Double-wheeled pickup trucks serve a specific function: transporting or hauling large loads. They are mainly found in heavy-duty trucks for this very reason, although some individuals undergo dually transformations just for fun. However, constructing one incorrectly could spell disaster for your vehicle, as evidenced by the experience of a GMC Canyon owner who eventually decided to sell his unique custom dually.
Offered for purchase on Facebook Marketplace is a 2016 GMC Canyon extended cab featuring a do-it-yourself dually rear setup complete with wide fenders. Propelled by a modest 2.5-liter, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, it produces a mere 200 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque—insufficient for towing purposes. The owner openly acknowledges in the ad that the modification was “a regrettable choice” due to the vehicle vibrating at high speeds.
In an interview with The Drive, the owner revealed that he undertook this project after witnessing dually conversions of Ford Rangers and Chevy Suburbans online. Since he couldn’t locate any previous instances of a dually-modified Canyon, he decided to devise one himself. However, lacking professional mechanical expertise, he opted against upgrading to Sierra HD axles or similar enhancements. Instead, he utilized hub-centric eight-lug adapters and wheels sourced from eBay, leading the owner to admit that “numerous issues” have arisen as a consequence of these shortcuts.
Although specifics were not divulged, the listing indicates that the vehicle experiences vibrations at speed—a problem that appears to be self-explanatory. The owner mentions that the truck exhibited this behavior prior to the modifications, which exacerbated the problem. By drilling holes in the fenders to accommodate the flares, they claim to have “compromised” the vehicle’s exterior. Combined with a past accident, these factors contribute to the truck’s diminished value, despite a relatively low mileage of 95,000. Priced at $7,500, the owner hopes to recoup a portion of the expenses.
“I have no intention of investing further in this vehicle,” states the owner, cautioning potential buyers against acquiring this GMC unless they possess the ability to rectify its issues. The most logical course of action would be to revert the truck to its original configuration and diagnose and address the vibration problem. Ultimately, the dually modification proved to be impractical for this truck. Even if it theoretically increased the vehicle’s utility, it would not have been legally permitted to handle loads exceeding the factory’s specifications. Consequently, opting for a full-size truck from the outset would have been a more judicious decision.
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