🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: GMC Model: C2500 Year: 1997 Codes Platform Code: GMT400 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance Competitive Analysis Advantage: Officially licensed, factory-derived OE information, more convenient and often more affordable than printed manuals Key Features Licensing: Officially Licensed Repair Information Provider: Developed by RepairSurge with licensed OE materials Accessibility Method: Instant online access via web browser on multiple devices 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Comprehensive factory-derived service and repair information Page Count Access Duration: 1 Year Manual Type Type: Online Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Web-based software (accessible via PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet with internet connection) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Complete engine diagnostics, repair, and overhaul (including specific engine variants) Drivetrain: Transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, driveshafts, differentials, axles Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs, control arms Steering: Steering system diagnostics, repair, power steering components, steering column Brakes: Brake system diagnostics and repair, including ABS, disc brakes, drum brakes, hydraulic components Electrical: Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, ignition system HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair Body: Body panel repair, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers Chassis: Frame and chassis component inspection and repair Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues across all systems Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for all major and minor components Rebuild: Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds Component Replacement: Instructions for replacing various parts such as alternators, water pumps, starters, brake pads, etc. Technical Depth Depth: In-depth factory-level technical information for professional technicians and experienced DIYers 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Accessibility: Online, browser-based access Print Quality Print Capability: Printable sections (user-dependent) Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 4.3L V6 Vortec (VIN 'X'), 5.0L V8 Vortec (VIN 'H'), 5.7L V8 Vortec (VIN 'R'), 7.4L V8 Vortec (VIN 'J') Performance 4.3L V6 Horsepower: Approx. 200 hp @ 4400 rpm 4.3L V6 Torque: Approx. 260 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm 5.7L V8 Horsepower: Approx. 255 hp @ 4600 rpm 5.7L V8 Torque: Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Engine Management Ignition System: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor with Ignition Control Module (ICM) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Options: 4-speed Automatic (e.g., 4L60E, 4L80E) Optional Manual Transmission: Available (e.g., NV3500 5-speed manual for some configurations) Features Transmission Fluid Spec 4L60E: Dexron III (or equivalent) Transmission Fluid Capacity 4L60E: Approx. 7.7 quarts (7.3 liters) (dry fill) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: Regular Cab, Extended Cab, Crew Cab Bed Lengths: 6.5 ft, 8 ft Weights Gvwr Range: Typically 7,000 - 10,500 lbs (depending on configuration) Curb Weight Range: Approx. 4,500 - 6,000 lbs 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: NHTSA data available for 1997 model year, specific scores vary by configuration Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on rear wheels or 4-wheel ABS Passive Features Airbags: Driver-side airbag standard Seatbelts: Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts for rear passengers 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player and optional CD player; aftermarket options common. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional cruise control Connectivity Connectivity Features: Limited to factory radio features; no integrated Bluetooth or navigation from factory. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specific recommendations. Transmission Fluid Change: Recommended every 30,000-100,000 miles; refer to manual for precise interval and fluid type. Coolant Change: Typically every 30,000-100,000 miles or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type. Use of extended-life coolant may extend interval. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Spec: API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for exact viscosity based on temperature) Coolant Spec: GM specification 1801 G (Green) or Dex-Cool (Orange) if later updated, typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water. Brake Fluid Spec: DOT 3 brake fluid Known Issues Common Problems: Possible issues include intake manifold gasket leaks (small block V8s), fuel pump failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, and rear main seal leaks. Component Wear: Wear items like ball joints, tie rod ends, and u-joints are common at higher mileage. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Gmc Legacy: GMC Trucks has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks for commercial and personal use. Model Evolution Gmt400 Platform: The C2500 is part of the highly successful GMT400 platform, which spanned from 1988 to 2002 (or later for some variants), known for its improved ride comfort and modern styling compared to its predecessors. Production Production Location: Assembled in various GM plants...
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor with Ignition Control Module (ICM)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Options:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., 4L60E, 4L80E)
Optional
Manual Transmission:
Available (e.g., NV3500 5-speed manual for some configurations)
Features
Transmission Fluid Spec 4L60E:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity 4L60E:
Approx. 7.7 quarts (7.3 liters) (dry fill)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab, Crew Cab
Bed Lengths:
6.5 ft, 8 ft
Weights
Gvwr Range:
Typically 7,000 - 10,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,500 - 6,000 lbs
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
NHTSA data available for 1997 model year, specific scores vary by configuration
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on rear wheels or 4-wheel ABS
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts for rear passengers
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player and optional CD player; aftermarket options common.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Limited to factory radio features; no integrated Bluetooth or navigation from factory.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-100,000 miles; refer to manual for precise interval and fluid type.
Coolant Change:
Typically every 30,000-100,000 miles or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type. Use of extended-life coolant may extend interval.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for exact viscosity based on temperature)
Coolant Spec:
GM specification 1801 G (Green) or Dex-Cool (Orange) if later updated, typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 brake fluid
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Possible issues include intake manifold gasket leaks (small block V8s), fuel pump failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, and rear main seal leaks.
Component Wear:
Wear items like ball joints, tie rod ends, and u-joints are common at higher mileage.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Gmc Legacy:
GMC Trucks has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks for commercial and personal use.
Model Evolution
Gmt400 Platform:
The C2500 is part of the highly successful GMT400 platform, which spanned from 1988 to 2002 (or later for some variants), known for its improved ride comfort and modern styling compared to its predecessors.
Production
Production Location:
Assembled in various GM plants in North America (e.g., Fort Wayne, Indiana; Janesville, Wisconsin)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Truck Of The Year:
While specific awards for the 1997 C2500 are not widely publicized, the GMT400 platform was generally well-received for its blend of capability and comfort, contributing to strong sales and customer loyalty for GMC trucks.