Jump to content

Just Bought A Truck

elliejon

Recommended Posts

elliejon New Member

elliejon

Posted
Posted

Hey all. I just bought a 1988 GMC Sierra 1500. There are a few thngs wrong with it, most of wich I think are connected. The speedometer doesnt work. It's probably the speedometer cable, right? I called the parts stores in the area, and it turns out only 1 could order it, if it's the right size. They said they could order the 31 ", but couldn't get the 49". Is there a way to measure it without taking it out? If I order it, then I can't return it, so I want to make sure I get the right one.

 

Another problem is the power locks and windows don't work. I have checked all the fuses under the dash, couldn't find any other fuse box. It's a minor problem, but the window is open an inch, and it's COLD here in Maine during the winter.

 

The gas guage always reads full. The sending unit in the gas tank?

 

Lastly, the dash lights don't work. Not only that, but when I turn the headlights on, the lights in the radio shut off, as well as the guage showing the temp for the fan. I'm thinking that there's a short somewhere. Maybe it's related to the power locks and windows not working? Or the gas guage not working?

 

I'm not a skilled mechanic, but I can do most stuff when I have a Chilton's next to me. I just don't know where to start looking. Has anyone else had these problems? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

marko Enthusiast

marko

Posted
Posted

Hello, and welcome to the group.

 

You have a lot of problems. I think it's best to tackle them one at a time. First and foremost, buy the Haynes manual for the truck. Then read up a bit on the problems you are having.

 

As for the speedo cable, I wouldn't be so sure that it's the cable. I am not sure if the speedo on an 88 is electronic or cable-actuated. Also, I am thinking you have other problems with the instrument cluster, like the dim lights.

 

Wiring problems suck. They are all about tracing what is right and wrong. You need a good wiring diagram, and a good multimeter. Start tracing, and let us know how you make out.

 

As for parts you should be able to get a friendly dealer to let you know what the part number for your speedo cable is. Or maybe one of the more knowlegeable members here should know, if they knew your VIN. Hopefully they read this post and make their expertise available to you.

2017HD Enthusiast

2017HD

Posted
Posted

Check the tail light fuse for your dashboard lights - I think they were still tied together back then. As for the other stuff - it could either be fuse or wire harnass related - I would look at where the wires run through doors etc for signs of wear and tear - and breaks.

Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

Go to topic listing

  • Latest Articles

  • Posts

    • needafix
      2019+ Brake failure, it's complicated

      By needafix · Posted

      I'm not sure if this should be a new topic, let me know if it's out of place. This my first post. Thanks 85077522 - AC Delco GM Genuine Parts Brake Master Cylinders. Anyone else had to replace this brake master cylinder yet. I didn't do any brake work, it looks like new parts and I've had the truck for about 4k miles, 119k total miles.  When it started to throw codes I did the calibrations with a bidirectional scanner and got the codes to clear but they came back so I did the routine; base bleed, automated bleed and final base bleed. All that with Bosch ES16-32N fluid (please look it up). That seemed to fix it but 100ish miles later it failed again so I ran the same process but with a pressure bleeder this time and got the same results, fixed for 100ish miles. The original fluid looked bad and I thought I got most of it out, it could've been the wrong fluid. The codes; P25A2, C05B0-00, C2A1B. I can get them to clear but not for long. The C05B0 indicates a leak in the front circuit (which is bone dry) so I'm thinking of doing the bleed process on that front again today and I don't know if that's taboo to just do the front but at this point it seems like it's worth the try anyway. The new master cylinder/module unit is supposed to get here today. But now I'm pretty much convinced this install is over my head. I've called several shops and some mobile guys that I know but this thing is like radio active material, scary wise. I did get 2 local shops say they should be able to do it, one says he has the SPS2 programing capability. And with the battery disconnected is there supposed to be pedal resistance, mine is to the floor, then if I pump it I can get some resistance. I had a panic stop prior to this issue which may have contributed from what I read. And on the first attempt to bleed and hydraulic test the scanner listed things to look for and one was any gaps between the pad and rotors which I did notice on the RF corner and I removed the outer pad (where the gap was) cleaned it and the hardware and didn't see a gap after that but will re-check it. I read that if pushing the caliper pistons back then you're supposed to open the bleeder so as to not push fluid backwards into the abs module or it will damage it. If that's true then that's also a possibility from the previous owner having the brakes changed before I got it. I'm using an XTool ip500 scanner. Any suggestions, questions and comments welcome. 
    • Donstar
      Navigating senior years.

      By Donstar · Posted

      Next Friday will be my 6 week point from my right knee replacement.  The surgeon says it will be fine if I choose to drive after this checkup.  I know I could drive now but best to do as my surgeon (and my wife) tell me.  Richard compared being 62 to 72.  I remember when I was in my early 60's I was experiencing slow but regular decline in my mobility.  Thanks to good medical support,  i continued to fight the speed and spread of this decline. During my 60's I worked on non-surgical methods and just when I turned 70, my orthopedic surgeon recommended joint replacements.  In a little over a year, I had one shoulder and both knees replaced.  This hasn't been a terribly fun experience, but worth the discomfort as my future mobility health trajectory has reversed.  It is a treat to now be watching my mobility. balance and confidence steadily improve!
    • Another JR
      Trailer TPS Sensor Question Rim Size

      By Another JR · Posted

      Grommets with the right cement should be perfectly fine. 
    • Grumpy Bear
      Some Assembly is Required

      By Grumpy Bear · Posted

      This is going to take allot of Assembly    
    • PunchT37
      Transmission Temperature Hitting 220s

      By PunchT37 · Posted

      Why do they have the gas 10l80 opening at 145?

  • GM-Trucks.com Clubs

  • Popular Contributors

×
×
  • Create New...