View Full Version : Does the TB-SS need something "more"?
02redhawk
10-30-2005, 08:42 PM
Anyone else feel that the TB-SS needs a couple other accessories or options to make it complete?
In my humble opinion, I think the TB-SS...
- Needs body-colored BSMs for two reasons. #1 Door-ding resistance, and #2 to "dress-up" the plain, empty doors. Without them, the side profile of the truck looks like a base-model 2WD LS. Not to mention the fact that SE MI seems to be the mecca of ignorant drivers & the home of door-ding land.
- Needs some sort of sleek appearing sidestep bars. Not the standard TB running boards, but something that fits the sport-truck image better. At least, have it as an option.
- Needs the roof-rack. Back in the Sy/Ty days (wish I still had my Syclone), I always felt the Typhoons that had the luggage-rack on top looked better. Its all personal opinion, of course, but without the rack, it just looks like something was missing on the Typhoons. Plus I actually use those roof racks for the mountain bikes.
And my "wishlist":
- Needs a 5-spoke optional wheel, preferably silver-painted or polished (NOT chrome).
- Needs to be offered in red. Having owned the Syclone in black, I vowed to NEVER own another black vehicle again.... Just much too difficult to keep it looking clean and spider-free. Our current TB is already navy, and we've already got another white car. This leaves my only option for the TB-SS to be in silver - which is a sharp color - but would like to see at least one other color-option for me to choose from. <shrug>
Nobody misconstrue my comments... The TB-SS is DEFINITELY on my next-vehicle purchase list. But, just wondering if there's anyone else wanting to see a little bit "more" on the truck?
FWIW.
FattyTBEXT
10-30-2005, 09:20 PM
Funny that you should mention it. I was having a conversation with another member earlier today and we also thought it needed body-color BSMs. Running boards were another topic of discussion. And though I removed the crossbars on my roof rack, the rack itself is too functional for me to remove.
So yeah, I agree with pretty much all of your points... :yes:
jimmyjam
10-30-2005, 09:27 PM
I thought base model ls's had the black side moulding? IMO they look sportier without it, plus usually the bad dings come from the rear doors, side mouldings won't save you from those. I'm sure you could talk the dealership into getting you a set if you really want them.
as far as the roof rack, no way. not even for bikes, I used to go that route, until I dropped my bike after a 4 hour ride and made a HUGE gash in my roof from the pedal. trailer hitch bike racks are SOOO much easier to use. the ones that latch onto the tires, not the ones you hang; my frame's geometry doesn't work with those.
homertime
10-30-2005, 09:33 PM
The wing on the back is missing... the 2002 concept had an awesome spoiler, essentially just an extension over the 3rd brake light
I disagree with side steps, they lowered the truck, and it's really not all that high even as a non SS model
The dual exhaust could have been an option, though I think they deleted it due to problems with running the pipes as opposed to cost cutting
They should have the molding, they're a savior from stupid people - the body colored or a chrome like the envoy would be nice
Jman423
10-30-2005, 10:33 PM
......In my humble opinion, I think the TB-SS...
- Needs body-colored BSMs for two reasons. #1 Door-ding resistance, and #2 to "dress-up" the plain, empty doors. Without them, the side profile of the truck looks like a base-model 2WD LS. Not to mention the fact that SE MI seems to be the mecca of ignorant drivers & the home of door-ding land.
......
I agree 100% about the body side moldings. Some people don't like them, and even decide to take them off, but my preference is to have them on there, matching the color of the truck of coarse, but I'm not sure about the roof rack thing. In fact I can't seem to decide if I want to keep the roof rack on my truck now as it is :m2:
4DRvette
10-30-2005, 11:31 PM
I really prefer the "clean" look as is. :m2:
I did like the dual exhaust on the concept versions, but I too heard there was some pipe routing issues with the spare tire.
For me, BSM are just another thing to clean around (dried wax, trapped water, etc) and I'm used to parking in farthest parking space from anyplace. I've managed to keep my cars from being "doored" that way for 20 years.
As for the roof rack, I agree with jimmyjam -- the hitch mounted bike racks rule. Besides, just like the BSM, the roof rack becomes a wash/was hassle for me.
One thing about options is that fewer variations usually mean a more "reasonable" package price. The aftermarket industry will usually fill the gap for those owners that really want to personalize their truck and it's easier to add what you want than pay for something included in the package that you have to take off later.
slim33slim
10-31-2005, 02:34 PM
I'm glad it doesn't have BSM, roof rack, or side step bars. IMO, these would all clutter the clean lines of the TB SS. And if an "SS" is supposed to be a performance version, none of these three would really be a performance enhancement.
