2004 Silverado

[obbop]

Howdy,

Pert near 1/2-century old and I just bought my first new vehicle after years of buying used.

I've read dozens of posts on this most-excellent board but am still unsure on what/when/where/etc. in regards to all aspects of maintenance (other than following the owner's manual).

Any and all advice, tips, hints, etc. on maintaining a 4X4 long bed Silverado with the auto overdrive transmission and the 4.8 V8 would be appreciated.

From oil type to filters to intervals between lube/oil/air filters etc. etc. etc. would be helpful.

Also, opinions on block heaters, pre-lubers, anything to assist in keeping the beast running would help.

I am in Nebraska where we have cold winters and salt tossed on the roads. Currently in an urban area but doing my best to move to a very rural location far from the cities.

Thanks in advance for any info you can share!!!!!!

 

[Chris B.]

to the board!

Nice truck you have there! I have a 2003 5.3 Silverado and love it. Break in your engine with a good dino like Halvoline 10w30. Change the factory oil at 500 miles then again at 1,500 and once last time at 3,000. this will ensure a clean break in with fresh oil. I kept mine under 55 mph fot the 1st 500 miles per GM and at almost 20,000 miles it burns no oil. I switched to Mobil 1 10w30 synthetic at 3,000 miles and analyzed my oil every change with good results. I'm trying German Castrol 0w30 now to see if I can get even lower wear but I'm probibly splitting hairs.

Make sure you change the Transmission fluid at 20-30,000 miles for the 1st change and then every 30,000 after, that helps these 4L60E's last a lot longer!

Change the rear diff at 5,000-10,000 miles adn then every 40,000 after. Same for the front and tranfer case.

Go to go know but let me know if you need details! Enjoy your truck!!!

 

[titanium10k]

chris b what do you use for the rear axle on your truck....my 02 with the g80 locking diff option specs gm fluid i have used it before but it is costly.....do u know of any fluids that meet this spec???? thanks

 

[Chris B.]

Im my owners book is says to use "synthetic gear oil in a 75w90 weight". I droped the factory diff oil at 8,000 miles and it was a dark gray color so I'm glad I changed it when I did. I use Mobil 1 full synthetic 75w90. So far I have no gear wine and it seems pretty quiet and smooth.