🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

S10 Pickup

Year:

1997

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Pickup Truck

Key Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Hardbody (D21).

Vehicle Appeal:

Known for its ruggedness, affordability, and a wide range of configurations catering to both work and personal use. The '97 model represents a mature iteration of the second-generation S10.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All 1997 Chevrolet S10 Pickup models, including all engine types, trim levels, and transmission configurations.

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific publisher, but typically ranges from 800 to 1500+ pages for a comprehensive workshop manual covering all aspects.

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine electrical, automatic transmission, manual transmission, driveline.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear disc/drum configurations), wheels and tires.

Body And Electrical:

Body and frame, exterior and interior trim, heating and air conditioning (HVAC), electrical system (wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, instruments, power accessories), infotainment system.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, tire rotation, battery maintenance.

Repair:

Engine component replacement (e.g., spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel injectors, water pump, alternator), transmission servicing and repair, brake component replacement (rotors, pads, calipers), suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints), steering component replacement (tie rods, power steering pump), electrical diagnostics and repair.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems, often including flowcharts and symptom-based diagnosis.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, component clearances, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) definitions and troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, component locations.

Engine Mechanical Repairs:

Engine assembly/disassembly, cylinder head removal and installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, camshaft service, timing gear/chain/belt service.

Fuel System Diagnostics:

Fuel pump testing, fuel injector diagnostics, fuel pressure testing, throttle body service.

Brake System Overhaul:

Front and rear brake pad and shoe replacement, caliper and wheel cylinder overhaul, brake rotor and drum service, brake bleeding procedures, parking brake adjustment.

Suspension Component Replacement:

Shock absorber and strut replacement, ball joint replacement, control arm service, leaf spring and shackle service (rear), torsion bar adjustment (if applicable to specific models).

Steering System Repair:

Power steering pump replacement, steering gearbox or rack and pinion service, tie rod end replacement, steering linkage alignment.

Electrical System Diagnostics:

Starter motor testing and replacement, alternator testing and replacement, battery testing and replacement, lighting system diagnostics, fuse and relay identification and testing, wiring harness repair, instrument cluster troubleshooting.

Body And Interior Repair:

Door panel removal, seat removal, dashboard component access, exterior trim panel replacement, bumper service, glass replacement procedures.

HVAC System Service:

Heater core replacement, air conditioning compressor replacement, A/C system evacuation and recharging (proper tools and certification required), blower motor replacement, HVAC control panel troubleshooting.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

Provides access to OBD-I and potentially early OBD-II codes (for the 4.3L V6), with detailed explanations and diagnostic flowcharts.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive, color-coded wiring diagrams for all major systems, including engine control, lighting, accessories, and HVAC.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners, including engine components, suspension, brakes, and driveline.

Component Clearances:

Specifications for critical component clearances, such as piston-to-wall, bearing clearances, and valve lash adjustments (if applicable).

Special Tools:

Lists specialized tools required for specific repair procedures, such as harmonic balancer pullers, suspension compressors, and fuel line disconnect tools.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Searchable PDF, allowing users to quickly find specific topics, components, or procedures by keyword.

Printability:

High-resolution, allowing for clear printing of individual pages or entire sections. Optimized for screen viewing on various devices.

Resolution:

High resolution ensuring that diagrams, illustrations, and text are clear and legible when printed.

Binding:

Not applicable (Downloadable PDF format).

Paper Recommendation:

Not applicable (Digital format). For printing, standard copier paper is suitable.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1997:

2.2L (134 cu in) I4 (RPO L43), 4.3L (262 cu in) V6 (RPO L35 Vortec).

2.2L I4 Horsepower:

Approx. 118 hp @ 4800 rpm

2.2L I4 Torque:

Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm

4.3L V6 Horsepower:

Approx. 155-165 hp @ 4000-4400 rpm (depending on specific configuration)

4.3L V6 Torque:

Approx. 230-245 lb-ft @ 2000-2400 rpm (depending on specific configuration)

Fuel Delivery 2.2L:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Delivery 4.3L:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) - Vortec technology

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 11-13 quarts (10.4-12.3 liters) with heater, depending on engine. Refer to manual for exact capacity.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

5-speed manual transmission (NVG T-5), 4-speed automatic transmission (GM 4L60-E for V6, possibly 4L30-E for some I4 configurations).

Optional Transmission:

AWD (All-Wheel Drive) available with automatic transmission.

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronic controls, overdrive gear for improved fuel economy.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Short Wheelbase (SWB) and Long Wheelbase (LWB) configurations available. Typically 118.5 inches (SWB) and 131.5 inches (LWB).

Bed Length Options:

Standard Bed (approx. 74 inches) and Long Bed (approx. 86 inches).

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Extended Cab (with rear-facing jump seats).

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 3,000 - 4,000 lbs (1360 - 1814 kg) depending on configuration (engine, transmission, 2WD/4WD, cab style).

Towing Capacity:

Varies significantly based on engine, wheelbase, and drivetrain. Capable of towing up to approximately 5,000-6,000 lbs (2268-2722 kg) in properly equipped configurations.

Payload Capacity:

Varies significantly based on configuration, typically ranging from 800 to 1,500 lbs (363 to 680 kg).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating 1997:

Not readily available for all configurations; typical for this era of pickup truck. Refer to specific vehicle VIN for precise ratings.

Available ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, often standard on higher trims or optional.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard on all models. Passenger airbag may have been optional on some configurations.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control often available on most trim levels.

Vhf Radio Availability:

Standard VHF radio system (AM/FM).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Automatic transmissions: every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or as per manual. Manual transmissions: typically longer intervals, check fluid level regularly.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Varies by engine: 2.2L I4 may be around 60,000-100,000 miles, while 4.3L V6 Vortec may have similar or slightly shorter intervals. Always use recommended plug type.

Engine Oil Specification:

API Service SG or SH rated. Viscosity grade typically SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30. Refer to manual for exact specification based on temperature range.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

GM DEXRON-III (or equivalent).

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol based coolant (green). Mix 50/50 with deionized or distilled water. Refer to manual for specific type.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

GM Power Steering Fluid (or Dexron-III/Mercon automatic transmission fluid in many cases). Consult manual for specific recommendation.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Common Issues 1997 S10:

Ignition system (coil packs, spark plug wires), fuel pump issues, front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods), minor body rust in certain climates, potential for ABS sensor issues.

V6 Engine Issues:

Intake manifold gasket leaks are a known concern on some Vortec V6 engines. Thermostat housing leaks can also occur.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Truck Legacy:

Chevrolet has a long-standing history in the pickup truck market, with the S10 being a significant player in the compact segment since its introduction in 1982.

Second Generation S10:

The 1997 model year falls within the second generation of the S10 (1994-2004), which introduced significant styling and engineering updates over the first generation.

Vortec Engine Introduction:

The introduction of the Vortec version of the 4.3L V6 for 1996 and continued in 1997 brought improved performance and efficiency.

Assembly Locations:

Primarily assembled in the United States (e.g., Shreveport, Louisiana; St. Louis, Missouri) and Brazil.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Editorial Awards 1997:

While specific awards for the 1997 model are not widely documented, the S10 platform generally received positive reviews for its value and utility throughout its second generation.