🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

C3500

Year:

1998

Series:

C/K Pickup

Chassis Code:

GMT400

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1998 Chevrolet C3500 was a robust and popular heavy-duty pickup truck, often used for commercial purposes, towing, and hauling. This manual serves the needs of owners and technicians working on these reliable workhorses.

Competitive Analysis:

Competitors included the Ford F-350 and Dodge Ram 3500 of the same era. The C3500 was known for its strong chassis and capable powertrains.

Key Features:

Licensed OE materials, instant digital access, comprehensive coverage for a wide range of repair and maintenance tasks, compatible with multiple devices.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Chassis, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting

Page Count:

N/A (Digital Access - Licensed OE Material)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download (Web-based access)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul procedures, component identification, torque specifications, timing procedures for all gasoline engines.

Engine Performance:

Fuel system diagnostics, ignition system troubleshooting, emissions controls, powertrain control module (PCM) strategies.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair of NV3500 (5-speed) manual transmission, including clutch and linkage.

Transmission Automatic:

Service and repair of 4L60E (4-speed automatic) transmission, including torque converter and external controls.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle servicing, driveshaft, U-joints, and propeller shaft maintenance.

Suspension:

Front independent suspension (torsion bar), rear leaf spring system, shock absorbers, ball joints, control arms.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnostics, steering column, tie rods, steering linkage, pump and gearbox service.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS) components and diagnostics, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams for all circuits, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, power accessories, fuse and relay locations.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system servicing, heating system, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant handling.

Body:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim removal, glass replacement, bumper systems.

Chassis:

Frame inspection and repair, mounting points, exhaust system, fuel tank and lines.

Instrument Panel:

Removal and installation of instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, and related sensors.

Doors And Windows:

Door panel removal, window regulator and motor replacement, door lock actuator repair.

Seats:

Seat removal and installation procedures for both bench and bucket seats.

Frame And Body:

Inspection and minor repair procedures for the truck frame and body mounting points.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), filter replacements, lubrication.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts and flowcharts for common drivability and electrical issues.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for major components and systems.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation, scan tool usage.

Installation:

Procedures for replacing key components like alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel pumps, etc.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, heater core, and coolant hose replacement procedures, including bleeding the system.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes, and manifold replacement and repair.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump replacement, fuel filter replacement, fuel tank servicing, fuel line repair.

Ignition System:

Spark plug replacement, ignition coil replacement, distributor service (if applicable), wire replacement.

Lighting And Accessories:

Headlight, taillight, interior light bulb replacement; power window, door lock, and mirror troubleshooting and repair.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive factory-derived information suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians, covering everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagnostic Codes:

Coverage of OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with explanations and troubleshooting steps.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners across various systems.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive, vehicle-specific wiring diagrams essential for electrical troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Searchable Text)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, clear text and diagrams suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Access)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Access)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

5.0L (305 cu in) V8 (L30), 5.7L (350 cu in) V8 (L31 Vortec), 7.4L (454 cu in) V8 (L29 Vortec).

5.7L Vortec Horsepower:

Approx. 255 hp @ 4600 rpm

5.7L Vortec Torque:

Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm

7.4L Vortec Horsepower:

Approx. 290 hp @ 4000 rpm

7.4L Vortec Torque:

Approx. 410 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI) for all gasoline engines.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed automatic (4L60E) was common, though a 5-speed manual (NV3500) was also available on some configurations.

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic (4L80E) often paired with the 7.4L V8.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Dexron-III (or equivalent) for 4L60E and 4L80E transmissions.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

130.0 inches (Standard Cab), 144.5 inches (Extended Cab)

Overall Length:

Varies by bed length (e.g., 216.3 inches for short bed, 231.3 inches for long bed)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4,500 - 5,500 lbs depending on configuration.

Gvwr:

Ranges from 7,200 lbs to 9,600 lbs depending on configuration and axle ratios.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Not rated for this specific year and configuration, but GM trucks of this era generally provided good frontal protection for their class.

NHTSA Side Impact Driver:

Not rated for this specific year and configuration.

ABS:

Standard on 1998 C3500, often referred to as 'Anti-lock Braking System' or 'ABS'.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player was standard; optional CD player available. Analog gauges and controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was the primary advanced feature available for this model year.

Connectivity:

No integrated smartphone connectivity or Bluetooth; basic analog audio system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years for automatic transmissions, depending on towing/heavy-duty use.

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 synthetic blend (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).

Coolant Spec:

50/50 mixture of Dex-Cool (orange) or equivalent extended-life coolant and distilled water.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Common Issues:

Potential for intake manifold gasket leaks on 5.0L/5.7L V8 engines, exhaust manifold leaks, and wear on suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends). Vortec engines are generally robust.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Chevrolet has a long-standing reputation for building durable and capable trucks, dating back to the early 20th century.

Model Evolution:

The C/K series trucks, including the C3500, underwent a significant redesign for the 1988 model year, introducing the GMT400 platform which featured improved aerodynamics, a more comfortable interior, and enhanced chassis design. The 1998 model year falls within the second phase of this generation, benefiting from refinements and updates.

Production Location:

Fort Wayne, Indiana; Janesville, Wisconsin; Oshawa, Ontario, Canada.