What's the beef with Chevy trucks? CAR WIZARD shares their differences and which TO BUY & NOT TO BUY

[@nachozombiekilla481]

Bought my 2003 Silverado brand new. Been driving it for 19 years. 475,000 on the 5.3, 376,000 on the transmission before it started slipping. Still driving it daily.

[@jonschwartz9669]

Did you rebuild the tranny?

[@dr.feelgood7615]

2000 Tahoe 5.3l 203k and original trans. Just changed original thermostat a couple weeks ago lol. Oh and original water pump on it too

[@nachozombiekilla481]

@@jonschwartz9669 yep.

[@pawcmotorsports8722]

99-06 gm trucks are some the best a guy can get as far as reliability goes. So easy to work on and you can find them all day under $10k.

[@HighSockDavid]

Just keep an eye out for wiring issues that killed my 2001 Yukon at 203k

[@johnsimms818]

I'm a grandpa and I like grandpa trucks and other grandpa times, but I especially like grandma!

[@kyleirving7747]

This guy is very smart, he understands the big picture when it comes to auto repair. Not only the physical mechanics of it, but also how different generations of people react to auto repair. Love the videos!

[@demetriuscooksey7147]

You can tell he's kinda sick of dealing with old guys, he's a little condescending when talking about them.

[@ffalztar74]

My stepdad would appreciate this video

[@johnelliott7375]

How are you .? How old I am but I am not a grandfather yet.

[@danielboatman5526]

Nb

[@danielboatman5526]

Gnvn

[@DreamHachi]

I’ve had every single body style since 1967 and multiple of each. For the money and the comfort as well as reliability, the 99-06 1500 is by far the best when it comes to a daily driver. Parts are cheap, they’re reliable and cheap. That said my 67 is my all time favorite truck. It’s good looking and sounds sweet. Put a lot into it. I built a 496 for it, and done everything but paint and body now. I’m glad I got mine way before people starting asking stupid money for beat up long beds. I got mine for $700 from the original owner with everything from the factory plastic seat cover to owners manual. The 99-06 is definitely the best choice for a daily driver

[@wildestcowboy2668]

283 Chevy engines were the only ones that weren't junk.

[@jimmysapien9961]

I love my 72 Cheyenne And Also Have A 283 & and A Poweglide 👍🏻

[@DG-sf9ei]

Same here. I can't believe my 02 with 5.3 has 315k and still runs like it left the lot new. I've never owned a vehicle from 1968 to post 2000 that wouldn't have needed 3 engine overhauls by now or just simply hit the boneyard at least 100k miles ago.

[@Moostery]

Unless you live in the rust belt. Then it will fall apart on you within a couple years if you don't stay on top of that undercoating every year.

[@thatfast3002]

Bullshit ​@@wildestcowboy2668

[@rrolison]

My dad had a 70 C10, 84 Silverado, and a 2001 Silverado 1500. Put over 300,000 miles on the first two. Had 279,000 miles on the 2001 when he passed away. We ended up selling it at auction for double blue book value. It was still in excellent shape. The I drove it to the auction house from his house, I was amazed at how well it drove and handled for a 21 year old truck. Those are the only 3 trucks he ever owned. He wouldn't think of driving anything but a Chevy. He used to say, "You take good care of a Chevy it won't let you down."

[@JOIHIINI]

Yeah its a shame that's not the case anymore. After the 1st gen silverado it was all downhill from there.

[@MMGJ10]

Double book value? I dunno bout that

[@rrolison]

@@MMGJ10 Blue book value was $1800 and we sold it for $3650. Stick that in your pipe and smoke it.

[@elmerwilliamson1970]

1999-2007 best era ever for GM truck engines. My 2000 Sierra SLT has the 4.8L V8 with 180k miles. I have owned it for 21 trouble free years of engine and 4L60E transmission. Replaced a fuel pump, one set of spark plugs (125k miles), rebuilt rear diff. @ 150k, still GM weak link, one set of ball joints and tie rod ends @ 150k, and regular maintenance. Just replaced rotors & calipers @ 177k. Not bad for 21 years, still runs great, will never sell truck, just keep fixing. Had several offers lately, with price of new trucks what they are!

[@1mlb704]

Being 27 years old I'm a big fan of fuel injection, and several other electronic advancements. But drive by wire can go screw. There was absolutely nothing wrong with the ole cable throttle. Sure they can stretch a little after like 200k miles, but they're cheap and easy to replace as opposed to the newer system (which breaks more often). Plus the feeling and precision of physically opening the throttle with your foot can't be matched by the crappy electronic pedal.

[@joshuagibson2520]

Amen. Too much shit we just don't need or want on these newer models. Thank the feds for mandating a lot of this extra stuff.

[@constructionbootgazer]

@@joshuagibson2520 you take the good with the bad. More emissions sensors and safety crap, but these modern engines are also the most powerful and most power dense than we’ve ever seen before. You have 3 cylinders making as much power as a large v6. You have pushrod v8s revving to 7k rpm. You have diesels with 1000ft lbs of torque. Computers have maximized efficiency of a very basic concept and have also made modifying that much more accessible as well. Don’t throw a temper tantrum when you see new shit bolted to a motor, take the time to learn how the new stuff works with the old stuff.

[@rars0n]

While I prefer a cable throttle, they can get mechanically stuck. That has happened to me with more than one vehicle. Having said that, I've also had electronic throttle failure (Ford vehicle). It required replacement of the electronic throttle body which was on back order due to unavailable parts. That sucks. Another thing that sucks is limp mode that effectively cuts off all acceleration. I do disagree about precision with an electronic pedal. If anything, they have a lot more precision. They can also change the ramping of the throttle opening, ie the "cam profile" of the throttle plate actuator. The throttle body of my GTI opens a lot more aggressively when the car is in sport mode. I like this because I can get better fuel economy for daily commuting, with better performance when I'm at the track.

[@areitu]

Having electronic throttle body makes a lot of other stuff easier. There’s typically no idle air controller, traction control is a lot simpler, etc.

[@GatesRapes]

Go Carb,, so simple & reliable

[@pfootball6363]

My first truck was a 94 Chevy 1500. When I got it in 08 it had 179,000 miles. When I finally sold it 4 years later, it had almost 250,000. One of the most reliable trucks I've ever had. That TBI 350 didn't have a bunch of power but it just never quit.

[@paulpeterson5669]

I hit a deer with my 94 Chevy 4x4 at 65mph. Needless to say the deer did not survive but the pickup did. It went right over the top of the deer and out the back. Blood and guts everywhere with the only damage being the Grille completely wiped out but the headlights stayed in place and a dent in the hood where the deer head hit. Wish I knew how to post a pic of the deer and pickup. Chevy built like a rock

[@raymondmcneeley4002]

I hope my 95 lives that long has 179 on it now

[@jamesmaldonado5794]

My 95 is at 441k on the original 305. Solid work horses

[@vincentsnow8436]

@@paulpeterson5669 wow your 3 ton truck obliterated a 400 pound deer high five Homer

[@ahighervibe4086]

@@vincentsnow8436 ya.... try that with a newer truck with crumple zones and see how much damage there is Mr. genius!

[@ImprovisedExpletiveDevice]

Man, I am almost considering moving to Kansas just to have the Car Wizard as my mechanic. You really look out for your customers.

[@tjvozza5612]

Absolutely correct. I purchased a 1996 Chevy Tahoe with the 5.7 in 2002 with 36K miles on it, and still drive it in 2022. in 16 years the only major repair was to replace the fuel injectors. Previously I owned a 1970 K-10 pickup that never broke down, and a 1978 K-5 Blazer that I blew the tranny on towing a U-Haul trailer, picked up a replacement at the salvage yard and replaced it myself. You cant go wrong with an old Chevy SUV or pickup. Owned a 98 Dodge Durango with the 5.9, drove it hard for 100K miles with zero major issues.

[@kennethscofield4565]

My 99 silverado 3/4 4x4 has 499,000 km still runs great.Original engine has never been apart, original trans and fluid is clean and red.Take care of it and dont abuse it it will last a long time, that goes for a lot of others too !!

[@trevorferguson8271]

How many transmission fluid changes had been done just out of curiosity. I have a 1999 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3 4x4 170000 miles still running strong.

[@tommorgan1291]

Shame on you! How u American to drive soooo long before committing to a 60 month payments plan!

[@CadgerChristmasLightShow]

@@tommorgan1291 lol

[@kennethscofield4565]

@@trevorferguson8271 I did two that I can remember...maybe 3, I would have to go back to my reciepts.

[@kennethscofield4565]

@@tommorgan1291 I paid cash for it brand new in 99 and hot shot'd it for the first two years and put 200,000 on it in those first two years then took the other 20yrs to put on the rest. And Im a Canuck, not American.

[@Seydlitz99]

My wife daily drives a 94 stepside. it is a awesome truck. She just loves it. Runs and drives like a dream. Best truck Chevy ever made.

