Anyone wheel their H3 ?

[nierace]

I have been searching the H3 forums for a while and never really find much info or trail reports on those who wheel their H3's and I am wondering how capable they are?

I'd like to know what trails a H3 with a level kit sitting on 35's or 37's would do on a rated trail such as what moab uses of 1-10 or many adventure parks use green - blue - black and reds. I know there alot of variables but with a competent driver and with minor damage on such trails, approximately what category would you put the H3 into as being well challenged but not in over its head.

I'd also liked to know how effected the road manners are with the leveling kit and how much the 35's/37's bog down the H3. Also if many have had trouble with axle shaft breakage or draglink's/steering being over strained by the extra meat.

On that note also is there anyone running 37's with just the leveling kit and possibly extended bump stops and some trimming ?

I noticed while searching that the front travel looked to be only 4" on the shocks, is that true ? It just seems to be very little and I would expect more articulation out of it.

I am asking all this because the incentives from GM have caught my attention and I can get a H3 for a very reasonable price and am very tempted. I currently have a lifted jeep grand cherokee that is great offroad however its on road manners are not so hot and make me weary. I'd like to have something my girl friend can use in the winter in case of a emergency or what ever and not worry about something happening, but at the same time I can still run fun trails. My jeep now is at a point where I would have to spend around 5k on new axles to go to the next stage and run 35/37's, so I'd rather get what I can for it and invest in something that can pull double duty instead of having the heep and another daily driver.

Thanks for any feedback :)

My current rig for kicks :
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k138/drewman141/Rousch%20Creek%204-20-08/IMG_0577.jpg

[RuggedH2]

First of all....... Do it..... you will not regret it.

Next, the rebates are great but the 09's are gonna have a front locker available under warranty. For someone that really plans to wheel........ it's something to consider...... of course for the 6K rebate you could afford to put in your own front locker. ;)

Also the search feature is gonna be your friend....... you will find many threads to answer your questions...... which many H3 wheelers have posted on. Check the Moab stickies in the H3 pics section.

H3's have run most of the difficult trails in Moab from Golden Spike, and Moab Rim down....... I haven't seen pics from Pritchett Canyon and Behind the Rocks yet...... but it will happen eventually.

Here are some of mine.

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[RazM]

... and lets not forget, they're STOCK, not like the silly mods required on Jeeps to get them to fit a decent sized tire.

I did 2 and half cranks on the torsion bars to fit 35's. To fit 37's you'll need a lift.

Four Wheeler put it best, the H3 will do 95% of what a rubicon unlimited will do, but in comfort and with great road manners.

[Desert Dan]

Go for a 2009 H3 with front and rear lockers (Adventure Package) and the V8!

[nierace]

Well if I wait for a 09 I think there will be a high demand for H3's with the front locker and isn't there speculation of the hummer line being cut off entirely in 2010 ?

I wouldn't get a alpha because theres not enough cost vs benefit for them, I wont be towing anything over 4k and theres not even a second difference in the 0-60 :)

Is there any difference in the 09 from the 08 front diff internals aside from it going from a aluminum to cast housing ? My only concern would be not being able to get a locker for the 08 front diff, there currently isnt any available now right (even aftermarket)?

I only have a locker in the back now and traction has never been a issue since I've put it in all though I get a bit more flex. I think I would be able to get by for the savings in $, theres always the brake trick :)

You guys don't think 37's would fly without a 4.5" kit? It looks to me like the H3 is heavy on sheetmetal and needs some trimming. My concern isnt as much on clearance as on drivetrain and steering strain on them :P

Do you guys get any breakage with the 35's and around about what do you get for gas mileage ? From what i've seen most get 15 mixed which is about what I get now with 33's....

I will need to do some searching for trail reports, maybe I can find something in new england who runt he same trails...

Thanks again

[Tex_h2]

Why not just step up and buy a H2.....


The difference between Men and Boys are the size of there toys!




But, I will say there are some nice looking H3's in here.......

[RazM]

Why not just step up and buy a H2.....


The difference between Men and Boys are the size of there toys!




But, I will say there are some nice looking H3's in here.......

No offense, but the H2 doesn't offer much more than the H3 other than just being BIG.

I've got more clearance on my H3 than a stock H2, have plenty of room inside for what I need, and it's just as capable if not more in some conditions.

The H2 is the best full size offroad rig, and the H3 is the best mid-size offroad rig, but there's not much difference between an H2 and an H3 in the capability department that would make someone pick one over the other, other than size.

[rck0025]

No offense, but the H2 doesn't offer much more than the H3 other than just being BIG.

I've got more clearance on my H3 than a stock H2, have plenty of room inside for what I need, and it's just as capable if not more in some conditions.

The H2 is the best full size offroad rig, and the H3 is the best mid-size offroad rig, but there's not much difference between an H2 and an H3 in the capability department that would make someone pick one over the other, other than size.

:iagree:

Also, before I started wheeling my H3, I used a generic Jeep wrangler for my out door adventures. I'm still getting used to the size of the H3 compared to the Jeep (not sure the difference in wheel base), but the H2 would be completely useless for my applications: Very narrow and washed out trails over multiple tin horns. One slip = no more Hummer.

[nierace]

The H2 would be really ugly after running any of the trails here, it would get sandwhiched in alot of the trails, tight and narrow. The H3 is going to get beat up and dented it will look almost as purty as my jeep after a few rides :)

[RuggedH2]

I've had my H2 for just over a year now..... taken it to Moab for multi-day wheelin' trips about six or seven times.

I've had the H3 a year longer than the H2. I've wheeled it just as hard, and just as much.

My H2 is lifted and locked front and rear, and running 4.88 gears with beadlocked 38 " tall 14.50 wide KM2's...... but it wasn't always.

I have no axe to grind here whatsoever.......

