🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

C/K

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

GMT400

Engine Code General Spec:

Covered across all gasoline and diesel variants

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck and heavy-duty truck segment.

Reputation:

Known for robust construction, towing capability, and versatility, serving both work and personal use markets.

Key Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Dodge Ram (though this manual specifically targets Chevy C/K).

Product Highlight:

This manual is the authoritative source for technicians, providing exact factory procedures, specifications, and diagnostic strategies for the 1997 Chevrolet C/K.

Value Proposition:

Ensures accurate maintenance, efficient troubleshooting, and proper repair, saving time and money compared to generic guides.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All models, all repairs A-Z

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (typically 1500-2500+ pages for this generation)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Printed (typically bound)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Vortec V6 and V8 gasoline engines (4.3L, 5.0L, 5.7L), 6.5L Turbo Diesel

Transmission:

4-speed automatic (4L60-E, 4L80-E), 5-speed manual (NV3500)

Drivetrain:

2WD and 4WD systems, front and rear axle assemblies, transfer case

Suspension:

Front torsion bar independent suspension, rear leaf spring solid axle

Brakes:

Front disc, rear drum (ABS optional/standard depending on trim/GVWR)

Steering:

Power assisted recirculating ball

Electrical:

Charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, body electrical, instrument panel, HVAC controls, power accessories

Fuel System:

Fuel injection (TBI for earlier engines, MPFI for Vortec), fuel pump, lines, tank

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes

Body And Frame:

Frame construction, body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, bumpers

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt and hose inspection/replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting flowcharts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), specific system diagnostics

Repair:

Engine component repair/replacement, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair

Rebuilds:

Detailed engine and transmission overhaul procedures with specifications

Disassembly Assembly:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, alignment data, electrical schematics

Depth:

Comprehensive: from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and electrical system troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Detail:

Printed, professionally bound.

Quality:

High-quality, durable paper with clear diagrams and text.

Binding:

Professional binding (e.g., saddle-stitched or perfect bound) for durability.

Paper Quality:

Heavy-duty paper stock resistant to shop grease and wear.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

4.3L (262 ci) V6 Vortec, 5.0L (305 ci) V8 Vortec, 5.7L (350 ci) V8 Vortec, 6.5L (395 ci) Turbo Diesel V8.

4.3L V6 Torque:

Approx. 255 lb-ft @ 2800 RPM (typical rating).

5.7L V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 255 HP @ 4600 RPM (typical rating).

6.5L Turbo Diesel Torque:

Approx. 430-440 lb-ft @ 1700 RPM (typical rating, depending on specific tune).

Gasoline Injection:

Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI) for Vortec engines. Some earlier models in the generation might have Central Sequential Fuel Injection (CSFI) or Throttle Body Injection (TBI) depending on specific build dates and configurations, but the 1997 model year predominantly features MPFI Vortec.

Diesel Fuel System:

Stanadyne DB2 rotary injection pump.

Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) for Vortec engines.

🔧 Transmission

Automatic:

4L60-E 4-speed automatic (common on lighter duty models).

Heavy Duty Automatic:

4L80-E 4-speed heavy-duty automatic (common on 2500/3500 series).

Manual:

NV3500 5-speed manual transmission.

Overdrive:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive (4th gear).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-III (GM specification).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-III or equivalent (check specific manual for NV3500).

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Extended Cab, Crew Cab (less common for 1997 in C/K designation, more common in Silverado designation) with various bed lengths (e.g., 6.5 ft, 8 ft).

Wheelbase Options:

Multiple wheelbases available (e.g., 118.8", 131.5", 143.5" depending on cab and bed).

Gvwr Range:

Significant range depending on series (1500, 2500, 3500) and drivetrain configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

NHTSA frontal crash test ratings typically varied by configuration, but were generally adequate for the era. Side impact and rollover ratings may not have been as comprehensive as modern standards.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, often standard on heavier duty models or as an option on 1500 series.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard. Passenger airbag became more common in later models of this generation.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts in front and rear seating positions where applicable.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic analog gauges.

Cruise Control:

Electronically controlled cruise control available on most trims.

Onboard Diagnostics:

OBD-II compliant system for emissions and diagnostic trouble codes.

HVAC:

Manual or optional automatic climate control systems, air conditioning.

Power Options:

Optional power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for specific recommendation).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as per severe service schedule. Filter replacement recommended.

Coolant Change:

Typically every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Engine Oil 10W30:

GM 4718M or API SJ classification (for gasoline engines; diesel engines may require API CD/CF or CCMC D specification).

Coolant:

GM Type 1 or Type 2 Engine Coolant (Green or Dex-Cool Orange, though Dex-Cool was less common in '97).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 Brake Fluid.

Intake Manifold Gaskets:

Potential for coolant leaks on V8 Vortec engines due to gasket design.

Transmission Hard Shifts:

4L60-E transmissions can sometimes develop hard shifting issues related to solenoid packs or valve body wear.

Diesel Injector Pump:

The 6.5L TD can experience issues with the injection pump, particularly the PMD (Pump Mounted Driver) on earlier models, which could be relocated.

Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:

Common on high-mileage vehicles due to age and material breakdown.

Power Steering Pump:

Can develop leaks or noise over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Trucks:

Chevrolet has a long and storied history in the truck market, with the C/K line representing decades of development and customer trust.

C K Generation:

The 1997 model year falls within the third generation of the C/K trucks (GMT400 platform), which ran from 1988-1998. This generation was a significant redesign, moving to a more aerodynamic and modern design.

Manufacturing Locations:

Assembled in various GM plants across North America (e.g., Fort Wayne, Indiana; Janesville, Wisconsin).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific 'awards' for the 1997 model year itself are less documented than modern vehicles, the GMT400 platform generally received strong reviews for its truck capabilities and market dominance.

Truck Of The Year:

The C/K platform as a whole has been recognized by various automotive publications over its long history for its utility and dependability.