Maintenance Information. GMC Magnavan G3500

VIN LOCATION

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the left side of the dash panel at the base of the windshield. The VIN chart explains the code characters.

SERVICE PARTS IDENTIFICATION LABEL

Label is located inside glove box door and has the vehicle's VIN, wheelbase, paint information, and a list of all production options and special equipment.

VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION

Numbers preceding the explanations in the legend below refer to the sequence of characters as listed on VIN identification label. See VIN example below.

VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION (1 OF 2). Scheme 1

VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION (2 OF 2). Scheme 2

SHORT TRIP/CITY & LONG TRIP/HIGHWAY SERVICE DEFINITIONS

Note. Starting in the 1996 model year, General Motors has renamed their maintenance schedules; One is referred to as the Short-Trip/City and the other is the Long Trip/Highway schedule. These schedule requirements are similar to the familiar Severe Service and Normal schedules and can be used in place of one another.

SEVERE & NORMAL SERVICE DEFINITIONS

Note. Use the Severe Service schedule if the vehicle to be serviced is operated under ANY (one or more) of these conditions

Service is recommended at mileage intervals based on vehicle operation, emission classification, and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR, VIN Position 4). Emission classification is identified by engine VIN code (except diesel-powered vehicles). Manufacturer's Schedules identify items to be serviced based on type of operation. Service schedules are based on the following primary operating conditions

Severe Service

1. Short Trips (4 Miles Or Less)
2. Freezing Temperatures
3. Towing Or Heavily Loaded
4. Severe Dust Conditions
5. Hot Weather, Stop-And-Go Driving
6. Extensive Idling Conditions (Taxi Or Delivery Type Service)

Normal Service

1. No Severe Service Operating Conditions

Note. Diesel-powered models require additional servicing. Refer to SCHEDULED SERVICES - DIESEL article in this section.

TIRE ROTATION & WHEEL TORQUE INFORMATION

On dual rear wheel light trucks, rotate the front tires side to side without disturbing the rear tires. Wheel lug nuts must be retightened to proper torque specifications after 500 miles (800 km) of new vehicle operation (100 miles (160 km) for vehicles equipped with dual rear wheels or equipped for snowplowing)), and 500 miles (800 km) after any wheel change, or any other time lug nuts have been loosened.

REAR AXLE LUBRICATION

Rear axle lube quantities must be replaced every 15,000 miles (Except 3500 HD) on vehicles used for trailer towing or use in dusty conditions. Otherwise lube should be checked for condition and fluid level at each oil change. 3500 HD rear axle lube quantities must be replaced every 3,000 miles unless synthetic oil is used. 3500 HD vehicles are NOT equipped with synthetic oil from the factory.

COOLING SYSTEM, HOSES & CLAMPS INFORMATION

Replace engine coolant every 36 months or 30,000 miles. Add supplemental coolant additive every 18 months or 15,000 miles (Diesel Engine Only). Check coolant strength, condition of hoses and clamps annually regardless of mileage or driving conditions. Replace hoses and clamps as necessary.

OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLES INFORMATION

If vehicle is operated off-highway, perform the following items every 1000 miles. If vehicle is operated in mud and/or water, perform the following items daily

1. Lubricate Front Axle, Steering And Clutch Linkages, Axle And Driveshaft U-Joints, And Slip Yoke If Equipped With Fittings.
2. Lubricate Automatic Transmission External Controls.
3. Inspect Front Wheel Bearings And Lubrication.
4. Inspect Disc And Drum Brake Systems, Hoses And Lines, Lube Caliper Slide Rails.
5. Inspect Exhaust System For Leaks, Damage, Or Loose Parts And Remove Any Foreign Material Trapped By Shielding.
6. Lubricate Clutch Release Lever Pivot.

Scheme 3

Note. For more information regarding lifting and hoisting refer to the JACKING & HOISTING article in the WHEEL ALIGNMENT section.

Scheme 4

Scheme 5

Scheme 6

DRAINING, FLUSHING AND REPLACEMENT OF DIESEL COOLANT

1. Open the air bleed valve in the engine coolant outlet (thermostat housing). (Scheme 7)
2. Fill the surge tank bottle until coolant comes out of the air bleed valve.
3. ON VEHICLES WITH REAR HEATER, close the air bleed valve. Start the engine and bring the engine speed to 2000 RPM for 2 to 3 minutes to flush any air for rear heater. Shut off the engine and open the air bleed valve. Fill the surge tank until coolant comes out the air bleed valve.
4. Close the air bleed valve and install pressure cap on the surge tank.
5. Monitor the cold coolant level in the surge tank. Add coolant as needed to bring the coolant level to the "Full Cold" mark.
6. Verify there are no leaks.

