Hummer H3T pickup announced [Archive]

haven

11-07-2007, 09:11 PM

GM has announced they will manufacture a pickup version of the Hummer H3. The new vehicle will be called the H3T. Delivery of the new model should begin by September 2008 as a 2009 model.

The H3T will be manufactured in GM's Louisiana plant, where the Chevy Colorado, GMC Canyon, and current H3 models are made.

What's unclear from GM's announcement is what style of pickup the H3T will be. When the H3T concept was introduced in 2003, it was a conventional 2 door cab with medium length pickup bed. Recent spy photos of H3T models undergoing testing show a crew cab model with short bed.

Assume that the H3T will be a crew cab. Here's how the current Colorado crew cab compares with today's H3 SUV.

Hummer H3
wheelbase 112 in
overall length 187 in (including spare tire)
overall width 86 in
storage w/ rear seat down 63 cu ft
curb weight 4700 lbs
payload 1150 lbs

Chevy Colorado Crew Cab
wheelbase 126 in
overall length 207 in
overall width 86 in
pickup bed 61 in x 57 in
curb weight 3960 lbs
payload 1300

So the Colorado has a 14 inch longer wheelbase. But this translates into a decent bed capacity while carrying four passengers.

While the payload is a little light, the 61 inch bed length is enough to carry a pop-up camper like the Four Wheel Campers "Falcon" model.

The Hummer SUV has a V8 option in 2008. By the 2009 model year, I think the H3T will offer a V8 as well. Maybe GM will surprise us and offer the new 4.5L V8 diesel in the Hummer H3T (it's designed to fit where today's small gas V8 will fit).

We'll have to wait for more details to decide if the H3T really offers more off-road capability than is already provided by the Z71 Colorado.

If Jeep decides to offer a pickup with small bed like the JT concept vehicle, then Hummer could counter with a standard cab truck with medium-length bed, as the original H3T concept shows.

Chip Haven

Scenic WonderRunner

11-07-2007, 10:15 PM

Do I smell ....Diesel............?

http://www.rockcrawler.com/features/newsshorts/03december/hummer_h3t.asp

http://www.rockcrawler.com/features/newsshorts/03december/h3t_front_driver4.jpg

haven

01-25-2008, 10:08 PM

Hummer will display the H3T at the upcoming Chicago Auto Show. The first model will be a crew cab with 5 foot long bed. There's an article about the truck at PickupTruck.com

http://www.pickuptruck.com/IMAGES/autoshows/chicago2008/hummer/h3t2.jpg

For details, see
http://www.pickuptruck.com/html/autoshows/chicago2008/hummer/page1.html

98sr5

01-26-2008, 04:12 AM

^^^^^^^^^^
put a diesel in it and i wont bother with the new toyotas it looks pretty bad ***** too

3 DOGS

01-26-2008, 04:17 AM

Looks like HUMMER has hit the nail on the head - mostly.
If this H3T gets the new diesel then it's a 100% winner. I like the looks and mostly the fact it isn't a SUT.
I'll be very interested in the final numbers on the spec sheet. I'll REALLY be interested in the final price.
With Toyota, Nissan and Dodge competing in the same markets, and the economy, I don't think HUMMER can get too carried away with pricing.
I'm sure the bashers will be out there but it'll have all the same set ups as the regular H3 PLUS an available front locker:jumping: - look out.

3 DOGS
03 Taco DC TRD
265/75/16 Hercules Terra Trac
Snugfit Topper
Lots O' Nebraska road salt

98sr5

01-26-2008, 05:04 AM

yeah i know front and rear lockers fully boxed frame full skid plates. even without that package just the normal truck with just 32s with the rear locker it will out wheel a trd tacoma. all it needs is a diesel and a manual tranny even an auto and it would be the ultimate in its market. maybe it will pressure jeep into bringing out there gladiator concept. the way the trucks are starting to shape up it doesnt seem like ill be buying another american toyota in the future. might wait till the japanese toyota diesel pickups are 25 years old and import one.

Scott Brady

01-26-2008, 05:20 AM

now that is a good looking hummer. nice job GM

ChuckB

01-26-2008, 05:29 AM

I'm not much of an H2/H3 fan, but that looks pretty good. Add a diesel and I'd give it some serious consideration!

Scott Brady

01-26-2008, 05:27 PM

The new adventure package has front AND rear locking diffs.

This is going to be a sweet ride. Bravo GM:rockon:

boblynch

01-26-2008, 06:44 PM

Compact size - check
Ground clearance - check
Lockers - check
Diesel - please
Better Visibility - pretty please!

haven

01-26-2008, 06:52 PM

Lots more high-res photos here
http://www.autoblog.com/photos/2009-hummer-h3t-1/607369/

Northern Explorer

01-26-2008, 09:58 PM

Scenic WonderRunner

01-27-2008, 02:19 AM

I like everything about it except the leaf under axle setup. I have the same complaint with my truck. The shock mounts sit even lower then the differential. The only reason the mounts don't sit that low on my truck is because I have a thinner leaf pack.

H3T
14737

my truck
14738

Me Likey!!!!

I have to agree with you about the rear axle shock mounts. Here is a pic of a GM product for a better view. I won't mention the name of the truck. It's a nice truck though. I have no idea why they do this or who in the heck thought of it. ......but he needs to have this sign handed to him......"here's your sign"!:oops:

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2007_0113OriflammeSinNobreDro0483.jpg

OK.............

So for me.....it would be............

Diesel..........

Portal Axles Front and Rear! .....YES!

And...........drumroll please..........

A 4WheelCamper!!!!!!!!!!!!

