1988 Chevy Silverado Repair Manual

The 1988 Chevy Silverado is a full-size pickup truck featuring V6 and V8 engine options, rear-wheel drive or optional 4WD, automatic or manual transmission, power steering, power brakes, and comprehensive electrical systems. This repair manual covers maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical, and other critical systems. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance schedules, repair procedures, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Repair 4. Transmission Service 5. Brake System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Electrical System 8. Fuel System 9. Cooling System 10. Exhaust System 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Specifications

Key specifications for the 1988 Chevy Silverado including engine options, dimensions, and capacities.

Specification	Details
Engine Options	4.3L V6, 5.0L V8, 5.7L V8, 7.4L V8
Transmission	3-speed automatic, 4-speed manual, 5-speed manual
Drivetrain	RWD or 4WD
Fuel Capacity	25-34 gallons (depending on bed size)
Wheelbase	117.5" (short bed), 131.5" (long bed)
Payload Capacity	1,500-2,500 lbs
Towing Capacity	5,000-8,000 lbs
Oil Capacity	4-5 quarts (depending on engine)
Coolant Capacity	14-16 quarts

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Oil Filter: Replace with every oil change
Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Spark Plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles
Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Transmission Fluid: Every 30,000 miles
Brake Fluid: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Timing Belt: Replace every 60,000 miles (if equipped)

WARNING! Always use manufacturer-recommended fluids and parts. Follow proper disposal procedures for used fluids.

Engine Repair

Common engine repair procedures and specifications.

Spark Plug Replacement: Gap 0.035-0.045 inches, torque 15-20 ft-lbs
Valve Adjustment: Hydraulic lifters - no adjustment required
Compression Test: Should be 125-150 psi, variation less than 15% between cylinders
Timing Setting: 6° BTDC for base timing (V8 engines)
Oil Pressure: 35-45 psi at operating temperature

CAUTION! Always disconnect battery before working on electrical components. Allow engine to cool before servicing.

Transmission Service

Automatic Transmission: Use Dexron II or III fluid, capacity 4-5 quarts
Manual Transmission: Use 80W-90 gear oil, capacity 3-4 pints
Transfer Case (4WD): Use Dexron II or gear oil as specified
Differential: Use 80W-90 gear oil, capacity 2.5-3 pints
Fluid Change Intervals: Every 30,000 miles for normal service

Brake System

Brake system specifications and service procedures.

Front Brakes: Disc brakes, rotor thickness specification 1.245" minimum

Rear Brakes: Drum brakes, drum diameter 11.15" maximum

Brake Fluid: DOT 3, system capacity approximately 1 pint

Pad Replacement: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace when worn to 1/8"

Bleeding Procedure: Start with wheel farthest from master cylinder

Suspension & Steering

Front suspension: Independent with torsion bars. Rear: Leaf spring suspension.

Ball Joint Inspection: Check for play every 15,000 miles
Tie Rod Ends: Replace if any detectable play
Shock Absorbers: Replace if leaking or poor damping
Wheel Alignment: Toe-in 0° to 0.25°, camber 0° to 1° positive
Power Steering: Use Dexron II fluid, check for leaks

Tip: Always support vehicle properly with jack stands when working underneath.

Electrical System

12-volt negative ground system with alternator charging.

Battery: Group 78, 650 CCA minimum
Alternator: 85-100 amp output
Starter: 1.4 kW gear reduction type
Fuse Box: Located under dashboard on driver's side
Bulb Types: Headlights 4651/4652, taillights 1157
Spark Plug Wires: 7mm suppression type, resistance 3,000-10,000 ohms per foot

WARNING! Disconnect battery ground cable before performing electrical work to prevent shorts.

Fuel System

Carbureted fuel system with mechanical fuel pump (standard) or optional TBI.

Component	Specification
Fuel Pump Pressure	5-7 psi (mechanical), 9-13 psi (TBI)
Fuel Filter	Replace every 15,000 miles
Carburetor	Rochester Quadrajet 4MV (standard)
Fuel Lines	3/8" supply, 5/16" return
Fuel Tank	Steel, various capacities 25-34 gallons

Cooling System

Pressurized cooling system with radiator and mechanical fan.

Radiator Cap: 15-16 psi pressure rating

Thermostat: 195°F opening temperature

Coolant: 50/50 ethylene glycol and water mixture

Fan Clutch: Replace if excessive play or no resistance when cool

Water Pump: Replace if leaking from weep hole or bearing noise

Exhaust System

Cast iron exhaust manifolds with single exhaust system standard.

Manifold Bolts: Torque to 25-30 ft-lbs
Exhaust Pipe: 2.25" diameter single system
Muffler: Replace if rusted, leaking, or excessive noise
Catalytic Converter: Check for restrictions if performance issues
Hangers: Replace if broken or allowing excessive movement

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, ignition, fuel	Check battery voltage, spark at plugs, fuel delivery
Rough idle	Vacuum leaks, carburetor	Inspect vacuum hoses, adjust carburetor mixture
Overheating	Coolant, thermostat, water pump	Check coolant level, thermostat operation, water pump
Brake pull	Calipers, alignment	Inspect brake calipers, check wheel alignment
Electrical issues	Grounds, alternator	Check ground connections, alternator output

Tools Required: Basic mechanic's tool set, torque wrench, multimeter, jack and stands

Parts Sources: GM dealerships, auto parts stores, specialty suppliers