Depending on your point of view, a fishtailing (oversteering) truck can either be ridiculous fun or a dangerous nightmare. Though there are a number of causes and solutions to this "problem," it is a trait inherent to most pick-up trucks, including the Silverado 1500.

Identification

Oversteering happens when a vehicle turns at a greater angle than the steering wheel is pointed. Power-on oversteer (fishtailing under hard throttle/acceleration) is often an inherent trait to rear-wheel drive vehicles such as the Silverado 1500.

Powersliding

Powersliding is a type of power-on oversteer that occurs when excess throttle is applied while the vehicle is already turning, and results in a sideways slide. This is the basis of the popular motorsport drifting.

Truck Oversteer

All trucks have a natural tendency toward power-on oversteer. This results from a combination of powerful engines, rear wheel drive and a very light rear end.

Weather

Wet, icy or snowy surfaces reduce traction to the rear wheels and will greatly amplify the Silverado 1500's natural tendency toward oversteer.

Broken Components

A broken or bent rear sway bar or control arm will cause the rear tires to lose traction sooner, resulting in excessive oversteer.

Stability Control

New Silverado 1500s come with optional stability control systems, which will either apply the breaks or automatically reduce throttle if sliding is detected.

Source:

Associatedcontent.com: Silverado Driving Dynamics

Dur.ac.uk: Oversteer and Understeer

Chevytruckreviews.com: 2010 Silverado

More Information:

Silverado Drifting (Video)