In ExPo White....of course!:ylsmoke:

Now that would be ...........ShaWeeeet!:26_7_2:

mcm4090

01-27-2008, 02:40 AM

If they made a single cab I would be in.

haven

01-28-2008, 04:08 AM

Here are a few more specifications for the H3T. With all the standard equipment, it will be interesting to see how expensive the H3T will be.

standard features on base crew cab pickup model
------------------

interior essentially the same as H3 SUV

wheelbase 134.2 in
...22 in longer than H3 SUV
...8 in longer than Colorado crew cab

5 foot long pickup bed

3.7L 5 cylinder, 242 hp, 242 lb-ft torque
full-time four-wheel drive
4 speed automatic

32-inch tires
Hill Hold Assist
full size spare

air conditioning
power locks
power windows
remote keyless entry
AM/FM radio with CD
XM Satellite Radio w/ 3 months of trial service.

4 skid shields:
front shield,
oil-pan shield/front-axle shield,
a transfer case shield
fuel tank shield.

StabiliTrak electronic vehicle stability control system
Four-wheel ABS with traction control
Tire pressure monitoring system

-------------

optional engine

5.3L V8 295 hp, 317 ft-lb torque

-------------

optional Off-Road Adventure package

33-inch tires,
specifically tuned shocks,
locking front and rear differentials,
4.03:1 low-range gearing
crawl ratio 68.9 with the manual trans or 56.2 with automatic.

with 33 inch tall tires
10.2-inch (285 mm) ground clearance
38.7-degree approach angle
30.1-degree departure angle

climb a 60-percent grade
traverse a 40-percent side slope

-------------

Licensed HUMMER Accessories include

Slant Back Bed Cover
hard tonneau cover
winch
slide and divider for cargo management

4Rescue

01-28-2008, 07:01 PM

...just the normal truck with just 32s with the rear locker it will out wheel a trd tacoma. all it needs is a diesel and a manual tranny even an auto and it would be the ultimate in its market...
Yeah NO...

I like the idea of a smaller more off-rad friendly Hummer, but the current line is IMO useless. I do like the LOOK of the H3, but other than that....

What I can't fathom is why, when GM is in such a horrible state financialy, they keep making more and more new models every year. they're not getting rid of any, they're just adding more fluff to an already over full product line. Why not focus on making your current line more relaible??? Might help with the sales boys...

Cheers

Dave

calamaridog

01-30-2008, 10:04 AM

4Rescue

01-30-2008, 06:21 PM

I can't wait till Rod and Chad Hall get one.

Dave, perhaps you missed the Baja 1000 this year when the H3 and H3 Alpha won the stock classes?

Perhaps you can expand on how and why the current H3 is "useless"?
Having riiden in an H3 recently, I can honestly say they are near impossible to see out of IMO. I get this claustrophobic feeling just siiting at a trafic light. Not to mention that it took them a few years to finaly put a v8 in it and it's still not enough motor to haul the pig around all that well. I like the Body, square and boxy and utilitarian as it looks, and I'm all for a Locker and lower T-case gears, but as far as I've seen, there is no stripper model with cloth seats and manual everything so what's the point...

Like I said, I'm all for a smaller "H4" style rig, but mostly because it'll push other comapnies to make competetive rigs(I'd never buy one seeing as it's made by GM). Car companies (even the all holy Toyota) need to understand that bigger is not better, and stop inflating every single model update. Wait, in 5 years, the H3 will be the size of the H2 and the H2 will officialy not fit on public roads and so on and so forth... It's a very annoying trend in automotive engineering.

evldave

01-30-2008, 07:14 PM

Well I have to say after having my H3 for 2 years now (and 40k+ miles) it's a better overall vehicle than my wife's JK, my old XJ, and my old Suburban. I've pretty much already decided I'll be one of the first in line for the H3T (and wifeys already said yes!).

Why? Well first and foremost it's a great balance between daily driver and offroad capability. Very comfortable seats for long drives, out-of-the-box more capable than just about anything but a Rubi, nice (for stock) stereo, decent interior room for a mid-size truck. I put 100k miles on my XJ (lifted, 33" tires, etc) and it wasn't even close - I'll take my H3 in a heartbeat! Yeah, visibility sucks, it doesn't go fast (neither does the JK or my XJ or the Suburban), and gets crappy gas mileage(of course, it does get better gas mileage than any other 4wd vehicle I've ever owned (average hiway is around 18-19 w/o roof rack, a little less than the JK and waaay better than my XJs 14-15 and the Subs 12).

Oh yeah, Hummers also use GM's 'uptier' warranty service, same as Caddy's. That means free tow from wherever (including offroad situations), free rental, etc. So the 2 times I've had the H3 in the shop (airbag light from unplugged sensor and dead battery) I've had fantastic service, free tow, free rental, wifi in the service area, free cookies, and the best customer service I've ever had with a new car. Some of that is the dealer, but Hummer places a huge premium on customer service you will not get buying a regular GM car (or yota, nissan, etc)

Would I take it on a worldwide expedition? Not likely, too hard to find parts, and too much risk of it getting stolen (gotta admit Hummers are sexy targets). There's also some questions about reliability of the front aluminum difs (they are CI on the Alphas). Only reason I'm gonna get the truck is my wife's allergic to the dogs and we need to put them outside, otherwise I'd keep my H3 for another few years.

I see so many people complain about the power/visibility, and yes, they are a pain, but you get used to those couple quirks and the other benefits make it well worth having as a DD/Offroad rig.

evldave

01-30-2008, 07:16 PM

I like the Body, square and boxy and utilitarian as it looks, and I'm all for a Locker and lower T-case gears, but as far as I've seen, there is no stripper model with cloth seats and manual everything so what's the point...

