1987 chevrolet light_duty_truck _service_manual.pdf

The 1987 Chevrolet Light Duty Truck Service Manual provides comprehensive technical information for servicing and maintaining Chevrolet light duty trucks from the 1987 model year. This manual covers engine systems, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical systems, and routine maintenance procedures for models including C10, C20, C30, K10, K20, and K30 series trucks.

1. General Information 2. Engine Specifications 3. Transmission Systems 4. Brake Systems 5. Suspension and Steering 6. Electrical Systems 7. Fuel System 8. Cooling System 9. Routine Maintenance 10. Troubleshooting 11. Technical Specifications

General Information

This service manual covers 1987 Chevrolet light duty trucks including 2WD and 4WD models with GVWR under 10,000 lbs. Manual includes safety precautions, tool requirements, and general service procedures.

Model SeriesDescription
C10/C1500Half-ton 2WD pickup
C20/C2500Three-quarter ton 2WD pickup
C30/C3500One-ton 2WD pickup
K10/K1500Half-ton 4WD pickup
K20/K2500Three-quarter ton 4WD pickup
K30/K3500One-ton 4WD pickup
R10/R1500Half-ton 2WD Suburban
V10/V1500Half-ton 4WD Suburban

Engine Specifications

Available engines for 1987 light duty trucks include inline-6 and V8 configurations with various displacement options.

  1. 4.3L V6 (262 CID) - 150 hp @ 4000 rpm, 230 lb-ft torque
  2. 5.0L V8 (305 CID) - 170 hp @ 4400 rpm, 255 lb-ft torque
  3. 5.7L V8 (350 CID) - 210 hp @ 4200 rpm, 300 lb-ft torque
  4. 6.2L Diesel V8 - 130 hp @ 3600 rpm, 240 lb-ft torque

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before performing engine service. Use proper lifting equipment for engine removal.

Transmission Systems

Manual and automatic transmission options available with 2WD and 4WD configurations.

  1. 3-speed automatic (THM350)
  2. 4-speed automatic (700R4)
  3. 4-speed manual (SM465)
  4. 5-speed manual (NV4500)
  5. Transfer case: NP208 for 4WD models

CAUTION! Transmission fluid may be hot after operation. Allow to cool before servicing.

Brake Systems

Suspension and Steering

Independent front suspension on 2WD models, solid front axle on 4WD models. Power steering standard on most models.

Front Suspension: Coil springs with upper/lower control arms (2WD) or leaf springs (4WD). Rear Suspension: Leaf springs with staggered shock absorbers. Steering: Recirculating ball type with power assist.

Electrical Systems

12-volt negative ground system with alternator charging. Fusible links protect major circuits.

  1. Battery: Group 78, 12V 60Ah
  2. Alternator: 63-94 amp output
  3. Starter: Direct drive, 1.4 kW
  4. Ignition: HEI (High Energy Ignition) system
  5. Lighting: Sealed beam headlights

Tip: Always disconnect battery ground cable before electrical service.

Fuel System

Carbureted fuel delivery with mechanical fuel pump (gasoline) or injection pump (diesel).

  1. Fuel Tank Capacity: 16-34 gallons depending on model
  2. Fuel Pump: Mechanical, camshaft driven
  3. Carburetor: Rochester Quadrajet or similar
  4. Fuel Filter: In-line disposable cartridge
  5. Fuel Lines: Steel with rubber connections

WARNING! Gasoline is highly flammable. No smoking or open flames during fuel system service.

Cooling System

Pressurized cooling system with radiator, water pump, thermostat, and coolant recovery tank.

Routine Maintenance

Recommended service intervals and procedures for optimal performance and longevity.

CAUTION! Use only specified fluids and lubricants. Over-tightening can damage components.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/ignition/fuelCheck battery voltage, spark, fuel delivery
Poor fuel economyTune-up neededReplace plugs, wires, air filter, adjust carburetor
Brake pedal softAir in system/leaksBleed brakes, check for leaks
Transmission slipsLow fluid/worn bandsCheck fluid level and condition
Electrical issuesGrounds/corrosionClean battery terminals and ground connections

Service Intervals: Oil change every 3,000 miles, tune-up every 30,000 miles.

Technical Support: Contact Chevrolet dealer for factory technical assistance.

1987 chevrolet light_duty_truck _service_manual.pdf © - All Rights Reserved 2025