🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

GMC

Model:

K3500

Year:

2000

Chassis Type:

Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck

Generation:

Third Generation (GMT800)

Platform Code:

GMT800

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2000 GMC K3500 was positioned as a robust, heavy-duty pickup truck designed for demanding work, towing, and hauling applications. It served as a workhorse in GMC's lineup, competing with other full-size heavy-duty trucks from Ford (F-350 Super Duty) and Dodge (Ram 3500).

Competitive Analysis:

The K3500's strength lay in its powerful engine options, heavy-duty chassis, and towing capabilities, making it a preferred choice for commercial use and serious recreational towing. Its availability of gasoline and diesel powertrains offered versatility to meet various customer needs.

Key Features:

Heavy-duty construction, powerful V8 gasoline engines, optional Duramax diesel engine, robust towing and hauling capacities, available 4WD, comfortable and functional interior for its class, advanced safety features for the era.

Manual Value Proposition:

This licensed digital service manual provides a convenient and cost-effective alternative to printed manuals. It offers instant access to factory-derived repair and maintenance information, empowering DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike to perform a wide range of services accurately and efficiently, saving on labor costs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

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

Page Count Estimated:

1500+

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual (Software)

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software Access (Licensed)

Access Duration:

1 Year (with renewal discounts)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Intake System, Turbocharger (if equipped), Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Transfer Case, Drive Axles, Differentials, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear Disc/Drum), ABS, Power Steering, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Component Locations, Diagnostics), Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC System, Body Control Modules, Chassis Electrical, Body Exterior, Body Interior, Doors, Windows, Seats, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

Procedures Included:

Scheduled Maintenance, Routine Inspections, Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Procedures, Repair Procedures (Step-by-Step), Component Removal & Installation, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities & Specifications, Electrical Connector Pinouts, Wiring Harness Routing, Pre-Delivery Inspections (PDI), Emissions Control System Service, Recalls & Campaigns

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive; from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complex engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and advanced electrical system diagnostics and repairs. Includes OE-level detail.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Web-based application, accessible via browser

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Access)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Access)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Access)

Compatibility:

PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet with Internet Connection and Web Browser

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine Option 1:

6.0L Vortec V8 (L72)

Engine Displacement L72:

5967 cc

Engine Horsepower L72:

300 hp @ 4800 rpm

Engine Torque L72:

360 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Optional Engine Option 1:

6.5L Duramax Turbo-Diesel V8 (LLY/LB7)

Engine Displacement Duramax:

6500 cc

Engine Horsepower Duramax:

235 hp @ 3100 rpm

Engine Torque Duramax:

475 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm

Fuel System L72:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)

Fuel System Duramax:

Direct Injection, High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR)

Compression Ratio L72:

9.4:1

Compression Ratio Duramax:

20.3:1

Ignition System L72:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-Near-Plug

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual (NV4500)

Optional Transmission 1:

4-speed Automatic (4L80-E)

Optional Transmission 2:

6-speed Allison 1000 (with Duramax Diesel)

Transmission Features 4L80E:

Electronic controls, overdrive, torque converter lock-up

Transmission Features Allison:

Heavy-duty design, electronic controls, multiple drive modes, suitable for high torque applications

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Std Cab:

130.0 inches

Wheelbase Ext Cab:

153.0 inches

Overall Length Std Cab:

229.3 inches

Overall Length Ext Cab:

252.3 inches

Gvwr:

Up to 10,000 lbs (depending on configuration)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 5,500 - 6,500 lbs

Bed Length Options:

6.5 ft (short bed), 8.0 ft (long bed)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating:

Not rated or 4-star (varies by year/test specifics)

NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating:

Not rated or 4-star (varies by year/test specifics)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and passenger front airbags, three-point seatbelts, reinforced safety cage construction

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

AM/FM radio, cassette player, CD player (optional), basic digital display for clock and radio presets

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS, cruise control (standard on most trims)

Connectivity Features:

Standard wiring for trailer brakes, trailer lighting connector

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months (conventional oil), 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic oil)

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (diesel specific oil)

Engine Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years

Transmission Fluid Change Auto:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years (depending on use)

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Every 50,000 - 100,000 miles or 3-5 years

Engine Oil Spec Gasoline:

API SG/SH/SJ, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity)

Engine Oil Spec Diesel:

API CI-4 or CH-4, SAE 15W-40 (synthetic 5W-40 often recommended)

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Dexron III/VI

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 (specific viscosity)

Coolant Type:

Conventional Green (Ethylene Glycol-based) or Dex-Cool (Orange) depending on original fill

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Known Issues Diesel Injection:

Injection pump failures (LB7), injector issues, glow plug problems

Known Issues Transmission Auto:

Torque converter shudder, potential for premature wear if not serviced

Known Issues Suspension:

Front end wear (ball joints, tie rods) due to heavy duty use

Known Issues Electrical:

Corroded grounds, intermittent electrical issues, HVAC blower motor resistor failures

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

GMC (General Motors Truck Company) has a long-standing reputation for building durable and capable trucks, dating back to 1902. GMC trucks are known for their professional-grade engineering and focus on commercial and heavy-duty applications.

Model Evolution:

The K3500 is part of GMC's Sierra pickup truck line, specifically the heavy-duty segment. The 2000 model year falls within the third generation of the GMT800 platform (which also underpinned the Chevrolet Silverado), introduced in 1999. This generation marked a significant redesign with improved aerodynamics, chassis, and powertrain options.

Production Years Gmt800 K Series:

1999-2006

Manufacturing Locations:

Various GM assembly plants in North America (e.g., Fort Wayne, Indiana; Oshawa, Ontario)