Scheme 7

Note. For more information regarding Diesel Idle Speed Adjustments refer to the ADJUSTMENTS - 6.5L DIESEL article in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE section.

DRAINING FUEL FROM WATER/FUEL SEPARATOR (DIESEL)

1. Turn off engine and block drive wheels.
2. Remove fuel filler cap(s) to release any pressure or vacuum in the vehicle fuel tank(s).
3. Place a suitable container under the filter drain hose.
4. Open the drain valve. (Scheme 8)
5. Start engine and allow to idle for 1 to 2 minutes or until clear fuel is observed.
6. Close the drain valve and stop the engine.
7. Replace fuel filler cap(s).
8. Dispose of drained mixture in a proper manner.

Scheme 8

Note. For more information regarding Diesel Idle Speed Adjustments refer to the ADJUSTMENTS - 6.5L DIESEL article in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE section.

CHANGING FUEL FILTER (DIESEL)

1. Turn off engine and block drive wheels.
2. Remove fuel filler cap(s) to release any pressure or vacuum in the vehicle fuel tank(s).
3. Place a suitable container under the filter drain hose.
4. Start engine and open the drain valve. (Scheme 8)
5. Once fuel begins to flow from the drain hose open the air bleed valve on the top of fuel filter housing. (Scheme 9)
6. Stop the engine.
7. After all fuel has drained from filter housing, close the fuel drain valve (Fig. (Scheme 8) ), and the air bleed valve. (Fig. (Scheme 9) ).
8. Dispose of drained mixture in a proper manner.
9. Loosen the element nut on the top of the fuel filter housing (Scheme 9) An oil filter type wrench may be used.
10. Remove housing cap and lift out old fuel filter element.
11. Verify filter housing and all mating surfaces are free of any water or other contamination. Some clean fuel may be left in housing, as it will be absorbed by the new filter element.
12. Install new fuel filter by aligning the widest key slot located under the element assembly cap with the widest key in the housing.
13. Push the element assembly downward until the mating surfaces make contact.
14. Install and tighten element nut by hand.
15. Bleed air from fuel/water separator as follows.
16. Open air bleed valve on top of filter housing (Fig. (Scheme 9) ).
17. Connect hose to the air bleed valve on the top of the filter housing (Fig. (Scheme 9) ).
18. Disconnect the fuel injection pump shutdown solenoid (pink wire) located on the fuel injection pump. (Scheme 10)
19. Crank the engine in 10 to 15 second intervals until clear fuel is observed at the air bleed hose (Wait 1 minute between cranking intervals to avoid overheating the starter).
20. Close the air bleed valve.
21. Connect the shutdown solenoid wire and reinstall fuel filler cap(s).
22. Start the engine and allow to idle for 5 minutes.
23. Check fuel filter assembly for leaks.
24. Dispose of drained mixture in a proper manner.

Scheme 9

Scheme 10

STARTING OUT OF FUEL DIESEL

1. Add 5 gallons of diesel fuel to fuel tank.
2. Open air bleed valve on top of filter housing (Fig. (Scheme 9) ).
3. Connect hose to the air bleed valve on the top of the filter housing (Fig. (Scheme 9) ).
4. Place a suitable container under the filter drain hose.
5. Crank the engine in 10 to 15 second intervals until clear fuel is observed at the air bleed hose (Wait 1 minute between cranking intervals to avoid overheating the starter). CAUTION: If engine starts during step #5, stop engine and close air bleed valve before attempting restart.
6. Close the air bleed valve.
7. Crank the engine in 10 to 15 second intervals until the engine starts. (Wait 1 minute between cranking intervals to avoid overheating the starter).

Scheme 11

Scheme 12

Note. For more information regarding Diesel Idle Speed Adjustments refer to the ADJUSTMENTS - 6.5L DIESEL article in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE section.

Scheme 13

Note. For more information regarding CDVR testing and service refer to the SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTS - 6.5L DIESEL article in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE section.