The base model is cloth seats & 5 speed manual. No option for manual windows, and I doubt there ever will be...

pskhaat

01-30-2008, 08:23 PM

Not to mention that it took them a few years to finaly put a v8 in it and it's still not enough motor to haul the pig around all that well

The fact GM threw an I5 in there put it in my sights in the first place. V8 only will dissapoint some of us.

pskhaat

01-30-2008, 08:26 PM

I have to agree with you about the rear axle shock mounts.

Despite their strange location even Toyota is putting axle shock mounts low albeit closer to the wheel.

If you notice however that they look like they're at least roughly behind the rear control arms which apparently sit just as low. Still, nice to have coil springs in a GM:

http://xepoch.com/mud/resize.cgi/320/240/i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2007_0113OriflammeSinNobreDro0483.jpg

4Rescue

01-31-2008, 02:21 AM

The fact GM threw an I5 in there put it in my sights in the first place. V8 only will dissapoint some of us.Yeah, I love inline motors, I think they might have had a better chance if it had had one more cylinder though.

4Rescue

01-31-2008, 02:24 AM

The base model is cloth seats & 5 speed manual. No option for manual windows, and I doubt there ever will be...Seriously??? That is cool, I had no idea you could get one equiped like that.

Scenic WonderRunner

01-31-2008, 02:35 AM

Despite their strange location even Toyota is putting axle shock mounts low albeit closer to the wheel.

If you notice however that they look like they're at least roughly behind the rear control arms which apparently sit just as low. Still, nice to have coil springs in a GM:

http://xepoch.com/mud/resize.cgi/320/240/i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2007_0113OriflammeSinNobreDro0483.jpg

Thanks for pointing that out!

I'm certainly NO Suspension Pro...........!

I'm just a Layman. .....and what the heck do I know....... But I don't like the looks of that either! Why in the world do they design these like this?

In Fact! .....there are ALL Kinds of things under there I don't like!

......and you say that Toyota is now doing this too? I'm so confused as to why anyone would create this design. I think these designers have been sitting at their Desk WAY Too Long!:confused:

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2007_0113OriflammeSinNobreDro0483.jpg

pskhaat

01-31-2008, 04:08 AM

......and you say that Toyota is now doing this too?

Take a look at this FJZ80 location:

http://www.sleeoffroad.com/technical/images/ome_install/ome21.jpg

Willman

01-31-2008, 04:12 AM

Cool looking rig.......

:26_7_2:

calamaridog

01-31-2008, 07:28 AM

I'll say this about the H3. I was always disappointed they used the I5 instead of the I6. I know, some have said the I6 was not "tuned" for the application or some such non-sense, but many people will not buy an I5, plain and simple. If it had the I6 from the get-go, they could have probably avoided the V8 all together and had more sales.

I have not driven the H3, but I have sat in one and I understand the visablility is not great. Neither is the FJ Cruiser for that matter.

Factory lockers, 4.0 low, and V8 option impress me however. The V8 fits, so that means the new diesel will fit too.

Overall, I think it is an impressive package and I hope they sell tons of them.

Thank you Dave for expanding on your statements and thank you evldave for sharing your experiences and preferences as well.

Ron B

01-31-2008, 03:13 PM

evldave

01-31-2008, 04:41 PM

I wheel with h3's occaisionally, they do well offroad but as many of you have pointed out -- they get hung up on the lower shock mounts all the time. A real weak spot. On another note, this model is supposed to come with the front cast iron diff (as opposed to the self-destructing aluminum one). Hopefully the housing flex was the problem and the new one can handle the locker.

rb

I have tons of rock rash on my shock mounts, it's also common to hang up on the front spring hanger, some people have put longer shackles in the back and that helps a little bit, but the whole axle-over-spring & shock setup does suck.

...and there are a couple examples of new H3 alphas grenading the CI dif - no details on the cause yet, but i'm sure hoping the front locker doesn't cause the same rash of blown front ends like with the AL housing...

evldave

01-31-2008, 04:43 PM

Seriously??? That is cool, I had no idea you could get one equiped like that.

yeah, they are rare, when I bought mine I wanted black, cloth seats, and 5 speed. There weren't any and the nearest in-stock was in Sacramento (I live near Portland, OR). Ended up settling for black, cloth & slushbox. When I get the H3T it'll be a mix DD, Tow rig (camp trailer, utility trailer, etc) and off-road, so I'll have to stick w/the auto :(

4Rescue

01-31-2008, 09:10 PM

I'm curious, what is it that's going to make you want another H3??? A double Cab-Taco seems like a far better option than this new H3t...

easy610

02-01-2008, 12:33 AM

I'm curious, what is it that's going to make you want another H3??? A double Cab-Taco seems like a far better option than this new H3t...

+1....waiting for more knowledgible people to answer...

LOVE the look of the H3T but wonder what its got over the 4dr Taco...price? Nope. MPG? Nope. Reliability? Nope. Ease of finding a stealership if needed? Nope.

Better at off-roading? Don't know...not necessarily from my research..but again I don't have NEAR the experience of many of you....

4Rescue

02-01-2008, 01:01 AM

+1....waiting for more knowledgible people to answer...

LOVE the look of the H3T but wonder what its got over the 4dr Taco...price? Nope. MPG? Nope. Reliability? Nope. Ease of finding a stealership if needed? Nope.

Better at off-roading? Don't know...not necessarily from my research..but again I don't have NEAR the experience of many of you.... Unless they actualy put the F/R lockers in it, it will have absolutely NO advantage. Currently it has lower T-case gears, which can be good and bad, but again, it's a GM product so it's nowhere near the build quality of it's foriegn counterparts...