I think a Red TB SS would have been nice, but I'm just glad they're making silver!!!
:yes:
My only wish is dual exhaust tips instead of the single tip...
:duh:
a990dna
11-01-2005, 04:17 AM
Anyone else feel that the TB-SS needs a couple other accessories or options to make it complete?
In my humble opinion, I think the TB-SS...
- Needs body-colored BSMs for two reasons. #1 Door-ding resistance, and #2 to "dress-up" the plain, empty doors. Without them, the side profile of the truck looks like a base-model 2WD LS. Not to mention the fact that SE MI seems to be the mecca of ignorant drivers & the home of door-ding land.
- Needs the roof-rack. Back in the Sy/Ty days (wish I still had my Syclone), I always felt the Typhoons that had the luggage-rack on top looked better. Its all personal opinion, of course, but without the rack, it just looks like something was missing on the Typhoons. Plus I actually use those roof racks for the mountain bikes.
And my "wishlist":
- Needs a 5-spoke optional wheel, preferably silver-painted or polished (NOT chrome).
Nobody misconstrue my comments... The TB-SS is DEFINITELY on my next-vehicle purchase list. But, just wondering if there's anyone else wanting to see a little bit "more" on the truck?
FWIW.
Yes, the exact rationale why I didn't buy one....
not to mention I didn't want to wait another month.
After owning a modified Jeep Cherokee for the past 15 years and using it as a daily driver and all the stuff SUVs are used for, I couldn't justify $40K for something that doesn't have BSMs, roof rack and the inability to load a few 2x4s, etc. in the back due to the hatch-style rear access.
It either needs a roof rack or lift gate (clam-shell) style rear access!
Plus it needs some clean BSMs for protection from the idiots and their kids.
I like clean lines but after owning a new Porsche and recieving two massive door-dings that stood out like sore thumbs, I decided to forgo clean for function.
Therefore, I spent more money and bought a Land Cruiser so it will do all the things I need... plus seat 8 in full comfort. I'm approaching the 50 mark so I guess I'm mellowing.
However, this doesn't take away from the all-around credibility, fun-factor and good looks of the TB-SS. It has more to offer (with exception to the Hemi) than the Grand Cherokee SRT8 which I was also considering. I'm a Hemi man but Chrysler still can't seem to get their act togther in terms of clean designs---they have that bling-factor that's just not my style.
The TB-SS is a real nice head-turner, but I've been there done that owning a special purpose daily driver... it's fun but eventually becomes just another novelty like the Syclones and Typhoons. I test drove a blinding-quick new Syclone in 1991, I'm glad I didn't buy one.
GM hit the mark with the TB-SS towing capacity, but they forgot I need to go to Home Depot as well....the clam-shell rear access probably would have changed my mind.
Good luck with your future purchase.
There are actually only a couple things I would do differently, but neither of them entails roof racks or body side mouldings. I have never used my roof rack once in all the years I have had one on my vehicle, and I park at the end of the lot, so no dings for me (besides, dingbats own vehicles of all different heights, so BSM aren't really going to help in the long run).
If/when I get a TB SS, the first thing I will do is fire up the hair dryer and peel off the 'SS' stickers on the sides of the vehicle. Next, the 'Trailblazer' and 'SS' stickers on the back of the vehicle will come off. Commonly called 'debadging', I just call it 'cleaning up.' I don't wear clothing with any names on it, and I like my cars the same way. I could not care less if anyone knows I own an SS...as a matter of fact, if they don't know, that's even better.
The next thing I would do is figure out how to get the tach the same color as all of the other gauges. :duh:
Tommy
11-01-2005, 05:05 AM
(besides, dingbats own vehicles of all different heights, so BSM aren't really going to help in the long run)
:rotfl: I love that term... "dingbats" :laugh:
FattyTBEXT
11-01-2005, 11:12 AM
I don't wear clothing with any names on it, and I like my cars the same way.
Even us label whores like the clean look of debadging. The only name you'll find on my truck is TrailVoy.com. 2x. :yes:
Envoy Fan
11-01-2005, 11:45 AM
If/when I get a TB SS, the first thing I will do is fire up the hair dryer and peel off the 'SS' stickers on the sides of the vehicle. Next, the 'Trailblazer' and 'SS' stickers on the back of the vehicle will come off. Commonly called 'debadging', I just call it 'cleaning up.' I don't wear clothing with any names on it, and I like my cars the same way. I could not care less if anyone knows I own an SS...as a matter of fact, if they don't know, that's even better.
