automatic transmission CHEVROLET C/K 2003 Owner's Manual

2-90 Engine Shutdown Warning Light
(If Equipped)
If your vehicle has the
engine shutdown feature,
this light will come on when
engine shutdown is active.
For more information, see ªEngine Alarm and
Automatic Shutdownº in the Index.
Transmission Temperature Gage
(If Equipped)
If you have an automatic
transmission, this gage is
located above the
switchbank in the center of
the instrument panel.
When your ignition is on, the gage shows the
temperature of the transmission oil. A reading in the
warning zone, the red area beginning at 300
F (150
C),
means you must stop driving and check into the cause.
One possible cause is a low oil level in the transmission.
NOTICE:
If you drive when the transmission temperature
gage is in the warning zone, you can badly
damage the transmission.

4-10
Traction Control System (TCS)
(Option)
Your vehicle may have a traction control system that
limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery
road conditions. The system operates only if it senses
that one or both of the rear wheels are spinning or
beginning to lose traction. When this happens, the
system applies the brake(s) at the affected wheel(s).
The bottom light on the TCS on/off button will come on
when the TCS is limiting wheel spin. You may feel or
hear the system working, but this is normal. The TCS
will function at speeds up to about 25 mph (42 km/h).
The TCS may operate on dry roads under some
conditions. When this happens, you may notice a
reduction in acceleration. This is normal and doesn't
mean there's a problem with your vehicle. Examples of
these conditions include a hard acceleration in a turn, an
abrupt upshift or downshift of the transmission or
driving on rough roads.
When the light in the top of the TCS button is on, the
TCS is off and will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your
driving accordingly.
The light in the top of the TCS button will come on if
the TCS is turned off by pressing the TCS on/off button.The light may also come on if a problem has been
detected in either the traction control system or the
anti
-lock brake system.
The traction control system automatically comes on
whenever you start your vehicle. To limit wheel spin,
especially in slippery road conditions, you should
always leave the system on. But you can turn the
traction control system off if you ever need to. You
should turn the system off if your vehicle ever gets stuck
in sand, mud or snow and rocking the vehicle is
required. See ªRocking Your Vehicleº in the Index.
To turn the system on
or off, press the traction
control button located in
the instrument panel
switchbank.
If you used the TCS button to turn the system off, the
light in the top of the button will come on and stay on.
You can turn the TCS back on at any time by pressing
the button again; the light should go off.

5-4
If you have a diesel engine vehicle with two batteries
(or more), you should know before you begin that,
especially in cold weather, you may not be able to
get enough power from a single battery in another
vehicle to start your diesel engine.
If your vehicle has more than one battery, use the
one closest to the starter
-- this will reduce electrical
resistance.
2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables
can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren't touching
each other. If they are, it could cause a ground
connection you don't want. You wouldn't be able to
start your vehicle, and the bad grounding could
damage the electrical systems.
To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling, set
the parking brake firmly on both vehicles involved in
the jump start procedure. Put an automatic
transmission in PARK (P) or a manual transmission
in neutral before setting the parking brake.
NOTICE:
If you leave your radio on, it could be badly
damaged. The repairs wouldn't be covered by
your warranty.
3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug
unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette
lighter or accessory power outlets. Turn off the radio
and all lamps that aren't needed. This will avoid
sparks and help save both batteries, and it could save
your radio!

6-
6-1
Section 6 Service and Appearance Care
Here you will find information about the care of your vehicle. This section begins with service and fuel information,
and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels. There is also technical information about your
vehicle, and a part devoted to its appearance care.
6
-2 Service
6
-4 Fuel (Gasoline Engine)
6
-5 Diesel Fuel Requirements and Fuel System
6
-15 Fuels in Foreign Countries (Gasoline Engines)
6
-15 Filling Your Tank
6
-17 Filling a Portable Fuel Container
6
-18 Checking Things Under the Hood
6
-20 Noise Control System
6
-21 Engine Oil (Gasoline Engines)
6
-27 Engine Oil (Caterpillar
Diesel Engines)
6
-27 Engine Oil (DURAMAX Diesel)
6
-30 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
6
-32 Automatic Transmission Fluid
6
-32 Manual Transmission Fluid
6
-34 Rear Axle
6
-34 Rear Axle Shift Motor (Option)
6
-35 Engine Coolant
6
-38 Engine Coolant (Caterpillar
Diesel Engine)6
-38 Surge Tank Pressure Cap
6
-39 Power Steering Fluid
6
-40 Windshield Washer Fluid
6
-41 Brakes
6
-52 Battery
6
-54 Other Service Items
6
-58 Tires
6
-67 Appearance Care
6
-68 Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle
6
-71 Cleaning the Outside Your Vehicle
6
-75 GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials
6
-76 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
6
-76 Service Statement
6
-77 Service Parts Identification Label
6
-77 Electrical System
6
-86 Capacities and Specifications
6
-90 Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts

