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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Powertrain:
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Engine (454, 366, 350 V8, 6.2L Diesel), Transmission (4L80-E Automatic, SM465 Manual), Drivetrain (4WD Systems, Differentials, Axles)
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Chassis:
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Suspension (Front Independent, Rear Leaf Spring), Steering (Power Steering System), Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum, ABS for some models)
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Electrical:
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Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Instrumentation, Power Accessories
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HVAC:
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Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (System components, Refrigerant, Operation)
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Body And Interior:
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Body Panels, Doors, Seats, Trim, Glass, Bumpers
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Fluid changes (Oil, Coolant, Transmission Fluid, Brake Fluid, Power Steering Fluid), Filter replacements (Oil, Air, Fuel), Lubrication, Spark Plug replacement, Belts and Hoses inspection/replacement, Battery maintenance
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Diagnostics:
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Troubleshooting guides for common drivability and electrical issues, Diagnostic trouble codes (if applicable for the era), Component testing procedures
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Repair:
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Engine component removal and installation (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), Brake system repair (e.g., caliper replacement, brake line bleeding), Suspension component replacement (e.g., ball joints, tie rod ends), Drivetrain component repair (e.g., U-joints, CV axles), HVAC system component replacement
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Overhaul:
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Engine overhaul procedures (e.g., head gasket replacement, piston ring installation), Transmission overhaul (for applicable transmissions)
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Special Tools:
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Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostics and repair procedures.
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine
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Engine Options:
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454 cu in (7.4L) V8, 366 cu in (6.0L) V8, 350 cu in (5.7L) V8, 379 cu in (6.2L) Diesel IDI V8
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Performance
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Horsepower Range:
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Approx. 160-230 hp (depending on engine)
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Torque Range:
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Approx. 270-380 lb-ft (depending on engine)
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Fuel System
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Fuel Delivery:
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Throttle Body Injection (TBI) for gasoline V8s; Direct injection for 6.2L Diesel
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Recommended Fuel:
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Unleaded gasoline (Octane 87 minimum for V8s), Diesel fuel for 6.2L Diesel
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Cooling System
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Coolant Capacity:
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Approx. 22-24 quarts (depending on engine and radiator)
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Coolant Type:
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GM P/N 1052645 or equivalent (Green Ethylene Glycol based)
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typical for this era, or refer to manual for specific synthetic recommendations if available).
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Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
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Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, consult manual for manual transmissions.
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Coolant Flush Interval:
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Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-4 years.
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Spec:
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API Service SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 (or 5W-30 in colder climates) for gasoline V8s. Diesel oil for 6.2L Diesel.
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Brake Fluid Spec:
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DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
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Power Steering Fluid Spec:
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GM P/N 1050017 or equivalent (likely Dexron-II/III compatible)
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Known Issues
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Common Wear Items:
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Ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links, brake pads/rotors, exhaust system components, fuel pumps (TBI systems), power steering pumps.
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Diesel Specific Issues:
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Glow plug system, injection pump timing, potential for head gasket failure if overheated.
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Electrical Gremlins:
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Older wiring harnesses can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical issues. Cracked dashboards were also common.
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Vehicle History
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Brand Heritage
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Chevrolet Truck Legacy:
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Chevrolet has a long-standing reputation for building durable and capable trucks, dating back to the early 20th century.
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Model Evolution
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Gmt400 Introduction:
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The K3500 (part of the C/K truck family) was redesigned for the 1988 model year, introducing the GMT400 platform. This generation marked significant improvements in ride comfort, aerodynamics, and interior design.
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K3500 Positioning:
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The K3500 represented the heavy-duty 3/4-ton offering within the pickup line, emphasizing towing and hauling capacity.
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Production
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Manufacturing Locations:
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Likely produced at various GM assembly plants in North America (e.g., Fort Wayne, Indiana; Flint, Michigan).
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