[@waterloo123100]

99-06 has a lot less issues

[@startingtech3900]

she a keeper or older. most women these days "wouldnt be caught dead in those things" i what i hear all the time.

[@Seydlitz99]

we had it painted 10 years ago, it should be done again this year. New paint and Wheels and it will be good for another 10 years. She loves the attention the truck brings.

[@pawcmotorsports8722]

Great trucks! We daily drove a 94 to 335k and would have kept going if it weren’t for a growing family.

[@thunderlord7321]

I got a 94 fleetside and that bad boy drives like a dream at 256k

[@ole-ol1ok]

Hey, this is Grandpa. You nailed it ! Thanks. Good video.

[@wrenchboostboi8994]

My second truck was a 96’ Gmc 2500 with 5.7 vortec with heavy duty tow package. Thing was soooo heavy duty it was wild… literally built like a tank. I remember driving over the scrap yard scale and it was weighing in at around 6500 lbs

[@thomaslemon3971]

There’s a reason their slogan was “Like a Rock” in that era. Badass!

[@simonramos1217]

My first truck is a 1996 Silverado c2500 5.7 as well. Got rear ended by a dodge Durango and the Durango was totaled my bumper didn’t even move. Feel really safe when I drive that truck

[@donaldcurtis9229]

I got a 2001 2500 Silverado four-wheel drive with a towing package it's a monster truck 335,000 MI

[@mikebelcher5111]

My father has 05 silverado right now with one of the 5.3 high outputs and that sucker has almost 400,000 miles still runs great a bit rusted out but as far as running it's in great shape

[@andrewrexroth577]

My dad had an '04 with the 5.3 with over 200,000 on it but the transmission went out on it so he sold it

[@kentuckyboy1]

I still have one that I had in high school(1999) it's got almost 500,000 on it now..I upgraded my the transmission to the 4l80 less than a year ago. And you can really tell the difference between it and the 4l60

[@mikebelcher5111]

@@kentuckyboy1 Lol mines in Kentucky do

[@johnd3268]

I had an 04 with the 5.3 with an after market exhaust as my first truck when I was 17. Moved on to something more fuel efficient, but man do I miss that truck. Best running vehicle I've ever been in.

[@kentuckyboy1]

@@mikebelcher5111 606 here

[@reallyrandomrides1296]

With just about anything from the early to mid 2000s, they seemed so complex and technologically advanced when they were new, but compared to what came out a decade later, or today, they actually look very basic and primitive.

[@bcubed72]

96-2002 or so is the Golden Era. Computing power gave you both power and efficiency, but the computers were mainly "firewall forward" and everything else was the same ol', same ol.

[@MrHuck]

I know. My 99 Sierra looks simple now compare to these new trucks.

[@charlesedward313]

I got a 97 1500 300k paid 15,00 for it had it 5 years been out of town many occasions still runs great he's not lying about the transmissions find you a good bench mechanic keep it moving

[@joes6336]

Still driving my 93' Chevy Cheyenne 4.3 v-6 with 389,765 miles . It's my daily driver to work .

[@brianduffy3125]

That's awesome 😁

[@joes6336]

@@brianduffy3125 just had the oil changed today 400,842 miles and still going.

[@brianduffy3125]

@@joes6336 wow that's great I have a 92 chevy s10 198,540 I bought it off a guy the truck is all original except for the spark plugs it needs a tune up and more it's worth it

[@SocketSlinger]

I had one with the 4sp granny. It had almost 300k when I sold it. Wonderful truck and I miss it.

[@markiefufu]

I grew up in the 70s and 80s and started working on my own cars when I was 17 after watching and helping my dad for the majority of the 70s working on the family cars. I kind of threw up my hands in the late 90s like "grandpa" at all the sensors and plastic parts. Took me a decade to get back into working on cars and I don't feel intimidated any longer. Just finished rebuilding the 8.3 Cummins in my skoolie and I loved it. It has been decades since I rebuilt an engine. I replaced the high pressure injector lines and injectors as well. They aren't internal, but as long as I was rebuilding the engine, I was gonna replace everything. Anyway, my wife wants an older pickup, so this video is awesome!

[@PeggyParrow]

Had a 1993 half ton with 4.3 gutless motor, but it went 544,867 thousand miles, but when it blew there was no saving it. Used valvoline 30 weight all its life 3,000 mile oil changes cleaned air filter often never tore down , was bad about burning hole in rotor bug , went through 5 0d. Transmissions ! Drove it easy .

[@MyLifeThai371]

In high school my brother bought a 1993 chevy 1500 4x4 reg. cab long box with the 4.3L with an automatic tranny from the chevy dealer for $1000. It was maroon and was a work truck, so it had the rubber floor in it. It was in mint condition. The reason it was so cheap, was that it had no reverse, so my brother always had to make sure he had an exit at school. It was such a beautiful truck. I think he even added a newer chrome grill from a 1998 model. Wish he still had that truck.

[@atomictacco]

I agree 100% with early to mid 2000's cars being super easy to work on. That's the era of cars that I grew up with, the first car I did work on was my 2004 Mustang. A scan tool will tell you what's wrong almost right away, the engines aren't covered by plastic and the electronics make sense. Absolutely love this era and will keep buying cars from this time for as long as I can.

[@RetroMotiveAdventures]

100% the mid 2000s models may not have been the best looking but overall the mixture of somewhat modern tech but still being easy to work on makes them super appealing! Especially for someone looking for a reliable vehicle to daily inexpensively.

[@sloppysamari]

Turns out a 2004 pontiac grand prix or buick regal with the 3800 engine is peak automotive design

[@Whats-It-To-Ya]

I grew up driving cars from the late 80's thru the early 2000's, mostly GM V6 cars Cavalier Z24, Beretta, Grand Am, Grand Prix, Monte Carlo etc, a few Z28 Camaros. I currently have a '93 Cavalier Z24 with a supercharged 3800 from a Bonneville SSEI and it was almost a direct drop-in because these cars are so easy to work on. Gonna do a manual trans swap when this crappy PA winter goes away. It runs mid 13's at Numidia dragway the way it sits. Also have a 2002 Camaro SS with just under 80K miles. Bought it used in '05 when I came back from Trashcanistan and it's been only summer driven since. My point is these cars and most other cars from this era are easy to work on and fun to drive. My daily in the winter is a 2001 Silverado with under 100K miles and it's super reliable, 5.3 LS and it almost fixes itself. Wish it was a manual though. It's called a Z07 Interceptor and I've never seen another one.

[@jamespetkwitz8737]

I have a 2004 Sierra. it has 250,000 miles owned since new. original transmission, 4x4 still works, rusted out by Michigan winters, stolen and used as a battering ram... thing still drives beautifully, mechanic bulk is low, and he keeps telling me, keep it, never sell this it will always be a dependable backup truck.

[@theman.6396]

My 2006 mustang gt with 170k miles (bought at 126k) has been an absolute dream to work on over the crap I had before. Everything just works. I've always had a chevy truck and if you just know them they are the same.

[@mistermister2085]

I knew a guy in the mid 90s with a regular cab, 4x4 with the 350 V8 and a 5 speed manual. What a fun truck.

[@Dakiraun]

Excellent guide! And yeah, the frequent mentions of Grandpa are very true. I'm just a few years older than you, and my grandpa was a mechanic. He was good with engines up to the 70s, then slowly as more electronics kept finding their way in, he felt less and less able to work on things. I remember him looking at a high-tech car in the mid 90s saying "I don't know what any of that is." Really is interesting how technology evolved, and got us to where we are now.

[@llll3452]

as wizard states in other videos .... the old-school grandpa mechanic can’t make any sense of this new technology but the young up-and-coming mechanics can’t make much sense out of old school carburetors etc.

[@admiralrustyshackleford119]

My grandpa passed in 2007, he'd look under the hood of something from the later 90s and early 00s and saying something like "Gotta be a double jointed elf with an extra elbow on each arm to get in there and do anything..." I can only imagine his reaction to looking at the even more plasticy nonsense they build now. I've always preferred older Ford trucks, but my grandpa's cherry 1993 C1500 will always have a spot in my garage.

[@Dakiraun]

@@admiralrustyshackleford119 Haha - yeah, he's not wrong. Mine passed in 1994, so I can only imagine the look of confusion at seeing what's under the hood now. All the computerized controls though make sense to me given I'm a Network Administrator, so adding a mechanical understanding ot what's going on beyond the computers is not that difficult. Likewise, I owned and enjoy classic cars, so I'm pretty at home working on old-school stuff too ( and there is _definitely_ way more working room on old cars).

