Market Position:
A robust and reliable heavy-duty pickup truck, popular for work, towing, and commercial use in the early 1990s. The C3500 represented Chevrolet's commitment to the light-truck market.
Competitors:
Ford F-350, Dodge Ram 3500. Competed in the heavy-duty segment, offering various engine, drivetrain, and cab configurations.
Key Features Of Manual:
Licensed OE data, detailed diagrams, step-by-step procedures, troubleshooting charts, electrical schematics, comprehensive specifications for DIYers and professional mechanics.
Key Features Of Vehicle:
Sturdy GMT400 platform, strong chassis, various powerful V8 engine options, robust suspension for hauling and towing, a versatile workhorse.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Specific Coverage:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body and Chassis
Estimated Page Count:
Over 1500 pages (typical for OE-derived electronic manuals of this era)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
PDF Download (Digital)
Engine Systems:
Vortec 4.3L V6, 5.0L V8, 5.7L V8, 7.4L V8. Includes fuel, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emission control, diagnosis, and overhaul procedures.
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual and automatic transmissions (e.g., NV3500, 4L60E, 4L80E), transfer cases (if applicable for 4x4), drive shafts, differentials, axles, and CV joints.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (e.g., coil springs, leaf springs, shock absorbers, control arms), steering gear, power steering system, alignment specifications.
Brake Systems:
Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes (depending on configuration), ABS (if equipped), parking brake, hydraulic system, specifications, and repair procedures.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, diagnostic procedures, ECU/PCM information.
HVAC Systems:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant handling, control systems.
Body And Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, underbody components, corrosion protection.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-offs, tune-ups, belt and hose inspection and replacement, spark plug replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, exhaust system repair, starter motor and alternator replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for OBD-I systems, wiring diagram interpretation, component testing.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, engine data, dimensional drawings, resistance values.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls and complex electrical diagnostics.
Engine Options:
4.3L V6 (VIN Z), 5.0L V8 (VIN H), 5.7L V8 (VIN K), 7.4L V8 (VIN J)
Typical Horsepower Torque:
4.3L V6: ~160 hp / 230 lb-ft; 5.0L V8: ~175 hp / 265 lb-ft; 5.7L V8: ~200 hp / 300 lb-ft; 7.4L V8: ~230 hp / 390 lb-ft (values are approximate and vary by specific tuning and year updates).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Central Sequential Fuel Injection (CSFI) or Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) depending on engine.
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or distributor-based ignition system with coil-over-plug or individual coil packs.
Cooling Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with belt-driven water pump and fan (mechanical or electric).
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5 quarts (4.7 liters) for V6 and 5.0L V8, 6 quarts (5.7 liters) for 5.7L V8 and 7.4L V8 (with filter change). Refer to manual for exact specifications.
Wheelbase:
Varies by configuration (e.g., 130 inches for standard cab, 150 inches for long bed).
Overall Length:
Varies by configuration (e.g., 210 inches for standard bed, 230 inches for long bed).
Curb Weight:
Approximately 4500-5500 lbs (2041-2495 kg), varies significantly with engine, drivetrain, and body style.
Gvwr:
Ranges from 6200 lbs to over 10000 lbs depending on configuration.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Service Interval:
Automatic transmission fluid and filter change every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or as specified. Manual transmission fluid change intervals are longer, often 60,000 to 100,000 miles.
Coolant Change Interval:
Typically every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or 2-3 years for conventional coolant. Extended life coolants may have longer intervals.
Engine Oil Specification:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most gasoline engines. Diesel engines would use appropriate diesel engine oil (e.g., API CD or CE).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Type A Suffix A or Dexron-III (or equivalent).
Common Wear Items:
Worn ball joints and tie rod ends (suspension/steering), exhaust manifold leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on 5.0L/5.7L V8s), radiator leaks, worn u-joints, AC compressor failures.
Electrical Common Issues:
Corrosion on grounds, failing blower motor resistor, intermittent issues with instrument cluster components, power window/lock actuators.
Chevrolet Truck Heritage:
Chevrolet has a long-standing reputation for building durable and capable trucks, dating back to the early 20th century. The C/K series has been a cornerstone of their truck lineup for decades.
C K Series Evolution:
The 1992 C3500 belongs to the GMT400 platform, introduced in 1987 as a 1988 model year. This platform brought significant updates in aerodynamics, interior comfort, and chassis design compared to its predecessor.
Manufacturing Location:
Assembled in various General Motors plants in North America.