Question about '88 - '98 K1500 diesels.

[TBigLug]

I'm looking for a half ton, '88 - '98 Chevy diesel. How do these trucks hold up to having the heavy motor in the front end? Is there any specific areas I should check for when I do find one? What kind of fuel mileage can I expect? (I get 15 out of my '96 K1500 Stepside 5 sp.) Did they offer them with 5 sp.'s? What years were the best? (I think I heard '93 was the best year for the 6.5) Any other info you have on these trucks would be greatly appreciated. I'm in the process of changing over my "fleet" to all diesels. Getting rid of my 2004 Cavalier for a half ton diesel. Getting rid of the old lady's 1996 K1500 Stepside 5 sp. 350 Vortec truck for a 2000+ 2500 Duramax. Getting rid of the old 1988 K3500 for a '91 - '98 3500 HD 6.5 5 sp. If anyone has any leads on any of the trucks I'm looking for let me know. Especially the HD or the 1500 diesel. I can find Duramax's anywhere (besides, need to save my pennies up more for that one lol). Thanks.

 

[chrisk1500]

I'm looking for a half ton, '88 - '98 Chevy diesel. How do these trucks hold up to having the heavy motor in the front end?

They hold up well...they have the heavy duty chassis - RPO code F44

Is there any specific areas I should check for when I do find one?

No different than buying any other 6.5 diesel. Check the computer for codes. Try multiple hot starts to see if the IP is in decent shape.

What kind of fuel mileage can I expect? (I get 15 out of my '96 K1500 Stepside 5 sp.)

Depends how you drive. I had a best of 18 MPG in the truck in my sig before I got my new chip. I expect to be in the mid 19 MPG range now.

Did they offer them with 5 sp.'s?

Yes

What years were the best? (I think I heard '93 was the best year for the 6.5)

Every year has its own pros and cons. Personally, I believe that 93 is the best year. It has the mechanical IP and the 599 non oil spray block.

 

[TBigLug]

Hey, thanks for the info. Do you know if they came with a higher gearing? I know the old school trucks came with alot of 3.08's. I'll never use it for towing, trying to do some figuring on how to squeeze the most mileage out of a truck like this. BTW, I also don't really care if it's slower than dirt either. I'm never in a hurry! lol

 

[chrisk1500]

3.42 are the highest gears I know of in a 6.5 from the factory...most got 3.73 or 4.10s...