[@admiralrustyshackleford119]

@@Dakiraun I was a teen/young adult in the 90s, so everything I could afford at the time was mostly old derelict 70s and 80s junk. Basically out of necessity and lack of funds to hire a professional I had to learn how to maintain and fix my own stuff. My grandpa played a big roll in helping with that. At the time I'd get frustrated because he was kind of a grumpy a-hole, and was real quick to let ya know when you messed up, but I really did learn a lot of him and I still miss him a lot. Granted now days I could go get a loan for some $50k+ computer on wheels, but I still prefer just buying and tinkering with cheap stuff I can get for the cash in my pocket. Recently dragged home the newest vehicle I've ever owned, a 2008 Mazda CX7... I'm sure that'd be considered a relic to most folks now days, but I ain't ever owned anything with direct injection, coil on plug, damn thing even has a turbo lol. I'll likely spend the rest of my days 10 or 20 years behind everyone else in terms of automobile tech, but it's rewarding bringing something back from the dead that everyone else gave up on, and learning new stuff along the way.

[@Dakiraun]

@@admiralrustyshackleford119 Ha - we're about the same age then - same reason I got the old cars at first too. Good luck with the CX-7; they're generally not too bad. Might have some gasket leaks and need to replace the turbo, but otherwise those were pretty decent.

[@garyclark979]

Scotty Kilmer and the Car Wizard are both great. The Car Care Nut is excellent for Toyota and Lexus products. They have saved me $$$ and stopped me from making major mistakes. Scotty reminds me of my late father, who was also an auto mechanic.

[@Dave-sw2dm]

My 2000 4.8 in a GMC Sierra went 200 thousand miles without an engine repair. Great truck! Bought new for $17k and sold after 200 thousand miles for $5000. The good ol days.

[@raycecil4643]

I had the 5.3 in a 1999. Went 349,000 miles without an engine repair, sold it to the neighbow and he is still running it. I replaced some coils, alternators, water pump, etc, but the bottom end and heads were never touched!!

[@Bdub1952]

Would definitely like to see your take on similar era F series. Thanks, Car Wizard.

[@MrClarkisgod]

1987-1997 (8th and 9th generation) are probably the ones to look for. I6, 302, or 351 windsor with a AOD, T5WC, and other trans they had. I can tell you as a Fox Body fan, anything with a 302w and a AOD or T-5 that is rwd is just solid as a rock. People beat the ever loving piss out of those cars and trucks for decades and they ran perfect.

[@shaunybonny688]

The 300 six is pretty well known for its reliability. Idk how it is to get parts though these days, these trucks are getting old.

[@fdmackey3666]

@@shaunybonny688 One of my best friends purchased, used, a Ford pickup with the floor mounted stick shift mated to a 300cid six that could pull the crack of dawn open and closed in 1st gear. With over 250,000 miles on it he was offered, by a farmer in our home area, a lot more for it than he had paid when the truck was only showing about 100,000 miles or so. My friend is now on his fourth, purchased either very lightly used with low milage or new pickup, while the farmer mentioned above is still driving that old Ford today in 2022!

[@dvereckis]

You would have to buy a can of peas or beans that's whats left of old fords today.

[@00700556]

Purchased a 94 302 and a 95 300 off marketplace 500 and 600 each. both look like new now and still run like champs

[@galerae947]

Sold our 01 Silverado 4x4 last year with 400,000 miles on it, still with orig trans. It was used hard, but the paint held up and it had no rust. Was a great long-lived half ton.

[@pawcmotorsports8722]

Those 99-06 gm trucks just go and go!

[@pmotorsports8276]

I bet it wasn't a 1500

[@galerae947]

@@pmotorsports8276 You would lose your bet. It was a 1500, and the main reason it was sold. I needed and bought a 3/4 ton.

[@michaelriggs184]

​@@pmotorsports8276 🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️🤔🤐

[@Rekuzan]

I miss my '95 Z-71 SOOOO much, but all things considered, I'd rather have my '76 C-10 Long Bed back any day! 383 Stroker, 4 bolt main, 465 Muncie 3-speed, Vic Edelbrock Jr. cast aluminum valve covers & air cleaner, the works.

[@sacredsteeler]

Oh how I still remember the exhaust manifold leak "click" every morning along with the prayers my 3rd rebuilt 4L60 will last me until I get home.. simpler days

[@bendover3820]

@@sacredsteeler My old Z28 had that leak, along with the chevy truck!

[@Boga217]

But a 465 muncie is a 4 speed

[@Rekuzan]

@@Boga217 Technically speaking, maybe, but granny (towing gear) doesn't count. It's never used to pull out from a dead stop unless you got a lot weight behind you. This is why those old 3-speeds were very popular because they were ideal for a UD/OD gearbox which is basically a bolt on overdrive.

[@Dozav7]

@@Rekuzan - I had a 65 Ford 3/4 ton with a 4-speed with the first gear a skippable granny gear. Really, that truck would idle up steep hills in third gear.

[@VforVendetta0626]

I think something good to mention to people about the 99-06 Chevy/GM trucks is the transfer case pump rib issue. If you have a 4x4 1/2 ton, 3/4 ton or 1 ton of this era, most likely you’ll deal with pump rub. I believe the diesels have it too. Basically a ring in the transfer case will wear a hole in the transfer case cover and leak all the fluid out. You have to remove the transfer case and install aftermarket parts to correct it. Some people have JB welded the holes. Otherwise great trucks. Wish I knew about it before buying one. Now I know.

[@stephengibson2869]

Great knowledge about the Chevy/GMC trucks through the years you've mentioned. I too won't buy a $70k + truck,they're not worth it. I bought in 2004 a 1993 Chevy Silverado Z71 Extended Cab. Yes it has needed repairs and parts replaced and service work done. But parts are everywhere and affordable and the truck is easy to maintain. I used to look at other trucks but after I bought the truck I have now , I don't look to buy. Now I look and keep walking, thankful very much 🙏🏽. I've got a great truck, easy and affordable to maintain . It looks great, it's paid for, it's reliable, I am able to work on it myself quite a bit. It's been the best truck I've ever owned and I'm not planning to ever get another truck. Keep my truck always maintained and it should last me as long as I live. Thank you for posting this video. Take care and Happy New Year, God bless you and your family.

[@shawnmay7264]

I have a 98 Silverado. Grandpa bought with 10 miles on it. I bought it from him with 92k miles, and currently it's sitting with 141k. I'm saving up to do the injector upgrade and redo the intake gaskets, seems OK for now, but I want to do it before it needs it. Thanks for the video!

[@JustAsummons]

My first truck was a 98 that I bought in 99 w 4000 miles on it. First month of owning it the intake cracked and leaked into the top end and ruined the bearings ,lifters ,etc . Lucky warranty covered everything and had that issue taken care of right away and a new top end. Had it until 2017 when I wrecked it w 250,000 miles.

[@joeyvega2834]

My mom bought her 2000 1500 in 2001 with a 4.8 v8 she gave it to me last year with 372k on it. The intake and the head gaskets went bad soon after, so I just had the motor rebuilt and hasn't had any problems since. Damn good truck worth keeping another 20 years.

[@alanmeyers3957]

Do it before the gaskets let go, or you will have a block full of coolant.

[@baymike5]

Talk to chevy about a new engine. They gave me a couple grand off on a new crate motor because of the flaw in the coolant and intake manifold. Many people I know fixed them and were right back where they started not soon after. I got a whole new crate motor that is sealed at the crank eliminating the coolant/ intake issue. New full fuel injection, a new water pump and radiator. All in for under 7k. Motor was under 4k!!! Has to be done by a licensed pro in order for Chevy to honor the warranties otherwise I would have done it myself. I got the truck for 2k its a 99 4x4 (older body style) Love these trucks since I was a teen when they came out.

[@jamiehinojosa3253]

Yes there great trucks I got a 98 exstended cab got it a year ago with 120,000 miles runs like a dream

[@NNoradIV]

I purchased a 2000 Sierra 2500 with the 6L and a 4L80e based on an older video you made. I have fixed it with a bunch of rockauto and scrapyard parts. I live in the rust belt, the bolts are so big I can get almost everything out with my battery impact no issues. You are right. Super easy to work on with a 20$ bluetooth OBD2 adapter and a basic multimeter. Truck was cheap, parts are ultra cheap and super available and everything is super easy to access and fix. Truck was neglected, replaced all fluids, plugs, wires, new tires, new brakes, belts and hoses. AC even works after a recharge. It's been pulling my racecar and carrying a bunch of stuff no issues since then. Even with 200k miles, it fires up like new.

[@the1nonly451]

Keep a eye on those brake/fuel lines

[@rickreese5794]

Like a ROCK….

[@mikepettit4822]

I have the exact same truck,j will never get rid of it thats for sure oh it has 420,000 klm on it all original! but mine is a long box..where I live in B.c. Canada they don't use salt on the roads only sand thank God its pretty much rust free!

[@seanhershey3390]

After fixing a few things on my dads 1996 Silverado... it was amazing... inside & out... but all the frame mounts rusted... it was honestly perfect ... luckily a welder bought it & it still lives...I'm a diehard Toyota guy... but I loved it

[@guywerry6614]

I had a 98 and would like to get it back. Tough as nails, 300 000 km on it and it still had the ORIGINAL rear shocks.

