Really thinking about an H2

[USMC_TOP]

So I have a 06 H3 Adventure, I really like the looks of the H2 SUT. Looks like the 08 09 models have the 6.2 engine with the 6 speed trans. I have looked at a few in person and was wondering if anyone knew of any H2 weaknesses or things to look closely at during my shopping trips. I'm thinking I gotta have 08 09 for sure.

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[rsc]

For that year range, you have the stronger engine and transmission so that is good there. If you like the interior styling of the later ones then bonus. Weakness? Well, the earlier ones tended to rattle a lot, not sure about high mileage examples with the new interior though. Weak areas to address would be the pitman arm wear, especially with bigger tires, and then play it by ear on overall condition.

 

[GreatDaneHummer]

The entire front suspension is just as weak as the H3's. H3's we put on 35" tires or max 37" tires and stuff starts wearing fast / breaking. H2's you put 37" tires and 38's and stuff starts wearing fast / breaking. The floor area's around the seat mounts like to rust out etc. Keep an eye on them. ** I do not own one just know what my buddy has gone through with his.

 

[GreatDaneHummer]

https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/inven...d=true&filtersModified=true#listing=146849007

This one looks brand spanking new lol... This is what I would want to tow my H3 around haha

 

[cgalpha08]

Downside would be the much higher retail for the 08/09 h2's, but on the other hand, they have a lot more options for up gradable front suspension components, they share a lot with the 2500 gm trucks, dmax store, kryptonite, cognito, all have upgraded control arms and steering components for them. Don't know much about the differential selections. Also they are bigger than the H3 so squeezing down a tight trail may be of concern.

 

[Texatl]

I have nothing useful to add, but... I +1 your fine choice on the H2 SUT. They are damn sexy. Period. I keep thinking about one as well.

 

[Airborne]

This is so funny because I have been in the market for a 09-10 Alpha but then I thought I really want the SUT. I was looking at the 08-09 as well for the same reasons. I was going to ask this same question today!

I am really interested to hear what people have to say...

 

[skeptic]

H2 prices are stupid. '08/'09 H2 prices are stupider. If my '06 H2 was totaled today I'd probably buy an H3 Alpha over an H2 due to inflated H2 pricing. As much as I'd like an '08/'09 H2 I just can't justify the $10k-$15k premium. If you don't mind spending $35k-$50k for an '08/'09 H2 doesn't bother you, I'm sure you'll be very happy with one. Personally I plan to drive my '06 until the doors fall off.

 

[Airborne]

Jack!!! How is it going?! Sorry we weren't able to get together before you left. I have been gone so much these last 14 months it's stupid. Thanks for the advice with the H2 I may start shopping again for an Alpha.

 

[USMC_TOP]

I found one near me for 26k with 115k for miles. Might go look this weekend

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[GreatDaneHummer]

115k miles is getting up there... If I was going to buy an H2 with that kind of miles I would be spending another $10k just in restoration to get it cleaned up again, removing rust then under coating etc. Starting that kind of a project I would rather dedicate my money and time to an H1 rebuild. The H3's are just so easy and over all pretty cheap to work on. Alpha H3 in great condition would be the way to go.

 

[skeptic]

Jack!!! How is it going?! Sorry we weren't able to get together before you left. I have been gone so much these last 14 months it's stupid. Thanks for the advice with the H2 I may start shopping again for an Alpha.

Hey Trevor, welcome back!

Don't let my comments turn you off on H2s if you really want one, it's just the prices I find out of line. You can find decent prices on '07 and older ones, but I've never seen an '08/'09 at a price even close to what I'd pay. Then again, I'm a cheap bastard and don't understand why anyone would be willing to buy a new Tahoe that starts at nearly $50k for a non-optioned 2wd base model and tops out at around $80k for a loaded LTZ.

 

[GreatDaneHummer]

"new Tahoe that starts at nearly $50k for a non-optioned 2wd base model and tops out at around $80k for a loaded LTZ."

New vehicles have gotten stupid expensive! Imagine what you could do with a used H2 for $80k.... completely rebuild it into a dream truck?

 

[guruerror]

If you're staying stock and not wheeling...get some RTV to seal the roof marker lights and call it a day.

If you're modding/wheeling:
+1 on the Pitman Idler support (especially if you're going to 37s).
If you plan on leveling it, I'd look at Kryptonite or Cognita UCA kits.
If you're going to 37s, I'd look to move to 4.56 gears.
If you wheel, I'd also invest in Kryptonite tie rod ends.

That was the core of the work I did to my first deuce and it wheeled/road fine.

 

[skeptic]

"new Tahoe that starts at nearly $50k for a non-optioned 2wd base model and tops out at around $80k for a loaded LTZ."

New vehicles have gotten stupid expensive! Imagine what you could do with a used H2 for $80k.... completely rebuild it into a dream truck?

Exactly. Not that I'd spend $80k on any vehicle, but I'd take an '08/'09 H2 w/Duramax and minor mods over a fully loaded 2016 Tahoe LTZ. Paying out of my own pocket, '07 or older H2 or '08-'10 H3 Alpha... In '11 I bought an '09 H3T Lux/Adventure for almost $30k.. Most I've ever spent on a vehicle by a wide margin and I doubt I'll spend that much again for a very long time. No car payment, no credit card debt = happy Skeptic.

If someone offered to trade an H3 Alpha + cash for my H2 I'd probably consider it now that I don't need as much cargo space, but otherwise I don't see myself changing vehicles for a long time.