Edit: I will ad however, so as not to completely slag the truck, that I am ASTONISHED and over joyed that you can get one with Cloth and a 5spd... THAT is a great thing that all real trucks should have as an option. If it had manual windows and an actual lever for the t-case (or is there one? gotta admit, I didn't look in the one I drove/rode in)

Are the h3's full-time 4wd (ala newer Land Cruisers) or are they 2wd/4wd like regular trucks?

evldave

02-01-2008, 04:03 PM

ok, so as the lone H3 driver here (I think), I'll try and answer your questions...

It's full-time 4wd. 60/40 split in the xfer case (60% power to rear, 40% to front). In regular driving there is no torque-steer. You can (via button, not stick) put it in 50/50 split, which works much better in sloppy conditions, but does tend to torque-steer a little. I have the adventure package, so it does have the electronic rear locker. It's been confirmed that 2009 H3s (SUV & Truck) will have F/R lockers. Assuming that doesn't cause the front dif to grenade, that is... :)

I've ridden in taco's, not a lot, but i'd be willing to bet that the H3 is significantly more comfortable for long hauls. This is also my DD and the family makes 3-5 long (2k+ mile) trips each year - comfort for not just me but wife + 2 kids + 2 dogs.

From a reliability standpoint, I've had nothing that would leave me stranded, and my entire family has 2006+ GM trucks (a tahoe, silverado, and 2500) - I put the least amount of miles on our vehicles and so far (knock on wood) I'm the only one with any warranty work done (and it was minor). While data seems to indicate 'yotas have better quality, my personal experience is that GM has really done a much better job over the past few years in this area.

Not sure where the taco is built, but the H3 is built in Shreveport for an American company. All major components are built in the US. I'm not a buy-american fanatic, but where I can I prefer to support my neighbor first.

Never wheeled with a taco, but everything I've read is that for stock capability it goes Rubi, H3, then everything else. Not sure how the H3T will do now that it's got a much longer wheelbase, but the basic capability is there.

And I've always prided myself on not having a run-of-the-mill vehicle. My Cherokee was heavily modded, and my Sub was heavily modded for longer North America based camping trips (we won't go into my short-lived BMW phase :smilies27: ). Tacos (and many other models) are nice pickups, but they aren't a Hummer. I don't have the time right now to spend a lot of time/effort modding a rig, so out-of-the-box is what I get.

I'm not blingy show (i HATE chrome), I prefer modest-unique-capable, and most trucks give me capable & modest, but not unique. Of course I do have to put up with the occasional finger and egging (yes, been egged twice :violent-smiley-031: )

When we finally start going on longer land-based expeditions out of NA, we'll likely switch over to a LR for all the reasons everyone does. Until then, might as well have a capable, unique rig that satisfies all our current needs.

4Rescue

02-01-2008, 05:39 PM

Glad to hear you've had good luck with your truck Dave.

I can't figure out why they (car companies) refuse to make these trucks RWD with T-cases for when we want 4wd... seems like alot of fuel could be saved with a part time case and manual locking hubs...

The Fr Locker thing is interesting, I wonder if they will significantly upgrade the front diff? Or maybe it will be Electro-nannied so as not to kill itself (this will definately happen, but to what extent will remain to be seen). All of the trucks offered in N.America with F/R lockers have solid axles to handle the duties, I shudder to think what'll hapen to the majority of CV's when the masses get to pushing those buttons on the dash...

I too am from portland, maybe we'll see each other out on the trail this spring, there are a bunch of os Oregonians showing up here, we need to organize a rally of some sorts...

Cheers

Dave

Scenic WonderRunner

02-01-2008, 10:10 PM

http://www.lynchhummer.com/h3/preview/H3T/H3Truck.pier.700.jpg

haven

02-02-2008, 05:45 AM

The H3 series is roundly criticized for lack of outward visibility, and rightly so. Does the Colorado suffer from the same issues? The photos of the Colorado show larger windows in the doors and a sloped windshield that extends farther into the roof. This makes me think it's much better than the H3 in this regard.

How about this project: Buy an el cheapo single cab Colorado and an H3T. Then move all the goodies (V8, locking axles, big tires, and so on) from the H3T to the Colorado. Result: No outward visibility issues, and an instant competitor for the AEV Brute.

http://i188.photobucket.com/albums/z241/expeditioncampers/colorado.jpg

Now that Overland Journal is doing so well, I think the magazine could afford to pay for this project!

Chip Haven

ujoint

02-02-2008, 05:56 AM

Or just do a Solid axle swap on the Colorado & throw in a V8. I would leave the motor alone, Change the axles, build a sweet flatbed, (or another version of the A/T Taco Chaser), throw in an AtlasII, and you're good to go!!

haven

02-03-2008, 08:15 PM

The folks at Pickuptruck.com had a chance last Fall to drive the H3T development mules on some challenging Sierra trails.

http://www.pickuptruck.com/html/2009/hummer/h3t/firstdrive/mule/page1.html

The result: Thumbs up!

http://i188.photobucket.com/albums/z241/expeditioncampers/H3T-1.jpg

4Rescue

02-04-2008, 05:18 AM

pskhaat

02-04-2008, 04:28 PM

...Buy an el cheapo single cab Colorado and an H3T

You're missing a major feature of the 2nd row seats? The Colorado doesn't come in tray-back with 4 doors...though neither does the H3T.

haven

02-04-2008, 05:19 PM

I'm not losing the second row, I'm gaining a shorter wheelbase! And better visibility from the cab, too.

Maybe Hummer will use the single cab Colorado as the basis for the production version of the HX project vehicle. Let's call it the H4.

There are rumors that Chevy will halt production of the Colorado, converting the Shreveport plant to Hummer production only. The problem faced by the Colorado is that it costs only a little less than a comparably equipped full size truck. Chevy would prefer that customers buy the full-size model, so with factory incentives the full-size can end up costing less.