[@jimmya5398]

Nobody cares.

[@CartoonWeasel]

@@jimmya5398 you must drive a prius

[@ouch74]

Dude you hit the nail on the head. The body mounts rotting suck worse than the trannys on the 90's 1500 series 4wd's

[@stephenwalker6980]

The all time favorite truck that I owned was my 97 Silverado with the 350 Vortec, I did a relatively mild build to it, a little Spicer cam, headers, 3"catback with Flowmasters, underdrive pulleys, throttle body spacer, Jet stage 2 computer module and Stillen cold air. I took that truck to the drag strip every weekend for years and drove the hell out of it for 12 years, it never burned a drop of oil and had zero leaks, I never had to touch the engine, I sold it with 250,000 miles on it. The 98 was the last of that body style and the last 350.

[@traveling.down.the.road56]

Hey Stephen Walker, I have a 1997 GMC 1/2 ton extended cab 4x4 that I just put a rebuilt and stroked 383 engine into, but haven't touched the intake, exhaust or ignition systems yet, and I'm trying to figure out what to do next to get increased HP and mostly Torque. I don't want to race, but I do want to tow a 5,000lb trailer up hills and mountain roads without slowing to a crawl. Can you advise me on what parts to buy similar to what you did to your 97 Silverado? I'm also thinking of replacing the GMC grill and lights, to give it the Silverado look.

[@jefftowns4415]

Gm did build a99 with the 350 vortec engine &5.3 in the new body that same year called the new Silverado.

[@christianchamberlain5765]

I'm a bit late but actually, 2000 was. I've a tahoe limited, good ole 350

[@BAR162O]

I have the 99 Tahoe with the vortec 5.7 350. 240k and runs like brand new. I parked it for 4 yrs. Then I wrecked my pickup and decided to get the Tahoe out again and cycled the key twice and popped right off and been running like it's always run. Love it!

[@autolvr]

@@traveling.down.the.road56 An option to consider that will help you tow and haul up mountains is install a Gear Vendors underdrive/overdrive unit. Having the ability to have additional gears to your existing 4L60E will make a huge difference.

[@gradeywarey4448]

With all the fluff and extra garbage most tubers are putting on .. especially the skippable commercials !! I pay a premium to not have to sit through that shit ! This man held my attention and was correct with his info . I’ve owned all up to 05 Chevy trucks . Own one now . Thanks you !

[@hotpuppy1]

The big thing with the modern electronics is the cost of buying the GOOD scan tool. Out of the range of the home mechanic. You can learn the repairs, but the cost of the tools and parts to do it right is the issue. The basics are still the same. You have to have fuel, air spark and compression in the right order.

[@Cologne_Trooper]

I had an 06 Avalanche and it wasn't the most reliable truck but parts were extremely cheap and it was so easy to work on. Transmission finally gave out at 240k miles so I bought a 1999 Silverado for the price of a Transmission. It's treating me extremely well so far.

[@tke2414]

My 02 Silverado 5.3 has been fantastic. It still has the original motor, transmission and rear end. I have had a couple of the common issues you described in other videos, but the truck has 350k on it and is still doing fine. It was leaking oil at the main rear seal, so I had to bite the bullet on that one ($1700), but it was worth it. Put in a new oil pump at the same time. It wasn't the o ring on mine, that looked brand new. The oil pump did the trick on the pressure and it's purring like a kitten again. I'm not going to ever sell it. It will reside in my driveway until I die. If I ever have to, I'll put a re-man trans or motor in it, but so far they are doing fine. It's not a daily driver at this point, so only a few thousand miles a year now. It will probably outlast me.

[@iamnotafraid]

I drive a half ton 04 sierra and it's always been reliable for me as well. Has a few very minor issues like one of the electric motors for the power adjustable seats went out, still haven't replaced that but not a big deal. I'm hoping I can find one from a salvage yard but no luck yet. Other than that, just the fuel pump. I got it when it had 80k miles and it now has about 130k. Crazy low miles for a truck that old for sure but I've seen others with 3-4 times more still going strong. Planning on getting a duramax in a few years but I'd like to keep this truck as well.

[@reneenewfrock9131]

I have the same one. 390k+ miles on it. Original engine and transmission. Just got it out of the shop for periodic maintenance. Expected to hear I needed a new engine and/or transmission. Nope! All is good. Driving it til the wheels fall off.

[@brianadair8654]

I have a 2003 Tahoe z71 . It has 240000 miles on it. Daily driver. Runs strong. Pull a pontoon boat every weakened. Starting to rust. Replaced all brake lines, master cylinder, pads, rotors, calibers, instrument cluster, shocks, hubs, sway bar, links, water pump, ac compressor, control arms, and basic maintenance. I have all recommended service done. I love this truck. I would drive across country right now. No problem!

[@williamhouk6880]

I'm the old man (grangpa) this guy is talking about. I have an 02' Silverado Z/71 step side, 5.3, 126k on the clock, no rust, kept in a locked bldg. I luv that short truck! Had it since 04''. Like the man said, I don't work on it other than changing the oil. I have older trucks that I drive like my 78' GMC heavy half, 350/350 that I know how to repair if needed and have all the parts to do so. I like this guy, he tells it like it is right down to, it either all gets replaced, or none of it does! I love it!

[@TomBTerrific]

Got the same truck only half the miles. I was going to get a newer Lexus GX but once seeing prices I decided to keep this truck because there’s nothing wrong with it except typical age.so I’m having the front seats redone. $600 bucks. Was going to upgrade the radio to a 2 din unit and was shocked by the price. $1800😳. So I’m just putting new speakers in. When I was getting my oil changed the mechanic told me I wouldn’t trade in your truck. It in too good of shape. I think he’s right.

[@paulsexton91]

Just purchased a nice 78 with no motor for a grand very solid not rusted out. Owned by a friend from work. Running and driving truck. I have another grand in buying and rebuilding an engine for it. Super good deal I'm lucky to be the owner

[@ErikPadgett-lo6cf]

Just bought a 1978 c10 big 10 straight 6 250 for $1200 with 1 rust spot on the passenger side door...thats it. The guy said it didnt start or run. He had a hole in the fuel line by the gas tank and the fuel pump was toast. I replaced both and it started up just fine and purrs. I absolutely love this truck.

[@jordanturner9173]

Thank you so much for your vote of confidence on the great and powerful GMT800! The best feature by FAR that you forgot, they were the last models where a manual transmission was available.

[@dyer2cycle]

..for me, 1988-95 GMT 400 is the last I want..thought GMT 800's were about as good as the GMT 400, until owned one..thin, THIN sheet metal and ridiculously thin bumpers compared even to the 400..hate those tailgate and door handle plastic bezels that always break and leave a big hole around the handles, and all those holes in the already thin tailgate that weakens it, where the plastic piece snaps in on top..too many sensors/computer, complicated crap, much like the later years(1996-98 400's)..instrument cluster problems-turns out they ALL have this issue...crappy transfer cases/4wd systems on the 4x4's...heating/ac system that screws up and blows hot air out one side and A/C out the other..and generally, too much plastic....give me a stock, but well-equipped 1969-72, and I'll be happy...

[@charlesbunting1790]

I had a 72 2 wheel drive that had rear leaf springs

[@lindahoover7208]

@@dyer2cycle p

[@andyburk4825]

Back then : "These things are too complicated, too expensive, too many pollution controls robbing your power, catalytic converters/seat belt chimes, they don't make'em like they used to, etc ..." Now : "Best truck they ever made wish i still had it/ wish I could find one ..."

[@hochhaul]

I was going to make the same comment. I remember it clear as day when guys were constantly complaining about how "all the computer crap" and "overly complex" were why the new trucks back in the late 90's and early 2000's were junk and how the old trucks were way better. Now they all wish they had one of those complicated 90's trucks and a few of the guys that did own them put 500k.... 800k....1 million miles on them.

[@mikelemoine4267]

They had their problems, but were better than walking barefoot in the snow, up a hill to school, both ways🙂. Kidding aside, we only thought they were complicated until we saw what's being made today. Despite that, a lot of things don't break quite as often anymore, but when they do it's a big PITA to fix and usually expensive. I remember my 80s and 90s era cars neeing alternators and AC compressors usually between 50K-70K miles, and sometimes transmissions (early overdrive models). Now they seem to last a lot longer, but cost 3x to fix when they do fail.

[@sejembalm]

Really like seeing how your channel has developed over the years, Car Wizard. Keep up the good work and mind the scraped knuckles.

[@startingtech3900]

wiz stepped out of the everyday mechanics now he does yt and is shop foreman rightfully so

[@sejembalm]

@@startingtech3900 Yeah, his business dramatically increased and he hired a bunch of mechanics to do the repairs while he does the videos with his wife.

