Engine:
Detailed diagnostic, repair, and maintenance for all engine variants, including assembly, disassembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, and performance tuning.
Drivetrain:
Coverage for front-wheel drive (FWD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD) configurations, including transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, driveshafts, axles, differentials, and hubs.
Brakes:
Comprehensive information on hydraulic systems, ABS, EBD, brake calipers, rotors, pads, lines, master cylinder, power booster, parking brake, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Detailed procedures for front and rear suspension components, including control arms, ball joints, tie rods, sway bars, shock absorbers, struts, and springs.
Steering:
Coverage of power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack, tie rod ends, and alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Extensive electrical system schematics, wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, and body control modules.
HVAC:
Diagnosis and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, including refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, and climate control modules.
Body:
Information on exterior and interior body panels, doors, windows, locks, mirrors, seats, and trim components.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, and brake inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and troubleshooting trees for various vehicle systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for component replacement, rebuilding, and adjustment for all covered systems.
Installation:
Guidance on the installation and replacement of various parts and components.
Depth:
Expert-level detail, covering everything from basic DIY repairs to complex engine and transmission overhauls, electrical diagnostics, and bodywork.
Engine Options:
4.3L V6 (Vortec 4300), 4.8L V8 (Vortec 4800), 5.3L V8 (Vortec 5300), 6.0L V8 (Vortec 6000)
4.3L V6 (4300) Horsepower:
Approximately 195-200 hp @ 4600 rpm
4.3L V6 (4300) Torque:
Approximately 260-265 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
5.3L V8 (5300) Horsepower:
Approximately 295 hp @ 5200 rpm
5.3L V8 (5300) Torque:
Approximately 330 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)
Standard Transmission Options:
4-speed automatic (4L60E/4L65E)
Optional Transmission Options:
5-speed manual (NV3500 for 4.3L V6)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic controls, overdrive, tow/haul mode
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine, typically 60,000-100,000 miles for platinum-tipped spark plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic is generally recommended for most engines. Verify with manual.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5-7.0 quarts (4.3-6.6 L) depending on engine, with filter.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid for 4L60E/4L65E. Manual transmission fluid specification varies.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically Dex-Cool (orange) for later models or traditional green. Verify specification.
Intermediate Steering Shaft:
Some models may experience wear in the intermediate steering shaft, leading to looseness or clunking noises.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Occasional reports of rear main crankshaft seal leaks.
Transmission Hard Shifting:
Possible hard shifting in automatic transmissions, often related to solenoid issues or fluid contamination.
Gmc Truck Legacy:
GMC has a long-standing reputation for building durable and capable trucks, emphasizing professional-grade engineering.
Third Generation Platform:
The 2004 Sierra 1500 is part of the GMT800 platform, which saw significant updates for this generation (1999-2007), including improved styling, enhanced interior comfort, and more powerful engine options.
Manufacturing Plants:
Produced at multiple General Motors facilities in North America, including Fort Wayne, Indiana; Oshawa, Ontario, Canada; and Pontiac, Michigan.