In my experience the H2 will outperform the H3 in most conditions off road. It just will. Raz I'm just telling you my experience not trying to put your rig down.

I actually started a thread trying to get people to tell me what I just told you before I bought my H2. The truth.

There are times the H3 has an advantage, but mostly the advantage belongs to the H2.

I'm not looking for a pissing contest with anybody and maybe someone else's experience might be different. That's just the way I see it. Mods can change the picture too.

I took my H2 to the hippie side of town for a fish taco the other day and it got keyed from front to back....... I wondered if that same thing would have happened in my H3. Doesn't matter........ the pinstripes from branches are much worse than the little key anyway...... makes me wonder why they even bothered. :giggling:

If it wasn't fresh through the dirt..... I wouldn't have even noticed it. :D

[tomp]

Putting 35s will increase steering and axle stress, but you should always carry spare tie rods and half shafts anyhow so no worries there. I think a stock H3 with 35s (even an 08 with just a rear locker) will go anywhere that jeep of yours would go.

Yes, the H3 has IFS and is limited on front articulation, but like you are looking for - the H3 has much better on road manners due to the IFS. It is a luxury offroad vehicle on steriods.

The H2 will out wheel an H3 on the more extreme stuff (I have both), but there are times where the smaller width H3 will have advantages but then again the H2s width will have the advantages where width will benefit. The H2 can be beefed up more than the H3 as well (due to limited H3 offroad aftermarket support). However, the Rubicon wins in all areas expect for on road comfort.

Like you said, the H3 is the best deal due to the rebates. Here in Texas they are offering 7K incentive and antoher 1.5K if you get a demo with some low miles on it. We just upgraded our 07 to an 08 demo for same monthly payment and got many more options than we had before.

The 09s are already at the dealers. I had two in my driveway the other day (loaners while our H2 and H3 were at dealer). These two did not have adventure package, nor were there any at the dealer yet. I am thinking they (GM) are doling onto them to see if they can drop the incentive plans before releasing them. I do think the locker and CI cases will retrofit the previous model years, but only time will tell.

A front diff does not make that much difference except in those rare cases where you need it. It also increases chances of breaking a half shaft in those knarly situations where front wheels are binded.

I say get an 08 before they are all gone. I think GM will release the 09s with adventure packages when all/most of the 08s are gone but then the incentives may be gone as well

[RazM]

I've had my H2 for just over a year now..... taken it to Moab for multi-day wheelin' trips about six or seven times.

I've had the H3 a year longer than the H2. I've wheeled it just as hard, and just as much.

My H2 is lifted and locked front and rear, and running 4.88 gears with beadlocked 38 " tall 14.50 wide KM2's...... but it wasn't always.

I have no axe to grind here whatsoever.......

In my experience the H2 will outperform the H3 in most conditions off road. It just will. Raz I'm just telling you my experience not trying to put your rig down.

I actually started a thread trying to get people to tell me what I just told you before I bought my H2. The truth.

There are times the H3 has an advantage, but mostly the advantage belongs to the H2.

I'm not looking for a pissing contest with anybody and maybe someone else's experience might be different. That's just the way I see it. Mods can change the picture too.

I took my H2 to the hippie side of town for a fish taco the other day and it got keyed from front to back....... I wondered if that same thing would have happened in my H3. Doesn't matter........ the pinstripes from branches are much worse than the little key anyway...... makes me wonder why they even bothered. :giggling:

If it wasn't fresh through the dirt..... I wouldn't have even noticed it. :D

Didn't you buy your H2 already modded by the previous owner? So your experience is only with a heavily modded H2 vs a stock H3?

I'm not taking anything personally, I've never wheeled an H2, but numbers to numbers and spec to spec, there really isn't anything that makes the H2 stand out over the H3. With a front locker coming to the H3, I think the only conclusion will be that the H3 will take the lead in overall capability.

I'm really curious to hear from your experience where you feel the H2 has done better and what part of its design makes it outdo the H3?

[RazM]

The H2 will out wheel an H3 on the more extreme stuff (I have both), but there are times where the smaller width H3 will have advantages but then again the H2s width will have the advantages where width will benefit. The H2 can be beefed up more than the H3 as well (due to limited H3 offroad aftermarket support).


Same question goes for you since you own both the H2 and H3, since spec to spec they're very close, where do you feel the H2 does better and why?

However, the Rubicon wins in all areas expect for on road comfort.

Not quite all areas, I'll take an H3 through the mud over any SFA rig. IFS benefits a rig in mud IMO where a solid front along with a solid rear gives more room for snagging.

HUMMER's are mudding kings.

[RuggedH2]

Didn't you buy your H2 already modded by the previous owner? So your experience is only with a heavily modded H2 vs a stock H3?

I'm not taking anything personally, I've never wheeled an H2, but numbers to numbers and spec to spec, there really isn't anything that makes the H2 stand out over the H3. With a front locker coming to the H3, I think the only conclusion will be that the H3 will take the lead in overall capability.

I'm really curious to hear from your experience where you feel the H2 has done better and what part of its design makes it outdo the H3?
RazM,

Yeah I did buy it lifted, with Fabtech tie rods, a sweet Gobi rack and lights, custom dash, etc, etc, all good stuff and Tim did a great job building the rig (it is cool as hell, and all my friends love it). I looked for awhile and was about to buy new when he put his on the market. It was just about a year old and a great deal with all he had done to it, and the condition he kept it in.

I added the better wheeling tires, the front locker, beadlocks and gears later, I also took the rear drop brackets off the lift for better clearance.

Raz I have wheeled with some people that really know their stuff, including some great H3 wheelers. I have watched them work harder on many obstacles than I have had to in the H2. With that said, the H3 is a great machine, I really like mine and I still wheel it often.