[@schrodingersmechanic7622]

Picked up a 98 half ton from a city auction, retired fire chiefs truck. A note on the window said broken A/C and slipping trans so I took a chance and nabbed it for $2k, it had 58k miles on it. A $12 pressure switch fixed the A/C and a brake switch fixed the transmission (tells the torque converter to lock). Upgraded the brake lines to stainless and replaced the fuel pump because the original sounded terrible, fixed some light rust and cosmetic issues. The old girl is gonna have a long life with me.

[@garywhite6900]

Loved your informed Chevy truck series. Yes, I'm an old school grandpa type, an L31 vortec 350 is now in my wheelhouse, but with a simple 650 carb and coil in the cap dizzy, trans is a 350 turbo and electronic overdrive, no scanner required and parts are everywhere. My truck is an 83 el camino and my gas mileage is about the only thing I may want to upgrade some day.

[@kenselden6173]

If you call a distributor a dizzy........you aint an old school grandpa type !

[@SombreroKnight]

I currently daily drive my '93 Stepside and she runs great! Awesome truck. I have done some matinance but overall a very reliable truck.

[@man_on_wheelz]

I almost inherited my grandads '93 Stepside, a little rough around the edges but a damn nice old truck. Had the Starcraft coach-build treatment. Drove it all the way from Flint, MI to Chicago and back with no problems at all besides gas mileage lol. Sad I didn't get to keep it, little technicality with another family member prevented me from keeping it. Wasn't worth the battle in my opinion.

[@jeffreysantos9070]

93!! Wow! How many miles?

[@SombreroKnight]

@@jeffreysantos9070 just hit around 200k last month. Currently at 202,500.

[@rickreese5794]

Have 92, 4.3 v6 engine, 5 speed, I love it,

[@highplains94]

I forgot but for the GMT 400 styles IF YOU ACTUALLY READ THE MANUAL! it says that towing should only be done in D not in OD. OD is for regular everyday driving unless you are climbing large hills at speeds less than 45mph. As soon as I bought my truck I took 30min to actually read the manual and I do this for my 2014 nissan versa and it has 180k miles on it.

[@skoparweaver7692]

I have only read a page or two on any manual. I do think it's important to understand your engine, maintenance intervals, drivetrain and with newer vehicles logic programming (to properly treat dsc/dsg transmissions mostly, but there are a lot of other tech that needs to well understood to not damage a vehicle).

[@houseofno]

Most people will not even change the oil, let thumb through a manual. They wouldn't even refuel if they didn't have to.

[@baddawg3380]

I have a 2014 Versa, it's a great car but the weak link on that car is the transmission. The first one went out at 30K second went out at about 75K I had that one replaced just before the extended warranty went out at 130K I made that one last until it had about 230K. You can't buy them from the junk yard because they won't warranty them, you have to buy them direct from Nissan and they only cover them for 12 months or 12K miles.

[@highplains94]

@@skoparweaver7692 I agree.

[@highplains94]

@@houseofno yep and then sometimes you might find that one clean looking old car or truck and when you get there the oil is burnt and black, the coolant is old and full of rust and the steering and suspension is all shot lol!

[@bernieneufeld4297]

This is Grandpa here. Sonny, you missed one of the greatest engines of the 63 to 90 era, the 292 straight 6. I had a few of them. Smooth, reliable and a lot grunt with 280 FT LB of torque.

[@omegarugal9283]

great inline6

[@landcare-outdoorfun176]

I just wanted to say thank you for taking the time to give an amazing history lesson. Thank you for taking the time to explain and explain our trucks.

[@jimmysapien9961]

Yes very Informative

[@TheMilwaukieDan]

First time I e watched you Sir. Grandpa, here. HELL NO on the new truck costs. I truly value your expertise and advice. I will subscribe and view your past videos. You seem straight up and honest. Thank you for that.

[@mattlimberg5763]

My boss has '90 Sierra EFI that was his first new vehicle he ever bought. He mostly drives his '10 Denali but his '90 is very clean, he says only major component he's had to replace was the transmission, very reliable truck.

[@yayyay7076]

Yes the transmissions suck. I have a 94 and I’m on the 4th transmission in 14 years of ownership

[@pmotorsports8276]

@@yayyay7076 yes 1500. 2500 if you're going to use it as a truck

[@MADMIKE74]

You do not need to pull the heads on an LS based engine. You just have to pull the timing cover and spin the cam so the lifters rise up into the bore. The secret to keeping them up there is to push a piece of 5/16 aluminum rod or wooden dowel into the oil galley. Normally the lifters will stay up in the bore after spinning. The dowels are just a fail safe. The block is 20" long, so I cut mine to about 24,25" so it leaves a nice handle during removal.

[@sergeantspeed5941]

Exactly. 5 dollars worth of wood saves thousands of dollars. I should do cam swaps for these people who get soaked by shops charging for the heads to come off while they do this trick

[@joshuaince4120]

He was talking about changing cams in an engine with afm. If you want to delete afm, you need to change the lifters. Thr heads need to come off.

[@MrLuckytrucker21]

The wizard is right! When i did the intake gaskets on my two 98 chevys, one a 4.3 other the 5.7, i went all out and got the mpi injectors and replaced all wear items, belts, hoses, water pump and so on, because i want to keep these trucks for as long as i can!

[@elvisstarlord7121]

I enjoy hearing that. I have a 98 ext cab 2500 4x4 almost mint condition I drive daily. Everything works on it.

[@918Mitchell]

Still driving a hand-me-down 1992 Chevy Suburban my folks bought new. Still had the original engine and transmission up until 2 years ago. My dad still drives his 1997 Chevy Silverado he bought new.

[@bogoney]

I drove a 1986 heavy 3/4 ton 4by with a 454 for 30 years . I drove it all over Alaska. It was a tank .

[@Vacationers666]

Dear David- just purchased a bunch of your recommended tools from your AA’s link. Just passed my first grading period at auto tech school with an A. Thank you for inspiring me to change careers and fix these cars. Happier than I’ve ever been. Cheers!

[@elvisstarlord7121]

Outstanding! Never stop building yourself

[@freemansgarage]

Congrats!

[@jrsmith1008]

That's really cool I was taught to work on cars in the late 80s what I know is obsolete I never worked in that field but it saved me thousands of dollars you go dude I think you will be a great automotive technician

[@jayrowe6473]

Glad to hear that you found something you like better. Just curious, *what was your job prior to making the change?*

[@bryanmarsh9886]

I have had a lot of Chevys through the years: '53 3800, '64 K10 Sub, '67 C10, '69 C10 Sub, '72 K20 Sub, '87 V1500 Sub, '98 1500 Sub, 2K Safari, and now an '07 Sub. Not a fan of the 4L60E, but truth be told, they went nearly 200K before the 2 I had to replace went bad. I would honestly take any one of those old truck back. I did all my own work on all of them, including engine rebuilds (the '53 and '64). I've had a couple of Fords too, and they weren't too bad, but seemed to break more often.

[@rickreese5794]

ABSOLUTELY RIGHT, Bryan….

[@CJColvin]

The 67-72 Chevy trucks as well as the 73-87 GM Square Body trucks (including the Square Body Blazer and Suburban) are definitely the best looking Chevy trucks out there and definitely looks a million times better than any Modern GM truck out there and not to mention more reliable and more bulletproof than the modern ones as well.

[@brianjohnson6053]

Nothing newer than a 85 thats when the gm geniuses put in the hydraulic clutch nightmare

[@philllsxga.7737]

I have a 2014 Silverado with 133,000 trouble-free so far.. I average 24 MPG long trips. Two summers ago I towed 4200lbs at 74 mph with the AC on and averaged 13 to 14 MPG... Try that with any other truck that's older.. All I've done is spark plugs a battery a thermostat brakes and tires...

[@CJColvin]

@@philllsxga.7737 Go watch Scotty Kilmer and he'll tell you otherwise.

[@philllsxga.7737]

@@CJColvin I did I know about the new trucks my 2014 has been flawless. My buddy has a the same truck as me he has 138,000 trouble free miles..

[@shawnwimberly9294]

There's always that one guy that thinks the pattern failures don't apply to him... good luck with your hopeless optimism sir.

[@maxamoose483]

I miss my '88 s10 such a great truck bought it for $500 learned all about the engine and rebuilt it put new floorpans etc.