Like the debadging. If I were to get a TB SS, I would do the same. Also the TB SS is going to be a "target" for LEO's and ricers. I like the stealth mode.:yes:
:rotfl: I love that term... "dingbats" :laugh:
Was wondering if anyone would catch that. :)
Envoy Fan
11-02-2005, 01:48 AM
I couldn't justify $40K for something that doesn't have BSMs, roof rack and the inability to load a few 2x4s, etc. in the back due to the hatch-style rear access.
It either needs a roof rack or lift gate (clam-shell) style rear access!
Plus it needs some clean BSMs for protection from the idiots and their kids.
Therefore, I spent more money and bought a Land Cruiser so it will do all the things I need... plus seat 8 in full comfort. I'm approaching the 50 mark so I guess I'm mellowing.
The lack of a roof rack and body side moldings would not prevent someone from buying a TB SS that really wanted one. A roof rack could be easily added after purchase, as could body side moldings from a regular TB or Envoy Denali. Putting a few 2X4's could be done by laying down the back seat and opening the rear glass or liftgate if a real big load. Home Depot rents trucks real cheap if a real need occurs.
I don't see a TB SS and a Land Cruiser as an apples to apples comparison. But good luck with your purchase.
Jman423
11-02-2005, 03:32 AM
Like the debadging. If I were to get a TB SS, I would do the same. Also the TB SS is going to be a "target" for LEO's and ricers. I like the stealth mode.:yes:
To hell with the ricers, it's the LEO's you really have to worry about, especially when challenging said ricers :laugh:
BamaJohn
11-02-2005, 11:26 AM
I prefer the completely clean look. If I'm going to Home Depot or Lowe's with a TB SS, I think I'd be buying a small landscaping / flatbed trailer to bring home all the goods rather than risk scratching up the paint or interior. Inside the TB SS is for groceries, packages, and people IMHO.
GTPprix
11-02-2005, 11:31 AM
Yeah as a matter of fact mine does need something.... a blower ;)
Z06 Tom
11-02-2005, 01:32 PM
Yeah as a matter of fact mine does need something.... a blower ;)
Now THAT'S a man after my own heart...
ATI has a new Procharger kit for the LS2 C6... Won't be long!
http://www.procharger.com/images/c6_uh3.jpg
http://www.procharger.com/images/c6_uh2.jpg
http://www.procharger.com/images/c6_dyno.jpg
I'll pass on the centrifugal.
Z06 Tom
11-02-2005, 01:38 PM
I'll pass on the centrifugal.
Why's that?
Centrifugals are fine for racing, but I won't be racing a TB SS. They have to spool up like a turbo. I'd rather have a twin screw where my boost is available right off idle. Centrifugals are a poor choice for a daily driver, IMO.
Z06 Tom
11-02-2005, 02:17 PM
Centrifugals are fine for racing, but I won't be racing a TB SS. They have to spool up like a turbo. I'd rather have a twin screw where my boost is available right off idle. Centrifugals are a poor choice for a daily driver, IMO.
I'll give ya that one... I wonder if they'll make a Magnacharger for the SS?
A correctly sized centrifugal would still be cool in a SS. As for off the line power from a centrifugal.... I'd love to take you for a ride in my Z06... :D
http://images.snapfish.com/3453%3B86723232%7Ffp3%3Enu%3D3242%3E895%3E899%3EWS NRCG%3D3232%3B58%3A%3A6%3A44nu0mrj
Also, I think GM should have made all the gages white faced, and the break calipers would look cool powder coated red.
GTPprix
11-02-2005, 02:24 PM
I'm trying to order an SSR Magnacharger kit without some of the parts, so far I've been unsucessful :( I want to put this thing together right now! BTW I like Roots and Centri's check my sig ;)
Z06 Tom
11-02-2005, 02:27 PM
I'm trying to order an SSR Magnacharger kit without some of the parts, so far I've been unsucessful :( I want to put this thing together right now! BTW I like Roots and Centri's check my sig ;)
Hadn't thought of that... What's the difference in the two??