IMHO the H2 is more durable, and goes over most obstacles easier than my 3. I modded the H3 with 35" Toyo M/T's, UCP, rock rails, shock skid protection, rear diff guard, Cognito shocks...... and will add the cast iron front diff.

The H3 turns like a Jeep..... The H2 turns like a battleship. The gearing and transfer case are better in the H3. The size difference hasn't really made that much difference but I have had to get out and lift a tree branch off my Hi-lift jack mounted to my Gobi rack. :D

Spec sheets are interesting but they don't really tell the story. A locked cast iron front H3 Alpha will be a bad-ass machine..

I still chose to build the H2 on purpose. ;)

[RazM]

RazM,

Yeah I did buy it lifted, with Fabtech tie rods, a sweet Gobi rack and lights, custom dash, etc, etc, all good stuff and Tim did a good job building the rig. I looked for awhile and was about to buy new when he put his on the market. It was just about a year old and a great deal with all he had done to it, and the condition he kept it in.

I added the better wheeling tires, the front locker, beadlocks and gears later, I also took the rear drop brackets off the lift for better clearance.

Raz I have wheeled with some people that really know their stuff, including some great H3 wheelers. I have watched them work harder on many obstacles than I have had to in the H2. With that said, the H3 is a great machine, I really like mine and I still wheel it often.

IMHO the H2 is more durable, and goes over most obstacles easier than my 3. I modded the H3 with 35" Toyo M/T's, UCP, rock rails, shock skid protection, rear diff guard, Cognito shocks...... and will add the cast iron front diff.

The H3 turns like a Jeep..... The H2 turns like a battleship. The gearing and transfer case are better in the H3. The size difference hasn't really made that much difference but I have had to get out and lift a tree branch off my Hi-lift jack mounted to my Gobi rack. :D

Spec sheets are interesting but they don't really tell the story. A locked cast iron front H3 Alpha will be a bad-ass machine..

I still chose to build the H2 on purpose. ;)

Cool, your H2 sounds like a mean machine, and with everything it's equipped with I have no doubts it'll kick the ass of both a stock H2 and stock H3.

However, you're still comparing a HEAVILY modded H2 to a fairly stock H3, so I have no doubts that it runs obstacles easier.

I'm not saying the H3 is a better wheeler than the H2, what I am saying is they're very comparable and TEX telling a guy to buy an H2 is kind of pointless. The smaller size of an H3 is a big benefit in a lot of cases, especially when considering very narrow, heavily wooded areas up here in the north.

[HummBebe]

sweet baby jesus......


are we really going to do this


AGAIN???

:yawn: :yawn: :yawn: :yawn: :yawn: :yawn: :yawn: :yawn: :yawn: :yawn:

buy it or don't

[HummBebe]

RazM,

Yeah I did buy it lifted, with Fabtech tie rods, a sweet Gobi rack and lights, custom dash, etc, etc, all good stuff and Tim did a great job building the rig (it is cool as hell, and all my friends love it). I looked for awhile and was about to buy new when he put his on the market. It was just about a year old and a great deal with all he had done to it, and the condition he kept it in.

I added the better wheeling tires, the front locker, beadlocks and gears later, I also took the rear drop brackets off the lift for better clearance.

Raz I have wheeled with some people that really know their stuff, including some great H3 wheelers. I have watched them work harder on many obstacles than I have had to in the H2. With that said, the H3 is a great machine, I really like mine and I still wheel it often.

IMHO the H2 is more durable, and goes over most obstacles easier than my 3. I modded the H3 with 35" Toyo M/T's, UCP, rock rails, shock skid protection, rear diff guard, Cognito shocks...... and will add the cast iron front diff.

The H3 turns like a Jeep..... The H2 turns like a battleship. The gearing and transfer case are better in the H3. The size difference hasn't really made that much difference but I have had to get out and lift a tree branch off my Hi-lift jack mounted to my Gobi rack. :D

Spec sheets are interesting but they don't really tell the story. A locked cast iron front H3 Alpha will be a bad-ass machine..

I still chose to build the H2 on purpose. ;)

Quick question....did you ever wheel your 2 bone stock on the same trails you have wheeled your 3?

Then are you really making a fair comparison?

I would never say which is better, there is no real way of determining that. They are all different.

Out of all the available off the shelf vehicles, I chose the H3, not because I was going to wheel it.

Now that I have experienced what I have experienced beyond what most H3 owners have done.

I would choose my H3 all over again.

[RuggedH2]

Cool, your H2 sounds like a mean machine, and with everything it's equipped with I have no doubts it'll kick the ass of both a stock H2 and stock H3.

However, you're still comparing a HEAVILY modded H2 to a fairly stock H3, so I have no doubts that it runs obstacles easier.

I'm not saying the H3 is a better wheeler than the H2, what I am saying is they're very comparable and TEX telling a guy to buy an H2 is kind of pointless. The smaller size of an H3 is a big benefit in a lot of cases, especially when considering very narrow, heavily wooded areas up here in the north.
Man we totally highjacked dudes thread. :D

This isn't about whether the H2 is a better wheeler than the H3.

My point was...... I wheeled it a lot before I added many of the wheeling modifications. The lift may have helped where clearance was a factor.... but that didn't figure in much. Especially with the damn rear drop brackets hanging down, hell, with those on it was like stock clearance.

Raz the H2 isn't that much wider than the H3 with the mirrors folded in.

As far as Tex goes........ don't let him push your buttons....... look at all that chrome he has. :D

[RuggedH2]

Quick question....did you ever wheel your 2 bone stock on the same trails you have wheeled your 3?

Then are you really making a fair comparison?

I would never say which is better, there is no real way of determining that. They are all different.

Out of all the available off the shelf vehicles, I chose the H3, not because I was going to wheel it.

Now that I have experienced what I have experienced beyond what most H3 owners have done.

I would choose my H3 all over again.