[@L8nightride1]

I am so happy that you clarified my concern in your video. I have a 2007 chevy 2500 hd 6.0L I have a heavy 27' gooseneck that I use to haul a vehicle or tractor around. Like you I grew up with the early 70's 80's and 90's mostly. About 6 years ago I broke down and bought an Autel maxisys scan tool with bells and whistles because I enjoy being able to do my own work. Every time I haul I notice that the rpm's jump to 3-4k which makes me think the truck is ready to explode because it is engrained in me that low rpm equals high torque and pulling power. You are exactly right in your sounds and description. aThe one problem that i encountered this last year was a no crank no start. Everything indicted a starter issue. I replaced the starter. and worked for a minute. then same issue. replaced battery. Again worked for a minute. then replaced alternator. Mind you, these were all original items with the truck and it was just turning over 100k. I volt metered the fuse block for 12.6v, tested source at fuse panel and would sometimes register 12.5-13.0. checked fuses. everything checked out. Replaced ground wires. I found online some people had issues with power wire coming from battery to fuse block and internal corrosion. I thought that can't be it because everything down line checked out but sure enough the moment I changed 2' of power line from battery to fuse block I have had no further issues.

[@roger5638]

Im born in 1954. I really enjoyed this memory lane synopsis.... thanks

[@chris-2105]

24:24 The vortec 5.3l makes more horsepower and torque than the vortec 5.7l, but the reason it feels so much weaker is because the 5.3l makes that peak hp/torque at a way higher RPM. Peak torque at 4000rpm for the 5.3l and peak torque at 2800rpm on 5.7l. Unless you're really revving the crap out of those 5.3s you won't feel the extra power they can give

[@OGbqze]

Exactly. 5.7 for truck, 5.3 for toy.

[@AtomicReverend]

Not exactly good for a truck engine, you want that torque down low where you can use it although I think it is more of a transmission gearing issue then the engine. The 5.3 is an awesome engine to modernize a mundane muscle car era car for those reasons you stated but I hated my 2003 truck for working/towing. I never thought I would own a Dodge but I ended up buying a 5.7 Hemi 2005 dodge for my tow rig and for a gas engine pickup I have always been happy with it towing especially for being a half ton. Edit: as for the 350 chev V8, as much as I like a small block Chevy that engine was absolutely gutless when I would tow with it when I had my first "truck" (a 97 Tahoe) and the 4l60e I don't care how you drove it the transmission was junk at best the only plus side is I got really good at rebuilding it probably the easiest trans to do at home. That being said it is a product of its era as was the 360 Chrysler or the 351 Ford... Half ton old school small block trucks just aren't good work trucks for heavy towing/hauling. Now the 454 chev and the 460 ford in the 3/4 ton trucks were awesome powerful trucks, their only downside were the gas mileage dipping into the 8s occasionally lol My next truck will be a 3/4 ton diesel, probably a dodge Cummins but I I believe how happy I have been with the hemi it was supposed to be a temporary truck and I have had it 10 years now and it runs like its new still with a 180k miles.

[@CJColvin]

@@AtomicReverend Ford is making the new 7.3L Godzilla V8 (gas) for the 2022 and newer Ford Super Duties.

[@AtomicReverend]

@@CJColvin yeah, I have read about it, I don't have an opinion yet. Its a pushrod engine which in my opinion is great other then that I Know nothing about it.

[@CJColvin]

@@AtomicReverend A Pushrod engine is basically a cam in block

[@mrboojay]

Loved the mention of the how the RPMs work on the 99-08 trucks. Kind of a throw back to hailing 450 gal of water up hill, had (have) both the 4.8 and 5.3 engines and when you hit the hill and they down shifted they just took off up the hill (as much as one can with 450 water). Love those trucks, need to get them back on the road.

[@letsdothis9063]

I had a 2500 express work van with the 4.8. I love that motor.

[@chadbailey189]

8.1 with allison was best

[@markkennerly1777]

Yep, my first car at 16 was 1972 super Cheyenne w/400 black on black . Wish I still had it....

[@UncleSarkis]

Thank you car wizard. You know that most of us make enough money to just make a living, and getting the best band for our buck and having a reliable vehicle is most important.

[@pawcmotorsports8722]

If you are looking for reliability it looks like there are lots of comments of 99-06 going 400k+ mile and I see them all the time under $10k.

[@enriquevarela1902]

@@pawcmotorsports8722 Hello, what model will you recommend?

[@pawcmotorsports8722]

@@enriquevarela1902 It would depend on your personal preference and needs when it comes to 1/2 or 3/4 ton, 4x4 or 2x4, long box or short box etc. I personally have a 2002 1/2 ton, 4x4, extended cab short box with a 5.3L. I’ve driven it as my daily for 10 years and it has 230k on the odometer. I would recommend that model for almost everyone.

[@enriquevarela1902]

@@pawcmotorsports8722 thank you

[@Moondog66602]

My 1998 daily has 375k miles. Amazing truck. Friend just gave me his old 2000 with 350k, my new project.

[@honkhonkler7732]

I have the same complaint about the LS truck engines. The old Vortec 350 had more grunt in the low revs than the 5.3 that replaced it. Feels about as strong as the 6.0 LS in the 2500s despite being a little weaker on paper.

[@taylorh3930]

Ya I was never a fan of any of the 5.3s I've owned they need to be wound out to do any hauling vs my 5.7 vortec.

[@K707OR30]

No complaints here. Wouldn’t mind more torque at lower RPMs but I haul a lot of firewood weight over some serious hills with my 5.3 regularly. Put it in haul/tow mode and it winds out a bit, but it is never lacking for power considering the weight. Doesn’t bother me any, and who doesn’t like the sound of a V8 in the upper half of the RPM range anyway.

[@yurimodin7333]

yeah but the bottom end is way better designed so it can take it.......hell these kids are slapping turbos on junkyard 5.3 engines and making 1,000HP without exploding the crankcases.

[@trail-wolf4x4]

Loved my 98 K1500 Z71. Sadly they are being ruined by sqwatters and all the clean ones are hitting new truck prices. Would love to have another in my life

[@SCORPION89199]

I just have to find one out in the field somewhere and do a little extra work to it you won't be able to find a clean one but you could probably find one at some old man's yard or something like that they're around you just have to look, cash is King if you knock on somebody's door and you asked about a vehicle they might get upset but more than likely they'll take the cash.

[@michaelhernandez2647]

I had one , my brother ruined it , towing z71 is the best 1998 ,

[@devillenm5525]

Helped me out a ton. Just got a 96 gmc sierra pickup given to me. Very very clean truck. 186k miles. But im pretty sure that the torque converter is bad. Also suspect that the injectors are too. It's a 4.3 4l60e truck. But im going to be putting a 5.3 liter LS based motor in it. Id like to get it running again first though.

[@markrunyon5524]

I love your vid"s,your very honest.I"m 62 retired on disability.I have a 96,4cyl,Sonoma with a 4l60 trans.Just had the trans rebuilt,185,000 miles.Love the truck it"s perfect for me and the amount of driving I do.I used to haul alot of firewood with it.Never knew about the keep it in regular drive tip with heavy loads,great tip.I would still rather have a 650 Edelbrock than fuel injection,anyday.That"s just me.

[@markrunyon5524]

@@Dankcatvacs -say"s what?-Eldebrock beats fuel injection?

[@tomroot6013]

I have owned all 3 of the Major Brand Trucks, but only one 1/2 Ton, I bought in 1974. It was a 1973 Dodge D-100, and the only issue I ever had was throwing rear U-Joints, balancing did not alleviate it either. 180K sold! I'd change a $5.00 Bearing each and every 3k mile oil change! Then I I owned a 1978 Chevy Dually, with the 350 C.I. Engine a 4-speed granny in it. That is what failed at 150K, other than that no issues, but sold. Then I went with a 1986 FORD, 6.9 Diesel, my first one! It had Banks and Towed like a champ. The Head Gaskets went at 80K miles though. Went again at 130K miles, Got rid of that and bought my 2005 Chevy, Duramax /Allison. Best truck, thus far. It ate front wheel bearings at 80K miles, and what used to be $10. was a $500.00 job at the Stealership. I replaced the other one myself for the tune of $250.00. Easy enough job, and they can be found cheaper these days as well. So that dreaded 180K crept up a year ago, and the Head Gaskets blew. Why they don't Stud them is beyond me. Four out of the eight injectors tested bad, so threw them at it as well. ARP Bolts will hold it forever now, and the Triple thick gaskets (Class "C") too. I looked at replacing it and was quoted $115K and said "No Way!!!! So, I sprung for the $7K mechanics Bill. I will be taking that truck to my grave, @ 67 YO, anyway, so money well spent, I'd say! Thanks for highlighting Trucks! I do follow you as much as I can! Keep up the great work! Much Success!