Chip Haven

DenCo40

02-04-2008, 05:57 PM

Looks pretty cool. Why don't they just call the new pickup a Colorado? Everything underneath is the same plus it looks waaaay better.

evldave

02-04-2008, 06:49 PM

Looks pretty cool. Why don't they just call the new pickup a Colorado? Everything underneath is the same plus it looks waaaay better.

It's a pretty common thought that the Colorado and H3 platforms are the same. Yes, the H3 is based on the Colorado frame, but after that it's all different - the H3 uses fully boxed frame rails, extra crossmembers (I think 3 more), the engine block is the same (intake/exhaust are different), AFAIK the colorado will not have F/R lockers, the gearing is different, etc. Try and fit 35's on a stock colorado - won't even be close, but you can fit 35's on a stock H3 with only a little rubbing at full lock.

So they aren't exactly the same - the H3 has a lot of the upgrades you'd do to a colorado to make it a pretty capable offroader + it's a lot more plush inside (and looks better). oh, yeah...and you pay a lot more for it too :)

evldave

02-04-2008, 06:51 PM

Here's the new H3T website...

http://www.hummer.com/h3t/microsite/h3t.jsp?%20make=hummer&model=homepage&deepLink=overview

98sr5

02-05-2008, 02:27 AM

the power wagon gets pretty crappy gas mileage but so would the h3t with a v8 but i would pic the power wagon over the h3 any day if gas mileage wasnt a concern i would pic a power wagon over any other vehicle except maybe an arb locked fully built 85 toyota pickup

maximumrob

02-05-2008, 02:43 AM

As a guy who drives a lifted Wrangler, I just can't see wheeling something that long with only 33" tires. To really get a decent break-over angle, one would have to lift it 8-10" and go to at least 38" tires. Then it's tippy!

Yeah, it looks cool, though. It wouldn't be a bad daily driver if you didn't have to squeeze in to parking garages, parking spots, or any other turning. :)

.

LUISJG

02-05-2008, 03:40 AM

I like the regular cab .
I will probably end up buying one. if the price is right

3 DOGS

02-05-2008, 04:39 AM

Holy smokes are there some anti-Hummers out there. This is wrong with it and that is wrong with it and I'd buy this or that truck.
How about the fact that it's a very functional vehicle. One that will do more stock than the average Joe will ever need it to do.
How about the fact that at least it has f/r lockers - yes I know there are others on the market with them too but a first from GM.
I've always liked this site for the information and honesty but for crying out loud - quit bashing something NOBODY here has driven yet.
I got an 03 Taco DC V6 based on my own research and by input from folks here. I hope some poor sap who's dream rig is a H3T doesn't read some of the comments here.
Why do some of you have such a problem with it? If you're not spending the $$$ on it then don't sweat it. Fear of the unknown on the H3T's abilities?? Envy?? I don't know I'm only guessing
You want a Toy, a Power Wagon, Jeep or whatever buy it and modify it - enjoy it it's yours.
Maybe it's been a long day. Maybe I'm just grumpy - I've been told so.
Let's just wait and see what the H3T is like and how it performs before we complain about some more.

maximumrob

02-05-2008, 12:59 PM

Maybe it's been a long day. Maybe I'm just grumpy - I've been told so.
Let's just wait and see what the H3T is like and how it performs before we complain about some more.

There are guys here with Hummers, they like 'em, and we like to hear that they wheel 'em. But if you go to a Hummer forum, you'll mostly see talk about chrome wheels, subwoofers, and street tires. Remember...this is a forum full of people who use their trucks off the road.

Hummers elicit a ton of emotion regardless of how one feels about 'em. There will always be praise and/or bashing of something like that. Those that are too sensitive to deal with the feedback picked the wrong vehicle.

.

Ursidae69

02-05-2008, 01:51 PM

There will always be praise and/or bashing of something like that. .

There won't be any bashing on this forum.

Scott Brady

02-05-2008, 03:09 PM

Hey all,

Everyone on the forum knows that brand bashing is not tolerated on ExPo, but besides that, a blanket statement of "Hummers Suck" just makes you sound ignorant. While it is certainly possible that a Hummer may not be your favorite vehicle, there is no question that they are focusing on trail performance and making an effort to offer US designed and built trail offerings. That is certainly worth noting and encouraging.

So, if three lockers, 33" tires, 4:1 transfer case, etc. was offered on a Toyota, everyone would be excited. Why not wrap your mind around the fact that the more successful Hummer is with these offerings, the more pressure it puts on other brands to improve factory trail performance.

I have driven H1-H3's, and an H3 Alpha with the adventure package will spank any stock vehicle available in the US but a Rubicon Jeep on the trail.

If you do not like a particular vehicle, be specific, not general, as it helps no one to say "this is junk". Say, the visibility is poor, or the front axle is a 7.5" R&P and the cvs are prone to breaking, etc.

Ron B

02-05-2008, 03:45 PM

It's GM's own fault that the hummer is percieved as a bling mobile. Look at the accessories they sell and who they market to. When GM took over the marketing for AM General in '99, the chrome door handles/accessories started appearing. The H3 recently came out in a "tactical" edition (I guess "tactical" means blacked out rims/door handles, and black side-steps).

They do hold their own off road in their stock configuration, and with a little tweaking can do some crazy stuff. However most who start wheeling them harder end up selling them and getting something more trail friendly/less $$ with lots of available aftermarket accessories.

ron b

Fireman78

02-05-2008, 04:56 PM

Rear AND front locker options!! I'm impressed. :26_7_2:

Perhaps we can get this as an option too.. http://youtube.com/watch?v=wdf_oReFj8U

(I'm saving for this option for my Power Wagon.)

