2008 CHEVROLET KODIAK Owners Manual

Remember to reset the Engine Oil Life System
whenever the oil is changed. For more information, see
Engine Oil Life System (Gasoline Engine) on page 5-36
orEngine Oil Life System (DURAMAX
®/Isuzu Diesel
Engines) on page 5-37orEngine Oil Life System
(Caterpillar
®Diesel Engine) on page 5-39.
(9)= This vehicle has the Engine Oil Life System. This
system will show you when to change the engine oil
and filter — usually between 3,000 miles (5 000 km) and
15,000 miles (24 000 km) since your last oil change.
Under severe conditions, the indicator may come
on before 3,000 miles (5 000 km). Never drive your
diesel engine vehicle more than 15,000 miles
(24 000 km), or 12 months, or 750 engine hours, without
an oil and filter change.
Remember to reset the Engine Oil Life System
whenever the oil is changed. For more information, see
Engine Oil Life System (Gasoline Engine) on page 5-36
orEngine Oil Life System (DURAMAX
®/Isuzu Diesel
Engines) on page 5-37orEngine Oil Life System
(Caterpillar
®Diesel Engine) on page 5-39.
(10)= Inspect rear axle air shift motor for fluid leaks.
Remove plug to check fluid level. Inspect air lines
and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, etc.
Inspect at 1,000 miles (1 600 km) and 22,500 miles
(36 000 km) and then every 22,500 miles (36 000 km)
thereafter.(11)= Chassis Lubrication Service: Lubricate all grease
fittings in front suspension, front axle, and steering
linkage. Do not lubricate kingpin bushings with air
pressure equipment; instead, use a hand grease gun to
ensure complete purge and eliminate sealer cap
distortion. Front axle tie rod ends, both upper and lower
kingpin fittings, and both steering linkage relay rod ends
should be greased with the vehicle loaded on the ground
and wheels turned straight ahead, not with the vehicle on
a hoist. Apply kingpin bushing lubricant to both upper and
lower kingpin grease fittings until new lubricant purges
from between the upper shim pack and thrust bearing.
Lubricate transmission and shift linkage, hood latches
and hood hinges, parking brake lever pivot, clevis pins
and linkage, disc brake caliper rails, clutch linkage and
release bearing (if equipped), bearing pads, propshaft
universal joints, brake camshaft bracket, slack adjusters,
pedal shaft, clutch cross shaft, clutch pedal springs, and
clutch cable bushing at transmission. Lubricate
suspension, axle, and steering linkage more often when
operating under dusty or muddy conditions and in
excessive off-road use. Frequently power-washed
vehicles will require more frequent lubrication.
6-21

(12)= Check steering system:
•Look for damaged, loose, or missing parts. Inspect
the steering linkage relay rod and tie rod ends for
looseness or lack of lubricant. Also look for parts
showing signs of wear or lack of lubrication. Replace
parts as needed. Also check steering gear mounting
bolts, pitman arm nut, gear housing upper cover and
side cover attaching bolts, steering column mounting
bolts and cardan joint clamp bolts; tighten if
necessary. See the service manual.
•Inspect power steering hoses, tubes, and fittings for
leaks. Hoses and lines must not be twisted, kinked,
or tightly bent. Make sure clips, clamps, supporting
tubes, and hoses are in place and properly secured.
•Check steering gear for leakage around pitman shaft
and housing. If leakage is evident (lubricant oozing
out, not just oily film), leak should be corrected
immediately.
(13)= Check front and rear suspension. Look for
damaged, loose, or missing parts or parts showing signs
of wear or lack of lubrication. Replace parts as needed.
(14)= Adjust tire pressures as indicated on the
Certification or Tire Information label for optimum tire
life. SeeTires on page 5-82for further details. Check
tires for excessive or abnormal wear or damage. Also
check for damaged wheels. Replace wheels and/or tires
as needed.(15)= Check spring-to-axle U-bolts and shackle bolts
for proper torque. See the service manual for torque
sequence and specifications. When parts are replaced,
the torque must be checked and adjusted more often
during the first 6,000 miles (10 000 km). Check torque at
500 miles (800 km) and 2,000 miles (3 000 km) after
first use of parts.
(16)= Check complete exhaust system, including DPF
pressure lines, and cab areas near the exhaust system
for broken, damaged, missing, or out-of-position parts.
Also inspect for open seams, holes, loose connections, or
other conditions which could let exhaust fumes seep into
the driver compartment. Needed repairs should be made
at once. To help maintain system integrity, replace
exhaust pipes whenever a new muffler is put on.
(17)= Check all gasoline engine drive belts for cracks,
fraying, and wear. Replace as needed.
(18)= Adjust valve lash. Incorrect valve clearance will
result in increased engine noise and reduced engine
output.
(19)= With the engine off and below normal operating
temperature, check to see that the thermostatically
controlled engine cooling fan can be rotated by hand on
viscous-operated drives. Replace as needed.
(20)= Check shields and underhood insulation for
damage or looseness. Adjust or replace as needed.
6-22

