🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Venture

Year:

1998

Generation Code:

VC

Platform:

GM U-body

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Minivan

Target Audience:

Families, fleet operators, DIY enthusiasts.

Key Competitors:

Ford Windstar, Dodge Caravan/Voyager, Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey.

Manual Advantage:

Officially licensed, OE derived information, comprehensive digital access, cost-effective alternative to printed manuals.

Vehicle Highlights:

Practicality, passenger and cargo capacity, comfortable ride for its class.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1998 Chevrolet Venture

Engine Coverage:

3.4L V6 (L32)

Transmission Coverage:

4-Speed Automatic (4T60-E)

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2500 (typical for comprehensive OE service manual)

Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download (Digital)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control systems (ECM), automatic transmission (4T60-E) operation and diagnosis.

Chassis:

Brake system (hydraulic, ABS), steering system, suspension system (front and rear), wheels and tires.

Body:

Body construction, doors, glass, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, seats.

Electrical:

Lighting system, starting and charging system, instrument cluster, HVAC controls, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, wiring diagrams, fuse and relay information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, operation, diagnosis, and repair.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Repair:

Engine component removal and installation (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (e.g., struts, ball joints), steering linkage service, interior and exterior trim repair.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical system faults, HVAC problems, and braking system malfunctions. Includes diagnostic procedures using scan tools and multimeter testing.

Rebuilds:

Detailed procedures for engine component rebuilding (e.g., cylinder head, short block), transmission overhaul, and potentially brake caliper rebuilding.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive OE-level technical information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex diagnostics and component overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text-based PDF

Print Readability:

High-resolution digital reproduction, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Digital Access:

Downloadable with one-year access (renewable)

Digital Medium:

Electronic media (PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet compatible)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

L32

Configuration:

3.4L (3330cc) V6, SOHC

Bore X Stroke:

3.50 in x 3.54 in (89 mm x 90 mm)

Compression Ratio:

9.4:1

Horsepower:

180 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

205 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (approx.)

Induction:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

ECM:

GM 16197405 or equivalent (typical)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic

Model:

4T60-E

Overdrive:

Yes

Torque Converter:

Lock-up torque converter

Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-III (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

191.1 in (4854 mm)

Width:

72.0 in (1829 mm)

Height:

68.5 in (1740 mm)

Wheelbase:

112.0 in (2845 mm)

Passenger Capacity:

7-passenger (2-2-3 seating configuration typical)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

38.5 cu ft (approx.)

Curb Weight:

4000-4200 lbs (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4 stars (driver), 4 stars (passenger) - typical for the era

IIHS Side Impact:

Not rated (vehicle type and era) - typically received 'Acceptable' or 'Marginal' for frontal impact.

ABS:

Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants, 3-point seat belts for second and third rows.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette tape player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.

Cruise Control:

Standard

Features:

Limited by era. No Bluetooth, USB ports, or advanced smartphone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specifics).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on visual inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type - platinum/iridium recommended).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (highly recommended for longevity).

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or SH, GM 6094M approved)

Coolant:

GM 6043M (Green Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

GM Type A or Dexron-III compatible

Engine:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (common GM issue for this era), occasional coolant leaks, potential for early transmission failures if not properly maintained.

Suspension:

Wear in front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends), strut wear.

Electrical:

Faulty ignition switch, intermittent power to accessories, HVAC blower motor resistor failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Chevrolet (a division of General Motors)

Introduction Year:

1997

Generation:

First Generation (1997-2005)

Platform Sharing:

Shared the GM U-body platform with Buick Terraza, Oldsmobile Silhouette, and Pontiac Trans Sport/Montana.

Manufacturing Location:

Doraville, Georgia; Tarrytown, New York (USA)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism:

While specific awards for the 1998 Venture are not prominently documented, the U-body platform vehicles often received praise for their versatility and passenger comfort for the time, competing well in the minivan segment.