Right on Beebs and that is what matters. I load the H2 to the roof with camping gear! I have 5 in my family and the youngest (3) is in a car seat. Most of my friends drive Jeeps and I have a lot of respect for the ability of the new JK's...... but I don't want one. Doesn't fit my needs overall.

The fire was a little too hot for my two boys. :D

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[RazM]

Man we totally highjacked dudes thread. :D

This isn't about whether the H2 is a better wheeler than the H3.

My point was...... I wheeled it a lot before I added many of the wheeling modifications. The lift may have helped where clearance was a factor.... but that didn't figure in much. Especially with the damn rear drop brackets hanging down, hell, with those on it was like stock clearance.

Raz the H2 isn't that much wider than the H3 with the mirrors folded in.

As far as Tex goes........ don't let him push your buttons....... look at all that chrome he has. :D

It's 6 inches wider, and yes, the thread has been hijacked, but we can blame TEX for that
:popcorn:

[RuggedH2]

sweet baby jesus......


are we really going to do this


AGAIN???

:yawn: :yawn: :yawn: :yawn: :yawn: :yawn: :yawn: :yawn: :yawn:

buy it or don't





I just saw this one. :giggling:

yep...... looks like we did.

[nierace]

Biggest advantage and disadvantage of the H2 over H3 would probably be its wheel base, but that door swings both ways.

However a H2 isn't feasible for me in anyway due to price/size/gas mileage.

I browsed through my dealers inventory and its slim pickings so I may be sol in a search for a 08 H3 with adventure package unless they yank one from another dealer.

One of my questions/concerns still not entirely sure of yet was the strength of the front axle and its ability to handle the larger tire, is breakage common with 35's on it or does it take the abuse ? I don't want to be swapping shafts every trip and wasting trail time...

[RuggedH2]

One of my questions/concerns still not entirely sure of yet was the strength of the front axle and its ability to handle the larger tire, is breakage common with 35's on it or does it take the abuse ? I don't want to be swapping shafts every trip and wasting trail time...

The aluminum front diff has had some issues, mostly with those drivers that tackle very difficult trails and sometimes those that have less experience and skinny pedal too much.

The aluminum case actually flexed and allowed the ring and pinion to come out of alignment and chip teeth...... that leads to destruction.

The new cast iron cases are stronger and don't allow the flex of the aluminum. The half shafts are strong for what they are but can break also depending how hard they are pushed. I carry a spare with me in the H2 and it only cost about $60.00 shipped. I don't know about the H3's half-shaft cost.

The 35's haven't bothered my H3 at all. I haven't had issues with the front diff or tie-rods either...... and I've pushed the truck pretty hard. Driver skill is one of the most important factors.

On the other hand, I haven't run my H3 through the Rubicon and Fordyce Creek either. When the trail is hard enough.......you run the chance of breaking.

If you wheel hard trails....... stuff is gonna break. My wheelin' buddies mostly drive built wranglers (CJ's, TJ's, JK's)...... they break too. They also turn turtle. :D

[tomp]

Same question goes for you since you own both the H2 and H3, since spec to spec they're very close, where do you feel the H2 does better and why?



Not quite all areas, I'll take an H3 through the mud over any SFA rig. IFS benefits a rig in mud IMO where a solid front along with a solid rear gives more room for snagging.

HUMMER's are mudding kings.

Ummm, before you go running around getting defensive, maybe you should look at the undercarriage of an H3 and it will speak for itself. The bottom is not even close to being flat on an H3 and there are way too many things to get hung up on.

...and you still have the rear solid axle so your mud argument doesn't even help. A 4x4 pickup will mud as good as an H3 if all other parameters are equal. We are talking extreme wheeling here and the H2 will leave the H3 stranded when things get really tough. If you talking about trail riding like most people offroad their hummers, then that's a different story.

I am talking "wheeling" like you see my H2 here:
http://www.*******club.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=7688

Bebe knows what I am talking about - she has wheeled the crap out of her H3

The H2 can fit 37 tires from the factory and if you know anything about wheeling there is a HUGE difference in wheeling between 35s and 37s. The H2 is also very flat on the bottom with nothing to get hung up on.

The, the H2 has had the capability for a front locker since it's beginning

Like I said, I own both so there is nothing for me to gain by telling you the H2 will out wheel an H3

All I am saying is the H3 has lots more things protruding on the bottom to get hung up on

[RuggedH2]

This pic is badass Tomp. ;)

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[RazM]

Ummm, before you go running around getting defensive, maybe you should look at the undercarriage of an H3 and it will speak for itself. The bottom is not even close to being flat on an H3 and there are way too many things to get hung up on.

...and you still have the rear solid axle so your mud argument doesn't even help. A 4x4 pickup will mud as good as an H3 if all other parameters are equal. We are talking extreme wheeling here and the H2 will leave the H3 stranded when things get really tough. If you talking about trail riding like most people offroad their hummers, then that's a different story.

I am talking "wheeling" like you see my H2 here:
http://www.*******club.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=7688

Bebe knows what I am talking about - she has wheeled the crap out of her H3

The H2 can fit 37 tires from the factory and if you know anything about wheeling there is a HUGE difference in wheeling between 35s and 37s. The H2 is also very flat on the bottom with nothing to get hung up on.

The, the H2 has had the capability for a front locker since it's beginning

Like I said, I own both so there is nothing for me to gain by telling you the H2 will out wheel an H3

All I am saying is the H3 has lots more things protruding on the bottom to get hung up on

Who in the world is getting defensive? I asked you a question, and in no way was it argumentative or defensive. Now, however, I WILL get defensive and tell you nothing pisses me off more than people who read something and twist it in their head to be negative or however they wish to portray it.

