Target Audience:
Owners and technicians seeking detailed repair and maintenance information for 1979 Chevrolet Light Duty Trucks (Series 10-35) chassis.
Value Proposition:
Provides dealer-level instructional guides, enabling users to perform a wide range of repairs and maintenance tasks, potentially saving significant costs.
Illustrations:
Step-by-step illustrated repair procedures.
Ease Of Use:
Easy to run and use, no installation required, simple PDF format.
Information Type:
Technical information, schematics, complete walk-through of procedures.
Primary Coverage:
Chassis Systems
Secondary Coverage:
Engine, Drivetrain, Bodywork & Frame
Estimated Page Count:
Due to the nature of comprehensive service manuals for this era, it is estimated to be between 500-1000 pages, covering all specified systems in detail.
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Digital Compatibility:
Windows OS, Smartphones, Tablets (with PDF Reader)
Searchability:
PDF format typically allows for text searching if the PDF is text-based and not just an image scan.
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, tune-up, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, and emission control systems.
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, manual and automatic transmissions, propeller shafts, rear axles (e.g., Spicer, GM Corporate 10-bolt), front axle (4WD models).
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (leaf springs, shock absorbers), steering gear (recirculating ball), power steering.
Braking Systems:
Hydraulic brake systems (drum and disc front brakes typical), parking brake, brake component diagnosis and repair.
Electrical Electronic Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition system, charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, auxiliary systems.
Heating Air Conditioning:
HVAC system components, operation, diagnosis, and repair (if applicable to chassis configurations).
Bodywork Chassis Frame:
Frame construction, body mounting, basic body panel adjustments (limited, as it's chassis-focused).
Front Axle 4Wd:
If applicable to the specific truck configuration covered by the chassis manual, includes front axle components and differential for 4WD models.
Rear Axle Specifications:
Covers various rear axle ratios, types (e.g., semi-floating, full-floating on heavier duty models), and service procedures.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, lubrication points, filter replacements, basic adjustments.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnosis for various systems.
Wheels Tyres Procedures:
Wheel bearing inspection and repacking, tire rotation and replacement, wheel alignment specifications.
Wiring Schematics Usage:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for troubleshooting and repair of electrical components and circuits.
Depth:
Comprehensive; suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers major repairs and rebuilds.
Available Engines Note:
While the manual focuses on chassis, it covers the engines installed in these trucks. Common engines for 1979 included the 250 ci (4.1L) Inline-6, 292 ci (4.8L) Inline-6, 305 ci (5.0L) V8, 350 ci (5.7L) V8, and potentially the 454 ci (7.4L) V8 for heavier duty applications.
Horsepower Torque Notes:
Specific HP/Torque figures varied by engine and configuration. The manual would contain detailed specifications for each engine variant.
Fuel Delivery Note:
Carbureted systems (e.g., Rochester Quadrajet, Carter) are typical for this era. Manual would cover carburetor tuning, rebuilding, and fuel pump service.
Inline 6 Engines:
250 cu in (4.1L) and 292 cu in (4.8L) inline-six engines were common, known for their torque and reliability.
V8 Engines:
305 cu in (5.0L) and 350 cu in (5.7L) V8 engines provided more power and performance options.
Standard Transmission Note:
Typically included manual transmissions like the SM465 (4-speed heavy-duty) or NP435 (4-speed) and potentially lighter duty 3 or 4-speeds.
Optional Transmission Note:
Automatic transmissions such as the TH350, TH400, and potentially the TH700R4 (introduced later) would be covered.
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and 4-wheel drive (4WD) configurations would be addressed. Transfer case service would be included for 4WD models.
Wheelbase Range Note:
Wheelbases for Series 10-35 trucks in 1979 varied significantly, typically ranging from 108-131.5 inches (2743-3339 mm) for pickups and longer for chassis cabs.
Gvw Range Note:
Gross Vehicle Weight ratings would vary by series (e.g., C/K10, C/K20, C/K30), with the manual likely providing GVW specifications for each model.
Safety Standards Era:
Safety features and ratings from 1979 would focus on basic requirements of the era, such as seat belts, padded dashboards, and side-impact protection (limited).
Braking System Safety:
Disc front brakes and optional power assist brakes were common safety enhancements.
Interior Safety:
Padded interior surfaces, safety glass, and seat belts would be the primary passive safety features detailed.
Infotainment Era:
Infotainment in 1979 was basic, typically consisting of AM/FM radio, possibly with an 8-track or cassette player. The manual would cover radio removal/installation and speaker wiring.
Driver Assistance Features:
No modern driver assistance systems. Features like power steering and power brakes were considered advanced comfort/convenience items.
Connectivity Features:
No electronic connectivity features as understood today. Relied on analog systems.
Oil Change Interval Note:
Typical oil change intervals for 1979 vehicles were around 3,000-5,000 miles or every 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. The manual would specify exact intervals and oil types.
Engine Oil Spec:
Likely API SF or SG service classification oils, with viscosity grades such as SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended depending on ambient temperature. Specific recommendations would be in the manual.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Automatic transmissions typically used DEXRON-III (or equivalent). Manual transmissions would specify gear oil, with grades like SAE 80W-90 or 85W-90.
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. The manual would specify the correct type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Wear items typical for this era include u-joints, tie rod ends, ball joints, wheel bearings, and shock absorbers. Rust and body corrosion are also common.
Engine Performance Notes:
Carburetor adjustments, ignition system maintenance (points, condenser, spark plugs), and vacuum leaks are common areas requiring attention.
Drivetrain Notes:
Rear axle seal leaks, worn transmission synchros (manual), and clutch wear are potential issues addressed by the manual.
Chevrolet Truck Legacy:
Chevrolet has a long-standing history in the pickup and truck market, with the C/K line evolving significantly over decades. 1979 falls within the 'Rounded Line' or 'Square Body' generation (1973-1987).
Square Body Generation:
The 1979 model year is part of the highly popular 'Square Body' generation, known for its ruggedness and versatility.
Manufacturing Locations:
Production for these trucks occurred at various General Motors assembly plants across North America.