1988 Chevrolet CK 1500 Pickup Owners Manual

The 1988 Chevrolet CK 1500 Pickup is a full-size truck featuring V6 and V8 engine options, rear-wheel drive, manual or automatic transmission, power steering, air conditioning, AM/FM stereo, and comprehensive instrumentation. This manual covers operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting for your vehicle. Below are key sections for features, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Operation 3. Maintenance Schedule 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instrumentation 6. Driving and Handling 7. Towing and Payload 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Steel body construction, bench seating, analog instrumentation, manual or automatic transmission, power-assisted brakes.

Feature	Description
Engine Options	4.3L V6 or 5.0L/5.7L V8 engines
Transmission	4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
Drivetrain	Rear-wheel drive with optional 4WD
Braking System	Power-assisted front disc/rear drum
Suspension	Independent front with leaf spring rear
Fuel Capacity	20-25 gallon tank depending on configuration
Bed Length	6.5 ft or 8 ft options
Payload Capacity	1,500-2,000 lbs depending on configuration
Towing Capacity	5,000-7,500 lbs with proper equipment
Instrumentation	Speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature, oil pressure

Vehicle Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before driving.

Starting: Insert key, turn to start position, release when engine starts.
Transmission: Manual - depress clutch; Automatic - ensure in Park or Neutral.
Climate Control: Adjust temperature and fan speed as needed.
Lights: Headlights, parking lights, and turn signal operation.

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Never leave children unattended in vehicle.

Maintenance Schedule

Follow recommended maintenance for optimal performance.

Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Filter Replacement: Air filter every 15,000 miles, fuel filter annually
Tire Rotation: Every 6,000 miles
Brake Inspection: Every 10,000 miles
Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Transmission Service: Every 30,000 miles

CAUTION! Use only recommended fluids and parts. Improper maintenance may void warranty.

Specifications

Engine: 4.3L V6 (base) or 5.0L/5.7L V8 options
Horsepower: 150-210 hp depending on engine
Torque: 230-300 lb-ft depending on engine
Transmission: 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
Fuel Economy: 12-15 mpg city, 16-20 mpg highway
Wheelbase: 117.5 inches (short bed) or 131.5 inches (long bed)
Overall Length: 194-218 inches depending on configuration
Curb Weight: 3,800-4,200 lbs
GVWR: 5,200-6,000 lbs

Controls and Instrumentation

Dashboard includes speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature, oil pressure, and warning lights.

Steering Column: Ignition, turn signals, headlight controls, wiper controls.

Center Console: Climate controls, radio, ashtray, optional 4WD selector.

Warning Lights: Oil pressure, battery, brake, check engine, seat belt reminder.

Driving and Handling

The CK 1500 features responsive steering and stable highway manners.

Acceleration: Smooth power delivery from low RPMs
Braking: Progressive pedal feel with good stopping power
Cornering: Moderate body roll typical of full-size trucks
Ride Quality: Firm but comfortable with empty bed

Tip: Allow extra stopping distance when loaded. Adjust driving for weather conditions.

Towing and Payload

Proper loading and towing procedures ensure safety.

Payload: Do not exceed GVWR rating on door jamb sticker
Tongue Weight: 10-15% of trailer weight for proper balance
Trailer Brakes: Required for trailers over 1,500 lbs
Mirrors: Use extended mirrors for trailers wider than truck
Weight Distribution: Load bed evenly, secure all cargo

WARNING! Exceeding weight ratings can cause loss of control and damage vehicle.

Safety Features

Seat Belts: Lap and shoulder belts for all occupants. Brakes: Power-assisted front disc/rear drum system. Lighting: Headlights, parking lights, brake lights, turn signals.

Care & Cleaning

Exterior: Wash with mild soap, rinse thoroughly. Interior: Vacuum regularly, use vinyl protectant on dash and seats.

CAUTION! Avoid high-pressure washers near seals. Do not use abrasive cleaners on paint.

Warranty Information

Basic Warranty: 12 months/12,000 miles. Powertrain: 36 months/36,000 miles. Rust Through: 36 months/unlimited miles. For warranty service, contact authorized Chevrolet dealership. Keep maintenance records for warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, fuel, ignition	Check battery connections, fuel level, spark plugs
Rough idle	Spark plugs, fuel filter	Replace spark plugs, check fuel filter
Overheating	Coolant, thermostat	Check coolant level, replace thermostat if stuck
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Have rotors resurfaced or replaced
Transmission slipping	Low fluid, worn bands	Check fluid level and condition, professional service

Service: Contact authorized Chevrolet dealership for professional repairs.

Emergency: Keep emergency kit with flares, first aid, and basic tools.