DaktariEd

02-05-2008, 06:23 PM

Perhaps we can get this as an option too.. http://youtube.com/watch?v=wdf_oReFj8U

(I'm saving for this option for my Power Wagon.)

Wow! I'll take one of those for my Cruiser!

http://www.geocities.com/daktaried/safari.gif

Fireman78

02-05-2008, 07:30 PM

Yup! I'd call it my "checkpoint negotiator".

4Rescue

02-05-2008, 10:35 PM

So, if three lockers, 33" tires, 4:1 transfer case, etc. was offered on a Toyota, everyone would be excited. Why not wrap your mind around the fact that the more successful Hummer is with these offerings, the more pressure it puts on other brands to improve factory trail performance.

I'd agree with that to some degree...

I have driven H1-H3's, and an H3 Alpha with the adventure package will spank any stock vehicle available in the US but a Rubicon Jeep on the trail.

(So does this mean you'll be buying a new H3 then???)
Don't agree with that one... A double cab Taco with the E-locker is higher up on that list than the hummer... Lower T-case gears are the only thing the Toy doesn't have, and it's got more ground clearance and a far better track record. Power wagon should be up there ahead of the Hummer as well. And unless you're talking only BRAND NEW vehicles, a Bone stock 80 series, as well as the new 200 series Cruisers(although I'm scarrd of all the gadgets for now) are better wheelers as well. Disco's are better wheelers... basicly, it's sure neat that it got optioned with a locker and lower T-case G's, but there are clearly better rigs to be bought that are US legal models.

The thing that's really a disadvantage is the size of this new thing. It's been talked about before, but really, unless they make the regular H3 available with this package, they'll never really have lived up to their potential...

And as far as bashing goes... I don't consider it bashing to point out that GM's track record as far a reliability is pretty shabby (since about 1979). That's a fact. If you're gonna buy something that costs this much and that you will be taking loved ones out into the woods with, it's a fact that you should be aware of...

Scott Brady

02-05-2008, 11:20 PM

I was only talking current vehicles (2008). An H3 has more ground clearance, an additional locker, larger tires, lower gearing and more torque than a new Tacoma. The adventure package is an upgrade, just like the TRD package is.

Just a fact...

I would still buy the Tacoma over the H3 because of superior reliability.

My point is that there are numerous categories for evaluating, testing and selecting vehicles. One factor may be of more importance to one person than another.

For me, I favor reliability and capability, which leaves me with Toyotas and Jeep Wranglers most of the time (yes, my Jeep Wranglers have all been flawless, for hundreds of thousands of miles total). I would not buy an H3, as they do not have a documented and proven reliability record. Time will tell...

4Rescue

02-05-2008, 11:37 PM

I was only talking current vehicles (2008). An H3 has more ground clearance, an additional locker, larger tires, lower gearing and more torque than a new Tacoma. The adventure package is an upgrade, just like the TRD package is.

Just a fact...

I would still by the Tacoma over the H3 because of superior reliability.

My point is that there are numerous categories for evaluating, testing and selecting vehicles. One factor may be of more importance to one person than another.

For me, I favor reliability and capability, which leaves me with Toyotas and Jeep Wranglers most of the time (yes, my Jeep Wranglers have all been flawless, for hundreds of thousands of miles total). I would not buy an H3, as they do not have a documented and proven reliability record. Time will tell...I agree with that...

The Swiss

02-06-2008, 03:03 AM

So far I was not a big Hummer-fan but this one might change my opinion ... Can you imagine a H3T with a Four Wheel Camper cabin? :drool:

If the preliminary specs are right, the H3Tshould have a 26 gallon fuel tank; now that should give a nice range... (makes me cry thinking about this 19 gallon tank I have in the Commander)

Fireman78

02-07-2008, 02:53 AM

I'd put my Power Wagon up against anything. Just sayin'

Scott Brady

02-07-2008, 03:57 AM

I'd put my Power Wagon up against anything. Just sayin'

The only thing that will stop a Power Wagon is it's size... ;)

Here is some testing I did with one for Chrysler in the snow.

http://www.expeditionswest.com/equipment/reviews/patriot/images/Jeep_Patriot_2007-26.JPG

Just before it got pinned between a tree and a rock, and ripped the passenger side door up (not me driving).

Fireman78

02-07-2008, 04:17 AM

LOL!!! That happened to me LAST WEEK! Luckily I had my trusty chainsaw with me and , well, lets just say there's one less Juniper tree in the world.

Disclaimer- this was on a worksite where we were cutting and chipping trees, it's not like I go around and just cut trees down. I had slipped sideways on an icy hill , wedging a juniper between the truck and chipper, right at the hitch. Not good. The saw , winch and lockers came in handy that day!

IntrepidXJ

02-07-2008, 03:45 PM

Hummer will display the H3T at the upcoming Chicago Auto Show. The first model will be a crew cab with 5 foot long bed. There's an article about the truck at PickupTruck.com

just saw it yesterday at the auto show :)

http://myxj.net/g2/d/114699-1/IMG_1796.JPG

Fireman78

02-07-2008, 09:02 PM

I gotta admit...that's a good lookin truck.

Scott Brady

02-08-2008, 04:54 PM

Look'in good!

http://images.trucktrend.com/autoshows/coverage/163_2008_chicago_auto_show_05z+2009_hummer_H3T+sid e_view.jpg

kcowyo

02-08-2008, 06:25 PM

And as far as bashing goes... I don't consider it bashing to point out that GM's track record as far a reliability is pretty shabby (since about 1979). That's a fact. If you're gonna buy something that costs this much and that you will be taking loved ones out into the woods with, it's a fact that you should be aware of...

