🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

C/K

Year:

1988

Chassis Code:

GMT400 (First Generation C/K)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck and sport utility vehicle (SUV) segment.

Introduction Year Of Platform:

1987 (for the GMT400 platform, with 1988 being the first full model year).

Key Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Dodge Ram.

Platform Significance:

The 1988 model year marks the introduction of the highly influential GMT400 platform, a significant redesign for Chevrolet trucks.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides dealership-level accuracy and detail for owners and independent repair shops, ensuring correct maintenance and repair procedures.

📋 Manual Details

Full Vehicle Coverage:

All models and all repairs A-Z

Target Audience:

Professional Dealership Technicians

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Publication

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul procedures, component testing, diagnosis, torque specifications, timing procedures for all 1988 C/K engine options.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system diagnosis and repair, starting system, charging system, ECM/PCM operation and testing, sensor data, wiring diagrams.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system diagnosis (TBI, MPI), fuel pump testing, pressure specifications, injector testing, fuel filter replacement.

Transmission Manual:

Disassembly, assembly, clutch service, torque converter diagnosis, fluid specifications, shift linkage adjustment for Muncie SM465 and Getrag G290.

Transmission Automatic:

Diagnosis and repair of TH400, TH700-R4, NV4500 (where applicable for OD), including hydraulic control, valve body operation, electronic controls, fluid levels and service.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle service, differential types (open, limited-slip), CV joints (if applicable to 4WD), propeller shaft balancing, U-joint replacement.

Suspension:

Front independent suspension (torsion bar), rear leaf spring system, shock absorber replacement, ball joint and tie rod end service, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis, pump and gear replacement, steering column service, steering wheel removal.

Brakes:

Front disc brake service (rotor, pad replacement), rear drum brake service, hydraulic system bleeding, ABS system diagnosis (if equipped), parking brake adjustment.

Electrical System:

Complete wiring diagrams for all circuits, fuse box locations, relay functions, lighting systems, accessory circuits, instrument cluster diagnostics.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling and specifications (R-12), heater core replacement, blower motor service, climate control panel.

Body And Frame:

Body panel repair, rust prevention, door and tailgate service, glass replacement, interior trim removal and installation, frame straightening data.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnosis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (OBD-I era), diagnostic tool usage.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change intervals and fluid specifications, filter replacement procedures, spark plug recommendations, belt tensioning.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, differential repairs, suspension component replacement, brake system overhauls.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all vehicle systems.

Technical Specifications:

Torque values for all fasteners, alignment angles, fluid capacities, engine specifications, electrical component resistance and voltage values.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete component disassembly, repair, and reassembly. Detailed diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Notes:

As a printed publication, it is not a digital file format. However, its content is derived from original OEM technical documentation.

Quality:

High-quality print, designed for durability in a workshop environment.

Binding:

Likely a sturdy, spiral-bound or perfect-bound format for lay-flat usability in a service bay.

Paper:

Durable paper stock, often coated or heavy-weight to withstand grease and frequent handling.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

4.3L V6 (VIN Z), 5.0L V8 (VIN H), 5.7L V8 (VIN K), 7.4L V8 (VIN L).

Horsepower Torque Range:

Varies by engine. For example, the 4.3L V6 typically produced around 160 hp and 230 lb-ft torque. Specific values detailed within the manual.

Injection Type:

Throttle Body Injection (TBI) and Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) depending on engine variant.

V8 Engine Code Example:

VIN K for the 5.7L V8.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific GM color/type outlined in manual.

Oil Viscosity Recommendation:

Commonly 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on ambient temperature. Manual will specify exact ranges and GM specification.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

Muncie SM465 (4-speed manual).

Automatic Transmission:

TH400 (3-speed automatic), TH700-R4 (4-speed automatic with overdrive).

Overdrive Availability:

Available on the TH700-R4 transmission for improved fuel economy on the highway.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-II or equivalent for TH400 and TH700-R4. Manual will specify the exact GM P/N.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Extended Cab, Chassis Cab; Fleetside (Styleside) and Wideside bed options (2WD and 4WD).

Gvwr Range:

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating varies significantly by configuration, typically from 5,400 lbs to 7,000+ lbs for half-ton and three-quarter-ton models.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Info Notes:

NHTSA ratings for 1988 vehicles are less standardized than modern tests. Manual will detail structural integrity and component safety testing.

ABS Availability:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional on some models, particularly rear-wheel ABS. The manual will detail its operation and diagnosis.

Seat Belts:

Standard lap and shoulder belts for front occupants. Manual will cover adjustment and replacement.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player, optional premium sound systems. Manual covers removal, installation, and basic troubleshooting of audio components.

Cruise Control:

Optional electronic cruise control. Manual will provide diagnostic procedures for the system.

Trailer Wiring Prep:

Provisions for trailer wiring harnesses are common. Manual will show connector locations and pinouts.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Manual will provide precise recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles or as per severe service schedule. Manual will detail specific intervals and procedure.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 brake fluid. Manual will list GM P/N and bleeding procedures.

Power Steering Fluid:

GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron-II/III. Manual will confirm exact specification.

Coolant Capacity:

Varies by engine and radiator size, typically 14-20 quarts. Manual will provide exact capacities.

Common Durability Concerns:

While the GMT400 is robust, common issues can include fuel pump failure, intake manifold gasket leaks (on some V8s), and aging suspension components. The manual addresses diagnosis and repair.

Electrical Gremlins:

As with many vehicles of this era, intermittent electrical issues can arise. Comprehensive wiring diagrams in the manual are critical for troubleshooting.

Tire Size Examples:

Common sizes include P235/75R15, P245/75R16, LT235/85R16. Manual will list specific sizes by trim and configuration.

Bolt Pattern:

Typically 6x139.7mm (6x5.5 inches) for most C/K models.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Truck Legacy:

Chevrolet has a long-standing heritage in the truck market, dating back to the early 20th century. The C/K line is an evolution of this lineage.

Gmt400 Introduction:

The 1988 model year was the launch year for the GMT400 platform, a radical departure from the C/K line's previous generation (GMT330).

Manufacturing Locations:

Various GM assembly plants in North America, including Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Janesville, Wisconsin.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Recognition Notes:

The GMT400 platform was widely acclaimed for its modern design and improved ride quality compared to its predecessors, setting a new standard for American trucks. Specific awards for the 1988 model year are less prominently documented than the platform's overall success.