'97 sonoma question

brtup · March 8, 2007

I just recently purchased a 1997 GMC Sonoma with 88k miles on it. It is a two wheel drive, extended cab four cylinder manual tranny truck. It has 4.10 gears in the rear end and when I bought it, I thought it would have decent pickup, and it does around town, but takes forever to get on the highway. Also, it doesn't seem to really want to go much faster than 70 and engine is at about 5000 RPMs. Is this normal, and if not, any suggestions?

p.s. It seems to have a slight hesitation when idling, but seems to run smooth when driving.

Britup

brtup · March 10, 2007

The engine does not run at 5000 at 70 mph, it's more like 3000. I would greatly appreciate any feedback. I'm wondering if I need to do something right away? Strapped for cash! Hope to save for awhile before any major repairs or service.

Britup

TA462 · March 21, 2007

Your truck should go faster then that. My 97 S-10 has a speed limiter in it that cuts the motor out at 150 kph which is 93 mph. Its no Hot Rod and mine takes a little while to get up to highway speed. Mine tops out at about 70 mph in 4th gear, you do know its a "FIVE" speed right?

DirtyDave · March 26, 2007

Your hesitation at idle makes me think you may want to check your tune-up parts. Especially as you approach 100,000 miles.

Check the cap, rotor, plugs and plug wires.

And ditto to what TA462 said, try putting it in fifth gear on the highway. It will go a lot better.

luthor · July 4, 2007

I bought my 1997 Sonoma 18 months with 92,400 miles. I have driven it just over 6000 miles but I am not experiencing same problem as yours. Though my experience with this vehicle is limited when it comes to its GMC Sonoma parts. I had replaced the front tires at 91,000 miles and fuel filter at 94,000 miles. Not cheap (about $450) but dealer included lifetime warranty. I have replaced also wiper motor - based on other reviews, not uncommon repair and front shocks and rear brakes at 96,000 miles. No complaints, it was time, and cost of repair was reasonable. But currently I have coolant leak through gasket. Probably couple hundred dollars repair. It is very sharp looking truck. I like it because of great selection of options with SLS line and the cab nicely equipped. Though the engine is very difficult to work on with V6 and Air Conditioning. I still had some good news: many routine service items (like changing spark plugs) are only done every 100,000 miles... By the way with your slight hesitation when idling problem.. It could also be a fuel delivery problem... Try to check too the tune up parts... Good luck!!!