Scheme 14

Scheme 15

Scheme 16

Note. For more information regarding EGR system service refer to the EGR FUNCTION TESTING article in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE section.

BRAKE SERVICE INFORMATION

Note. For more information regarding Brake system service refer to the BRAKE SYSTEM article in the BRAKES section.

Scheme 17

Scheme 18

Scheme 19

Scheme 20

AXLE & TRANSMISSION IDENTIFICATION

Note. For more information regarding Axle identification refer to the DRIVE AXLE RATIO IDENTIFICATION article in the DRIVE AXLES section.

Note. For more information regarding Automatic Transmission ID refer to IDENTIFICATION under GENERAL INFORMATION or appropriate article in TRANSMISSION section.

SERVICE LABOR TIMES

Note. For 1990 and newer vehicles, labor times are provided, where available, within appropriate SERVICE INTERVAL table in SCHEDULED SERVICES article.

WHEEL & TIRE SPECIFICATIONS

Wheel and tire information can be found on the decal attached to rear of driver's door.

Scheme 21

Scheme 22

Scheme 23

WHEEL TIGHTENING

Tighten the lug nuts firmly to torque specified in the wheel lug nut tightening table using patterns shown in Fig. (Scheme 23).

WHEEL LUG NUT TIGHTENING SPECIFICATIONS

BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (AIR BAG) 1994-95 MODELS

Modification to the air bag system component or wiring can adversely affect system performance and possibly cause injury.

Note. See the AIR BAGS article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Section.

Modifications or improper maintenance, including incorrect removal and installation of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), can adversely affect system performance. DO NOT cover, obstruct or change the steering wheel horn pad in any way, as such action could cause improper function of the system. Use only plain water when cleaning the horn pad. Solvents or cleaners could adversely affect the air bag cover and cause improper deployment of the system.

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM

The anti-lock brake system contains electronic equipment that can be susceptible to interference caused by improperly installed or high output radio transmitting equipment. Since this interference could cause the possible loss of the anti-lock braking capability, such equipment should be installed by qualified professionals.

On models equipped with anti-lock brake systems, ALWAYS observe the following cautions

1. DO NOT attempt to bleed hydraulic system without first referring to the appropriate ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM article in the BRAKES Section.
2. DO NOT mix tire sizes. As long as tires remain close to the original diameter, increasing the width is acceptable. Rolling diameter must be identical for all 4 tires. Some manufacturers recommend tires of the same brand, style and type. Failure to follow this precaution may cause inaccurate wheel speed readings.
3. Use ONLY recommended brake fluids. DO NOT use silicone brake fluids in an ABS-equipped vehicle.

REPLACING BLOWN FUSES

Before replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off all lights and accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system. Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated amperage rating. The use of an incorrect amperage rating fuse may result in a dangerous electrical system overload.

BATTERY WARNING

BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR

Indicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning that brake pads need replacement.

CATALYTIC CONVERTER

To prevent catalytic converter overheating, DO NOT allow engine to idle for more than 20 minutes.

COOLANT (DEX-COOL 1995-96 MODELS)

COOLANT (PROPYLENE-GLYCOL FORMULATIONS)

DIESEL FUEL ANTI-FUNGAL ADDITIVES

DIESEL FUEL CONTAMINATION

DIESEL FUEL REQUIREMENTS

Note. A Diesel Fuel #1 and #2 combination (Blended Fuel) may be used, and is recommended for mild winter driving.

ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS

FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE

HALOGEN BULBS

RADIATOR CAP

RADIATOR FAN

WARRANTY INFORMATION

BUMPER-TO-BUMPER PLUS COVERAGE LIMITED WARRANTY

Entire vehicle (except battery) is covered for 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Covered by this warranty are any repairs to vehicle components which have proven defective in material and workmanship under normal use (tires excluded). Warranty repairs (parts and labor) will be made by the Dealer at no charge using new or remanufactured parts. This warranty is subject to a 100 deductible for each repair visit after the first year or 12,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

Note. 1992-93 Models are covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first, with no deductible.