Yes, I HAVE looked at the undercarriage of an H3, infact I've looked at the undercarriage on all HUMMER's, I'm not retarded and I'm not speaking out of my ass. Don't pretend your H2 is like an H1 and all flat, it's NOT, and it has nearly as much to get hung up on as an H3. Sure the H3 has spring hangers and everything associated with leaf springs and the crossmembers aren't flush with the outer frame but that's what undercarriage protection is made for. The H2 has nearly as much in the rear axle area, from the sway bar to shock mounts. On both the H2 and H3 those components level off to the bottom of the pumpkin.

My "mud arguement" (and again, I don't know why you're defensive and consider my OPINION an ARGUEMENT) is valid, and it was refering to The rubicon over an H2 and H3. I've done more mudding than rock crawling, and from my personal experience I've seen Jeep's and other SFA's getting stuck where I just wiggled through with less resistance.

You still haven't answered WHY you feel the H2 did better than an H3 on similar trails. I want to know WHY, clearance isn't that much better, the angles are similar, the H3 has better gearing...

My initial question was purely from my own ignorance on the H2 and it's capabilities since I've never wheeled one and I was asking those who have had the luck to wheel both WHY and WHERE they felt the H2 did better. You twisting my words like I was being some smartass or being defensive is completely uncalled for.

P.S. I like how you edited your post and removed the "OWNED" image. Very mature of you.

[RuggedH2]

Raz,

Dude chill.......

You do look defensive. Tomp wasn't insulting you. He seemed to be telling you what you asked him to.

It looks like you are only open to what you want to hear. What difference does anyone else's experience make if you have already decided the answer to the question you asked.

Tex did come in and say buy an H2 and made a little remark about the size of our toys...... but your comments;

I've got more clearance on my H3 than a stock H2, have plenty of room inside for what I need, and it's just as capable if not more in some conditions.

The H2 is the best full size offroad rig, and the H3 is the best mid-size offroad rig, but there's not much difference between an H2 and an H3 in the capability department that would make someone pick one over the other, other than size.

Brought out experience from people that have both. I invite others that have wheeled both to make their experience available also........ but this thread is not about one being better than the other.

I regret that I got dragged into that. I was just telling the truth, as I think Tomp was too.

Raz...... you are not very objective on this topic.

[RazM]

Raz,

Dude chill.......

You do look defensive. Tomp wasn't insulting you. He seemed to be telling you what you asked him to.

It looks like you are only open to what you want to hear. What difference does anyone else's experience make if you have already decided the answer to the question you asked.

Tex did come in and say buy an H2 and made a little remark about the size of our toys...... but your comments;

I've got more clearance on my H3 than a stock H2, have plenty of room inside for what I need, and it's just as capable if not more in some conditions.

The H2 is the best full size offroad rig, and the H3 is the best mid-size offroad rig, but there's not much difference between an H2 and an H3 in the capability department that would make someone pick one over the other, other than size.

Brought out experience from people that have both. I invite others that have wheeled both to make their experience available also........ but this thread is not about one being better than the other.

I regret that I got dragged into that. I was just telling the truth, as I think Tomp was too.

Raz...... you are not very objective on this topic.

"Chill"? Come on Rugged, this isn't highschool. If you seriously think the questions I asked and things I wrote were defensive or that I'm flaming, then I think you're truly reading it the wrong way.

Tomp didn't answer my question, he talked to me like I was 8 years old and trolling, and added a sidedish of half-answers.

You can bold everything I said a thousand times, nothing about it is defensive or negative towards the H2. I even stated that the H2 is the best full size offroad rig, and you guys come in pretending as if I'm bashing the H2. That's not cool at all.

I'm completely objective, how many times do I have to state that the H2 is THE BEST FULL SIZE RIG?

I stated the H3 is very close in capabilities as the H2, and with 35's it has better clearance than an H2. It's a fact that a smaller rig has benefits on lots of trails. These are all facts, and for heavens sakes if I cannot state the positives of the H3 over an H2 in a thread where a guy wants to BUY an H3 then I think you guys have some problems dealing with anything negative towards the H2 and are truly the ones being defensive.

BTW, Rugged, I know you're defending your friend, but his reply was far from mature and innocent, considering how he wrote it and included an "owned" smiley at the end of it. I know exactly what direction he was coming from, and it's not cool.

[timgco]

I have been searching the H3 forums for a while and never really find much info or trail reports on those who wheel their H3's and I am wondering how capable they are?

I would say equal to your modded Jeep. I had one as well with a 4" and 33's. The H3 with 35's and a tbar crank gives you some respectable AP and DP angles. Get the adventure package , uc protection, and rock sliders. It sounds like you'll need them. Also, if the funds allow, get the ALpha so you can have the V8. I had two H3's with the I5. This V8 is a big difference..esp. with 35's.

I'd like to know what trails a H3 with a level kit sitting on 35's or 37's would do on a rated trail such as what moab uses of 1-10 or many adventure parks use green - blue - black and reds. I know there alot of variables but with a competent driver and with minor damage on such trails, approximately what category would you put the H3 into as being well challenged but not in over its head.

Depends on your abiliities as a driver. The hardest I have seen an H3 run was Golden Spike. It will also depend ont eh terrain. A 5+ trail in Moab can be doable on teh slickrock, but maybe not on loose trails combined with driver abilities.

I'd also liked to know how effected the road manners are with the leveling kit and how much the 35's/37's bog down the H3. Also if many have had trouble with axle shaft breakage or draglink's/steering being over strained by the extra meat.

Forget about a leveling kit. Just crank the T bars to 24" and you're at teh same height as the leveling kit...and it stiffens the ride up a little. It's a welcomed mod. It still handles close to stock with the exception of a little more body role. When you put the leveling kit on or crank the Tbars, your take the front bumpstops off the A arm. on teh other hand, you get a little more up travel. Again, go for the Alpha if you plan to run 35's or 37's. ..although 37's on the H3 I think will spell disaster if you are going to wheel the pi$$ out of this truck. The 4" racnho kit with 35's have enough room to flex up. 37's rub some, but IMO, the front diff, steering rack will not hold up well over time.


