🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

GMC

Model:

K2500 Suburban

Year:

1994

Platform Code:

GMT400

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size SUV, designed for towing, hauling, and family transport, competing with vehicles like the Ford Bronco, Dodge Ramcharger, and Toyota Land Cruiser of the era.

Comparison:

The 1994 K2500 Suburban offered robust GM truck-based engineering, powerful V8 engine options, and significant towing capacity, appealing to those prioritizing utility and durability over fuel economy or refined ride quality.

Software Benefits:

Licensed OE material, easy online access, searchable content, compatibility with multiple devices, cost-effective alternative to printed manuals.

Content Source:

Licensed information derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1994 GMC K2500 Suburban Service & Repair

Estimated Page Count:

Detailed, extensive (typical for OE service manuals)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software/Digital Access

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine repair, diagnostics, overhaul, specifications for V8 gasoline engines (e.g., 5.7L Vortec L31, 7.4L V8) including fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle service, differentials, transfer case (4WD systems), driveshafts, U-joints, propeller shafts.

Transmission:

Service and repair for automatic transmissions (e.g., 4L60-E, 4L80-E), including hydraulic controls, torque converter, clutch packs, valve bodies, and fluid service.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, including ABS components (if equipped), master cylinder, wheel cylinders, calipers, rotors, brake pads, parking brake system, bleeding procedures.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, steering knuckles, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, tie rod ends, power steering pump, hoses, steering column, wheel alignment.

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, electrical component location, fuse box layouts, lighting system, starter, alternator, battery, power windows, door locks, instrument cluster, ECM/PCM diagnostics.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant service, blower motor, A/C compressor, heater core, climate control operation.

Body:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, bumpers, exterior trim, sheet metal specifications.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan clutch, coolant flow diagrams, pressure testing.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers, torque specifications for connections.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel tank, injectors, pressure regulator, fuel pressure testing.

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributor, ignition coil, ignition module, timing specifications, distributor adjustment.

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, turn signals, brake lights, interior lighting, wiring for all lighting circuits.

Instrumentation:

Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, warning lights, instrument cluster removal and repair.

Frame And Body:

Frame inspection, rust repair considerations, body mounting, chassis lubrication points.

Climate Control:

Detailed operation of the manual or optional automatic climate control system.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), lubrication points, tune-up procedures.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-I), symptom-based troubleshooting charts.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, component removal and installation, internal engine and transmission repair.

Diagnostics:

Component testing, sensor readings (via multimeter or scan tool), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for OBD-I systems.

Installation:

Instructions for replacing common wear items and major components.

Wheel Alignment:

Detailed specifications and procedures for front-end alignment (camber, caster, toe).

Depth:

Comprehensive OE-level detail, including torque specifications, clearance measurements, diagnostic charts, wiring diagrams, exploded views, and specifications for professional and advanced DIY use.

Special Tools:

Identification of specialized tools required for specific procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Web-based access via browser, compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet.

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Access Duration:

One-year access included, with options for extension.

Printability:

Digital format, potentially printable pages for specific sections.

Binding:

Not applicable (digital format).

Paper Quality:

Not applicable (digital format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Description:

5.7L (350 cu. in.) V8 Vortec (L31) - Throttle Body Injection (TBI) or Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI) depending on specific build date/options. Also available: 7.4L (454 cu. in.) V8.

Horsepower 5.7L:

Approx. 200-210 hp @ 4000-4400 rpm (varies slightly by configuration)

Torque 5.7L:

Approx. 300-310 lb-ft @ 2400-2800 rpm (varies slightly by configuration)

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Throttle Body Injection (TBI) or Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI) for 5.7L; TBI for 7.4L.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (e.g., 4L60-E for 5.7L, 4L80-E for 7.4L)

Optional Transmission Type:

None specified for K2500 models with these engine options; focus on heavy-duty automatic.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron-III (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

130 inches (approx.)

Length:

219.5 inches (approx.)

Width:

77.8 inches (approx.)

Height:

71.2 inches (approx.)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,800 - 5,200 lbs (depending on configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

Over 7,000 lbs (typically 7,200 - 7,700 lbs for K2500)

Towing Capacity:

Significant towing capacity, often exceeding 7,000 lbs when properly equipped (refer to vehicle owner's manual for specific ratings).

Cargo Volume:

Substantial cargo space behind the second-row seat, exceeding 90 cu ft.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

NHTSA ratings from this era are generally less detailed than modern standards. Focus on robust body-on-frame construction.

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels, often standard on 4WD models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag was becoming standard around this time, likely standard on 1994 models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Analog gauges and controls.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Connectivity Features:

Limited to factory-installed options; no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, or as specified in the owner's manual, especially for heavy towing.

Engine Oil Type:

API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check owner's manual for exact grade).

Coolant Type:

GM 'blue' coolant (Ethylene Glycol based) or equivalent, with a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 (or equivalent)

Power Steering Fluid:

GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron-III (or equivalent)

Differential Fluid Type Rear:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check for limited-slip additive if applicable)

Differential Fluid Type Front:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check for limited-slip additive if applicable)

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, U-joints, intake manifold gaskets (Vortec engines), heater core, throttle body issues, rear main seal leaks.

Electrical Concerns:

Corroded electrical connectors, fuel pump relay issues, ABS sensor failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Gmc Legacy:

GMC has a long history of producing robust trucks and commercial vehicles, emphasizing durability and work capability.

Suburban Lineage:

The Suburban is one of the longest-running nameplates in automotive history, evolving from station wagon-like utility vehicles to the modern full-size SUV.

Platform Comparison:

GMT400 platform was a significant modernization of GM's truck line, offering a more aerodynamic design and improved ride quality compared to the older C/K generation.

Gmt400 Platform:

The 1994 model is part of the second generation of the GMT400 platform (1992-1999), which saw significant updates in styling and engineering over the previous C/K generation.