Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
Vehicle Care 239
Vehicle Care
General Information
General Information . . . . . . . . . . 240
California Proposition65 Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 240
California Perchlorate Materials Requirements . . . . . 240
Accessories and Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 240
Vehicle Checks
Doing Your OwnService Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241
Cab Tilting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 243
Engine Compartment Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 244
Engine Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245
Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245
Automatic Transmission Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 251
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . . . 253
Engine Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253
Engine Overheating . . . . . . . . . . 259
Power Steering Fluid . . . . . . . . . 262
Washer Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 263
Brake Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 268
Battery - North America . . . . . . 269 Fuel Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270
Rear Axle (Gear Oil Viscosity
Chart) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 271
Rear Axle (Oil Level Check) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 272
Noise Control System . . . . . . . . 272
Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control Function
Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274
Wiper Blade Replacement . . . . 275
Headlamp Aiming
Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . . 277
Bulb Replacement
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . 277
Headlamps and Front Turn Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 280
Roofmarker Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . 284
Sidemarker Lamps (Including Turn Signal and Cornering
Lamps) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 284
Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps, and Back-Up
Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 286
License Plate Lamp . . . . . . . . . . 286
Interior Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287
Electrical System
Electrical System Overload . . . 287
Wheels and Tires
Wheels and Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . 295
Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 307
Tire Rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 307
If a Tire Goes Flat . . . . . . . . . . . . 310
Jump Starting
Jump Starting - North America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 311
Towing the Vehicle
Towing the Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . 315
Appearance Care
Exterior Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 317
Interior Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 323
Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
262 Vehicle Care
Power Steering Fluid
The power steering fluid level must
be checked and it must be changed
according to the Maintenance
Schedule. SeeMaintenance
Schedule 0327.
When replenishing power steering
fluid or flushing the power steering
system, always use ATF
(Dexron
®-VI). Failure to use the
proper fluid may damage the power
steering system seals and hoses,
leading to fluid leakage.
Checking the Power Steering
Fluid Level
The fluid level is correct if it is
between the “MAX”and“MIN” lines
on the power steering fluid tank.
If the level is lower that the “MIN”
line, add fluid up to the “MAX”line.
The reserve tank is located at the
rear of the engine compartment on
the right. When you have finished
checking the fluid level, securely
reinstall the cap and cover.
{Warning
Before adding fluid, clean the
area around the cap and pour
fluid from a clean jug or filler.
Foreign matter getting in the tank
may cause power steering system
failure.
Do not mix the recommended
power steering fluid with fluids of
other brands. Due to chemical
reactions, any mixture of
differently branded fluids may
cause failure of the system.
You and others could be seriously
injured.
Washer Fluid
Windshield Washer Fluid
The windshield washer is equipped
on the windshield wiper arm.
Check the level of fluid in the
windshield washer fluid tank. In
addition, spray windshield washer
fluid and operate the windshield
wipers to check for any areas not
Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
Vehicle Care 263
properly wiped. At this time, also
check the spraying condition of the
windshield washer.
Inspect the washer fluid level
regularly, especially during bad
weather conditions.
Use a high quality premixed solvent
available at most dealers or service
stations.
Avoid hard water when mixing
windshield washer solvents. Hard
water contaminants may plug
orifices in the washer system and
reduce performance.
Do not use radiator antifreeze in the
windshield washer; it could cause
cab paint damage.
In cold weather, warm the
windshield with the defrosters
before using the washer, to help
prevent icing that may block the
driver's vision.Refilling Windshield Washer
Fluid
1. The windshield washer fluidtank (1) is located under the
instrument panel on the
passenger side.
2. Open the cap (2) and fill the tank with windshield washer
fluid.
Upon factory shipment, new
vehicles contain only tap water in
the washer fluid tank. Adjust the
concentration of the fluid to suit your
own usage. Follow the instructions provided with
the windshield washer fluid
regarding the ratio for mixing with
tap water.
Poor quality products, engine
coolant, and soapy water must not
be used. Failure to observe this
precaution can result in nozzle
blockage or damage to painted
surfaces.
The washer should never be used
while the tank is empty. Operating
the washer with the tank empty can
result in motor damage.Brakes
For the most effective braking and
for maximum life from brake system
components, follow these
suggestions:
.
Keep any obstructions from
interfering with brake pedal
travel.
. Keep tires properly inflated.
Improperly inflated tires can
reduce the efficiency of the
brakes.
Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
320 Vehicle Care
The application of wax to rubber
component surfaces can result in
permanent whitening.