On that note also is there anyone running 37's with just the leveling kit and possibly extended bump stops and some trimming ?

37's will not fit with a levling kit. You need 4.5" at least to make this work if you plan to wheel. Again, I would stay with 35's.

I noticed while searching that the front travel looked to be only 4" on the shocks, is that true ? It just seems to be very little and I would expect more articulation out of it.

IFS is not like a solid axle. So you will not get the travel like a Jeep. This truck is a different animal.

I am asking all this because the incentives from GM have caught my attention and I can get a H3 for a very reasonable price and am very tempted. I currently have a lifted jeep grand cherokee that is great offroad however its on road manners are not so hot and make me weary. I'd like to have something my girl friend can use in the winter in case of a emergency or what ever and not worry about something happening, but at the same time I can still run fun trails. My jeep now is at a point where I would have to spend around 5k on new axles to go to the next stage and run 35/37's, so I'd rather get what I can for it and invest in something that can pull double duty instead of having the heep and another daily driver.
NICE JEEP!!!!

Btw- you should be able to get down to $100 over invoice since sales are down so bad now. You should be at around 10K off sticker with the current incentives and sticker to invoice discount.

Thanks for any feedback :)

My current rig for kicks :
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k138/drewman141/Rousch%20Creek%204-20-08/IMG_0577.jpg

..

[blindzebra]

Um I would say drive both the H2 and the H3. They both have their purposes. We could sit here till the end of days to argue and have someone who owns an old bradley tell us all to go phuk ourselfs. Lets just ask our selfs what we want out of our rig.

I'm on my 2nd H3 and my 2nd one's an Alpha. If you're in deep mud or soft sand you better believe the V8 will help you out alot more than the I5. However the my first was a manual and the gearing was insane for than truck. I'm not as big of fan of the gearing in the alpha, but the engine makes up for that with torque. I'm not bashing jeeps in any way, but I've never been on a trail with one that I couldn't do anything that they could. If you're worried about breaking something, well that's always a possiblity, but I haven't done much major damage yet. The difference is we do what do for the most part pretty much stock. For the most part I don't see many stock jeeps on the trail. I say drive what makes you happy, and let me know if you're in my neck of the woods. I'd be happy to go out with you. Best of luck in your future rig!

[nierace]

I dunno why you guys are buggin out - I don't care about H2 its way out of my price range and way to big to fit on the trails here, so any information regarding how a H2 is better isn't helping my cause.

Thanks everyone for all the useful info, timgco your post was a big help I appreciate.

What kind of modifications to the front diff/axle shafts/steering would be necessary for them to hold up for the most part to 37" tires ? Reason I ask is because if I get on the same boat where I need to spend serious $$$ to upgrade the diff its kind of a lateral move for me then.

[6pack]

I had a response for you nie, about a half hour ago, but after all that H3 - H2 stuff, I forget. Sorry. FWIW, I think you'll like the H3. :beerchug:

[Bully13]

sweet baby jesus......


are we really going to do this


AGAIN???



yes... lol.

Since we have both I'll tell you my opinion. Both of ours have 35inch offroad tires (the h3 has BFG's and the H2 has Toyos). When going through the trails, the H2 did seem to do the the job easier. I think it's just because it's wider and does not tip as easily. Also it's bigger and heaver, so the ride is smother and you don't feel as much, so it makes everything seem easier.

Having said that I think that the advantage of the 3 is that you do feel more of the trail, which makes it more of an offroad experience. Plus it's easier to get through narrow spot and tight turns especially where trees are involved. We enjoy them both though. I think they are pretty even when it comes to offroad capability.

[HummBebe]

There is no doubt that the H2 is a crazy capable truck, but again, there are places where the H3 excels and leaves the H2 behind. Rubicon is an example.

Not to mention driver experience, H2'ers have 3 years on us. And really, that's what it all comes down to.

However, for the H3 weaknesses, which have been either modified and/or changed completely, it has definitely improved it's capability, mostly due to the folks on this board who have made the mistakes and the improvements.

Remember, the H3 has only been out for 3 years, and the H2 needed some improvements too before it became the rig it is today.

Now, talk to me again after I do my spring over this winter, and turn my hangers into mosquito bites.....LOL

More lift and support for the Beberhino:fdance:

Nothing to get hung up on then.....The last weakness on the H3.

Tire size: Fixed
Front leveling: Fixed
Front Diff: Fixed
Hangers: PHIXED

Fordyce
http://i238.photobucket.com/albums/ff97/hummbeebee/Bebe.jpg

Rubicon
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a240/HummBeeBe/rubi8.jpg

Bodysnatcher....Moab

http://h3adventures.com/coppermine/albums/uploads/moab08/normal_GoldenSpike2008_59.JPG

[3Hummer]

soooo much argument the new guy is probably like im outta here...but if your still here! Let me start off by saying I love my H3....The H2 is big and more expensive but if your worried about fuel consumption the H3 with 35"s or 37"s and a level or lift will get the same fuel economy as a stock H2...but all that aside the H3 wheels great if the H2 isnt in your price range i wouldnt think grab an H3...Im a florida guy so I dont have the rock experience the moab people have but i have a ton of water fording and mudding experience and let me say the H3 is AWSOME...i have just a stock H3 and Ive gottent through areas my friends lifted FJ on 33" mud terrains wasnt able to get through and my friend with a a 4" lift and 35" mt mud terrains on a jeep werent able to get through...the H3's main benifit in my opinion is this the trails i run down in florida are BARELY wide enough to fit the H3, an H2 in no means would ever even get 5 feet into it...ive seen some try. the H3 is also a lighter vehicle giving an adventage again in some areas. both have their +'s and -'s but one thing is certain the rock and mudding and all that stuff can be argued the hell out of but compare two things stock..the H3 can take 4 more inches of water and thats something that cant be argued!
Happy wheeling!

