clarity on what you need to look out for so that you make the right choice for yourself.
Tomas is a retired Chevy Auto Technician that brings decades of hands-on experience and expertise to the table. He’s also a father to two incredible daughters. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help you solve and find reliable information on Chevrolet vehicles. Whether it’s troubleshooting engine problems or providing tips for maintenance, Thomas is committed to helping Chevy owners keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.
