Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, owners seeking detailed repair information.
Comparison To Print:
Offers superior convenience, searchability, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional printed manuals. Instant access and always up-to-date (within the licensed year).
Licensing:
Officially licensed, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials, ensuring accuracy and authenticity.
Accessibility:
Accessible on any PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet with an internet connection.
Value Proposition:
Saves money on repair costs by empowering owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves. Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair guidance.
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Additional Coverage:
Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (digital format with searchable content)
Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Online Software Access (Web Browser Compatible)
Powertrain:
Engine (mechanical and electrical), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain (transfer case, driveshafts, axles)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering System, Brakes (front and rear, hydraulic and parking brake), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Distribution, Starting and Charging System, Audio System, Comfort and Convenience Systems
Body:
Body Structure, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Glass, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Bumpers
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System
Maintenance:
Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and top-offs, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection and replacement, Tune-up procedures
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., alternator, water pump, starter), Brake system repair (e.g., caliper replacement, brake line repair), Suspension component replacement (e.g., ball joints, shock absorbers), Steering component replacement (e.g., tie rods, steering gearbox), Drivetrain component repair, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, Diagnostic procedures for engine and electrical systems, Use of diagnostic tools (if applicable to the era)
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to major component overhauls and detailed electrical diagnostics.
Engine Options:
Available with several robust engine options, including the 5.7L (350 ci) V8 and the 7.4L (454 ci) V8. A 4.3L (262 ci) V6 was also common in the K-series lineup, though less frequent in the K3500 which often favored heavier duty engines.
5.7L V8 Horsepower:
Approximately 210-230 hp (varies by specific tune and emissions controls).
5.7L V8 Torque:
Approximately 300-320 lb-ft (varies by specific tune and emissions controls).
7.4L V8 Horsepower:
Approximately 230 hp.
7.4L V8 Torque:
Approximately 380-400 lb-ft.
Fuel Delivery:
Throttle Body Injection (TBI) or Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI) depending on the specific engine and trim.
Standard Transmission:
Typically mated to heavy-duty automatic transmissions like the 4L80-E (4-speed overdrive automatic) or the older TH400 (3-speed automatic) for the most powerful engines. Manual transmissions, such as the SM465 (4-speed manual with granny gear), were also available, particularly for heavy-duty applications.
Optional Transmission:
If an automatic was standard, a manual might be optional, and vice-versa, depending on the specific configuration.
Transfer Case:
Often equipped with a robust 4WD transfer case (e.g., NP208 or NP241) for serious off-road and towing capability.
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Crew Cab less common).
Bed Lengths:
Available in 8-foot (long bed) configurations. Short bed (6.5-foot) less common on K3500.
Gvwr:
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) would be significantly higher than lighter duty K1500/K2500 models, typically exceeding 10,000 lbs for heavy-duty configurations.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional premium sound systems or CD players may have been available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on most trims.
OBD I:
Utilizes the OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, First Generation) system for engine diagnostics. The manual will detail diagnostic codes and procedures for this system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult the manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles, with filter changes. Specific interval depends on transmission type and usage (e.g., towing).
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher service category, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 typically recommended for V8 engines. Consult manual for exact viscosity based on temperature.
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-III (or equivalent) for most automatic transmissions. Manual transmission fluid (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil) for manual transmissions.
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (green) with a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. Capacity varies by engine and cooling system size.
Common Problems Gmt400:
Headlight switch failures, dashboard cracking due to sun exposure, potential for rust in certain body areas, vacuum hose deterioration, fuel pump issues, ignition switch problems.
Engine Specific Issues:
V8 engines are generally robust, but issues like intake manifold gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, and starter motor wear are common with age and mileage.
Gmc Trucks:
GMC has a long-standing reputation for producing robust, professional-grade trucks designed for work and heavy-duty applications.
K Series Lineage:
The K-series represents GMC's 4WD truck line, a lineage that stretches back decades. The 1991 model year marks the transition to or early production of the GMT400 platform, which brought significant styling and engineering updates over the previous generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in North America (USA and Mexico).