[RuggedH2]

the H3 can take 4 more inches of water and thats something that cant be argued!

Well sure it could....... but don't worry, I'm not going to.

Lets see...... was Rox running 35's on there? Whatever, they're under water............ ;) :D

49217

[HummBebe]

Yeah, but after it sputtered, coughed and cacked....we had to wait for it to dry out a bit....the 3's were fine:fdance:

[RuggedH2]

OK, I get it.......3's are better than 2's. :rolleyes:

We can say that...... but not the other way around?

[HummBebe]

LOL.....not what I meant and you know it.

H3's can ford deeper though.....let it go:grouphug:

[RuggedH2]

Well......we've all mostly been here before haven't we?

Mix it up with Jeepers also. At least I own both an H2 and H3.

I guess I'm gonna have to get a Jeep too. :giggling:

Perspective effects us all..... we all think the other guy is biased.... and we are the one being objective. :D

I'll let it go Beebs......... but if I was gonna run Fordyce......ahhh..... never mind. ;)

[RubHer Yellow Ducky]

they didn't get stuck...........!

http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:JoE6PThs-HAJ::www.azcentral.com/ent/nightlife/pics/mudwrestle.jpg (http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.azcentral.com/ent/nightlife/pics/mudwrestle.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.ski-blog.com/2007/07/&h=287&w=484&sz=32&tbnid=JoE6PThs-HAJ::&tbnh=76&tbnw=129&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dwomen%2Bmud%2Bwrestling&hl=en&sa=X&oi=image_result&resnum=2&ct=image&cd=1)

[rck0025]

:perfect10s:


I vote more mud wrestling and less pissing contest. I'm sure the main reason people buy either truck is because that truck fits their needs optimally.

~Although everyone knows a lifted alpha with 35's out-wheels a stock h2 on any given day. I believe that has been settled. Also less likely to be keyed.

Just kidding - both are great trucks.

[RuggedH2]

STFU Newb Know it all.

[rck0025]

STFU Newb Know it all.

:crying:

You tell'em!

[RuggedH2]

I don't see a pissing contest.

Individual perspective seems to make all the difference.

What we see depends largely on where we stand.

I see three owners of both an H2 and H3 speaking of their own experience with the 2 different vehicles. I don't read any insults being sent at either vehicle.

If anyone cares to read my past posts they can easily check and they will see that I don't insult H3's and have stood up for them many times on this board. I've been involved in a few feuds over this very subject when insults were being hurled at H3's and their owners.

That doesn't mean I don't have my own opinions that some others here may or may not agree with. Those opinions are based on my experiences.

When someone says the H3 is just as capable as the H2, if not more so in some conditions.........I disagree. I haven't seen that to be true. So I said so. I think I tried to leave it at that. I'm not trying to piss people off or insult them.

I realize that the turning radius and gearing is better in the off road package H3 than the H2 and I said that in an earlier post. I do believe the H3 is a safe truck, a great wheelin' rig, and a comfortable driver (that's why I didn't sell it when I got the H2). I take the H3 when the trails are tight because I can. I own an H3 because I want to.

I haven't insulted the H3.

I do see others get offended when it is said that an H2 can do some things an H3 can't do. I've seen it.

I haven't seen an H3 do things an H2 can't do. There might be many places the H2's 6 inches wider width may
make that the case, but I haven't seen it. The H3 might be able to ford a few inches more water..... but where has that stopped an H2...... that an H3 made it?

I have many friends with H3's........ and some are very good drivers. I respect many of the people that have posted on this thread, and even if I don't concur with all their opinions all the time..... I still respect their experience and knowledge.

rck0025, you just got here..... you don't even know what the fawk you're talking about. That sure hasn't kept you from posting your "know it all already" B.S. on lots of threads. Post up your own wheelin pics! Talk is cheap.

49225

[rck0025]

Check your panties bro, all is well. I guess you missed the part that says just kidding. :notallthere:

[3Hummer]

can't we all just be friends :grouphug: i mean common were hating our own blood here afterall were all Hummers

[rck0025]

I agree, in all my newbie "know-it-all" greatness. So if I said anything that was offensive, I apologize. Now that the air is clear, how bout a little help in the technical forum -still waiting for advice on the Alpha's exhaust. :)

[RazM]

I don't see a pissing contest.

Individual perspective seems to make all the difference.

What we see depends largely on where we stand.

I see three owners of both an H2 and H3 speaking of their own experience with the 2 different vehicles. I don't read any insults being sent at either vehicle.

If anyone cares to read my past posts they can easily check and they will see that I don't insult H3's and have stood up for them many times on this board. I've been involved in a few feuds over this very subject when insults were being hurled at H3's and their owners.

That doesn't mean I don't have my own opinions that some others here may or may not agree with. Those opinions are based on my experiences.

When someone says the H3 is just as capable as the H2, if not more so in some conditions.........I disagree. I haven't seen that to be true. So I said so. I think I tried to leave it at that. I'm not trying to piss people off or insult them.

I realize that the turning radius and gearing is better in the off road package H3 than the H2 and I said that in an earlier post. I do believe the H3 is a safe truck, a great wheelin' rig, and a comfortable driver (that's why I didn't sell it when I got the H2). I take the H3 when the trails are tight because I can. I own an H3 because I want to.

I haven't insulted the H3.

I do see others get offended when it is said that an H2 can do some things an H3 can't do. I've seen it.

I haven't seen an H3 do things an H2 can't do. There might be many places the H2's 6 inches wider width may
make that the case, but I haven't seen it. The H3 might be able to ford a few inches more water..... but where has that stopped an H2...... that an H3 made it?