(21)= Inspect parking brake drum and linings for wear
or cracks and check linkage and adjustment.
(22)= Wheel bearing service:
•Grease type — Clean, inspect, and lubricate with
the proper wheel bearing grease at designated
intervals or when hubs are removed. SeePart C:
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-31.
•Oil-filled type — Some wheel bearings are
lubricated by axle lubricant. When you have oil-filled
hubs, use lubricant identical to that used in the
axle. Lubricant change intervals are the same for
front and rear axles. However, you must maintain
the proper oil level between change intervals.
SeeFront Wheel Bearings with Oil-Filled Hubs on
page 5-81andPart C: Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants on page 6-31.
(23)= Check the air intake system installation to see
that gaskets are seated properly and all hose
connections, fasteners, and other components are tight.
Tighten connections and fasteners or replace parts as
required.
(24)= Evaporative Control System Service, if equipped:
Check all fuel and vapor lines and hoses for proper
connections and correct routing (or every 24 months,
whichever occurs first). Replace parts as needed.(25)= Replace spark plugs. Inspect wires for damage.
Check the wire boot and boot heat shield fit at spark
plugs and coil. Replace parts as needed.
(26)= Check the fuel tank, fuel cap and fuel lines for
damage which could cause leakage. Inspect fuel cap for
correct sealing ability and any indications of damage.
Check fuel cap gasket for even filler neck imprint.
Replace parts as needed.
(27)= Check Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system
as described in the service manual. SeeService
Publications Ordering Information on page 7-10.
(28)= Inspect Electronic Vacuum Regulator Valve
(EVRV) filter for excessive contamination or plugging.
If needed, clean filter with solution of soap and water, let
dry and install.
(29)= Drain, flush, and refill cooling system. This
service can be complex; you should have your
dealer/retailer perform this service. SeePart C:
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-31for
what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser,
pressure cap, and neck. Pressure test cooling system
and pressure cap. For Caterpillar
®diesel engines,
always refer to the Caterpillar®Diesel Engine
Operation & Maintenance Manual for coolant
recommendations and change intervals.
6-23

(30)= Change the lubricant. SeePart C: Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-31.
(31)= Front axle service: Re-pack upper kingpin roller
bearing.
(32)= Air brake service:
•Inspect brake lines and hoses for proper hook-up,
binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect drum
brake linings for wear or cracks. Inspect other brake
parts at each wheel, including drums and wheel
speed sensor wiring. Check brake pedal for
excessive free play or travel (or every 6 months,
whichever occurs first) and have serviced if needed.
Check brakes more often if driving habits and
conditions result in frequent braking. Replace air
dryer cartridge only if excessive oil or moisture
is present. A small amount of oil in the system is
normal and should not be considered as a reason to
replace the cartridge.
•Test air lines for leaks; tighten as needed. Replace
compressor filter.
•Inspect air parking brake chamber for leaks and
damage. Inspect lines and hoses for leaks, cracks,
chafing, etc. Also check all attachments for tightness,
wear, or damage. Note: The spring brake section of
the rear brake diaphragms are non-serviceable.
•Replace the air compressor filter element, mounted
on the air compressor. For remote air compressor
intake service, refer to engine air cleaner filter
replacement.
•Remove, disassemble, clean, and inspect the safety
valve, service brake chambers, quick release valves,
quick release/double check valve combinations,
parking brake control valve, double check valves,
pressure protection valves, and ether injector
(if equipped).
•Remove, disassemble, and clean the application
valve; replace parts showing wear.
•Remove, disassemble, clean, and inspect the spring
brake control valve; replace rubber parts.
6-24

(33)= Clean and lubricate air brake automatic slack
adjuster. Check pushrod travel and auto adjustment
operation. Have serviced if needed.
(34)= Air brake chamber service: Check operation,
mounting clamps, and air lines and check for leaks.
(35)= Trailer brake hand control valve service: Check
operation; lubricate cam and follower.
(36)= Tighten the wheel stud nuts to the specified
torque values at 100 miles (160 km). Thereafter, tighten
them 1,000 miles (1 600 km) after each time the wheel
is removed. SeeTightening the Wheel Nuts on
page 5-86.
(37)= Inspect and clean any accumulated dirt, gravel,
or other foreign objects from the valves and valve boots
as needed. Using light oil, lubricate brake pedal to
brake application valve linkage components. Check any
rubber boots for cracks, holes, or deterioration and
replace if necessary.(38)= Estimated minimum. Actual mileage depends on
fuel and oil consumed.
(39)= If the vehicle has the Isuzu diesel engine and is
used primarily for long trip, highway service, change
the engine oil and filter every 18,000 miles (28 800 km),
or every 12 months, or every 750 hours of engine
operation, whichever occurs first.
(40)= Make sure any safety belt reminder light and
safety belt assemblies are working properly. Look
for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts.
If you see anything that might keep a safety belt
system from doing its job, have it repaired. Have any
torn or frayed safety belts replaced.
6-25

