Target User:
Professional technicians, DIY enthusiasts
Value Proposition:
Authoritative, vehicle-specific repair guidance
Differentiation:
Authentic dealership-level information, not generic automotive advice
Uniqueness:
Covers all models and repairs comprehensively for the specified generation
Content Quality:
Authoritative, detailed, and accurate technical data
Engine Mechanical:
All V6 and V8 gasoline and diesel engines
Engine Electrical:
Ignition, fuel injection, sensors, computer controls (ECM/PCM)
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmissions (e.g., NV3500, NV4500)
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmissions (e.g., 4L60E, 4L80E, 4L85E)
Drivetrain:
Front suspension, rear axle, 4WD systems (NVG transfer cases)
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum/disc, ABS systems
Steering:
Power steering, steering column
Suspension:
Independent front suspension (IFS), leaf spring rear suspension
Body And Frame:
Body panels, chassis, frame, doors, windows, interior trim
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning systems
Electrical Systems:
Lighting, power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, instrument cluster
Comfort And Convenience:
Seats, mirrors, interior electronics
Safety Systems:
Airbags (SRS), seat belts
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, tire rotations
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom analysis
Component Repair:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, brake, suspension, steering repairs
Diagnostics:
OBD-I and OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component testing
Rebuilding:
Engine, transmission, axle component rebuild procedures
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical data
Bodywork:
Panel removal/installation, glass replacement
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds)
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, diagrams, exploded views
Engine Options:
4.3L V6 (Vortec), 5.0L V8 (Vortec), 5.7L V8 (Vortec 350), 7.4L V8 (Vortec 454), 6.5L Turbo Diesel V8
Typical Hp Range:
155-295 HP (Varies by engine and year)
Typical Torque Range:
255-455 lb-ft (Varies by engine and year)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI), Throttle Body Injection (TBI - early models), Direct Injection (DI - later diesel)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, Diesel fuel
Available Manual:
NV3500 5-speed manual, NV4500 5-speed manual (heavy duty)
Available Automatic:
4L60E 4-speed automatic, 4L80E 4-speed automatic, 4L85E 4-speed automatic
Transfer Case:
2WD, Autotrac (push-button 4WD), electric shift transfer cases
Axle Ratios:
Common ratios: 3.42, 3.73, 4.10 (Varies by model and application)
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab, Crew Cab; Short Bed, Long Bed; 1500, 2500, 3500 series
Wheelbase:
Varies by configuration (e.g., 117.5" for short bed regular cab, 131.5" for long bed regular cab, 143.5" for extended cab)
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by configuration and engine (approx. 4,500 - 6,500+ lbs)
Gvw:
Varies by series (e.g., GVWR for 1500 series typically 6000-6200 lbs, 2500 series 6600-8600 lbs, 3500 series 8600+ lbs)
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Filter Replacement:
Air filter: 15,000-30,000 miles; Fuel filter: 30,000-60,000 miles; Cabin air filter: varies by availability and model year
Transmission Service:
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) change: 30,000-100,000 miles, depending on fluid type and service (e.g., Dexron III/VI)
Engine Oil:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-6A; Viscosity: 5W-30 common for most Vortec engines (refer to manual for exact specs)
Coolant:
Dex-Cool (orange) or Conventional Green coolant; 50/50 mix with distilled water
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III (or equivalent like Dexron VI)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (refer to specific transmission type)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Vortec Intake Gaskets:
Leaking intake manifold gaskets (especially on 5.0L/5.7L engines) leading to coolant or vacuum leaks.
Diesel Thermo Methoxy Button:
Issues with the 6.5L diesel turbocharger, injector pump, and potential for injector issues.
ABS Module:
ABS warning lights and system failures due to faulty ABS control modules or wheel speed sensors.
Temperature Control Blends Door:
HVAC blend door actuator failures, resulting in inability to control temperature or airflow direction.
4Wd Actuator:
Front axle actuator failures in 4WD systems, preventing engagement.
Rust:
Common rust areas, particularly around wheel wells, rocker panels, and frame components in rust-belt regions.
Chevrolet Trucks:
Chevrolet has a long-standing reputation for durable and capable pickup trucks dating back to the early 20th century.
C K Legacy:
The C/K line evolved through many generations, with this specific generation (GMT400) representing a significant redesign with a more aerodynamic and modern appearance.
Gmt400 Launch:
The GMT400 platform was introduced in 1988 and saw continuous updates through 2002, including the introduction of the Vortec engine family and improved interiors.
Manufacturing Locations:
Various GM assembly plants across North America
Key Milestones:
Introduction of Vortec engines (1996), advanced transmissions (4L60E/4L80E), improved interiors, and safety features.
