1988 GM Chevy Astro Van Factory Service Manual

The 1988 GM Chevy Astro Van Factory Service Manual provides comprehensive technical information for servicing and repairing the 1988 Chevrolet Astro Van. This official GM manual covers all vehicle systems including engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical, and body components. Below are key sections for maintenance procedures, specifications, troubleshooting, and repair instructions.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Service 4. Transmission Service 5. Brake System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Electrical System 8. Body & Interior 9. Troubleshooting Guide 10. Wiring Diagrams 11. Technical Service Bulletins

Vehicle Specifications

Complete technical specifications for the 1988 Chevrolet Astro Van including engine options, dimensions, capacities, and performance data.

Specification	Description
Engine Options	4.3L V6 (LB4), 2.5L L4 (LR8)
Transmission	4-speed automatic (4L60), 5-speed manual
Wheelbase	111.2 inches
Overall Length	177.5 inches
Fuel Capacity	20 gallons
GVWR	5,200 lbs
Brake System	Front disc, rear drum
Suspension	Independent front, leaf spring rear
Tire Size	P205/75R15
Payload Capacity	1,500 lbs

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals and service procedures for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

Oil and filter change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Tire rotation: Every 6,000 miles
Brake inspection: Every 12,000 miles
Coolant flush: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Transmission service: Every 30,000 miles
Spark plugs: Every 30,000 miles
Timing belt: Every 60,000 miles (4-cylinder models)

WARNING! Always use GM-approved fluids and parts. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine Service

Detailed procedures for engine maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting.

Engine removal and installation procedures
Cylinder head service and valve adjustment
Timing chain/belt replacement
Fuel system service including carburetor and fuel injection
Ignition system diagnosis and repair
Cooling system maintenance
Exhaust system service

CAUTION! Always disconnect battery before performing electrical work. Use proper lifting equipment.

Transmission Service

Automatic Transmission: Fluid change procedures, band adjustments, shift linkage adjustment
Manual Transmission: Clutch replacement, shift mechanism service, fluid specifications
Transfer Case: AWD models only - fluid service and linkage adjustment
Driveshaft: U-joint service and balancing procedures
Differential: Gear oil specifications and service intervals

Brake System

Complete brake system service including hydraulic systems, parking brake, and ABS (if equipped).

Front Brakes: Disc brake pad replacement, caliper service, rotor machining/replacement

Rear Brakes: Drum brake shoe replacement, wheel cylinder service, drum machining

Hydraulic System: Master cylinder service, brake line replacement, bleeding procedures

Parking Brake: Cable adjustment and service procedures

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension service, alignment procedures, and steering system maintenance.

Front suspension: Ball joint replacement, control arm service, strut replacement
Rear suspension: Leaf spring service, shock absorber replacement
Steering gear: Power steering pump service, gearbox adjustment
Wheel alignment: Specifications and adjustment procedures
Tire service: Mounting, balancing, and rotation procedures

Tip: Always check alignment after suspension repairs. Use alignment pins for proper camber adjustment.

Electrical System

Complete electrical system diagnosis and repair procedures.

Battery: Testing, charging, and replacement procedures
Starting system: Starter motor service, solenoid testing
Charging system: Alternator testing and replacement
Lighting systems: Headlight, taillight, and signal light service
Instrument cluster: Gauge testing and replacement
Power accessories: Window, lock, and seat motor service
Computer systems: ECM diagnosis and sensor testing

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before electrical repairs. Use circuit diagrams for accurate diagnosis.

Body & Interior

Body repair procedures, interior component service, and glass replacement.

Troubleshooting Guide

Systematic approach to diagnosing common problems and performance issues.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, starter, ignition	Check battery voltage, test starter, verify spark
Poor fuel economy	Fuel system, sensors	Check fuel pressure, test O2 sensor, inspect filters
Brake pull	Calipers, alignment	Inspect brake calipers, check front end alignment
Transmission slipping	Fluid, bands, clutch	Check fluid level and condition, adjust bands
Electrical problems	Grounds, battery	Check ground connections, test battery and alternator

Wiring Diagrams

Complete electrical schematics for all vehicle systems including color-coded wiring and connector locations.

CAUTION! Use only factory wiring diagrams for accurate circuit identification.

Technical Service Bulletins

Official GM service bulletins addressing common issues and updated repair procedures for the 1988 Astro Van.

Copyright © 1988 General Motors Corporation. All rights reserved. For technical support, contact GM Customer Service or authorized dealerships. This manual is intended for use by qualified automotive technicians.