I have many friends with H3's........ and some are very good drivers. I respect many of the people that have posted on this thread, and even if I don't concur with all their opinions all the time..... I still respect their experience and knowledge.

rck0025, you just got here..... you don't even know what the fawk you're talking about. That sure hasn't kept you from posting your "know it all already" B.S. on lots of threads. Post up your own wheelin pics! Talk is cheap.

49225

I agree, I have never seen you insult the H3 and you're always very objective on both the H2 and H3. I don't think anyone is accusing you of that.

When I responded to your post, I asked you if your experience with the H2 was solely based off a heavily modified and lifted rig, which is the case. I personally don't think it's a fair comparison and was asking for a more stock to stock comparison.

I certainly hope you're not talking about me as getting "offended." That's just silly and I haven't said one thing where it could even be taken as that.

Where I did get offended was when Tomp came in with his speech and talking to me as if I was trolling or flaming him in any way. I asked him a simple question (which he even quoted me on), and in no way was it "defensive" as he puts it.

Then you come in and tell me to "chill" and that I was coming off as defensive. There's nothing quite as annoying than when people tell you to "chill" and "don't get so defensive" when everything you said was calm and polite. The weird part is, I think I've been more than fair and stated over and over that I respect the H2, and I was asking you and Tomp why you felt the H2 did better on the same obstacle vs. an H3, and all I got in response was hostility (from Tomp mainly and then your response to me on my response to him ((omfg we sound like old women)).

I just think, when you guys start talking about how you've seen or accomplished things in the H2 and you don't feel the H3 could do it, just be constructive and state WHY, and where you felt the vehicle lacked. That'll put an end to any hostility.

I still believe the H2 and H3 are very close in capabilities, and each has its strengths, and any of this "buy an H2 instead" crap is the most pointless thing ever. This isn't pointed to anyone in particular, but there are those H2 owners who act like certain H1 owners who will never give the H2 a chance.

[RuggedH2]

Raz,

I've taken a few classes on interpersonal communications...... I've been taught that 5% of the communications process is the words. 95% of the process is in inflection, tone, and non-verbal mannerisms.

Here all we have are the words. I have had many things I've said taken other than how I intended for them to be. I'm sure it happens to all of us.

As far as all this crap goes..... I'm not pissed..... or at you at all.

Our own perspective really does effect us all.

I didn't see the owned sign......maybe it was there. But I don't think Tomp was trying to insult you either.

Chill is a word I use to tell my friends to relax. I realize now that you were not fired up but with just the words...... I thought you sounded that way.

As far as the why......... specific examples may help you understand but they could also make other people angry. I'm not trying to piss off other people that I respect. We all love our rigs.

I do agree that the capabilities of the rigs are close.

My comparisons between my own rigs were close also. The only modifications done to my H2 during the times I was talking about involved a lift with additional brackets that hung down (since removed). I think it was a fair comparison with the mods done to the H3 at the time. Both rigs had rock tires 2" larger than stock. If anything the H3 had some advantage because I added sliders to the spring hangers and the lift on the H2 hung up where a stock one wouldn't have.

There are H2 owners that like to fling sh!t. I've seen it too. I'm not one of them and I don't think Tomp is either.

I've had the good fortune to walk trails that H1's were struggling with..... but that doesn't mean I think my H2 will out-wheel an H1. I've done things in the governments Humvees that I'm sure would have pulled the entire suspension out of my truck and left it laying in pieces all along the ground.

:D :cool:

[timgco]

Ok, even though this thread was about the H3 (this person has no desire or care about info on teh H2) which truck is really better? :notallthere: :fdance:

:drama:

[Desert Dan]

nierace

Have you though about a Rubicon Unlimited?

[nierace]

nierace

Have you though about a Rubicon Unlimited?

If the unlimited rubi came with a 4.7 V8 it would be in my driveway right now. I can't deal with 11 second 0-60 though, thats too painful. It really is just too much of a dog, the H3 at least can get out of its own way some what.

If the top came off of the H3 that would also be sitting in my drive way :P

I might be sitting on my hands though don't think I can get enough for my jeep to justify selling it and I can't find a H3 equiped how i want it.

[RuggedH2]

Ok, even though this thread was about the H3 (this person has no desire or care about info on teh H2) which truck is really better? :notallthere: :fdance:

:drama:
Yeah that kind of crap never happens around here. :rolleyes:

We always stick to just what the original thread starter wishes to discuss. :giggling:

Hell Dan's trying to sell him a Jeep. LOL!

[RazM]

nierace

Have you though about a Rubicon Unlimited?

What part of his message made you think he was gay?

[nierace]

What part of his message made you think he was gay?

Word whats with the hate on Jeeps ? Both are "made" in America and both hit the trails, so why would you bash either ? Hell we have people who come out with suzuki's to the trails, who cares who makes it just wheel it.

**** you guys cant even get along with others who run the same brand but different models.

[RuggedH2]

Word whats with the hate on Jeeps ? Both are "made" in America and both hit the trails, so why would you bash either ? Hell we have people who come out with suzuki's to the trails, who cares who makes it just wheel it.

**** you guys cant even get along with others who run the same brand but different models.
You mean like all that love that CJ drivers have for JK drivers....... or like the YJ love that all Wranglers have for square headlights?........ or like the respect all Jeepers have for the Liberty?

You seriously posted that? :giggling:

The Grand Cherokee is another example....... all the wranglers go on and on about how they admire the uni-body

49226

[RazM]

Word whats with the hate on Jeeps ? Both are "made" in America and both hit the trails, so why would you bash either ? Hell we have people who come out with suzuki's to the trails, who cares who makes it just wheel it.

**** you guys cant even get along with others who run the same brand but different models.

lmao, I guess you haven't been around these forums long enough...

Don't take it seriously, I know people who drive Jeep's and it's all in good fun, trust me, they say all kinds of crap about owning a HUMMER.