I've ridden in a Vortech blown Escalade as well as a Magnacharged one and the difference is night and day. Waiting for 3000 RPM's to get boost in a 6000 lb truck is a whole different story than it is in a 3200 lb Corvette. You're tapping your fingers. IMO, a centrifugal has no business in a heavy truck.
The only superchargers I would consider for the TB SS would be the Magnacharger, the Whipple, or the Kenne Bell. Magnuson just completed development on a Radix for the LS2 in the SSR, it would be a fairly simple process to port it over to the TB. My guess is it will happen in the next 6-8 weeks.
Whipple and KB are second choices because of their poor customer service. They each have very good product, but don't have any problems because if you do, you're kind of on your own. Both of them should be completing their intercooled twin screw blowers in the next 2-3 months.
Given the above, I'd say the best bet for the TB SS would be the Magnuson Radix. That could change if Whipple or KB gets it together, because a twin screw is superior (less heat, more efficient) to a modified roots any day of the week.
Z06 Tom
11-02-2005, 02:47 PM
Whipple and KB are second choices because of their poor customer service. They each have very good product, but don't have any problems because if you do, you're kind of on your own.
Vortech is in the same boat... A lot of guys went through all kinds of problems with the Vortech kit when it came out. My car must have eaten 6 or 8 serpentine belts before my tuner came up with a new pulley system to correct the problems. Vortech would just tell you, "..we haven't had any other problems with the system.... Try these new spacers." :rolleyes:
KB has a lot of experience, and their system for the LSX engine looks good, but they just can't seem to get it to market..
http://www.digitalcorvettes.com/photopost/data/528/34735KB4.jpg
http://www.digitalcorvettes.com/photopost/data/528/34735KB1.jpg
If all three were on the market today, this would be the one to have, right here.
http://www.digitalcorvettes.com/photopost/data/528/34735KB1.jpg
SEMOscrew
11-09-2005, 06:16 AM
i think since we are putting roof racks, door badging, and steps...we should raise it back up a little ,so we can fully use the awd capabilities. maybe add a brush guard to protect the grille and headlights....whadaya think?
i myself am going turbo if i get one. magnacharger hasn't impressed me that much, but parishs turbo truck...mmmmm.
chasmanz28
11-09-2005, 12:58 PM
What size rim and tires does the SS come stock? I gotta see if i can find that type of aftermarket rim somewhere
Envoy Fan
11-09-2005, 01:47 PM
What size rim and tires does the SS come stock? I gotta see if i can find that type of aftermarket rim somewhere
255/50/20 tires and 20" wheels.
TBSSLT
11-09-2005, 05:16 PM
There are actually only a couple things I would do differently, but neither of them entails roof racks or body side mouldings. I have never used my roof rack once in all the years I have had one on my vehicle, and I park at the end of the lot, so no dings for me (besides, dingbats own vehicles of all different heights, so BSM aren't really going to help in the long run).
If/when I get a TB SS, the first thing I will do is fire up the hair dryer and peel off the 'SS' stickers on the sides of the vehicle. Next, the 'Trailblazer' and 'SS' stickers on the back of the vehicle will come off. Commonly called 'debadging', I just call it 'cleaning up.' I don't wear clothing with any names on it, and I like my cars the same way. I could not care less if anyone knows I own an SS...as a matter of fact, if they don't know, that's even better.
The next thing I would do is figure out how to get the tach the same color as all of the other gauges. :duh:
Roger That, we don't need no stinkin badges.. They are the first to go.
02redhawk
11-09-2005, 07:22 PM
i think since we are putting roof racks, door badging, and steps...we should raise it back up a little ,so we can fully use the awd capabilities. maybe add a brush guard to protect the grille and headlights....whadaya think?
i myself am going turbo if i get one. magnacharger hasn't impressed me that much, but parishs turbo truck...mmmmm.
I realize your comment was sarcastic, but you have to remember the UTILITY in "SUV". That's a HUGE reason why the Syclone and Typhoon failed - payload capacity was limited to 500lbs, towing capacity was extremely limited (only 2000 lbs when properly equipped), ground clearance was minimal, and the fact was, no-one wanted a "truck" that couldn't act like a truck....
