🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

K2500

Year:

1997

Generation:

Third Generation (GMT400)

Platform Code:

GMT400

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and Chevrolet owners seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.

Advantage Over Print:

Instant access, searchability, lower cost compared to older printed manuals, compatibility with multiple devices.

Licensing:

Officially licensed, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials.

Vendor:

RepairSurge

Access Duration:

1 Year (with discounts for extension)

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1997 Chevrolet K2500

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download (Digital Access)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Fuel System, Exhaust System

Chassis:

Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires

Electrical:

Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Body Electrical

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC)

Body:

Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim

Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Top-offs, Tune-ups, Belt Inspections

Repair:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Diagnosis and Repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-I relevant), symptom-based diagnostics

Depth:

Comprehensive - Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Searchable PDF

Print Readability:

High-resolution, clear text and diagrams, suitable for printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

4.3L V6 (Vortec 4300 L35), 5.7L V8 (Vortec 350 L31), 7.4L V8 (Vortec 454 L29)

4.3L V6 Horsepower:

160-195 HP (depending on specific tune and year variations within the generation)

4.3L V6 Torque:

235-255 lb-ft (depending on specific tune and year variations within the generation)

5.7L V8 Horsepower:

200-255 HP (depending on specific tune and year variations within the generation)

5.7L V8 Torque:

310-330 lb-ft (depending on specific tune and year variations within the generation)

7.4L V8 Horsepower:

230-290 HP (depending on specific tune and year variations within the generation)

7.4L V8 Torque:

380-410 lb-ft (depending on specific tune and year variations within the generation)

Injection Type:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) - Vortec engines

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Valve Train:

Overhead Valves (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Cast Iron

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 4L60E, 4L80E depending on engine/payload)

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., NV4500 for heavy-duty applications)

Drivetrain Layout:

Four-wheel Drive (4WD) - K2500 designation indicates 4WD. Rear-wheel drive models were designated C2500.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-III (or equivalent)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GM Synchromesh or equivalent (specific to NV4500)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Extended Cab

Bed Lengths:

6.5 ft, 8.0 ft

Curb Weight Range:

4,500 - 5,500 lbs (approximate, varies by configuration)

Gvwr Range:

6,000 - 8,600 lbs (depending on specific configuration and options)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Not rated by NHTSA for this specific year and model (focus on passive restraint systems)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Acceptable to Good (depending on specific testing and structural integrity of the generation at the time)

ABS:

Standard on front wheels, optional on rear wheels depending on configuration and GVWR.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard.

Seatbelts:

Three-point active seatbelts for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker systems (2-4 speakers).

Cruise Control:

Optional

Trailer Brake Controller:

Provision for aftermarket installation, factory integration not common.

Oem Connectivity:

None (pre-OBD-II era and pre-modern connectivity standards).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

3,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil type, driving conditions, and engine)

Tire Rotation Interval:

5,000 - 7,500 miles

Spark Plug Replacement:

Up to 100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs (if equipped, otherwise standard plugs at lower intervals)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.5 - 6.0 quarts (depending on engine, typically 5W-30 or 10W-30)

Engine Coolant:

50/50 mixture of deionized water and ethylene glycol antifreeze (e.g., Dex-Cool compatible or traditional green antifreeze)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron-III

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, U-joints, brake pads/rotors, exhaust system components, fuel pump.

Vortec Engine Specific:

Intake manifold gasket leaks, distributor cap/rotor wear, though generally robust.

Transmission Specific:

4L60E/4L80E can develop torque converter clutch shudder or solenoid issues with high mileage or heavy use.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Trucks:

Chevrolet has a long-standing reputation for building durable and capable trucks, dating back to the early 20th century. The K-series designation is synonymous with their 4WD pickups.

Gmt400 Introduction:

The GMT400 platform was introduced in 1988 for the 1989 model year, representing a significant redesign with improved aerodynamics, ride comfort, and safety features over its predecessor.

K2500 Positioning:

The K2500 represented the 3/4-ton (0.75-ton) heavy-duty variant of Chevrolet's light-duty and medium-duty pickup truck line. It offered increased towing and payload capacity compared to the K1500.

Platform Production Years:

1988-1998 (for the GMT400 platform, with facelifts and updates within this period)

Manufacturing Locations:

North American assembly plants (e.g., Fort Wayne, Indiana; Oshawa, Ontario)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Contributions:

While specific awards for the 1997 K2500 might be scarce, the GMT400 platform and Chevrolet's Silverado/C/K truck lines consistently received positive reviews for their utility, durability, and capability throughout the 1990s.