Wax must not be applied to the
windshield. Failure to observe this
precaution can result in irregular
reflection of light, impairing
your view.
Protecting Exterior Bright Metal
Parts
Bright metal parts should be
cleaned regularly to keep their
luster. Washing with water is all that
is usually needed.
Use special care with aluminum
trim. To avoid damaging protective
trim, never use auto or chrome
polish, steam or caustic soap to
clean aluminum. A coating of wax,
rubbed to a high polish, is
recommended for all bright metal
parts.
Weatherstrip Lubrication
All weatherstrips should be
periodically lubricated (minimum of
every 6 months) with a weatherstrip
lubricant. A thin film of weatherstriplubricant should be applied using a
clean cloth. Weatherstrip lubricant
application will lengthen
weatherstrip life, help sealing, and
assist in eliminating squeaks.
Windshield Care
Wax must not be applied to the
windshield. A layer of wax can
impair your view in rainy weather
and can also lead to rough
movements of the windshield wiper.
If engine oil or grease comes into
contact with the windshield, staining
or discoloration may result. It must
be immediately cleaned away.
If not fully cleaned by the windshield
wipers, the windshield should be
cleaned using glass cleaner. If your
windshield is not clear after using
the windshield washer, or if the
wiper blade chatters when running,
wax or other material may be on the
blade or windshield.
The windshield wipers on your truck
can be pulled out from the
windshield to provide easier access
for cleaning.
Clean the outside of the windshield
with a non-abrasive cleaner. Your
windshield is clean if beads do not
form when rinsing with water. Clean
the blade by wiping with a cloth
soaked in a solution of one-half
water and one-half methanol
alcohol. Then rinse the blade with
water.
The windshield wiper arms may be
swung out, away from the glass, to
provide easy access for cleaning.
Do not hang on to the roof marker
lights while cleaning the windshield
or damage may occur (resulting in
possible water leakage).
External Diesel Engine
Cleaning
The engine does not need periodic
cleaning, nor is it recommended.
If you insist on cleaning the engine,
clean it only when it is cold, never
when it is warm or hot, and never
when the engine is running.
Spraying or pouring water or other
fluids on your engine when it is
warm or hot, or when it is running,
Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
Service and Maintenance 341
Recommended Daily
(Pre-operation) Inspections
These checks are in addition to, not
instead of, any legally required daily
inspections. See related topics
under "Maintenance Schedule",
especially if problems are found.
For safe and comfortable driving,
keep record of the distances driven
and the condition of the vehicle
during operation. Perform
inspections at appropriate intervals,
and perform maintenance in
accordance with the findings of the
inspections. If an inspection reveals
an abnormality or there was an
abnormality the previous time the
vehicle was driven, have the vehicle
repaired by the nearest dealer
before it is driven again.1. Components that showed abnormalities during the
previous operation
.Check components that
showed abnormalities
during the previous
operation 2. Checks performed at the
engine
.Fan belt looseness and
damage
. Engine oil level
. Engine coolant level
. Power steering fluid level
3. Checks performed from the driver's seat
.Brake fluid level
. Brake pedal free play
. Operation of meters,
gauges and warning/
indicator lights
. Engine startability,
abnormal noise and color of
exhaust gases
. Parking brake lever stroke
. Windshield washer fluid
spray condition and
windshield wiper
effectiveness
. Windshield washer fluid
level .
Steering wheel position and
free play
. Operation of horn and turn
signal lights
. Door lock operation
4. Checks performed during a walk around the vehicle
.Illumination, flashing,
contamination, damage and
obstruction of lights
. Contamination, damage ad
obstruction of windows,
mirrors and reflectors
. Leaf spring damage
. Oil, engine coolant, fuel,
brake fluid and power
steering fluid leaks
. Water separator
5. Checking wheels and tires .Air pressure
. Cracks and other damage
. Abnormal wear
. Tread depth
Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
Service and Maintenance 347
one side, unusual sounds when
braking, increased brake pedal
travel or harder pedal. The front and
rear brakes are attached to an auto
adjuster mechanism. If there are no
defects, as the pedal travel is
properly maintained, adjustments
are not necessary. Check regularly
that the brake fluid reservoir
(left-hand side of the instrument
panel) or HBB reservoir (5500HD,
5500XD models: left side behind the
cab) is properly filled and check for
fluid leaks. Any of these conditions
could indicate the need for brake
system inspection and/or service.
G: Exhaust System :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. (Refer to
"Engine Exhaust Emissions Caution
(Carbon Monoxide)" under Engine
Exhaust 0177).
