Vehicle Segment:
Full-size SUV/Sport Utility Truck (SUT) with a unique Midgate feature.
Target Audience:
Buyers seeking versatility, towing capability, and the utility of a pickup truck combined with SUV comfort and passenger capacity.
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer Sport Trac, Lincoln Blackwood (though less direct), other full-size SUVs and heavy-duty pickup trucks depending on specific needs.
Midgate:
The signature feature allowing the rear cabin bulkhead to fold down, extending the cargo bed length.
Versatility:
Hybrid pickup/SUV design.
Content Scope:
Comprehensive owner's information for the 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche.
Specific Topics Covered:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for this era and vehicle type).
Powertrain:
Engine operation, fuel, oil, and battery systems.
Chassis:
Brake system (operation, not repair), suspension (basic operation), steering.
Electrical:
Lighting, instrument cluster, infotainment system, climate control system, power locks, security system.
Interior:
Seating, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts), climate controls, entertainment systems, driver controls.
Exterior:
Exterior lighting, locks, and general operation.
Driving Operation:
Proper operation of vehicle controls, driving techniques, fuel economy tips.
Maintenance Basic:
Checking and adding engine oil, coolant, windshield washer fluid, tire pressure checks, battery inspection, air filter replacement guidance.
Safety Operation:
Proper use of seat belts, airbags, child restraints, and vehicle safety features.
Troubleshooting Basic:
Understanding dashboard warning lights and indicators, basic customer assistance.
Accessories Usage:
Operation of factory-installed accessories.
Depth:
Owner-level; focuses on operation, basic checks, fluid top-ups, and understanding vehicle features. Does not cover in-depth repair procedures or diagnostics.
Searchability:
Typically searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.
Quality:
Digital reproduction of original factory manual quality, clarity may vary slightly from original print.
Format:
Digital Download (no physical binding).
Format:
Not applicable (digital format).
Engine Type:
Vortec 5.3L V8 (LM7)
Displacement:
5.3 Liters (323 cubic inches)
Configuration:
V8, Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
295 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque:
335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Technology:
Active Fuel Management (AFM) - Not present on the 2004 model, but a hallmark of later Vortec engines.
System:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.0 Quarts (5.7 Liters) with filter change (API SG or higher)
Cargo Volume Bed Open:
Approximately 6.5 feet (with Midgate closed)
Cargo Volume Bed Midgate Down:
Approximately 9.6 feet (with Midgate folded)
Curb Weight Rwd:
Approximately 5,800 lbs
Curb Weight 4Wd:
Approximately 5,975 lbs
Towing Capacity:
Up to 8,200 lbs (when properly equipped with trailering package)
Payload Capacity:
Approximately 1,500 - 1,700 lbs (depending on configuration)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4/5-star rating (estimated for 2004 models)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, available side-impact airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, driver and front passenger seatbelt pretensioners.
Child Safety:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system, child security rear door locks.
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio systems, and rear-seat entertainment options.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional dual-zone automatic climate control.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking assist sensors.
Onstar:
Optional OnStar safety and communication system (subscription-based).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to manual for specific guidance).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter:
Check at ~15,000 miles, replace as needed (typical range 15,000-30,000 miles).
Engine Coolant Type:
GM Goodwrench Dex-Cool® Extended Life (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent HOAT formulation).
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent Dexron compatible fluid).
Intermediate Shaft Bearing:
Potential wear in the intermediate steering shaft bearing can cause a clunking noise.
Rear Main Seal:
Some Vortec engines can develop leaks from the rear main crankshaft seal.
Transmission Fluid Leaks:
Potential for leaks at transmission pan gasket or cooler lines.
Engine Oil Filter:
ACDelco PF44 (common for this era GM V8s).
Engine Air Filter:
ACDelco A1888C (example, verify for specific VIN).
Manufacturer:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors (GM).
First Generation Launch:
Introduced for the 2002 model year.
2004 Updates:
Likely minor trim or option package refinements, building on the initial design.
Manufacturing Plant:
Janesville, Wisconsin, USA
