🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: GMC Model: C3500 Year: 1999 Generation Generation Name: GMT400 (Third Generation) Codes Chassis Code: GMT4xx 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Essential diagnostic and repair resource for 1999 GMC C3500 owners and independent repair shops. Competitive Analysis Advantage: More convenient, accessible, and cost-effective than outdated printed manuals. Offers licensed OE data for accuracy. Key Features Feature 1: Instant online access from any internet-connected device. Feature 2: Official, licensed information ensuring accuracy and completeness. Feature 3: Covers all major systems, enabling comprehensive repairs and maintenance. Target Audience Audience: DIY enthusiasts, independent auto repair technicians, fleet maintenance managers. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Comprehensive service and repair information Secondary Coverage: Maintenance, diagnostics, troubleshooting, adjustments, repairs, specifications Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive (digital format, equivalent to thousands of printed pages) Manual Type Type: Official Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Online Digital Software (Web Browser Accessible) Access Method: Internet Connection Required License Licensing: Officially Licensed, Licensed Information Derived from OE Materials Access Duration Duration: One Year of Access (with options for renewal discounts) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication system, cooling system Engine Performance: Fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, engine diagnostics Transmission Drivetrain: Automatic transmission (e.g., 4L80-E), manual transmission (if applicable), transfer case (4WD), driveshafts, axles, differentials Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, parking brake, hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Steering: Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion, steering linkage Suspension: Front independent suspension (e.g., torsion bar or coil spring), rear solid axle, leaf springs or coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms Electrical System: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers Body And Chassis: Frame, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seats, glass, weatherstripping HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, controls, refrigerant system Wiring Diagrams: Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all systems Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement Component Repair: Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension arm replacement, steering rack repair Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation Diagnostics: On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, scan tool usage, specific component testing Adjustments: Wheel alignment, headlight aiming, parking brake adjustment Replacements: Component replacement procedures for all major systems Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics. Diagnostic Tools: Information relevant to using OBD-II scanners and specific diagnostic equipment Expert Level: Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: Web-based application, accessible via standard web browsers Print Quality Printability: Content is designed for easy viewing and printing of individual sections Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: Vortec 7.4L (454ci) V8 (L29); Vortec 5.7L (350ci) V8 (L31); 5.0L (305ci) V8 (L30 - less common on C3500, more on C1500/C2500 but possible) Performance 7.4L L29 Horsepower: Approx. 295 hp @ 4000 rpm 7.4L L29 Torque: Approx. 410 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm 5.7L L31 Horsepower: Approx. 255 hp @ 4600 rpm 5.7L L31 Torque: Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (Regular 87 octane recommended) Engine Management ECM: Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controlling fuel, ignition, and emissions Cooling System Coolant Type: Dex-Cool (Orange silicate-free) or equivalent OAT coolant recommended for GM vehicles of this era, though earlier specs might call for traditional green coolant. Manual will specify. 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed automatic (e.g., 4L80-E heavy-duty) Optional Optional Transmission Type: 5-speed manual (e.g., NV4500 heavy-duty - less common on C3500, but available) Features Transmission Fluid Type: Dexron III (or equivalent) for automatic transmissions. Manual will specify for NV4500. Transfer Case: New Process NP246 (or similar electronic shift transfer case for 4WD models) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: Regular Cab, Extended Cab; Fleetside (bed) and Chassis Cab configurations Wheelbase Options: Approx. 130" (Regular Cab), 158" (Extended Cab), and longer for chassis cab Weights Gvwr: Typically 9,900 lbs to 11,000 lbs (depending on configuration and options) Curb Weight: Varies significantly by configuration, generally 5,000 - 6,000 lbs+ 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Rating: Not directly comparable to modern standards; typically focused on specific components. Manual will detail relevant structural safety. Active Features ABS: Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on 4-wheel disc or front disc/rear drum configurations Passive Features Airbags: Driver-side airbag standard Seat Belts: Three-point seat belts with pretensioners 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette and optional CD player. Speaker configurations...
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information relevant to using OBD-II scanners and specific diagnostic equipment
Expert Level:
Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
Web-based application, accessible via standard web browsers
Print Quality
Printability:
Content is designed for easy viewing and printing of individual sections
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Options:
Vortec 7.4L (454ci) V8 (L29); Vortec 5.7L (350ci) V8 (L31); 5.0L (305ci) V8 (L30 - less common on C3500, more on C1500/C2500 but possible)
Performance
7.4L L29 Horsepower:
Approx. 295 hp @ 4000 rpm
7.4L L29 Torque:
Approx. 410 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
5.7L L31 Horsepower:
Approx. 255 hp @ 4600 rpm
5.7L L31 Torque:
Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Regular 87 octane recommended)
Engine Management
ECM:
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controlling fuel, ignition, and emissions
Cooling System
Coolant Type:
Dex-Cool (Orange silicate-free) or equivalent OAT coolant recommended for GM vehicles of this era, though earlier specs might call for traditional green coolant. Manual will specify.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (e.g., 4L80-E heavy-duty)
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
5-speed manual (e.g., NV4500 heavy-duty - less common on C3500, but available)
Features
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent) for automatic transmissions. Manual will specify for NV4500.
Transfer Case:
New Process NP246 (or similar electronic shift transfer case for 4WD models)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab; Fleetside (bed) and Chassis Cab configurations
Wheelbase Options:
Approx. 130" (Regular Cab), 158" (Extended Cab), and longer for chassis cab
Weights
Gvwr:
Typically 9,900 lbs to 11,000 lbs (depending on configuration and options)
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by configuration, generally 5,000 - 6,000 lbs+
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Not directly comparable to modern standards; typically focused on specific components. Manual will detail relevant structural safety.
Active Features
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on 4-wheel disc or front disc/rear drum configurations
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette and optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system.
Connectivity
OBD Ii:
Equipped with OBD-II diagnostic port for emissions and engine diagnostics.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles for automatic transmission (severe vs. normal use), consult manual for specific interval and procedure for filter replacement.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically 100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs, less for conventional plugs (check specific engine/plug type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 50,000-100,000 miles for Dex-Cool, or as recommended by coolant manufacturer.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
GM Dexos or API certified synthetic blend/conventional oil, viscosity typically 5W-30 for 5.7L and 5W-30 or 10W-30 for 7.4L (refer to manual for exact spec based on temperature).
AC-Delco PF1218 (or equivalent for the specific engine)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
GMC (General Motors Truck Company) has a long history of producing robust trucks and commercial vehicles, emphasizing durability and capability.
Model Evolution
Model Lineage:
The C/K series, including the C3500, is part of a long-standing line of full-size Chevrolet and GMC trucks. The GMT400 platform represented a significant modernization.
Production
Platform:
GMT400
Production Years Gmt400 C Series:
1988-1998 (primary range, with some overlap/updates into early 2000s for specific models/markets)
Manufacturing Locations:
Various GM assembly plants in North America (e.g., Fort Wayne, Indiana; Oshawa, Ontario)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Truck Of The Year Gmt400 Era:
While not specific to the C3500 alone, the GMT400 platform trucks (including Silverado/Sierra) often received accolades for their engineering and capability during their production run.