6-32
Automatic Transmission Fluid
When to Check
A good time to have it checked is when the engine oil is
checked. See your Allison Automatic Transmission
Operator's Manual to find out when to change your
transmission fluid and filters.
How to Check and What to Use
The Allison Automatic Transmission Operator's Manual
that came with the vehicle shows how to check the
automatic transmission fluid and what fluid to use.
Automatic Transmission External Filter
Your automatic transmission filter requires periodic
replacement.
Consult the Allison Automatic Transmission
Operator's Manual that came with the vehicle for
proper change intervals.
Manual Transmission Fluid
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how
often to check the lubricant and when to change it. See
ªScheduled Maintenance Servicesº in the Index.
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what
kind of fluid to use. See ªRecommended Fluids and
Lubricantsº in the Index.
When to Check
A good time to have it checked is when the engine oil is
checked. See your Maintenance Schedule to find out
when to change your transmission fluid.

6-87 Cooling System Capacity
The following approximate capacities are given in
English and metric conversions.
Please refer to ªRecommended Fluids and Lubricantsº
in the Index for more information.
C4/C5 Models Quarts (Liters). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.1L with manual transmission 30.1 (28.5). . . . . . . .
8.1L with automatic transmission 29.8 (28.2). . . . . .
6.6L with manual transmission 27.6 (26.1). . . . . . . .
6.6L with automatic transmission 27.3 (25.8). . . . . .
C6/C7/C8 Models Quarts (Liters). . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.1L with manual transmission 33.3 (31.5). . . . . . . .
8.1L with manual transmission,
air conditioning and increased
cooling 34.9 (33.0). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.1L with automatic transmission 32.5 (30.8). . . . . .
7.8L 200
-230 hp engine with
manual transmission 31.6 (29.9). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.8L 200
-230 hp engine with manual
transmission, air conditioning and
increased cooling 35.3 (33.4). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C6/C7/C8 Models Quarts (Liters). . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.8L 200
-215 hp engine with
automatic transmission 33.7 (31.9). . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.2L 175
-230 hp engine with
manual transmission 29.3 (27.7). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.2L 175
-230 hp engine with
manual transmission, air conditioning
and increased cooling 33.0 (31.2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.2L 175
-210 hp engine with
automatic transmission 31.4 (29.7). . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.8L 250
-275 hp engine with
manual transmission 34.9 (33.0). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.8L 250
-275 hp engine with
manual transmission, air conditioning
and increased cooling 35.4 (33.5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.8L 230
-275 hp engine with automatic
transmission 33.3 (31.5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.2L 250
-300 hp engine with manual
transmission 32.8 (31.0). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.2L 250
-300 hp engine with manual
transmission, air conditioning and
increased cooling 33.3 (31.5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.2L 250
-300 hp engine with automatic
transmission 31.2 (29.5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6-89 Transmission Capacity
For manual transmissions, the correct oil level is to the
bottom of the fluid fill plug opening. The oil capacity
will vary, due to the angle of the transmission, with the
vehicle. For automatic transmissions, see the Allison
Automatic Transmission Operator's Manual for oil
check and maintenance information.
Manual Transmission Pints (Liters). . . . . . . . . . . .
ZF S6
-650 12.7 (6.0). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RT6609 12.5 (5.9). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RT8709B 25.1 (11.8). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FS4205A, FS4205B, FS4205C 11.1 (5.3). . . . . . . . .
FS5205A, FS5205C 11.6 (5.5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FS5406 18.4 (8.7). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FS6305A, FS6305B 18.4 (8.7). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FS6406 18.4 (8.7). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FS8406 18.5 (8.8). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RT8908LL 29.1 (13.8). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Automatic Transmission Pints (Liters). . . . . . . . . .
MD 3060 P 52.0 (24.6)*. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MD 3560 P 52.0 (24.6)*. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1000 Series 16.0 (8.9)*. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2000 Series 35.0 (13.5)*. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2200 Series 35.0 (13.5)*. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2400 Series 35.0 (13.5)*. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
*Add two pints (one liter) when changing spin-on or
remote filter.

