🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

C3500

Year:

1996

Product Type:

Service & Repair Manual Software

Product Format:

PDF Download

Licensing:

Officially Licensed, OE Material Derived

Platform:

GMT400 (Third Generation)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

A comprehensive digital service and repair solution for owners and independent repair shops seeking OE-level information.

Advantage:

Offers convenience and cost-effectiveness compared to outdated printed manuals. Licensed OE data ensures accuracy and completeness.

Feature 1:

Direct access to factory-derived repair procedures.

Feature 2:

Extensive coverage of all vehicle systems.

Feature 3:

User-friendly interface accessible on multiple devices.

Feature 4:

Eliminates the need for expensive shop labor for many tasks.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1996 Chevrolet C3500

Related Coverage:

Likely includes commonalities with K3500 (4WD variants) and potentially other GMT400 platform trucks where applicable.

Estimated Pages:

Extensive; typical for OE-derived service manuals covering all systems.

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF Download, Web Browser Accessible

Accessibility:

PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet Compatible

Subscription Period:

1 Year (with discounts for renewal)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine performance, emissions control.

Drivetrain:

Transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case (if applicable for 4WD variants), drive axles, propeller shafts, differentials, hubs.

Chassis:

Suspension system (front and rear), steering system, brakes (hydraulic, parking), wheels, tires.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and gauges, fuses and relays, wiring diagrams, body electrical, ignition switch, power windows, locks, mirrors.

Body And Accessories:

Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, hood, tailgate, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), audio system, cruise control, security system.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, lubrication.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnosis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (if OBD-I or early OBD-II implementation), component testing.

Repair:

Component removal and installation, adjustments, seal replacement, gasket replacement, system overhauls (e.g., engine, transmission).

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, timing settings.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical troubleshooting, and bodywork.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Resolution:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

Text Search:

Searchable text content for efficient information retrieval.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Likely includes 5.0L (305ci) V8 (Vortec 5000), 5.7L (350ci) V8 (Vortec 5700), and potentially 7.4L (454ci) V8 (Vortec 7400) depending on configuration. Diesel options (e.g., 6.5L Turbo Diesel) may also be covered.

Vortec 5700 Hp:

Approximately 255-260 hp @ 4000-4400 rpm (typical for the era)

Vortec 5700 Torque:

Approximately 330-335 lb-ft @ 2800-3200 rpm (typical for the era)

Fuel Delivery:

Throttle Body Injection (TBI) or Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI) depending on engine. Vortec engines primarily utilize MPFI.

Octane Rating:

87 Octane Unleaded (recommended for most engines, check specific engine for variations)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Dex-Cool for later models, but 1996 may use traditional green coolant. Manual will specify).

Oil Viscosity:

10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check specific engine and climate).

ECU Type:

GM ECM (Engine Control Module) or PCV (Powertrain Control Module).

🔧 Transmission

Automatic Transmission:

Likely 4L60-E (4-speed automatic) for lighter duty configurations and 4L80-E (4-speed heavy-duty automatic) for C3500 models.

Manual Transmission:

Less common for C3500, but potentially available with heavy-duty transmissions like the NV4500 (5-speed).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron-III (or equivalent) for automatic transmissions. Specific manual transmission fluids will be detailed in the manual.

4L60E Capacity:

Approx. 5.2 US quarts (dry fill) / 9.0 US quarts (total capacity).

4L80E Capacity:

Approx. 5.7 US quarts (dry fill) / 10.5 US quarts (total capacity).

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Extended Cab, Crew Cab (less common).

Bed Lengths:

Short Bed (approx. 6.5 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft).

Gvwr:

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating varies significantly by configuration, but typically in the 7,200 - 8,600 lbs range for C3500.

Curb Weight:

Varies widely based on configuration, typically 4,500 - 5,500 lbs.

Payload Capacity:

Designed for heavy-duty loads, typically exceeding 2,000 lbs depending on configuration.

Towing Capacity:

Significant towing capability, often rated over 7,000 lbs, up to 10,000+ lbs with proper equipment and configurations.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

NHTSA did not rate all vehicles with the same rigor as today. Detailed specific ratings for 1996 C3500 may be limited, but the robust frame is a key safety feature.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) typically standard on rear wheels, often optional or standard on all four wheels for 1996.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard. Passenger airbag optional or standard depending on exact build date and configuration.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Cruise Control:

Factory-installed cruise control was a common option.

OBD Standard:

OBD-I or early OBD-II depending on the specific build date and engine, typically with a 16-pin connector but may not fully comply with later OBD-II standards.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Manual will specify OE recommendation.

Tire Rotation:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Typically 50,000-100,000 miles, depending on transmission type and usage. Heavy-duty use may require more frequent changes.

Engine Oil Part Number:

Consult manual for specific filter part number (e.g., ACDelco PF1218 or equivalent).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 (or specified equivalent).

Power Steering Fluid:

GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron-III (check manual).

Common Issues:

Potential issues can include intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on older Vortec engines), fuel pump failures, idle air control (IAC) valve issues, distributor cap and rotor wear, and ABS sensor failures. Manual will detail troubleshooting for these and more.

Maintenance Tips:

Regularly inspect and clean the Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor and Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) for optimal performance and fuel economy.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Chevrolet has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, dating back to the early 20th century. The C/K series has been a mainstay for decades.

Generation:

1996 Chevrolet C3500 is part of the GMT400 platform (1988-1998), which represented a significant redesign with improved aerodynamics, comfort, and chassis technology.

Mid Cycle Refresh:

The 1995 model year saw a significant update to the GMT400 platform, including the introduction of the Vortec V8 engines, improved interiors, and updated styling (e.g., grille, headlights).

Production Years:

GMT400 C/K trucks produced from 1988 through 1998.

Manufacturing Location:

Assembled in various GM plants across North America.