Than how do you explain that the most popular engine swap for Toyota icons like the FJ40, FJ55, FJ60, FJ62 is GM's 350? And is there a more revered rear axle for swaps among the hardcore off road crawlin' crowd than GM's Corporate 14 bolt FF?

Of all the engine choices available to replace a worn out Toyota motor or Jeep motor, the 350 and GM's 4.3ltr V6 are the most common and popular. The 6.0 from GM is also gaining ground as a popular option for swaps. There is an entire industry supported by swapping GM parts into other brands.

You state that GM's reliability has been "pretty shabby" since 1979 and state that is "fact". You need to be specific and not just generalize. I see no facts from you nor links to help a reader draw their own conclusions. Your dislike of GM is very apparent. Evidence to back your claims is not.

If your true intent with your anti-GM comments is to inform people of the drawbacks of taking a GM product into the woods, some facts rather than blanket derogatory statements regarding the world's top selling vehicle manufacturer would be useful.

4Rescue

02-10-2008, 04:00 AM

just saw it yesterday at the auto show :)

http://myxj.net/g2/d/114699-1/IMG_1796.JPGOK, that actualy looks kinda neat, I'd love to see one with an ARB Bull-bar, fender bars, Full basket, dual spares on a swingout rear bumper etc... Oh, and how about a GREAT candidate for a mid sized diesel?????????

BUT my god could they maybe make the A/B pillars a LITTLE bit thinner??? That right there would make a HUGE difference in visibility. I hate having to "look arould" the A pillar. And for some reason, they don't look as ponderously long , maybe it's the lift/tire combo on the show truck.

Than how do you explain that the most popular engine swap for Toyota icons like the FJ40, FJ55, FJ60, FJ62 is GM's 350? And is there a more revered rear axle for swaps among the hardcore off road crawlin' crowd than GM's Corporate 14 bolt FF?

Of all the engine choices available to replace a worn out Toyota motor or Jeep motor, the 350 and GM's 4.3ltr V6 are the most common and popular. The 6.0 from GM is also gaining ground as a popular option for swaps. There is an entire industry supported by swapping GM parts into other brands.

You state that GM's reliability has been "pretty shabby" since 1979 and state that is "fact". You need to be specific and not just generalize. I see no facts from you nor links to help a reader draw their own conclusions. Your dislike of GM is very apparent. Evidence to back your claims is not.

If your true intent with your anti-GM comments is to inform people of the drawbacks of taking a GM product into the woods, some facts rather than blanket derogatory statements regarding the world's top selling vehicle manufacturer would be useful.
OLD GM stuff is fine because like all old things, it's simple. I'm a fan of simple and effective...

The primary reason that the 350 swap is so popular is cause they're cheap and they're everywhere. There are better domestic V8's they just cost more to build. There are more reliable motors, but they tend to not make as much power. A

And yes, GM's reliability ratings have been pretty poor for quite some times, they were leading the pack in TSB's a year or so ago by several hundred iirc...

Cheers

Dave

calamaridog

02-11-2008, 07:50 AM

As I've already stated, the 4.5L V8 diesel should fit this baby. 310 hp and 520 ftlbs. Going to be an awesome package when it comes out.

evldave

02-13-2008, 06:41 PM

wow, I leave for a week and the hummer bashing takes over, then the smackdown, then the 'oh, maybe that's not as bad as I thought it would be'...

Anyway, went down to the dealer last week and got put on the list for the H3T. Of course there is no list yet, because GM hasn't released anything to their dealers :mad:

I talked with their 'most experienced' salesperson, he didn't even know the alphas came with a CI front diff. Not a whole lot of help :mad:

I don't think it's appropriate to directly compare the H3T to true off-road vehicles. If off-roading was my primary concern, I'd take a JK Rubi in a heartbeat - in stock form it will hold it's own against even a modded H3 (and carry the wife & kids). But start comparing an H3T in stock form with any other pickup and it will win (power wagon excluded, of course :) )

And as much as GM has had reliability issues, I've seen very few major issues with H3s (except the front housing). I've not had any issues with mine even though it was an early-build H3. And now w/the 100k powertrain & 50k everything else warranty, that's pretty strong support that GM thinks they've got at least some of their act together.

So GMs market for H3Ts are people who want a pickup that will do a great job off-road. Look at the accessories and they are all geared towards the adventure/family/haul perspective - no lift kits, no 35" tire options, etc. Given the wheelbase (longer than a suburban!) This won't be any serious rock-crawling rig, and will struggle at Moab, but that's not what it's being built for. Personally, I can't wait to see it in person!!

4Rescue

02-13-2008, 06:54 PM

A question... Your H3 can be, at the most, 5 years old right??? How do you think the thing will hold up after another 5, 10, 20 years???

Octamog

02-13-2008, 08:06 PM

...And now w/the 100k powertrain & 50k everything else warranty, that's pretty strong support that GM thinks they've got at least some of their act together.

Or after this weeks financial disclosures (http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120282151659562055.html?mod=yahoo_hs&ru=yahoo)maybe they just figure they won't be around long enough to have to fulfill any of those warranty claims!!!

:xxrotflma

:peepwall:

Shovel

02-13-2008, 08:27 PM

I'm still disappointed by the visibility.. huge time.

The underpinnings seem stout enough -

is the aluminum front diff housing failure from the pinion "walking" up the ring and taking the case with it, like S10's would do? If it's the exact same problem, then I wouldn't let it sway me from this platform because it's been my observation that problem is fairly exclusive to abusive drivers with significantly oversized tires and heavy feet - and usually manual transmissions. I'd be more likely to punch a hole in the glass with my steely gaze :sombrero:

It'd be neat to see a Colorado-Alpha? ;) In fact, that's about the only variant of this platform I would seriously look into - and I bet they'd sell a pile of them too.

evldave

02-13-2008, 09:05 PM

A question... Your H3 can be, at the most, 5 years old right??? How do you think the thing will hold up after another 5, 10, 20 years???

