1997 GMC Yukon

1997 GMC Yukon Before there was a world full of 600+ horsepower crossovers and SUVs, the idea of a high performance family hauler was a bit far fetched. They were tools more than anything else, and many automakers believed that there wasn't a market for something that could pick up your kids from school and put down some wicked times at the local drag strip. Yet here we are. Today, high performance SUVs are a dime a dozen, coming from nearly every automaker. CarBuzz, Oct. 2025  For consignment, a 1997 GMC Yukon with the true miles unknown. In the pivotal years when people began leaving their minivans and celebrities started leaving their limos, it was large SUVs like Yukons that were getting attention. Here's one that's been goosed a bit, now boasting a consignor claimed 659 horsepower on 17 pounds of boost.  ***Due to modifications of the emissions control devices installed by the manufacturer, please check your local, state, and federal laws to determine if this vehicle is applicable for use on public highways in your area.***     Exterior Before we get to the muscular stance of this rig, let's take note of the Red Maple Metallic paint, attractive and unique and the perfect base for the prominent black features which include the large rear window panel, the plastic grille and bumpers, and the glossy black wheels. The Yukon hunkers down low over the 15-inch wheels, here wrapped in staggered size tires no older than mid 2021. The rear bumper has been replaced with a color matched roll pan for a streamlined look and all badges have been removed. Hood pins hold it down and front markers now have white lenses for a cohesive look. Imperfections include a scuff on the roof, a warped rear window frame, a chip in the windshield, deglazing at the base of the windshield, corrected chips, rock spray behind the rear wheels, other minor chips and scratches. Overall, the truck presents very nicely. Interior Pewter plastic door panels include a cloth insert and large plastic buttons as well as a carpeted storage pocket. Other than a tear in the passenger door, both are in good condition. Tan cloth buckets seats occupy the front while the second row is dressed in gray leather, and one side is occupied by a large box pioneer speaker. The steering wheel is GMC's standard but the instrument cluster now consists of a Holley EFI screen while another screen resides in the center and serves as the entertainment center. Between the seats, a B&M shifter is perched on a pedestal and ready for action over gray carpet and old school GM rubber mats. The headliner and overhead console are in good shape and the cargo area features a barren floor and battery box.  Drivetrain Here's where things get real serious as the 6.0 liter LQ4 V8 is equipped with Gen 4 rods, Tick Stage 2 turbo cam, VS Racing 80mm T6 turbo, 65mm Boosted Solutions wastegate, 4 Intercooler, Tick 660 springs, and LS9 head gaskets. The fuel delivery is managed by a Holley Terminator X EFI system with a Trailblazer SS intake, 3-bar map sensor, a 102mm throttle body, and 80lb/hr Siemens injectors. The TH400 3-speed automatic transmission is built and has a 3500rpm stall converter. Power is routed to the 10 bolt rear axle with 3.42 gears and Positraction and exhaust starts with KB Racing 96/1.32 manifolds. Our consignor states this recipe bakes up 659 horsepower.  Undercarriage Clean conditions are found underneath where the single exhaust carries no muffler and no catalytic converter and terminates under the truck. Brakes are on board as power disc up front and power drum in back. Suspension is also standard with coil springs and leaf springs, front and rear respectively.   Drive-Ability With an offshoot feeding the turbo and the other one heading straight out back, the exhaust note is pretty significant when you engage the Holley system and turn over the engine. On the test loop, there's obvious power underfoot and its lowered stance creates a better handl