🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

GMC

Model:

K3500

Year:

1993

Model Line:

Sierra

Body Style:

Full-size Pickup Truck

Chassis Code:

GMT400

Generation Identifier:

Second Generation (GMT400)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Targeted towards DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics needing comprehensive repair information for a specific heavy-duty GMC truck.

Target Audience:

Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, customizers, restoration enthusiasts, and professional mechanic shops.

Advantage Over Print:

Instant online access, greater convenience, potentially lower cost than original printed manuals, searchable interface.

Licensing:

Officially licensed, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

Accessibility:

Compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet with an internet connection and web browser.

Access Duration:

One year of access included, with discounts for additional years.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive Service and Repair

Estimated Page Count:

Likely extensive, covering all systems; exact count not provided in product description, but typical for factory-derived manuals is 1500+ pages.

Manual Type:

Online Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online/Web-based (accessible via internet browser)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, exhaust, engine diagnostics

Drivetrain Systems:

Manual and automatic transmissions, transfer case (4WD models), drive axles, propeller shafts, CV joints, differentials

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (leaf springs, shocks, ball joints, control arms), steering gear, power steering system, steering linkage

Brake Systems:

Front and rear disc/drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)

Electrical Systems:

Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics, power accessories

HVAC Systems:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, components, and service

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, frame, bumpers

Fuel System Details:

Fuel tank removal and installation, fuel pump testing, fuel filter replacement, fuel line routing and repair.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold inspection and replacement, catalytic converter service, muffler and pipe replacement.

Cooling System:

Radiator removal/installation, fan clutch, water pump service, thermostat replacement, coolant hose inspection and replacement.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, belt and hose inspection/replacement, spark plug replacement

Repair Procedures:

Component removal and installation, diagnostic troubleshooting, component testing, sub-assembly repair

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation (if applicable)

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, timing settings, electrical resistance values, fluid capacities and types

Bodywork Procedures:

Information on panel replacement, door alignment, glass replacement, rust repair techniques.

Depth Of Coverage:

Factory-derived, OE-level detail including complete disassembly, assembly, and diagnostic procedures for all major systems.

Diagnostic Tools:

Procedures may reference specific diagnostic tools or multimeters for electrical system testing.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Web-based access, not a downloadable file format like PDF, but optimized for browser viewing.

Searchability:

Likely searchable text format due to online delivery, allowing quick access to specific repair topics.

Print Quality:

N/A (Online Access); Content derived from OE materials which are typically high quality.

Binding Type:

N/A (Online Access)

Paper Type:

N/A (Online Access)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Vortec 454 CID (7.4L) V8, Vortec 366 CID (6.0L) V8, 6.2L Diesel V8 (less common in K3500, more in C3500 but possible overlap in service info), 5.7L V8 (likely Vortec 350, though specific availability in K3500 needs confirmation from OE sources).

Engine Code Example:

L19 (454 V8), L05 (350 V8)

Engine Block Material:

Cast Iron

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 230-250 HP for 454 V8, 200-225 HP for 350 V8 (Vortec variants).

Torque Range:

Approximately 385-400 lb-ft for 454 V8, 285-300 lb-ft for 350 V8 (Vortec variants).

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) for Vortec engines.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (for gasoline engines), Diesel Fuel (for diesel engines).

Ignition System:

Distributor-based, electronic ignition.

Cylinder Head Material:

Cast Iron

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

Typically equipped with heavy-duty manual transmissions (e.g., NV4500 5-speed) or robust automatic transmissions (e.g., 4L80-E 4-speed automatic).

Transfer Case:

For 4WD models (K series), a robust 2-speed transfer case is standard (e.g., NP205 or NP241).

Transmission Features:

Heavy-duty construction to handle towing and hauling loads, electronic controls for automatic transmissions (4L80-E).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Commonly 131.5 inches (Regular Cab) and 151.5 inches (Extended Cab or Long Bed).

Overall Length:

Varies by configuration, typically 216.3 inches (Regular Cab) to 236.3 inches (Long Bed).

Gvwr Range:

Over 8,600 lbs, often up to 9,400 lbs or higher, depending on configuration and options.

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 5,500 - 6,500 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific NHTSA ratings for 1993 models are often not readily available in a comparable format to modern vehicles. Focus would be on structural integrity and available safety features.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (4W-ABS) available on rear wheels or all four wheels depending on configuration.

Passive Safety Features:

High-strength steel frame, reinforced cabin structure, seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic analog gauges, AM/FM radio with cassette player (optional CD player). No advanced infotainment features.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to available ABS. No electronic stability control, traction control, or adaptive cruise control.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No integrated connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for specifics).

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plugs and distributors typically inspected at 30,000 miles; replacement as needed.

Transmission Fluid Interval:

Automatic transmission fluid and filter service typically every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on towing usage. Manual transmission fluid checks periodically.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SG/CD classification. Viscosity: 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for ambient temperature recommendations). 5W-30 may be specified for colder climates.

Coolant Type:

GM Goodwrench Antifreeze/Coolant (red) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant meeting GM 1825M or ASTM D3306 standards. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-III (DEXRON-III) ATF (or equivalent).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 rated gear oil for manual transmissions (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Common Issues Engine:

Throttle body gasket leaks (Vortec engines), intake manifold gasket leaks, oil pressure sensor issues, occasional valve seal wear leading to oil consumption.

Common Issues Transmission:

4L80-E can develop torque converter clutch shudder or solenoid issues. Manual transmissions are generally robust but clutch wear is normal.

Common Issues Suspension Steering:

Worn ball joints and tie rod ends due to heavy duty use, leaf spring fatigue over time.

Common Issues Electrical:

Corrosion in electrical connectors, failure of dashboard gauges, issues with power window/lock actuators.

📚 Vehicle History

Gmc Heritage:

GMC has a long history of producing trucks and commercial vehicles, known for durability and heavy-duty capabilities.

K Series Evolution:

The K-series represented GMC's 4WD truck line, evolving from earlier generations with significant redesigns and technological updates. The GMT400 platform was a major modernization for GM trucks.

Production Location:

Fort Wayne, Indiana; Oshawa, Ontario, Canada.

Production Years:

GMT400 platform ran from 1988 to 2000 for Chevrolet/GMC C/K trucks.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific awards for the 1993 K3500 are not readily cited, the GMT400 platform was generally well-regarded for its truck capabilities and modern design compared to its predecessors.