The H3 came out in the spring of 2005. I got mine in October of '05. I've got 42k miles on it, which is obviously pretty high. I have no idea how the truck will hold up over the next year, let alone 5, 10, or 20. So far so good, the fit and finish is holding up well (no annoying rattles or anything), and I'm pretty hard on my stuff. I guess time will tell whether the quality stays up or if the truck will require constant maintenance soon...

Fireman78

02-14-2008, 11:09 PM

[QUOTE=evldave]

I talked with their 'most experienced' salesperson, he didn't even know the alphas came with a CI front diff. Not a whole lot of help :mad:

QUOTE]

Hilarious! So true man! I am getting to the point of just "giving up" trying to explain to people the locking differentials on my Power Wagon.

4Rescue

02-15-2008, 12:50 AM

Shovel

02-15-2008, 03:00 AM

I talked with their 'most experienced' salesperson, he didn't even know the alphas came with a CI front diff. Not a whole lot of help :mad:

That's cool, GM doesn't even acknowledge the existence of cast iron front diffs on 4x4 S10's, but M/T equipped extended cab pickups assembled in Kentucky from 1996-2002 all have 'em. The cast iron housing doesn't have its own part number and can't be ordered.. go figure? :PROFSheriffHL:

evldave

02-18-2008, 03:59 PM

That's cool, GM doesn't even acknowledge the existence of cast iron front diffs on 4x4 S10's, but M/T equipped extended cab pickups assembled in Kentucky from 1996-2002 all have 'em. The cast iron housing doesn't have its own part number and can't be ordered.. go figure? :PROFSheriffHL:

15920599 - Part # for front cast iron differential for the H3.

Of course if go to the parts guy at just about any dealer and ask for it without knowing the number, they'll probably look at you like you asked him about the impact of string theory on Eistein's theory of relativity.:p

I know of at least one person who successfully retro'd a CI front dif into a non-Alpha H3 (and under warrantee too!). He just paid the cost difference between the two and got the upgrade...of course this was because he grenaded the front dif in the first place (I think a total of 3 times).

jl8088

02-28-2008, 11:16 PM

regardless of all the loving or hating of the H3T. I am very impressed that it will have Front and Rear Locking differentials. That is huge! The only other vehicles i know that have this are the Mercedes G wagon and the 80 series Landcruisers/LX450s, both of which have a solid front axle.

I can't wait to see this vehicle run thru the courses by the major magazines and aftermarket companies.

I too would hope for the diesel and could imagine myself in this vehicle with a Honda CRF450X in the back trying to find the most remote spot in the world to do some wheeling and riding.

4Rescue

02-28-2008, 11:44 PM

Northern Explorer

02-29-2008, 12:33 AM

A few H3T videos on youtube.

review
http://youtube.com/watch?v=yUW5CAfjhq8&feature=related

http://youtube.com/watch?v=MMsoXBbw_08

in motion
http://youtube.com/watch?v=7595cWvwNrQ&feature=related

http://youtube.com/watch?v=Ti2TFiRCMV0&feature=related

RedDog

02-29-2008, 01:24 AM

Looks like GM is going to built the Jeep Gladiator before Jeep does.

Kudos to them. Good work.

jl8088

02-29-2008, 10:55 PM

what do you think about this. One of the worst 11 cars?!?!
http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2008/autos/0802/gallery.2008_cr_worst_cars/2.html

98sr5

02-29-2008, 11:03 PM

yeah the fj, wrangler are on there too what does that tell you. i wouldnt buy one just not my style and no stick in the more powerful engine. they dont like anything that doesnt ride like a plush good handling car with plus 25mpgs and power to boot

DaveM

02-29-2008, 11:21 PM

Regarding all the negative talk about the Hummers. The real problem that I see is that GM made the mistake of bringing out a vehicle that was tied to the original Humvee in body style only, that was way over weight for it’s suspension and steering and lacked real off road performance. It got a ton of bad press from off road guys and became a suburban status symbol. Now that they are refining the platform they have an uphill battle against the bad PR the original Hummer created. The truck may be improving but they’ll have to try harder to change minds now that people are familiar with the first gen Hummer and it’s shortcomings. Which looked to a lot of customers to be the sacrifice of function over style.

For me personally, I am always wary of any off road vehicle with that much “styling”. Granted it has nothing directly to do with performance but it’s my cue as a buyer to know who the truck is being marketed to and therefore who and what use it was designed for. The same goes for the FJCrusier. Very capable truck from what I read, but the bad visibility tells me something about what Toyota is willing to sacrifice for looks.

Just some thoughts.

98sr5

02-29-2008, 11:29 PM

yeah i know same thing with the fj just not my style they should have done a large rear side window kind of like a troopie or something it would have been better imho

haven

12-05-2009, 02:12 AM

http://i188.photobucket.com/albums/z241/expeditioncampers/h3t-storm-chaser.jpg

Motor Trend has a lengthy article describing the outfitting and use
of a Hummer H3T by a team chasing tornadoes in the Plains states.
The vehicle was chosen for its maneuverability, ability to handle the
muddy roads, and capability to scout routes for the big trucks carrying
large radar dishes.

The Hummer's narrow windows and upright windshield were an asset
for this application, since they were less likely to be damaged by hail!

Read the article here
http://www.trucktrend.com/features/travel/163_0912_hummer_h3t_storm_chaser/index.html