2500HD about to go off warranty...

midnight8100 · January 8, 2004

My extended cab Silverado 2500HD 4x4 w/ 8.1 and ZF 6 speed is about to go off warranty (35,250 mi). I've compiled a list of problems I want to get the dealership to correct before warranty expires.

The more major things include:

-- Oil leak (looks like rear main or oil pan gasket)

-- Oil burning (the spark plugs looked awful), theres a TSB to change intake manifold bolts/gaskets

-- Clutch or dual mass flywheel makes a clunking/slapping sound when pedal is depressed, especially when backing up a hill

Some minor items include:

-- Parking brake seems weak

-- P/S pump leaks a little

-- Front suspension clicks when going over bumps

-- Tailgate cables rusting

-- Wiper arm rubs hood edge when servicing

-- Bumpers rusting from the inside out, I heard rumors of a TSB to replace with new ones with a special coating, anyone else ever hear of that??

Also, what about the ever popular cold start knock, does that apply to the 8.1? It sounds like a diesel when first started cold, but what really scares me is the Blackstone oil analysis showing high bottom end bearing wear! Wonder if I could get the 100K engine warranty?

Anyone have any other suggestions on problem areas to look for?

I'm the second owner, truck originally a Denver truck (I'm in TN) whats the best way to get good service out of a dealership that didn't sell the truck? Maybe remind them I'll be in market for a Vette in a year or two? Overall I like the truck, just wanna get these things taken care of.

Thanks all!

tmf6902 · January 8, 2004

Hey...My parking brake sucks too, and I click when I go over bumps...like speed bumps. (knock on wood), the only thing that I've had to bring in for a warrented repair was the passenger door lock slider thingy, kept falling off when the door was slamed shut, and the relay to control the driver side mirror went bad, so my mirror would randomly adjust itself.

496blackout · January 8, 2004

Yeah, what you said. I'm fast approaching where you are. I'm interested in getting the truck to get taken care of before warranty expires. Valve covers not really leaking but wet. The most irritating noise from the front at highway speeds. Sounds like its raining. Took off the rubber hinge flaps, plastic cowel corners. Starting to investigate the plastic wheelwell liners.

Shaners · January 8, 2004

The most irritating noise from the front at highway speeds. Sounds like its raining. Took off the rubber hinge flaps, plastic cowel corners. Starting to investigate the plastic wheelwell liners.

Did you check the windshield molding? It's very common especially if you have a bug deflector. Simple fix with some 3m double sided tape... Check out the guide section in the left hand column.

GM GIMP · January 8, 2004

The most irritating noise from the front at highway speeds. Sounds like its raining. Took off the rubber hinge flaps, plastic cowel corners. Starting to investigate the plastic wheelwell liners.

Did you check the windshield molding? It's very common especially if you have a bug deflector. Simple fix with some 3m double sided tape... Check out the guide section in the left hand column.

I had to do this too. Mine sounded like

bugs hitting the windshield.

c5vetteman · January 8, 2004

Look for an extended warranty!

I have a Z71 with 67,000+ miles and the warranty has more than paid for itself. The warranty cost me $1400 and I guess that I have had at least $2500 in warranty repairs so far. In fact the truck has been in the garage for the last 4 days and counting.

Latest problems:

1. Burnt out lights in the radio.

2. Wouldn't idle or run (I'm guessing fuel regulator...again)

3. Inoperative driver side heated mirror...again

4. When trying to blow heat on the floor, I am getting heat at the windshield

496blackout · January 8, 2004

Thanks Shaners!

That sounds like the problem. I'll check into it as soon as we pull out of the cryogenic temps here! Speaking of temperature, does anyone have advice on locating and installing the cool rv mirror that I failed to order with my truck? You know it has the compass and temp display.

Thanks for helping the newbie.