New Owner '83 Jimmy - Problem Areas?

[prossett]

First GMC in my life - awesome beast!

Before looking at mods, I want to give an overall check - what are the common problems or things that need attention in this model, stuff I should check/change besides oil, air filter, etc?

1983 V8 305, manual, seems to be in top shape, except for leaking transfer case, heavy and long clutch.

 

[pauly383]

Frame near steering box for cracks for sure . Transfercase for shifting , since its old enough .

I expect you are going to do some seals like valve covers , transfercase rear seal etc .

Make it reliable first .

Everything else on the truck is getting old too , so expect some wiring , switches , and rubber stuff to be replaced as you go

 

[theperfectgarage]

Check the frame where the steering box mounts. Also top rear shock mounts. Both areas are prone to cracks. Enjoy your K 5.

 

[trailblazr81]

About 6 years agao I had a 81 Blazer that ripped the top shock mount off on the rear drivers side. If you plan to do any wheeling get a frame repair/brace for the steering box mount. Ive seen small cracks in the frame by where tranny/T-case crossmember bolts up. Tho it had a lowered T-case to help driveline angles after lift.

 

[tRustyK5]

Heavy and long clutch.

Swap in a diaphram clutch and your left leg will thank you. Most likely has the 3 finger Borg & Beck style right now.

Rene

 

[jeeptuff]

front cross member is also a problem area, mine busted to hell along the passenger side, replaced it with one from Mo-Offraod.

 

[prossett]

Thanks guys - appreciated, specially since all checks out! No rust, no cracks, no nothing.

I've greased and oiled all around, and the clutch pedal is a bit smoother now - still long way to get it down though. I'll put the diaphram clutch on the list, maybe for when this one blows.

My first priority is reliability first, since I drive in the desert and that's a heavy truck to tow out on the sand! From what I can tell and see, it looks like the Jimmy's a solid truck with very few weak spots!!!

 

[ike]

steering box mount

It's good you don't SEE cracks around the steering box mount ......You will need to take the box out to realy check the area...Seach the threads here ...Order the kit and brace for your box from ORD...If its not cracked now....brace it up so it stays that way...Put that at the top of your list..

 

[prossett]

Thanks, I'll check it out - excuse ignorance: what's ORD?

Offroad Racing Design?

 

[trailblazr81]

Close... "Off Road Design." They have alot of the stuff you'll need to build yer rig right!!