Part B: Owner Checks and Services
Listed in this part are owner checks and services
which should be performed at the intervals specified to
help ensure the safety, dependability and emission
control performance of your vehicle.
For your safety and that of others, any of the
safety-related components that may have been
damaged in an accident should be checked and any
needed repairs made before operating the vehicle.
At the minimum, these routine checks should be made
every 6 months or 6,000 miles (10 000 km), whichever
occurs first. Whenever repairs are needed, have
them completed before operating the vehicle.
At Each Fuel Fill
It is important to perform these underhood checks at
each fuel fill.
Engine Oil Level Check
Notice:It is important to check the engine oil
regularly and keep it at the proper level. Failure to
keep the engine oil at the proper level can cause
damage to the engine not covered by your warranty.Check the engine oil level and add the proper oil if
necessary. SeeEngine Oil (Caterpillar
®Diesel Engine)
on page 5-23orEngine Oil (Gasoline Engine) on
page 5-24orEngine Oil (DURAMAX
®Diesel Engine) on
page 5-28orEngine Oil (Isuzu Diesel Engine) on
page 5-32.
Engine Coolant Level Check
Check the engine coolant level and add DEX-COOL®
coolant mixture if necessary. SeeEngine Coolant
(Caterpillar®Diesel Engines) on page 5-44orEngine
Coolant (Gas and DURAMAX®/Isuzu 7.8L L6 Engines)
on page 5-44.
Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check
Check the windshield washer fluid level in the windshield
washer fluid reservoir and add the proper fluid if
necessary. SeeWindshield Washer Fluid on page 5-55.
Tire Ination Check
Check tire inflation cold. Make sure the tires are inflated
to the correct pressures. SeeLoading Your Vehicle
on page 4-21andInflation - Tire Pressure on page 5-82.
6-26

At Least Twice a Year
Wiper Blade Check
Inspect wiper blades for wear, cracking, or
contamination. Clean the windshield and wiper blades, if
contaminated. Replace wiper blades that are worn or
damaged. SeeWindshield Wiper Blade Replacement on
page 5-76andWindshield and Wiper Blades on
page 5-98for more information.
Weatherstrip Lubrication
Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply
silicone grease with a clean cloth. During very cold,
damp weather more frequent application may be
required. Part C tells you what to use.
Body Lubrication Service
Lubricate all exposed surfaces such as door checks,
door lock bolts, lock strike plates, door hinge bushings,
latches, and dovetail bumper wedges. Where oil holes
are provided, a dripless oil can be used. The seat
adjusters, seat track, door weatherstrips, and rubber cap
bumpers should also be lubricated. Part C tells you what
to use. More frequent lubrication may be required when
exposed to a corrosive environment.
Parking Brake Check
Park on a fairly steep hill and hold the vehicle with the
parking brake only. This checks holding ability. See
Parking Brake (With Hydraulic Brakes) on page 2-38or
Parking Brake (With Air Brakes) on page 2-41.
Starter Switch Check
{CAUTION:
When you are doing this inspection, the
vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle
moves, you or others could be injured.
1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room
around the vehicle.
2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular
brakes.
Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to
turn off the engine immediately if it starts.
3. On automatic transmission vehicles, try to start the
engine in each gear. The starter should work only
in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). If the starter works in
any other position, your vehicle needs service. On
manual transmission vehicles, the starter should
work only when the clutch pedal is all the way down.
6-27

Automatic Transmission Shift Indicator
Check
Check that the indicator points to the gear chosen.
Steering Check
Be alert for any changes in steering action, abnormal
front tire wear or steering wheel position. An inspection
or service is needed when the steering wheel is harder
to turn or has too much free play, or if there are strange
sounds when turning or parking.
Brake System Check
Be alert to the low air warning light or tone alarm, or
changes in braking action, such as repeated pulling to
one side, unusual sounds when braking or increased
brake pedal travel. Make sure air brake system
reservoirs are drained daily with full system air pressure,
and check system for leaks. Any of these conditions
could indicate the need for brake system inspection
and/or service.
Engine Cooling System Service
Inspect the hoses and have them replaced if they are
cracked, swollen, or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes,
fittings, and clamps; replace as needed. Clean the
outside of the radiator and air conditioning condenser.
To help ensure proper operation, a pressure test of the
cooling system and pressure cap is recommended at
least once a year.
Exhaust System Inspection
Be alert for any changes in the sound of the exhaust
system or any smell of fumes. These are signs the
system may be leaking. Have it checked and/or repaired
at once. SeeEngine Exhaust on page 2-45and
Running the Vehicle While Parked on page 2-50.
Check to be sure that mud or dirt is not caked on the
exhaust system, especially in the area of the diesel
particulate filter and tailpipe. Clean the area as needed.
SeeDiesel Particulate Filter (Diesel Engine) on
page 2-46.
At high mileages, the DPF becomes loaded with ash.
This is normal. When the amount of ash loading is high,
see your dealer/retailer for DPF cleaning or replacement.
6-28