Model:
Silverado / Sierra
Product Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Model Years Covered:
1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Platform:
GMT800 (This generation spanned 1999-2006 for Silverado/Sierra, with 1998 models being transitional or early production of this platform with some carryover elements from the GMT400).
Segment:
Full-size pickup truck.
Competitors:
Ford F-150, Dodge Ram 1500 (at the time of release).
Value Proposition:
Known for robust construction, powerful V8 engine options, towing and hauling capabilities, and a wide range of configurations (cab styles, bed lengths, drivetrains).
Target Audience:
Truck buyers needing capability for work, towing, and general hauling. Also appeals to individuals seeking a durable and customizable vehicle.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (4.3L Vortec V6, 4.8L Vortec V8, 5.3L Vortec V8, 6.0L Vortec V8), Fuel system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Turbocharger (if applicable to specific models/trims covered within the range), Manual transmissions (NV3500, NV4500), Automatic transmissions (4L60E, 4L80E).
Chassis:
Suspension (front independent, rear solid axle), Steering (power assisted recirculating ball), Brakes (front disc, rear drum/disc depending on configuration, ABS systems), Driveline (2WD, 4WD, transfer case operation, propeller shafts, axles).
Electrical And Body:
Charging system, Starting system, Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), Power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), Body control modules, Wiring diagrams for all systems, Body and interior trim, Doors, Glass, Bumpers, Frame/Body structure.
Maintenance:
Routine checks, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, differential), filter replacements, lubrication, tire rotation and inspection, battery maintenance.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, component testing procedures, electrical system diagnostics.
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine component removal/installation (cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft), transmission overhaul, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (ball joints, control arms), steering gear repair, electrical component replacement.
Body And Interior:
Panel replacement, door mechanism repair, seat adjustment/removal, interior trim panel removal/installation, glass replacement.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic preventative maintenance and fluid checks to detailed component disassembly, overhaul, assembly, and calibration. Includes wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures, and specifications for most repair operations.
4.3L Vortec V6 (L35):
Displacement: 4.3L (262 cu in), Configuration: 90-degree V6, Valve Train: OHV (Pushrod), Fuel System: Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI), Bore x Stroke: 4.00 in x 3.48 in, Compression Ratio: 9.1:1, Horsepower: 200-210 hp @ 4600 rpm, Torque: 255-260 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm.
4.8L Vortec V8 (Lr4):
Displacement: 4.8L (294 cu in), Configuration: 90-degree V8, Valve Train: OHV (Pushrod), Fuel System: SEFI, Bore x Stroke: 3.78 in x 3.27 in, Compression Ratio: 9.5:1, Horsepower: 255-270 hp @ 5200 rpm, Torque: 285-305 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm.
5.3L Vortec V8 (Lm7):
Displacement: 5.3L (327 cu in), Configuration: 90-degree V8, Valve Train: OHV (Pushrod), Fuel System: SEFI, Bore x Stroke: 3.78 in x 3.62 in, Compression Ratio: 9.5:1, Horsepower: 270-295 hp @ 5000-5200 rpm, Torque: 315-335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm, Features: Displacement on Demand (DOD/AFM) introduced in later years of this generation (2005+ models covered).
6.0L Vortec V8 (Lq4/Lq9):
Displacement: 6.0L (364 cu in), Configuration: 90-degree V8, Valve Train: OHV (Pushrod), Fuel System: SEFI, Bore x Stroke: 4.00 in x 3.62 in, Compression Ratio: LQ4: 9.4:1, LQ9: 10.1:1, Horsepower: LQ4: 300-325 hp @ 5000-5200 rpm, LQ9: 345 hp @ 5200 rpm, Torque: LQ4: 360-370 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm, LQ9: 380 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm. LQ9 is the 'High Output' version typically found in premium trims.
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) with electronic throttle control (Drive-by-Wire) phased in during this generation.
Manual:
NV3500 5-speed manual transmission (common on V6 and smaller V8 models).
Automatic 1:
4L60E 4-speed automatic transmission (RWD/4WD, widely used with 4.8L, 5.3L, and some 6.0L engines).
Automatic 2:
4L80E 4-speed automatic transmission (RWD/4WD, heavy-duty version used with 6.0L and high-torque applications).
Transfer Case:
Manual shift transfer case (NP246, NP243) or electronic shift transfer case (Autotrac NP8).
Wheelbase:
Varies by cab and bed configuration: e.g., 130" (Regular Cab, Short Bed), 143" (Extended Cab, Short Bed), 158" (Regular Cab, Long Bed).