H: Windshield Wipers and
Washers : Check operation and
condition of the wiper blades. Check
the flow of the washer spray. I: Defroster :
Turn the outlet
selector knob to "Defroster" and the
fan speed control knob to the fully
clockwise position. Then check the
airflow from the ducts at the inside
base of the windshield.
J: Rearview Mirrors and Sun
Visors : Check that friction joints
hold mirrors and sun visors in place.
K: Horn : Sound the horn, now and
then, to be sure it works.
L: Lap-Shoulder Belts : Check the
seat belt system (including webbing,
buckles, latch plates and anchors)
for proper operation, and for
damage.
M: Seat Adjusters : When
adjusting the driver's manual seat,
be sure the seat adjusters latch by
pushing the seat forward and
backward. Do not attempt to adjust
the seat when the vehicle is in
motion.
N: Lamps : Check panel lighting,
warning lamps, indicator lamps and
interior lamps. On the outside,
check: license plate lamps, side
marker lamps, reflectors on outside mirrors, headlamps, parking lamps,
identification and clearance lamps,
taillights, brake lamps, turn signals,
cornering lamps, backup lamps and
hazard warning flashers. Have
headlamp aim checked immediately
if beams seem improperly aimed.
O: Glass, Mirrors, Lights and/or
Reflectors Condition :
Look for
broken, scratched, dirty or damaged
glass, mirrors, lamps or reflectors
that could reduce the view or
visibility, or cause injury. Replace,
clean or repair promptly.
P: Door Latches : Check that doors
close, latch and lock tightly. Check
for broken, damaged or missing
parts that might prevent tight
latching.
Q :Tilt Cab (Driving Position) : Be
sure the tilt lever is down and
locked.
R: Fluid Leaks : Check for fuel,
water, oil or other fluid leaks by
looking at the surface beneath the
vehicle after it has been parked for
Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
350 Service and Maintenance
UsageFluid/Lubricant
Engine Oil Engine oils with the letters CK-4 are required for your vehicle. The CK-4
designation can appear either alone or in combination with other American
Petroleum Institute (API) designations, such as API CK-4/SL. These letters
show API levels of quality. To determine the preferred viscosity for your
vehicle's diesel engine, see Engine Oil0245.
Hydraulic Brake Booster (If
Equipped) DEXRON
®-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Power Steerig Fluid DEXRON
®-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Rear Axle Multi purpose gear oil SAE80W-90 GL-5, SAE90 GL-5
Rear Axle
(Limited slip differential (LSD)) Multi purpose gear oil SAE80W-90 GL-5, SAE90 GL-5 for limited slip
differential together with limited slip differential lubricant additive (GM
Part No. 88900330) or equivalent.
Windshield Washer Solvent Automotive windshield washer fluid that meets regional freeze protection
requirements.
Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
Index 375
DevicesAuxiliary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117
Diesel Engine Engine Alarm andAutomatic Shutdown . . . . . . . . 173
Diesel Exhaust Fluid . . . . . . . . 24, 189
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Diesel Particulate Filter . . . . . . . . . 180
Distracted Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Dome Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Door
Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Power Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Drive Belt Routing, Engine . . . . . . 363
Driver Behavior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Driver Information Center (DIC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Driving
Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . 154, 164
For Better Fuel Economy . . . . . . . 24
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . 150
If the Vehicle is Stuck . . . . . . . . . 153
Wet Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151E
Electrical Equipment,Add-On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236
Electrical System Overload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287
Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154, 164
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253
Alarm and AutomaticShutdown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
Check Light (Malfunction Indicator) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Checks Before Operating . . . . . 175
Compartment Overview . . . . . . . 244
Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253
Coolant Temperature Gauge . . . . 72
Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245
Drive Belt Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . 363
Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177
Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
High Idle System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Oil Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 259
Reduced Power Light . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Running While Parked . . . . . . . . 179
Shutdown Warning Light . . . . . . . . 80
Engine Oil Level Indicator Light . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Engines
Diesel Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227
Exhaust Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222
Exhaust Brake Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Exhaust Fluid Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
Extender, Seat Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Exterior Lamp Controls . . . . . . . . . . 92
F
Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180 Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270
Filter, Engine Air Cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . 253
Fixed Mast Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Flashers, Hazard Warning . . . . . . . 94
Flat Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 310
Fluid Automatic Transmission . . . . . . 251
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 268
Diesel Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Power Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262
Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262
Frequency Statement Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 370
Front Seat Position Seats Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38