1988 Chevrolet Silverado Owners Manual

The 1988 Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck featuring various engine options including 4.3L V6, 5.0L V8, 5.7L V8, and 6.2L diesel V8, with 2WD and 4WD configurations. This manual covers operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting for the 1988 model year. Below are key sections for vehicle features, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Features 2. Instrument Panel 3. Starting and Operating 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Fluid Capacities 7. Tire Information 8. Electrical System 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Vehicle Features

Key components: Standard cab or extended cab configurations, various bed lengths, power steering, power brakes, AM/FM radio, air conditioning (optional), cruise control (optional).

Feature	Description
Engine Options	4.3L V6, 5.0L V8, 5.7L V8, 6.2L Diesel V8
Transmission	4-speed manual, 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic, 4-speed automatic
Drivetrain	2WD or 4WD configurations
Payload Capacity	1,500-2,500 lbs depending on configuration
Towing Capacity	5,000-8,000 lbs depending on engine and equipment
Fuel Tank	20 or 25 gallon capacity
Bed Length	6.5 ft or 8 ft
Cab Options	Regular cab or extended cab
GVWR	5,200-8,600 lbs
Brakes	Front disc, rear drum with power assist

Instrument Panel

Standard gauges include speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, and voltmeter. Warning lights for brake system, charging system, and engine.

Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in mph and km/h.
Fuel Gauge: Indicates fuel level in tank.
Temperature Gauge: Monitors engine coolant temperature.
Oil Pressure Gauge: Shows engine oil pressure.
Warning Lights: Brake, battery, check engine, oil pressure.

WARNING! If any warning light illuminates while driving, stop vehicle immediately and investigate cause.

Starting and Operating

Proper starting procedure and driving instructions.

Before starting: Ensure parking brake is set, transmission in Park (automatic) or Neutral (manual).
Starting: Turn key to start position, release when engine starts.
Warm-up: Allow engine to idle for 30 seconds before driving.
Shifting: Use smooth, deliberate shifts; avoid forcing transmission.
4WD operation: Engage 4WD only when road conditions require.

CAUTION! Do not operate 4WD on dry pavement as it may damage drivetrain components.

Specifications

Wheelbase: 117.5" or 131.5" depending on configuration
Overall Length: 194.5" to 212.5"
Overall Width: 76.8"
Overall Height: 70.5" to 72.5"
Curb Weight: 3,800-4,600 lbs
Engine Horsepower: 150-210 hp depending on engine
Engine Torque: 230-300 lb-ft depending on engine
Fuel Type: Regular unleaded (gasoline) or diesel
EPA MPG: 13-18 city, 17-23 highway

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Every 3,000 miles: Change engine oil and filter, check fluid levels, inspect brakes, check tire pressure.

Every 6,000 miles: Rotate tires, inspect suspension components, check steering system.

Every 15,000 miles: Replace air filter, check fuel system, inspect exhaust system.

Every 30,000 miles: Replace spark plugs, check ignition system, inspect cooling system.

Every 60,000 miles: Change automatic transmission fluid, replace coolant, inspect timing chain.

Fluid Capacities

Engine oil: 5 quarts with filter. Coolant: 14 quarts. Automatic transmission: 12 quarts. Manual transmission: 3-4 pints. Rear axle: 4 pints. Fuel tank: 20 or 25 gallons.

Use only recommended fluids specified in manual.
Check fluid levels when engine is cold and on level surface.
Dispose of used fluids properly at designated facilities.

Tip: Always use the correct grade of motor oil for your specific engine.

Tire Information

Standard tire size: P235/75R15. Recommended inflation pressure: 35 psi. Load range: Standard load.

Check tire pressure monthly when tires are cold.
Rotate tires every 6,000 miles for even wear.
Inspect tires regularly for cuts, bulges, or uneven wear.
Replace tires when tread depth reaches 2/32 inch.
Use only recommended tire sizes for your specific model.

WARNING! Underinflated tires can cause overheating and failure. Overinflated tires can reduce traction and cause uneven wear.

Electrical System

12-volt negative ground system. Battery: 12V, 60-75 amp hours. Alternator: 63-94 amps. Fuse panel located under dashboard.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, faulty starter	Check battery connections, test starter, verify fuel delivery
Rough idle	Dirty fuel filter, spark plugs	Replace fuel filter, check and replace spark plugs
Overheating	Low coolant, faulty thermostat	Check coolant level, replace thermostat, check water pump
Brake vibration	Warped rotors, worn pads	Inspect and replace brake rotors and pads as needed
Transmission slipping	Low fluid, worn clutch	Check fluid level, adjust or replace clutch components

Emergency: Keep emergency kit with flares, jack, and basic tools in vehicle.

Service: Contact authorized Chevrolet dealer for professional service.