Vehicle Segment:
Full-size Heavy Duty Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, fleet owners
Competitors:
Ford F-Series Super Duty, Dodge Ram Heavy Duty
Manual Advantage:
Officially licensed, OE material derived, accessible across multiple devices, year-long access.
Vehicle Type Focus:
Robust workhorse designed for towing, hauling, and demanding applications.
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Electrical Schematics, Component Repair
Licensing:
Officially Licensed, derived from OE materials.
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Digital PDF, page count not specified but implied to be comprehensive)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Accessibility:
Compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet via web browser.
Powertrain:
Engine (all variants), Transmission (automatic and manual), Drivetrain (RWD/4WD, differentials, axles)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, rear drum/disc)
Electrical:
Complete Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instruments, Fuses, Relays, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM)
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning System
Body:
Body Panel Repair, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, tune-ups, lubrication
Repair:
Engine component replacement (heads, pistons, etc.), transmission overhaul, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension arm/bushings, steering rack, AC system service
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, component testing procedures
Installation:
Component installation and removal procedures for all major systems
Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine component rebuilding (e.g., cylinder heads, short blocks) and transmission overhauls.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic preventative maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Diagnostic Tools:
Covers procedures that may require basic OBD-II scan tools for engine codes and sensor data, along with multimeter use for electrical diagnostics.
Engine Option 1:
5.7L V8 Vortec (RPO L29)
Engine Option 2:
7.4L V8 Vortec (RPO L29)
Engine Option 3:
6.0L V8 Vortec (RPO LQ4 - typically for 2500HD/3500HD, but variants existed)
5.7L V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 255 hp @ 4600 rpm
5.7L V8 Torque:
Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
7.4L V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 300 hp @ 4000 rpm
7.4L V8 Torque:
Approx. 450 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) / Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended for Vortec V8s)
Engine Family:
Vortec V8s (Gen III Small Block architecture for 5.7L/6.0L, Big Block for 7.4L)
Transmission Option 1:
4-Speed Automatic (e.g., 4L80E)
Transmission Option 2:
5-Speed Manual (e.g., NV4500 for specific heavy-duty applications)
4L80E Features:
Electronic control, overdrive, heavy-duty planetary gearsets.
Nv4500 Features:
Robust design, deep first gear for towing/hauling, durable clutch.
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab
Bed Lengths:
Standard Bed (approx. 6.5 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft)
Gvwr:
Varies significantly by configuration, typically ranging from 7,300 lbs to over 10,000 lbs for heavy-duty models.
Curb Weight:
Varies by configuration, generally 4,500 - 5,500 lbs+.
NHTSA Ratings:
Not directly applicable in the same format as modern passenger cars; focused on structural integrity for heavy loads.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels, available on 4-wheel.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts in all forward-facing seating positions.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for precise recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as per severe service schedule.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic for Vortec V8s (check manual for specific viscosity and API classification).
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III/VI for 4L80E automatic transmission; gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-5) for manual transmission and differentials.
Coolant:
GM-spec orange coolant (DEX-COOL compatible) or equivalent silicate-free coolant.
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, brake pads/rotors, idler/pitman arms (due to heavy use).
Engine Specific:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (less common on these Gen III/Big Block Vortecs compared to earlier engines), potential for camshaft position sensor issues.
Transmission Specific:
4L80E can develop issues with solenoid packs or torque converter clutch if not maintained. Manual transmissions are generally very robust.
Brand Focus:
Chevrolet has a long-standing reputation for producing durable and capable trucks.
Platform Transition:
The 2000 C3500 represents the introduction of the GMT800 platform for Chevrolet trucks, offering significant updates in chassis design, engine technology, and interior comfort.
Manufacturing Location:
North America (e.g., Fort Wayne, Indiana; Oshawa, Ontario)