Overall Length:
Varies by configuration: e.g., 210" (Short Bed) to 248" (Long Bed).
Overall Width:
Approx. 79.5 inches (excluding mirrors).
Overall Height:
Approx. 73.4 inches (standard ride height).
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed (6.5 ft), Long Bed (8 ft) depending on configuration.
Curb Weight:
Ranges from approximately 4,500 lbs to 5,500+ lbs depending on configuration (engine, drivetrain, cab, bed).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Ranges from 6,200 lbs (half-ton) up to 7,800 lbs or more for heavy-duty configurations (which may be covered in sibling manuals).
NHTSA Front Impact:
Generally good ratings for its era, typically 4-star for driver and passenger in frontal impacts (specific ratings vary by year and test methodology).
IIHS Front Impact:
Often rated 'Good' in frontal offset crash tests by the IIHS.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels, with variations for 2WD and 4WD.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models, particularly those with higher trim levels or specific option packages.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Side airbags became available or standard on later models within this range.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants. Pre-tensioners for front seats.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio systems, and available steering wheel audio controls on higher trims. Cassette players were still common in early years.
Navigation:
Factory navigation systems were an optional, albeit less common, feature on premium trims during this era.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most models.
Parking Assist:
Rear parking assist sensors were an optional feature on some higher-trim models.
Onstar:
OnStar telematics system was available as an option, providing services like emergency assistance, remote diagnostics, and navigation.
Auxiliary Input:
Auxiliary audio input jacks for external devices were not standard and became more common later in the generation or as aftermarket additions.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal) and oil type used (conventional vs. synthetic). Refer to manual for specific recommendations based on oil viscosity and API service rating.
Service Intervals Coolant
Coolant Flush Interval:
Initial drain and fill often recommended at 100,000 miles or 5 years, followed by intervals of 50,000 miles or 5 years thereafter, depending on coolant type (e.g., Dex-Cool).
Service Intervals Transmission
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) and filter change typically recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles, especially for heavy-duty use (towing, hauling). Manual transmission fluid interval also around 60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Commonly 5W-30 for most gasoline engines, with some V8s potentially recommending 5W-20 or 10W-30 depending on specific model year and climate. Always consult the manual for precise viscosity and GM specification (e.g., GM6048M, GM6049M).
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Coolant Type:
GM specified orange coolant (Dex-Cool, ethylene glycol based) for engines with aluminum components, or traditional green coolant for older applications. Verify compatibility.
Fluid Specifications Transmission
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-III/Mercon compatible ATF, often specified as Dexron-VI for later models in the range. Always check the manual or dipstick label.
Fluid Specifications Differential
Rear Axle Fluid:
Typically SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (GL-5). For vehicles with a limited-slip differential (G80 locking differential), a friction modifier additive may be required. Check manual for specific rear axle ratios and lubricant type.
Engine Coolant Leaks:
Common issue with intake manifold gaskets on 5.3L Vortec V8 engines, leading to coolant loss. Heater core leaks can also occur.
Transmission Issues:
4L60E transmissions can experience wear in the 3-4 clutch pack, leading to delayed or no 3rd/4th gear engagement. Torque converter shudder is also possible.
Electrical Issues:
Issues with body control modules, instrument cluster failures (pixelation), and power window regulators are sometimes reported.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension wear, particularly ball joints, tie rod ends, and pitman/idler arms, can lead to steering looseness and tire wear due to the recirculating ball steering system.
Exhaust Manifold:
Cracked exhaust manifolds, especially on V8 engines, can cause ticking noises and exhaust leaks.
Chevrolet Trucks:
Chevrolet has a long and storied history in the truck market, dating back to the 1910s. The Silverado nameplate itself replaced the C/K series trucks, building on decades of experience and reputation for durability and capability.
Silverado Sierra Generation:
The GMT800 platform represented a significant redesign over the previous GMT400 (1988-1998) generation, introducing a more modern chassis, improved aerodynamics, and enhanced interior comfort and features. The 1998 model year was a transitional year, with some 1998 trucks being early builds of the GMT800 platform.
Manufacturing Locations:
Assembled in various GM plants across North America, including Fort Wayne, Indiana; Oshawa, Ontario, Canada; and Silao, Mexico.
Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:
While the GMT800 platform was introduced in 1999, the Silverado and Sierra lineup has historically received numerous accolades. The 2000 Chevrolet Silverado was MotorTrend's Truck of the Year.
Konsumen Reports Reliability:
Consumer Reports ratings for reliability varied by year and engine, with some V8 engines generally showing better reliability than the V6 in certain tests. Overall, considered average to good for its class and era.