[@gtr1952]

Wow, lots of comments here! One more... I'm 71 and I've driven GM trucks all my life. With my job, I could afford to buy a new one every 3 years, or less. So I've had at least 1 from every era. Looking back I think my fave so far was my 2003 Chevy Extended Cab Z71. 4.8L auto w/3.71 posi rear end. It got 20 mpg average. I had a bed rug, Leer cap, running boards, wheel liners and fender flares installed. It was white with dark glass all around and looked great! The 4.8L LS had great power and torque. With the 3.71 rears you would never guess it was a 4.8!! We bought a 5th wheel camper in 2011, so that fall I bought a 2012 2500HD, 6.0L gas and 3.71 rears. It has the Allison designed transmission. I put the same things on it that I did the 2003. Currently it has just 32k miles on it as I retired. Now we sold the 5th wheel and it's my daily driver. If you look at KBB for the vehicle that lasts the longest, with 94% still on the road after 10 years is the GM 2500HD! I love my truck!! 8) --gary

[@gtr1952]

PS: I forgot to mention. I change the oil and filter, using Mobil_1, and lube the entire truck every 3000 miles or annually, whichever comes first! The guys at my local shop have kidded me that they take my used oil and put it in their trucks. LOL. Oil perpetuates moisture, if you can see it or not, and should not be used over 1 year. In 2023 it would cost $60,000+ to replace my truck!! ~$100 every 3000 miles is cheap to insure no lubrication related damage ever happens!! Your mileage may very... 8) --gary

[@rico387]

Great video! I have 242k miles on an '89 K1500 that I bought new. It was about 190 hp when new. And now , in it's geriatric state, it's probably about 150 hp. I am besieged by the temptation to swap in a 5.3 until it's time to take the old boy out for our monthly stroll down memory lane. Then....I raise the hood and see the elegance of simplicity in the old TBI 5.7.

[@StuddMuffinn_YT]

If youre looking to get a 1998-2007 silverado few things to take note of. They have a history of blowing power steering lines in cold, switching out to transmission fluid significantly helps out here. Another thing is that the transmission needs a fluid flush at around 150-200k miles. The 4L60E transmission is really solid at stock power but it needs to be maintained. Parts for them are cheap, the engine is rock solid reliable and would get you home on 4 cylinders if it had to. Only downside to a 1998-2007 is the body rusts in the northern states. So you can pick up a solid rust free one for about $6-9k (depending on where you buy it) and if you undercoat it, it will last a long time.

[@pawcmotorsports8722]

I have an 02 with 225k that’s been driven hard, I should do a trans flush.

[@dalehovland3283]

The frames can rust in half also. That is something else to check before you buy one.

[@digitalrailroader]

Actually, the different eras can be identified by the platform name provided by GM; everything from the early 70s to 1987 is known as the Square Body or C/K, 1988 to 1998 is known as the GMT400, 1999 to 2007 is known as the GMT800, 2007 to 2013 is known as the GMT900 (Crazy D’s 2008 is a GMT900) 2014 to 2018 is the K2X, and 2019 to now is the T1X. The Wizard really isn’t going to see T1 trucks because most of them are still under factory warranty, but he will probably start seeing K2 trucks because the oldest K2s are starting to approach 8 to 9 years old and are no longer under any warranty. And it’s around 2008 where you start seeing driver aids like traction control, Stability control, and TPMS become standard equipment.

[@houseofno]

Traction control, stability control, TPMS and rear cameras were all mandated by federal law. The manufacturers were not being generous or competitive by offering those features as standard equipment.

[@joshuagibson2520]

@@houseofno indeed. It's bullshit to mandate those things. It's a lot of other things as well. They add significantly to purchase cost and repairs. The cars are getting way too much tech and luxury items that most of us don't want or need. The Fed needs to back off. The only thing not regulated or taxed these days is playing with yourself. I'm dead serious. I'm sure they're coming for that as well too eventually.

[@KentuckyAk101guy]

I love my 98 Chevy K1500 great truck and reliable. Bought it around this time last year with 288k had to put a new engine and transmission in it and basically restored it. I fixed some rust replaced some worn out components and basically have a new truck. As I said before I love it and besides the little quirks it’s had here and there it’s been a really reliable truck. Not the fastest or most powerful truck out there but it does what I need and is the truck I wanted. I honestly feel blessed to have my dream truck at 20.

[@danieljones3683]

I've been a technician since 1995. I spent my first 10 years in a Chevrolet dealer. I still have a soft spot for the 90's and early 00's Chevy trucks. You are correct about owners over working the 700R4/4L60. I would tell customers to tow/haul in Drive and they didn't want to but would complain when the trans failed. When tow/haul mode was added I saw the life of the transmission increase.

[@crowdnine878]

I have a 2000 Silverado 5.3 with 275,000 miles on it and constantly tow. Still has the original 4L60E, I've always used tow/haul

[@edwardpate6128]

My favorites are the 88 to 98 GMT 400 platforms. I've had 3 of them over the years and they were great.

[@hochhaul]

They are awesome if you can find one that was taken care of and the frame was protected. Amazing how many I still see in use in the rust belt. Even Toyota can't match the longevity of the GMT400's.

[@jessestreet2549]

@@hochhaul i've seen 2 C1500's bent in the middle from overloading.

[@augustusgloop9330]

@@jessestreet2549 yeah they’ll do that when they’re overloaded lol

[@jessestreet2549]

@@augustusgloop9330 someone told me that's where mud and crud accumulate and rot the frame. i live in tennessee, we don't really have rust problems. i suspect the bent trucks were from up north.

[@augustusgloop9330]

@@jessestreet2549 yeah I live in Canada we get everything rotted. There’s 2014 gmc and Chevy trucks rotting frames here lol it’s crazy

[@codyhickman7335]

Having owned a 78, 89, 96, 07 NNBS Chevy. I was ready to argue, but you hit all the nails on the head. My brothers 94 2500 350/5 speed towed so much better than my 07 2500HD 6.0/6L80e. It was unreal. Think we both had 4.10 gears. TBI is reliable, with 20mpg, on a 350/700r4 2wd, my 96 the spider injection isn't bad doing it yourself. Your prices make sense, I know you know what you're talking about in every video, but this was a great example.

[@rickreese5794]

U bet Cody, Little wonder the early trucks pull all the $$$.

[@rars0n]

I had a '73 C10 with the 250 straight-six in it and a three-on-the-tree. That thing was awesome. I was surprised how well it handled highway driving, given that it only had 3 gears. The 250 engine kind of reminded me of the Ford 300 straight-six in my '77 F100, except while it didn't have the massive torque down low, it was much more willing to rev and was overall a lot more pleasant to drive (the F100 kinda felt and sounded like a bus). I didn't get rid of the truck by choice, but man I'd love to have another one. With the straight-six.

[@johnswanson3741]

That Ford was built way more durable, that is why it drove like a bus. It's all in what one wants in a truck. Ford and Dodge were always built more durable than a GM pickup, comparing similar years!

[@rars0n]

@@johnswanson3741 Yeah, that 300 was indestructible.

[@jimmysapien9961]

AWSOME

[@a.t1313]

I once owned a 73 Sierra Grande with the 250 6 banger, 425k didn't even use any oil, sold it to a guy who used it for scrapping and hauling, still saw it driving around town 2 years later was one tough truck.

[@JamesMullaney-e9k]

I really like my 04 Silverado. I haven’t had any engine issues and the only service I’ve had to have on the 4X4 drivetrain is the actuator on the front differential has to be replaced. I guess I’m fortunate that there haven’t been any transmission problems after hauling a trailer full of firewood dozens of times over the years, and I’ve got less than 70K on the clock.

[@raynjpg]

24:35 the most spot on explanation i've ever heard of driving a 5.3/6.0 from this era.

[@robertstewart1254]

Wow, your explanation of the towing ability of the late 2000's engines answered a lot of my questions. I have a 2008 Silverado long bed regular cab WT with the V6. It's a beautiful truck for its age and is in great shape. But, it struggles towing even a 2800 lb camper. I've been thinking something is wrong, but it behaves just as you describe. Once it kicks down a gear or even two it pulls just fine. It's good to know that this is normal and won't hurt the engine. Thanks!!

[@frankbama3684]

Do you use your tow mode feature? Or maybe the 08 didn't have that feature.

[@robertstewart1254]

@@frankbama3684 Yes, it came with the tow/haul mode and I use it while towing. I just completed an approximate 1000 mile tow from upstate NY, to northern Georgia through the Georgia mountains (over Blood Mountain) and It pulled just fine in the higher revs. I still want a V8, but with the prices for used now, I'll stick with my V6 for a while. I have looked into possibly putting a V8 into my truck (it's in very good shape and I like it overall) but I have found that it is not really a cost-saving option.

[@hochhaul]

@@robertstewart1254 Yeah between having the V6 and a 4-speed transmission, it's going to work hard towing in the mountains. No way around that.

[@adamyoder6024]

My 4.8 V8 tows fine. It’s doesn’t really struggle much. But then again last time I towed I was more concerned with the transmission. I tell you, these transmissions love to slip but they can handle a ton of abuse before they are unusable.

[@walterkersting9922]

Screaming a 4.8 uphill ok for the 4. L60e?

[@billkallas1762]

I still have one of those hex wrenches, on a flexible mount, to adjust the points on GM cars, using a dwell meter, along with a timing light.