BATTERY COVERAGE

Covers replacement cost of battery for 3 years or 50,000 miles (36,000 miles on 1992 models), whichever occurs first. A prorated charge applies after first 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

CORROSION COVERAGE

Covers any body sheet metal panel that is perforated due to corrosion. Coverage is for 6 years or 100,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

EMISSIONS "DEFECT" & "PERFORMANCE" WARRANTIES (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)

Defect Warranty ensures vehicle meets applicable EPA regulations and that emission control system is free from defects in materials and workmanship. Coverage is for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

Performance Warranty covers all costs of repairing or adjusting any components or parts as needed in order for the vehicle to pass a federally-required state or local emissions test. Other emission control parts related to these components are covered by the Performance Warranty, where applicable. If another part fails due to the failure of one of these components, both parts are covered. See customer's copy of warranty information for specific items covered.

EMISSION "PERFORMANCE" WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

If vehicle fails a Smog Check inspection, all necessary repairs and adjustments will be made by manufacturer to ensure vehicle passes inspection. Coverage is for 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

LIGHT-DUTY EMISSION "DEFECTS" WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

If any emission-related part on the vehicle is defective, the part will be repaired or replaced by manufacturer. Coverage is for 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

Some emission-related parts are covered for 7 years or 70,000 miles, whichever occurs first, and will be repaired or replaced by manufacturer if found to be defective in material or workmanship. See customer's copy of warranty information for specific items covered.

HEAVY-DUTY EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS (GASOLINE ENGINES)

Warranty coverage is 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

HEAVY-DUTY EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS (DIESEL ENGINES)

Warranty coverage is 5 years or 100,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

FUSE PANEL LOCATION

The fuse block is located behind a cover in the dash to the left of the steering column.

Scheme 24

Fuse & Circuit Breaker Identification

1. 1 - Ints-Lps 5 Amp Instrument Panel Lights, Headlight Warning Buzzer, Rear Defogger Switch Light
2. 2 - Pwr-Accy 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Power Door Locks, Rear Defogger
3. 3 - Horn-Dim 20 Amp Horn, Dome & Glove Box Lights, Clock, Courtesy Lights, Lift Gate Release Solenoid, Cigarette Lighter
4. 4 - Ign-Gau 20 Amp Ignition, Gauges, Rear Defogger Relay, Automatic Transmission Converter Clutch, Cruise Control
5. 5 - Choke 20 Amp Choke
6. 6 - Stop-Haz 15 Amp Stoplights, Hazard Warning Lights
7. 7 - T/L-Ctsy 20 Amp Light Switch, Taillights & Parking Lights
8. 8 - Turn-B/U 15 Amp Turn Signal Lights, Back-Up Lights
9. 9 - Htr-A/C 25 Amp Heating & A/C
10. 10 - Radio 15 Amp Radio
11. 11 - ECM B 10 Amp Electronic Control Module
12. 12 - ECM I 10 Amp Electronic Control Module
13. 13 - Pwr Wdo 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Power Windows
14. 14 - Wiper 25 Amp Windshield Wipers & Washers
15. 15 - Crank 3 Amp

Scheme 25

1. 1 - Choke 20 Amp Electric Choke
2. 2 - Htr-A/C 20 Amp Heater & A/C, Alternator Gauge
3. 3 - Aux-Htr-A/C 25 Amp Auxiliary Heater & Rear A/C
4. 4 - Gau/Idle 20 Amp Warning Gauges, Idle Stop Solenoid, Warning Lights, Diesel Glow Plugs Relay (Diesel Engines), Diesel Fuel Heater (Diesel Engines)
5. 5 - Radio 15 Amp Radio, Automatic Transmission (MD8), Auxiliary Battery
6. 6 - Stop-Haz 15 Amp Hazard Flasher, Stoplights
7. 7 - Ign 20 Amp Tachometer, Diesel Warning Lights, Cruise Control, Auxiliary Fuel Tank, 4-Wheel Drive Indicator Light, Rear Window Defogger, Automatic Trans. (M40)
8. 8 - T/L-Ctsy 20 Amp Courtesy Lights, Taillights & Parking Lights
9. 9 - Wiper 25 Amp Windshield Washer/Wiper
10. 10 - Turn-B/U 15 Amp Back-Up Light Switch, Turn Signal Flasher
11. 11 - Horn-Dim 20 Amp Horn, Cargo & Dome Lights, Headlight Warning, Cigarette Lighter, Clock
12. 12 - Inst-Lps 5 Amp Instrument Panel Lights, Light Switch Rheostat, Headlight Warning, Rear Window Defogger Switch Light
13. 13 - Wdo 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Power Tailgate Window, Power Windows
14. 14 - Pwr-Accy 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Power Tailgate Window (Rear Switch), Power Door Locks, Rear Defogger

