🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: GMC Model: K3500 Year: 1997 Generation Generation Name: GMT400 (Second Generation) Generation Years: 1988-1998 Codes Platform Code: GMT400 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: DIYers, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance Competitive Analysis Advantage Over Print: Instant access, searchability, multimedia potential (though not explicitly stated), no wear-and-tear Key Features Licensing: Officially licensed, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials Accessibility: Compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet via internet browser Value Proposition Cost Savings: Enables DIY repairs to save on labor costs 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Comprehensive Service and Repair Secondary Coverage: Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Reassembly Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1,000+ Manual Type Type: Online Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (Web-based Access) Access Subscription Period: 1 Year 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Yes (Vortec 454 CID V8, Vortec 7400 (7.4L) V8, Vortec 5000 (5.0L) V8, Vortec 5700 (5.7L) V8, 4.3L V6) Fuel System: Yes (MPI, fuel pump, injectors, lines, tank) Transmission: Yes (4L80E Automatic, NV4500 Manual) Drivetrain: Yes (Front and Rear Axles, Transfer Case, Driveshafts, CV Joints) Suspension: Yes (Front Independent Torsion Bar, Rear Leaf Springs, Shocks, Control Arms, Bushings) Steering: Yes (Power Steering Pump, Gearbox, Linkages, Column) Brakes: Yes (Front Disc, Rear Drum/Disc, ABS, Hydraulic System, Parking Brake) Electrical System: Yes (Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Lighting, Fuses, Relays) Climate Control: Yes (HVAC System, A/C Compressor, Heater Core, Blower Motor, Controls) Body And Chassis: Yes (Frame, Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Bumpers, Interior Trim) Exhaust System: Yes (Manifolds, Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Pipes) Cooling System: Yes (Radiator, Thermostat, Water Pump, Hoses, Fan) Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil Changes, Fluid Top-offs, Filter Replacements, Inspections Repair: Engine Overhauls, Transmission Rebuilds, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement Diagnostics: Component Testing, Fault Code Interpretation, Troubleshooting Flowcharts Troubleshooting: Step-by-step guides for common and uncommon issues Installation: Component installations and replacements Wiring: Detailed wiring diagrams and circuit descriptions Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: Web-based (browser accessible) Print Quality Print Capability: Printable pages (user-dependent) Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital) Searchability Text Search: Yes (typical for online manuals) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 4.3L V6, 5.0L V8 (L43 Vortec 5000), 5.7L V8 (L31 Vortec 5700), 7.4L V8 (L29 Vortec 7400) Performance Horsepower Range: Approx. 160-330 hp (depending on engine) Torque Range: Approx. 230-450 lb-ft (depending on engine) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Cylinder Block Material: Cast Iron Cylinder Head Material: Cast Iron Ignition System Type: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) for some engines, Distributor ignition for others Cooling System System Type: Pressurized, liquid-cooled 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic (4L80E) Optional Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual (NV4500) Features 4L80E Features: Heavy-duty electronically controlled automatic transmission Nv4500 Features: Robust manual transmission with overdrive Fluid Type Automatic Fluid: Dexron III (or equivalent) Manual Fluid: GM Synchromesh (or equivalent API GL-4 75W-90) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: Regular Cab, Extended Cab, Crew Cab Wheelbase Options: 130.0 inches, 155.0 inches Weights Gvwr Range: 8,600 - 10,000+ lbs (depending on configuration) Curb Weight Range: Approx. 5,500 - 6,500 lbs Cargo Bed Lengths: 6.5 ft (short box), 8 ft (long box) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Driver: Not extensively rated for this era, but generally considered robust Active Features ABS: Available (Anti-lock Braking System) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger airbags standard for 1997 model year Seatbelts: Front and rear seatbelts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available Connectivity OBD Ii: Standard OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Refer to owner's manual, typically 3,000-7,500 miles depending on driving conditions and oil type. Transmission Fluid Change: Typically 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic, refer to manual for manual transmission. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: Refer to manual; likely 5W-30 or 10W-30 for gasoline engines, depending on temperature. Coolant Type: GM Type II Extended Life Coolant (or equivalent green ethylene glycol-based coolant) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Common Wear Items: Ball joints, tie rod ends, exhaust components, fuel pump, intake manifold gaskets (on 5.0L/5.7L Vortec) Engine Specific Notes: 5.7L Vortec (L31) can be prone to intake manifold gasket leaks. 7.4L Vortec (L29) is generally very robust. Transmission Specific Notes: 4L80E is a durable transmission, but proper fluid maintenance is critical. NV4500 can have clutch or internal wear with high mileage/heavy use. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Brand Focus: GMC trucks are known for their heavy-duty capabilities and commercial heritage. Model Evolution K Series Legacy: The K-series represents GMC's line of four-wheel-drive trucks, a lineage dating back decades. Production Manufacturing Location: United States (various GM assembly plants) Production End Year For Gmt400: 1998 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Truck Of...