[@markweaver6688]

In a pinch you could set the points with a match pack . You could set the timing by ear . If it is pinging you went to fare if your engine is doging it the other way . Line up the timing mark's # 1 piston top dead center . Eazzy .

[@billkallas1762]

@@markweaver6688 Because Ford didn't have the ability to adjust the points when the engine was running, sometimes it took three or four tries to get it right.

[@member57]

Most mechanics today have no clue what a dwell meter.

[@billkallas1762]

@@member57 Or how to hook up a timing light in series with a spark plug wire. (and not to forget to mark the timing marks on the crank pully and front engine cover, with chalk)

[@michaellorenz7177]

@@billkallas1762 I liked to use White-out for the timing marks. Never messed with points, everything I've owned has been HEI and newer.

[@danieljohnson4418]

The GMT-400s were the last good trucks GM built. The GMT-800s (1999-2006) were mechanically reliable, but the body integrity and interior build quality left much to be desired.

[@mph5896]

99-06 Powertrain much stronger. They just rot out like nobody’s business

[@briandrmoreau3710]

I would watch this as a 6 hour video. I learned a lot about the nuances that I’ve been overlooking.

[@Chevywhoopwhoop]

Bought a used 2500hd 2011 and this truck had 300,000 miles. Did a lil tune up. Spark plus and wire set, rear diff fluid change, maybe 3 to 4oz of Lucas transmission fluid and duralune fuel cleaner. And man I’ll tell you what !!! Truck runs like new. Petal to the floor and the truck moves. Great videos sir thank you for the knowledge 🦾

[@bobellingson4025]

I inherited my dad's 1969 C-10, I remember when he bought it new. It had a 305, I believe, he put a 350 crate motor in it in the late 70's. It was his commute vehicle, but we also used it a lot with a camper on it, towing our ski-boat, so I guess he wanted the increased power. I'm reviving it from a long sleep right now, give me carburetors and points ignition any day!

[@demetriuscooksey7147]

I inherited my grandpa's 70 c-10 but his son, my uncle, came around and guilted me out of it. "You know, that was MY Dad's truck you know." We made an agreement he'd give me the right of first refusal if he decided to ever sell it. Couple years later I saw him at a family get together and found out he traded it off. Still makes me sick to think about it 28 years later.

[@anthonygordon5086]

Always love your videos! I have an 04 Silverado and no issues with my truck, drives like a champ!!!!! Keep up the good work Mr. and Mrs. Wizard

[@md2k8]

I am usually a fan of the 2003 to 2006 pick-up trucks from General Motors, especially the 5.3 L V8 engine and the crew cab model.

[@nolife1199]

The transmissions we're pretty bad though

[@trump2609]

They are good transmissions. People must abused them

[@aKjohn8798]

Pro-tip: if you old 5.7 1991-1995 (pre-vortec) has an issue at idle or starting and then immediately dying, change the COOLANT TEMP SENSOR .

[@bluecollarhotrods9781]

I love GMT800s, I'm in my early 40s and have no issue working on them. My daily is a 2001 that I swapped out the original 4.8L/4L60E for a 6.0/4L80E from a 2500HD. Overall, it has been reliable with only a few small quirks. I recently purchased a 2003 2500HD with the fly and wire throttle. I'm about to start troubleshooting. It won't rev up and idles rough. I'll check the basics first, then dig deeper.

[@aenancen7158]

How's that half ton with the 6.0 u swapped in it?

[@bluecollarhotrods9781]

@@aenancen7158 It's great, GM should have built it this way from the factory. I did the swap in 2016, the truck has been a daily/workhorse since.

[@mikelemoine4267]

The TBI injection started in 87. I had it in my 87 Blazer with the 5.7/350. It was not as good as later port injection, but it worked and never broke down on me. I'm sure they made small improvements in the later years of TBI too.

[@donaldthomas5852]

I had a TBI in a 1994 Chevy 1500 350/5.7 just sold it with 194,000 miles never had problems with the fuel injection . Great truck. I had it since 1999. Now I have a 2001 Chevy 2500HD Duramax LB7 92,000 miles I plan on it being the last good truck I buy. I also have a 1999 Chevy 2500 6.0 and a 2004 Chevy 3500 8.1 my work trucks

[@TheREALOC1972]

Not on the basic bitch base 2wd Cheyenne's and Silverado's though and that's what he's talking about. The TBI didn't start as STANDARD Equipment until 1988 with the OBS body style. I have a base 87 Silverado with a 305 that my grandpa bought new and it has the HEI and carb. TBI came on the Cheyenne's and Silverado but not on the BASE 2wd model.

[@ChillkootMarkowee]

​@@TheREALOC1972 but weirdly enough I've worked on a 1987 GMC Vandura with a 305 TBI!

[@TheREALOC1972]

@@ChillkootMarkowee Im sure you have, I didn't say they weren't available, I said they weren't STANDARD until 1988, I said STANDARD, even capitolized for the slow readers, apparently your slower than most because you still didn't comprehend it. I once had a 76 Camaro with a factory 396 in it, How is that possible since they stopped making them in 72? It's because when they stopped making them they still had about 15,000 of them and they made them an order option until they ran out of them somewhere in early 1980.

[@ChillkootMarkowee]

@@TheREALOC1972 yeah sorry I'm retarded been told that many times!

[@pl7868]

Great video, Really enjoyed it , i'm a grandpa that bought an 81 gmc when i retired in 2012 for 1100 bucks to work on and has been daily driver ever since, it pays for itself and for someone who grew up working on that era of gm's you can fix anything blindfolded and know right away exactly what is going on with it. my other daily driver is a 2000 911 and for that you need a scan tool and google but for me feel that's pretty much the last year a guy at home can fix everything on it an the parts are pricey, to me paying 70000 for a truck would probably mean a 1100 buck a month payment ishs, so as long as i keep my truck parts under say 10000 a year i'm saving money lol keeping the porsche in parts is another story the truck has to hold up it's end an pay for some :)

[@roadtested9009]

I have an '03 5.3L Tahoe which just turned 136K miles. @135 K, I replaced the water pump for the 2nd time, the original brake pads which were not yet worn out and installed a new AC compressor and accumulator.

[@tomschonborg439]

I had an '88 3/4 ton 4x4 Silverado. It was a really good truck. I traded it in on my '06 Duramax in 2009. I love my Duramax. I also have a '99 S-10 Blazer that is still going strong. It has the 4.3 Liter Vortex V6. My wife drives an '04 Suburban. I love Chevy trucks.

[@cetate93]

I really got lucky with my 2011 Sierra WT with the 4.3L. Got it December 2020 for 10 grand from my work. Got it at 86k miles, I've done all the maintenance schedule stuff listed in the manual including transmission fluid change(not flush). I plan to swap the plastic plenum with a Mercruiser metal plenum and changing the injectors from Spider to the MPFI. Hopefully before the end of this year. Glad it has the 4.3 so I don't have to worry about AFM even if it feels wimpy on the highway.

[@balkanca]

That's an awesome summary! My personal favorite has always been the '00-'06.

[@pawcmotorsports8722]

Can’t beat them for the price and reliability. Especially with new models being $70k-$80k.

[@chris-2105]

I was 18 years old doing the injectors on my 98 5.7l vortec, replacing them with updated versions that don't get gunked up like the originals did. It took me 6 hours of sitting in my engine bay on top of the radiator support hunched over pulling everything apart just to remove the plastic intake plenum and get to the "injector spider" assembly to replace it. It was one of the most frustrating repairs I've ever done, especially since I was still very inexperienced at the time. I did get the whole truck for $700 though

[@danieln.285]

Inexperienced, but man I bet you felt really relieved once you got it done, huh? I’ve never done one myself, but I’ve heard of some testimonies and I’ve always wanted to steer clear of doing that job.

[@catfishbilly7425]

@@danieln.285 They really aren't that bad. Removing the air plenum is just unknown territory for a lot of DIYers so the thought of having to replace a spider that has failed is a trip into the unknown, which is scary to a lot of folks.

[@chris-2105]

@@catfishbilly7425 I ended up actually having to pull the plenum a couple times, because the first time I thought I could get away with just replacing the one bad injector. Then of course, later another one went... This time I did the MPFI upgrade and the job was much faster and easier since I was familiar with where things go and how to get them out of the way.

[@jcsens01]

Wow. The wizard explains in terms of what you need to know. I appreciate this type share of information. Imagine sitting down with the wizard and digging into specific repair instances. What you would learn and how you would better understand what to do as you dig into a repair scenario. Great stuff.

[@ernestyunk1927]

I'm 71 and the wizard is right on we appreciate your diagnostic intelligence.

[@countryjoe3551]

I've owned several GMT400 1/2 ton pickups and Blazer/Tahoe. Definitely my favorite generation of GM trucks.

[@joemonahan2972]

I have a 95 Silverado 6cyl with 190k miles. 21 mpg highway, 16 mpg in town. Great truck with 8' bed.