Scheme 26

1. 1 - Horn/Dim 20 Amp Glove Box Light, Clock, Electric/Vanity Mirrors, Cigarette Lighter
2. 2 - Tail Lps 20 Amp Light Switch, Parking Lights
3. 3 - ECM B 10 Amp Electronic Control Module
4. 4 - Gages 20 Amp Cruise Control, Ashtray Light
5. 5 - Turn-B/U 20 Amp Ignition, Ignition Switch, Turn Signal Flasher, Back-Up Light Switch
6. 6 - ECM 1 10 Amp Electronic Control Module, Ignition
7. 7 - DRL 10 Amp Daytime Running Lights (Canada)
8. 8 - Inst Lps 5 Amp Rear Air Conditioning Switch Light, Rear Auxiliary Heater Switch, Dome Light Switch, Cigarette Lighter, Convenience Tray Light, Foglight, Mirror Switch Light, Auxiliary Heater, Rear Air Conditioning
9. 9 - Aux Htr A/C 25 Amp Auxiliary Heater & Air Conditioning
10. 10 - Htr A/C 20 Amp Heater & Air Conditioning
11. 11 - Pwr Wdo 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Power Windows
12. 12 - 20 Amp Fuel Pump
13. 13 - Pwr Acc 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Power Seat, Power Door Locks
14. 14 - Stop-Haz 20 Amp Hazard Flasher
15. 15 - Radio 10 Amp Radio
16. 16 - Wiper 25 Amp Windshield Washer/Wiper Motor & Switch

1. 1 - Horn/DM 25 Amp Horn Relay, Dome Lights, Cigar Lighter, Theft Deterrent
2. 2 - Tail 20 Amp Taillights
3. 3 - DRL 10 Amp Daytime Running Lights (Canada)
4. 4 - Gages 20 Amp Audio Alarm, Brake Switch, Cruise Control, Instrument Gauges
5. 5 - ECM 1 10 Amp Electronic Control Module
6. 6 - Not Used
7. 7 - Radio 10 Amp Radio
8. 8 - Inst Lps 5 Amp Instrument Panel Lights, Radio Dial, Heater Light, Audio Alarm
9. 9 - Turn/BU 20 Amp Turn Signal/Back-up Lights
10. 10 - Htr A/C 20 Amp Heater & Air Conditioning
11. 11 - Pwr Wdo 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Power Windows
12. 12 - Brake 10 Amp Speedometer, Anti-Lock Brakes
13. 13 - Pwr Acc 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Power Door Locks
14. 14 - Stop-Haz 20 Amp Hazard Flasher, Audio Alarm
15. 15 - Fuel Pump 20 Amp Oil Pressure Switch, Fuel Pump
16. 16 - AUX HVAC 25 Amp Auxiliary Heater/A/C
17. 17 - Wiper 25 Amp Windshield Wiper

1. 1 - Horn/DM 25 Amp Horn Relay, Dome Lights, Cigar Lighter, Theft Deterrent
2. 2 - Tail 20 Amp Taillights
3. 3 - DRL 10 Amp Daytime Running Lights (Canada)
4. 4 - Gages 20 Amp Audio Alarm, Brake Switch, Cruise Control, Instrument Gauges
5. 5 - ECM 1 10 Amp Electronic Control Module
6. 6 - Not Used
7. 7 - Radio 10 Amp Radio
8. 8 - Inst Lps 5 Amp Instrument Panel Lights, Radio Dial, Heater Light, Audio Alarm
9. 9 - Turn/BU 20 Amp Turn Signal/Back-up Lights
10. 10 - Htr A/C 20 Amp Heater & Air Conditioning
11. 11 - Pwr Wdo 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Power Windows
12. 12 - Brake 10 Amp Speedometer, Anti-Lock Brakes
13. 13 - Pwr Acc 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Power Door Locks
14. 14 - Stop-Haz 20 Amp Hazard Flasher, Audio Alarm
15. 15 - Fuel Pump 20 Amp Oil Pressure Switch, Fuel Pump
16. 16 - AUX HVAC 25 Amp Auxiliary Heater/A/C
17. 17 - Wiper 25 Amp Windshield Wiper