Fast-forward 15 years, and we now have the TB-SS. My Syclone days are long gone, now having a wife and two kids under the age of 3. Although I haven't given up the sportscar aspect, I still have to own vehicle(s) with practicality in mind. The more that a SUV becomes a stoplight "racer", the less it becomes well, an SUV. Ever watched a 2-year old trying to climb into a TB that doesn't have running boards? He can't do it. Or, for that matter, a 7-month pregnant wife trying to "heave" her way up into the truck w/out a step? I have a pair of snowmobiles, so I need a robust towing rating (more than the measly ~5k lbs the I-6 is rated for, 'cuz it still stuggles with only 1500lbs of sleds+trailer). Thankfully the LS2 takes care of that "problem". I live in the Metro-Detroit area, the land where the only thing that outnumbers idiot drivers are the number of potholes. Hence, the need for BSMs. A roof rack makes it sooo nice to put the bikes on when the back of TB is filled with coolers, toys, and whatnot, and the hitch is already taken with a PWC in-tow. W/out the roof-rack, now where do the bikes go?
There's nothing wrong with keeping the "U" in the TB-SS's SUV namesake. :yes:
slim33slim
11-09-2005, 09:23 PM
Well, maybe it would have worked if these things (roof rack, BSMs, running boards) were optional equipment. But I'm glad they're not standard b/c I personally am not interested in any of them. Not including these may be part of the reason that they were able to keep the base price reasonable.
chasmanz28
11-10-2005, 08:46 AM
255/50/20 tires and 20" wheels.i wonder how that combo would be good in the snow and rain?
Z06 Tom
11-10-2005, 09:56 AM
Roger That, we don't need no stinkin badges.. They are the first to go.
I'm gonna leave the "SS" on mine, but the "TrailBlazer" will go...
slim33slim
11-10-2005, 11:14 AM
Speaking of badging and debadging... what type of adhesive should be used to remount a badge that falls off or needs to be replaced?
Not trying to change the subject of the topic... :no:
ssilicon
01-07-2007, 01:55 AM
I agree both with 02redhawk and slim33slim. I want my SUV to be capable in the utility area, and be as sporty as it can be while still doing so. My preference is to have completely functional utility (with the exception of off road requirements) and then stoke up the sport performance as is practical without trading away utility in the process. Therefore, sidesteps or running boards, BSM and maybe even a roof rack would be welcome by me. They aren't going to slow down my ride too much. If I was that concerned about squeezing every last ounce race style performance, I would buy and F-body or Vette in the 1st place. :eek: Used to own a 2001 Z28 in fact, but that's another story. :)
Anyway, making these things optional as slim said allows everyone to be happy! BTW, do the after market side bars fit on the SS or is the SS too different for them to work?
The Evaporator
01-07-2007, 10:09 AM
Eye think the traleblazer bage shuld be replaste with a streteblazer bage sence it handulz biz on the strete:yes:.
mcss383
01-07-2007, 10:35 AM
Depends on the color, but a black SS doesn't need any of that crap on it!! Now, the Blue they used needs some help to break up the doors. I love blue cars, but do not like the blue SS's.
DrkPhx
01-07-2007, 03:37 PM
I like the styling of the TB SS. If it had a roof rack, running boards and side molding, I would not have not bought it. That would make it look just like the countless oher regular Trailblazers out there. The only two exterior changes I would have liked is dual exhaust outlets and small mudflaps.
carstuff44
01-08-2007, 04:02 AM
I put stainless side step bars on mine mainly because my wife is short and complained about the climb. However, I think they do add a bit to the SS. The finish is similar to the wheels, and it kinda joins the whole thing together. They also visually lower the side view and they help keep some of the crap from kicking up on the lower body. My other two TB's had the factory running boards, but those would look out of place on the SS.
TonyGXP
01-08-2007, 04:17 PM
I put stainless side step bars on mine mainly because my wife is short and complained about the climb. However, I think they do add a bit to the SS. The finish is similar to the wheels, and it kinda joins the whole thing together. They also visually lower the side view and they help keep some of the crap from kicking up on the lower body. My other two TB's had the factory running boards, but those would look out of place on the SS.
any pics?? a guy down the street has a black SS, put the sport tubes on, looks good, but he also put the chrome handle covers on, not a fan of those..
carstuff44
01-09-2007, 05:05 AM
If I knew how to post a pic I could. If you want to send me your email address I can do it that way.
Forever A Fan
01-09-2007, 10:23 PM
THE ONLY THING MY TBSS HAULS IS ASS! If I wanted BSM ,roof rak,or running boards I would have kept my 02 tb lt. see if its not SS it get lower case letters. And as for hauling I just fire up my 06 SILVERADO INTIMIDATOR SS. Hauls ass plus everything else.:cool: