Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) for gasoline engines, Direct Injection (DI) for some diesel variants.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, Diesel fuel.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., 4L60E, 4L80E) or 5-speed Manual (NV4500 for heavy-duty applications).
Optional
Optional Transmission:
Availability of manual transmission varied by configuration, with the NV4500 being a popular heavy-duty choice.
Features
Transfer Case 4Wd:
Electronic shift transfer case (NP246) or manual shift transfer case (NP241).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Options:
Various depending on cab and bed configuration (e.g., 130 inches for standard cab, long bed; 158 inches for extended cab, long bed).
Overall Length Approx:
Varies by configuration, typically 230-245 inches.
Overall Width Approx:
Approx. 79.8 inches.
Overall Height Approx:
Approx. 75-77 inches.
Weights
Curb Weight Approx:
Ranges from 4,500 to 6,000+ lbs depending on configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Typically around 7,000 - 8,600 lbs or higher for K2500 models.
Max Towing Capacity:
Can exceed 10,000 lbs depending on configuration and towing package.
Payload Capacity:
Significant, typically 2,000 - 4,000+ lbs.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings 1998:
Information for 1998 models may be limited or unavailable; generally, trucks of this era focused on robustness over advanced crash structures compared to modern vehicles. Expect 3-star ratings for frontal impact.
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, often standard on heavy-duty models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts for rear passengers.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configuration varied by trim level.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control system typically standard on higher trims or optional.
Connectivity
Towing Features:
Trailer wiring harness, often with provisions for trailer brake controller (if equipped).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult manual for specific recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles for automatic transmissions, or as specified by GM. Manual transmission fluid replacement intervals are also provided.
Coolant Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years for traditional coolant. Dex-Cool type coolants have longer intervals if applicable.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Commonly 5W-30 or 10W-30 for gasoline engines, consult manual for specific engine and temperature ranges. Diesel engines may require specific diesel-rated oils (e.g., 15W-40).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-III (or equivalent) is typically specified.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically green in color. Check manual for specific GM color or type if Dex-Cool was introduced later in the model year.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Common issues for this era truck can include intake manifold gasket leaks (Vortec engines), head gasket issues on some V8s, transmission cooler line leaks, ABS sensor failures, and rust on body panels, especially in certain climates. Diesel models may experience injector pump issues or glow plug problems.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Chevrolet Truck Legacy:
Chevrolet has a long and distinguished history in building durable and capable pickup trucks, dating back to the early 20th century.
Model Evolution
K Series Evolution:
The K-series designation represents Chevrolet's four-wheel-drive trucks, evolving through various generations to meet changing demands for capability and comfort.
Production
Gmt400 Platform Significance:
The GMT400 platform was a significant redesign for GM trucks, featuring a more aerodynamic and refined design than its predecessors, while maintaining robust construction for heavy-duty work.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Historical Awards:
While specific awards for the 1998 model year are not prominently documented, the GMT400 platform trucks generally received accolades for their durability and capability in the truck segment during their production run.