Full-size SUV, designed for towing, hauling, and family transport, competing with vehicles like the Ford Bronco, Dodge Ramcharger, and Toyota Land Cruiser of the era.
Competitive Analysis
Comparison:
The 1994 K2500 Suburban offered robust GM truck-based engineering, powerful V8 engine options, and significant towing capacity, appealing to those prioritizing utility and durability over fuel economy or refined ride quality.
Key Features
Software Benefits:
Licensed OE material, easy online access, searchable content, compatibility with multiple devices, cost-effective alternative to printed manuals.
Content Source:
Licensed information derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
1994 GMC K2500 Suburban Service & Repair
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Detailed, extensive (typical for OE service manuals)
Front and rear axle service, differentials, transfer case (4WD systems), driveshafts, U-joints, propeller shafts.
Transmission:
Service and repair for automatic transmissions (e.g., 4L60-E, 4L80-E), including hydraulic controls, torque converter, clutch packs, valve bodies, and fluid service.
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant service, blower motor, A/C compressor, heater core, climate control operation.
Body:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, bumpers, exterior trim, sheet metal specifications.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan clutch, coolant flow diagrams, pressure testing.
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-I), symptom-based troubleshooting charts.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, component removal and installation, internal engine and transmission repair.
Diagnostics:
Component testing, sensor readings (via multimeter or scan tool), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for OBD-I systems.
Installation:
Instructions for replacing common wear items and major components.
Wheel Alignment:
Detailed specifications and procedures for front-end alignment (camber, caster, toe).
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive OE-level detail, including torque specifications, clearance measurements, diagnostic charts, wiring diagrams, exploded views, and specifications for professional and advanced DIY use.
Special Tools:
Identification of specialized tools required for specific procedures.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
Web-based access via browser, compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet.
Searchability:
Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.
Access Duration:
One-year access included, with options for extension.
Print Quality
Printability:
Digital format, potentially printable pages for specific sections.
Binding Type
Binding:
Not applicable (digital format).
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
Not applicable (digital format).
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code And Description:
5.7L (350 cu. in.) V8 Vortec (L31) - Throttle Body Injection (TBI) or Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI) depending on specific build date/options. Also available: 7.4L (454 cu. in.) V8.
Performance
Horsepower 5.7L:
Approx. 200-210 hp @ 4000-4400 rpm (varies slightly by configuration)
Torque 5.7L:
Approx. 300-310 lb-ft @ 2400-2800 rpm (varies slightly by configuration)
Fuel System
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Throttle Body Injection (TBI) or Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI) for 5.7L; TBI for 7.4L.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (e.g., 4L60-E for 5.7L, 4L80-E for 7.4L)
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
None specified for K2500 models with these engine options; focus on heavy-duty automatic.
Features
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-III (or equivalent)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
130 inches (approx.)
Length:
219.5 inches (approx.)
Width:
77.8 inches (approx.)
Height:
71.2 inches (approx.)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,800 - 5,200 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Over 7,000 lbs (typically 7,200 - 7,700 lbs for K2500)
Towing Capacity:
Significant towing capacity, often exceeding 7,000 lbs when properly equipped (refer to vehicle owner's manual for specific ratings).
Cargo
Cargo Volume:
Substantial cargo space behind the second-row seat, exceeding 90 cu ft.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Ratings:
NHTSA ratings from this era are generally less detailed than modern standards. Focus on robust body-on-frame construction.
Active Features
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels, often standard on 4WD models.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag was becoming standard around this time, likely standard on 1994 models.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Analog gauges and controls.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Limited to factory-installed options; no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, or as specified in the owner's manual, especially for heavy towing.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check owner's manual for exact grade).
Coolant Type:
GM 'blue' coolant (Ethylene Glycol based) or equivalent, with a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron-III (or equivalent)
Differential Fluid Type Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check for limited-slip additive if applicable)
Differential Fluid Type Front:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check for limited-slip additive if applicable)
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, U-joints, intake manifold gaskets (Vortec engines), heater core, throttle body issues, rear main seal leaks.
GMC has a long history of producing robust trucks and commercial vehicles, emphasizing durability and work capability.
Model Evolution
Suburban Lineage:
The Suburban is one of the longest-running nameplates in automotive history, evolving from station wagon-like utility vehicles to the modern full-size SUV.
Platform Comparison:
GMT400 platform was a significant modernization of GM's truck line, offering a more aerodynamic design and improved ride quality compared to the older C/K generation.
Production
Gmt400 Platform:
The 1994 model is part of the second generation of the GMT400 platform (1992-1999), which saw significant updates in styling and engineering over the previous C/K generation.
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