7-16
Footnotes

= The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the
California Air Resources Board has determined that the
failure to perform this maintenance item will not nullify
the emission warranty or limit recall liability prior to the
completion of the vehicle's useful life. We, however,
urge that all recommended maintenance services be
performed at the indicated intervals and the maintenance
be recorded.
(1) = If your vehicle has an Allison automatic
transmission, your GM owner's manual is supplemented
by an Allison Transmission Operator's Manual. Always
refer to these manuals for related maintenance services.
(2) = Refer to the Caterpillar Diesel Engine Operation
and Maintenance Manual for oil recommendations and
change intervals.
(3) = An Emission Control Service.
(4) = A Noise Emission Control Device.
(5) = Applies only to vehicles sold in the United States.(6) = Check fluid level in brake master cylinder, power
steering pump, axle, transmission and hydraulic spring
parking brake pump (if equipped). A low fluid level in
the brake master cylinder can indicate worn brake
linings and should be checked accordingly.
(7) = Inspect brake lines and hoses for proper hook
-up,
binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake
pads for wear and rotors for surface condition. Inspect
caliper assemblies. Check brake pedal for excessive free
play or travel (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first)
and have serviced if needed. Check brakes more often if
driving habits and conditions result in frequent braking.
(8) = Inspect parking brake drum and linings for wear or
cracks and check linkage and adjustment.
(9) = This vehicle has the GM Oil Life System. This
system will show you when to change the engine oil and
filter
-- usually between 3,000 miles (5 000 km) and
7,500 miles (12 000 km) since your last oil change.
Under severe conditions, the indicator may come on
before 3,000 miles (5 000 km). Never drive your vehicle
more than 7,500 miles (12 000 km) or 12 months
without an oil and filter change.
Remember to reset the Oil Life System whenever the oil
is changed. For more information, see ªChange Oil
Lightº in the Index.

7-23
Body Lubrication Service
Lubricate all exposed surfaces such as door checks, door
lock bolts, lock strike plates, door latches and dovetail
bumper wedges. Where oil holes are provided a dripless
oil can be used. The seat adjusters, seat track, door
weatherstrips and rubber cap bumpers should also be
lubricated.
Part C tells you what to use. More frequent lubrication
may be required when exposed to a corrosive
environment.
Parking Brake Check
Park on a fairly steep hill and hold the vehicle with the
parking brake only. This checks holding ability.Starter Switch Check
CAUTION:
When you are doing this check, the vehicle could
move suddenly. If it does, you or others could be
injured. Follow the steps below.
1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room
around the vehicle.
2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the
regular brakes. See ªParking Brakeº in the Index
if necessary.
Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn
off the engine immediately if it starts.
3. On automatic transmission vehicles, try to start the
engine in each gear. The starter should work only in
PARK (P), if equipped, or NEUTRAL (N). If the
starter works in any other position, your vehicle
needs service.

7-24
Automatic Transmission Shift Indicator Check
Check that the indicator points to the gear chosen.
Steering Check
Be alert for any changes in steering action, abnormal
front tire wear or steering wheel position. An inspection
or service is needed when the steering wheel is harder to
turn or has too much free play, or if there are strange
sounds when turning or parking.
Brake System Check
Be alert to illumination of the low air warning lamp or
for the tone alarm, or changes in braking action, such
as repeated pulling to one side, unusual sounds when
braking or increased brake pedal travel. Make sure air
brake system reservoirs are drained daily with full
system air pressure, and check system for leaks. Any
of these conditions could indicate the need for brake
system inspection and/or service.Engine Cooling System Service
Inspect the hoses and have them replaced if they are
cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes,
fittings and clamps; replace as needed. Clean the outside
of the radiator and air conditioning condenser. To help
ensure proper operation, a pressure test of the cooling
system and pressure cap is recommended at least once
a year.
Exhaust System Check
Be alert for any changes in the sound of the exhaust
system or any smell of fumes. These are signs the
system may be leaking. Have it checked and/or repaired
at once. Refer to ªEngine Exhaustº and ªRunning Your
Engine While You're Parkedº in the Index.
Windshield Wipers and Washers Check
Check operation and condition of the wiper blades.
Check the flow of the washer spray.