🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Avalanche

Generation:

First Generation

Chassis Code:

GMT800

Engine Codes:

LM7 (5.3L V8), LQ4 (6.0L V8)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size SUV / Light Duty Truck Crossover

Competitors:

Ford Explorer Sport Trac, Dodge Ramcharger, Nissan Titan Crew Cab, Toyota Tundra Access Cab (competing on utility and passenger capacity)

Unique Selling Proposition:

Segment-defining Midgate system allowing conversion from a closed SUV cabin to an open-bed pickup truck configuration, combining the benefits of both vehicle types.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006

Models Covered:

All Chevrolet Avalanche models, all trim levels, all configurations

Engine Coverage:

5.3L V8 (LM7), 6.0L V8 (LQ4)

Transmission Coverage:

4L60-E (4-speed automatic), 4L80-E (4-speed automatic)

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 2000+ pages (typical for a complete workshop manual)

Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine performance, transmission (automatic), transfer case (4WD models)

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, DRL, rear drum/disc), wheels and tires

Electrical:

Body control module (BCM), powertrain control module (PCM), chassis control module (CCM), lighting (interior and exterior), instrument cluster, audio system, HVAC controls, power windows/locks/mirrors, cruise control, trailer wiring

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, seats, cargo management system (Midgate, Midgate panel, bed cover), doors, windows, bumpers, tailgate

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt and hose inspection/replacement, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, tire rotation

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/master cylinder replacement, alternator/starter replacement, power steering pump replacement, fuel pump replacement, radiator replacement, exhaust system repair, body panel repair/replacement, interior component repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, component testing procedures

Specifications:

Torque specifications, fluid capacities, clearances, measurements, diagnostic parameters

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Requirements:

Adobe Reader (free download available), compatible with PC, MAC, tablets, and smartphones.

Printability:

High quality, allows printing of individual pages, chapters, or the entire manual.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Digital Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement 1:

5.3 Liters (327 cu in)

Engine Type 1:

V8, Vortec 5300, OHV, 16-valve

Horsepower 1:

285 hp @ 5200 rpm (approximate)

Torque 1:

325 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate)

Fuel System 1:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)

Engine Codes 1:

LM7

Engine Displacement 2:

6.0 Liters (364 cu in)

Engine Type 2:

V8, Vortec 6000, OHV, 16-valve

Horsepower 2:

300 hp @ 4800 rpm (approximate)

Torque 2:

360 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate)

Fuel System 2:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)

Engine Codes 2:

LQ4

🔧 Transmission

Type 1:

4-speed Automatic Overdrive

Model 1:

4L60-E

Type 2:

4-speed Automatic Overdrive

Model 2:

4L80-E (typically with 6.0L engine)

Drive Options:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD, with a 2-speed transfer case on most models)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

130.0 inches

Overall Length:

221.0 inches

Overall Width:

79.7 inches

Overall Height:

76.7 inches

Cargo Volume Midgate Closed:

Approximately 57.7 cubic feet (behind the second row)

Cargo Volume Midgate Open:

Approximately 108.9 cubic feet (behind the first row, bed length extended)

Curb Weight Rwd 5.3L:

Approximately 5,545 lbs

Curb Weight AWD 5.3L:

Approximately 5,756 lbs

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

7,000 - 7,200 lbs (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3-star rating (typical for this era of large SUVs)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS).

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for all seating positions.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional premium sound systems, Bose audio, and in-dash CD changers available.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system was available on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Trailer Package:

Optional towing packages included trailer wiring harnesses and upgraded cooling.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 12,000-15,000 miles or annually.

Transmission Fluid:

Replace fluid and filter every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on usage and fluid type (consult manual).

Engine Oil 5.3L:

SAE 5W-30, API SN or newer certified. Capacity: 6 quarts with filter.

Engine Oil 6.0L:

SAE 5W-30, API SN or newer certified. Capacity: 6 quarts with filter.

Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III/VI (or equivalent), check manual for exact specification. Capacity varies by transmission model.

Coolant:

Dex-Cool (orange) extended life antifreeze coolant, 50/50 mixture with distilled water. Capacity: 14.1 - 15.2 quarts.

Transmission Reliability:

Some reports of 4L60-E transmission wear and failure, particularly with heavy use or towing. Fluid and filter changes are critical.

Rear Main Seal:

Potential for rear main seal leaks on some Vortec engines.

Intermediate Shaft Bearing:

Some AWD models can experience wear or failure of the intermediate shaft bearing.

Interior Rattles:

Common in large SUVs of this era, various interior trim panels can develop rattles.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Chevrolet, a division of General Motors (GM), known for its broad range of vehicles from trucks to sports cars.

Platform:

Built on the GMT800 platform, shared with Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra pickups, Tahoe/Yukon SUVs.

Introduction Year:

2002

Major Updates:

Minor styling updates, powertrain enhancements, and feature additions throughout its first generation lifecycle (2002-2006).

Manufacturing Plant:

Janesville, Wisconsin, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Initial Reception:

The Chevrolet Avalanche was generally well-received upon its launch for its innovative Midgate concept and utility, winning some industry accolades for its design and versatility.