checking oil CHEVROLET LOW CAB FORWARD 2019 Owner's Manual

Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
Instruments and Controls 79
Wait-to-Start Light
This light comes on when the
engine control switch is turned to
the ON position and goes out when
preheating is complete.
SeeStarting and Stopping the
Vehicle 0168.
Engine Oil Pressure Light
This light should come on briefly
when the engine control switch is
turned to the ON position, and then
should go out after the engine is
started. This light comes on when the
engine oil pressure has fallen below
the normal level while the engine is
running or the oil pressure across
the oil filter rises above the normal
level while the engine is running.
If the warning light comes on while
driving, immediately pull off to a
safe place and stop the engine.
Check the oil level in the engine
crankcase. If the oil level is normal,
restrictions are in the oil filter or
within the lubricating system. Have
the vehicle inspected at your dealer.
Do not run the engine with this light
on. It could damage the engine.
When this light comes on while
driving, a warning tone also sounds.
The oil level varies while the engine
is running right after it has stopped
or if the vehicle is on uneven
ground. As a result, the red engine
oil pressure warning light may
light up.
When checking the oil level, press
the engine oil level check switch on
level ground while the engine is
cool. The red engine oil pressurewarning light in combination with the
green engine oil level indicator light
can indicate if the engine oil level is
OK or low.
While driving, this light will also
activate the engine alarm and
automatic shutdown system.
See
Engine Oil Level Indicator Light
0 79 and Engine Oil 0245.
Engine Oil Level Indicator
Light
When the engine oil level check
switch is pushed with the engine
control switch in LOCK, the green
engine oil level indicator light will
come on if the engine oil level
is OK.
See Engine Oil Pressure Light 079
and Engine Oil 0245.

Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
246 Vehicle Care
and the oil should be changed
regularly according to the
Maintenance Schedule.
The engine oil performs the
following important functions:
.It prevents engine parts from
becoming worn.
. It cools engine parts.
. It cleans engine parts.
. It seals the combustion
chambers and prevents rust.
Replace the engine oil at regular
intervals.
When particulate matter (PM) has
accumulated to a preset level in the
diesel particulate filter (DPF), the
filter is automatically regenerated
through combustion. To make this
regeneration (combustion) possible,
a small amount of fuel is injected
into the engine combustion chamber
after firing. This causes fuel to
gradually become mixed with the
engine oil, and the engine oil level
may rise beyond the original level.
This does not indicate a malfunction
of the engine.Access to the Engine
Single Cab Model
Access to the engine oil dipstick is
located on the engine left side after
tilting the cab. See Cab Tilting
0 243.
Crew Cab Model
The engine oil dipstick is under the
engine inspection sub cover located
beneath the driver's seat.
Checking the Engine Oil Level
Press the engine oil level check
switch. If engine oil level is low the
red oil pressure warning light will
turn on. If the engine oil level is
above the "OK", the green oil level
indicator will turn on.
The oil level varies while the engine
is running, right after it is stopped,
and on sloping ground. When
checking the oil level, be sure the
vehicle is on level ground while the
engine is cool.

Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
Vehicle Care 247
The engine oil level must be kept at
the right level to help assure proper
lubrication of your vehicle's engine.
It is the owner's responsibility to
check the oil level at regular
intervals (such as every fuel stop),
according to the following
instructions. Park the vehicle on a
level surface and check the engine
oil level before starting or at least
30 minutes after turning off the
engine.
1. Remove the oil dipstick (2) andwipe off any oil on the oil
dipstick.
2. Reinsert the oil dipstick fullyand then gently remove it.
The oil is at the correct level if
the oil level is between the
"FULL" and "MIN" marks.
3. If the oil level is too low, add oil to the "FULL" mark.
4. Reinstall the oil dipstick into position after checking the oil
level.
Any oil level above the "FULL" mark
on the oil dipstick may cause engine
malfunctions. The oil level cannot be checked
correctly when the engine is
running.
If the engine has been running, wait
at least 30 minutes before checking.
Adding the Engine Oil
When the engine oil level is near or
below the "MIN" mark on the oil
dipstick, remove the oil filler cap (1)
and add the oil. Remove the oil
dipstick (2) at this time. Use only the
specified engine oil.

Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
248 Vehicle Care
Caution
When adding oil, be careful not to
spill any, but keep a workshop rag
handy just in case there are any
spills. If any oil should spill onto
the engine, carefully wipe it away.
If this precaution is not taken, the
spilled oil could ignite and a fire
could spread.
Do not leave flammable items,
such as rags or gloves, in the
engine compartment. They could
cause a fire. You and others could
be seriously injured.
Engine oil lubricates and cools the
engine's internal components. The
quality of the oil is degraded and the
quantity of oil is reduced by
evaporation, discharge and
combustion during the operation of
the engine. Continually using the
same oil without checking the level,
or without replenishing and
changing it could cause seizure or
damage to the engine. Prevent dirt from entering the filler
port when adding the oil. If foreign
matter mixes with the oil, it could
damage the engine.
Adding oil above the "FULL" mark
on the oil dipstick could result in
faulty engine operation. Be sure to
check the oil level by using the oil
dipstick.
Failure to use the recommended
engine oil could result in engine or
DPF breakdown, or in poor fuel
efficiency. Be sure to use the
recommended engine oil.
Choosing the Right Quality Oil
If you do not use the oil intended for
a vehicle equipped with a Diesel
Particulate Filter (DPF), both the
engine and the DPF may break
down and fuel economy may
decrease. Be sure, therefore, to use
the oil intended for vehicles
equipped with DPF.
GM recommends engine oil that
supports DPF (Low ash oil). Use of
engine oil that does not support low
ash will increase the PM produced
by engine combustion.Consequently, the maintenance
interval of the DPF filter will be
reduced.
Oil Identification Logo
A logo (symbol) is used on most oil
containers to help you select the oil
you should use. The top portion of
the logo shows the oil quality by API
designations such as CK4 or others.
The center portion of the logo
shows the SAE viscosity grade,
such as SAE *W-40 (* indicates
viscosity on the low temperature
side). You should look for this logo
on the oil container, and use ONLY
oil containing the logo.

Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
Vehicle Care 251
or bodies of water. Instead, recycle
it by taking it to a used oil collection
facility which may be found in your
community.
Automatic Transmission
Fluid
{Warning
Overfilling of the automatic
transmission can cause the fluid
to be "PURGED" out of the
breather hose onto the hot engine
parts and can cause a fire.
You and others could be seriously
injured.
Both quality and quantity of fluid are
important factors that have a
significant influence on the
performance and durability of the
automatic transmission. Be sure to
use only the dealer recommended
fluid for replenishment, and observe
the specified fluid level. Too much or too little transmission
oil could damage your transmission.
Too much could cause your
transmission to overheat and fluid to
spill out from the breather hose. Be
sure to get an accurate reading if
you check your transmission fluid.
When cleaning around the dipstick
and guide tube, make sure that you
thoroughly wipe away all of the dirt
and dust etc. Failure to do so may
cause a fault in the transmission.
Do not let coolants (ethylene glycol
type), water based substances,
or other fluids etc., mix with the
fluid. Otherwise, degraded
performance and faulty operation of
the system will result.
Checking the Automatic
Transmission Oil level
This operation could be difficult and
you may choose to have this done
at your dealer.
If you choose to do it yourself, then
be sure to follow all the instructions
below or you could get a false
reading on the dipstick.Position of the Dipstick
For the single cab vehicle, the
dipstick is located to the left side of
the automatic transmission at the
rear of the engine. Tilt the cab up to
inspect it.

Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
Vehicle Care 253
.Dipstick H (HOT) —
Transmission fluid
temperature Approx. 70 -
80 °C (158 - 176 °F).
. The “C (COLD)” range on
the dipstick is a guide used
by your dealer for
specialized equipment used
to replace or service the
automatic transmission
fluid. When performing your
own inspections, always
use the “H (HOT)” range
after warming up the
vehicle.
The fluid must be hot to
ensure an accurate check.
The fluid level rises as
temperature increases.
6. If the fluid level is too low, add the specified fluid through the
dipstick guide tube. Also, check
whether there are no fluid
leaks.
7. Insert the dipstick securely into position.{Warning
Be extremely careful not to burn
yourself when checking the oil
level if the engine temperature is
high. Protect yourself with
gloves etc.
You and others could be seriously
injured.
Discarded parts, oil, grease and
fluids could have an adverse effect
on the environment. It is difficult to
dispose of these, so have your
dealer handle all checks and
replacements.
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
Air Cleaner
Using a clogged air cleaner element
not only reduces engine output but
also causes increased fuel
consumption and an increased DPF
regeneration frequency. Be sure to use a genuine air cleaner
element. If a different air cleaner
element is used, it may cause the
sensor to output a wrong signal.
See
Maintenance Schedule 0327.
Air Cleaner Indicator Light
When the air cleaner indicator light
comes on, check the air cleaner
element. If the air cleaner element is
clogged, replace the air cleaner
element.
See Vehicle Messages 086.
See Maintenance Schedule 0327.
Engine Coolant
Protection of Engine Against
Overcooling
Overcooling of the engine not only
accelerates wear of the vital engine
parts but also hurts fuel economy.

Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
272 Vehicle Care
Rear Axle (Oil Level
Check)
Rear Axle Differential Gear Oil
The rear axle differential gear oil
level must be checked for its level
and it must be changed according to
the Maintenance Schedule.
Use the oil quantities indicated later
in this section only as guidelines
when changing the rear axle
differential gear oil.
After changing the oil, ensure that it
is at the correct level.
Drained oil must be disposed of in a
method conforming to the regulatory
requirements in your state.Checking the Oil Level
1. Remove the oil level plug.
2. Check that the oil level (1) is
0 mm to 10 mm (0 to 0.4 in)
below the bottom edge of the
oil level plug hole (2). If the oil
level is too low, add oil through
the oil level plug hole.
3. Fasten the oil level plug to the specified torque. Plug
tightening torque is 84 Nm
(8.6 kgFm/62 lb ft).
Any dirt on the plug should be
wiped off before installing it.
Noise Control System
Noise Emissions Warranty
General Motors warrants to the first
person who purchases this vehicle
for purposes other than resale and
to each subsequent purchaser that
this vehicle as manufactured by
General Motors, was designed, built
and equipped to conform at the time
it left General Motors’ s control with
all applicable U.S. EPA Noise
Control Regulations. This warranty
covers this vehicle as designed,
built and equipped by General
Motors, and is not limited to any

Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
340 Service and Maintenance
Owner Checks and
Services
Before Driving
Proper care and driving is important
not only for extended service life of
your vehicle, but also for improved
fuel and oil economy. Drive carefully
and defensively. Be sure you know
how to use your truck and its
equipment before operating it.
Starting and Operating
Proper care and operation will not
only extend the service life of your
vehicle but also improve fuel
economy.
Check Around the Vehicle Before
Starting the Engine
Before pulling away, perform a
thorough safety check, making sure
there are no children or obstructions
around the vehicle.
Take off the chocks after confirming
that the parking brake is securely
applied. Sit behind the wheel, adjust
the seat position, and buckle up theseat belt. The passengers are also
required to buckle up the seat belts.
Adjust the positions of the steering
wheel and mirrors. Lock the doors.
Turn the power of the dome light or
accessories OFF before starting the
engine.
Engine Conditions
Checking the Engine for
Startability and Abnormal Noises
1. Make sure the parking brake is securely engaged. Step firmly
on the brake pedal.
2. Make sure the selector lever is in "P" or "N" position.
For safety, firmly press the
brake pedal before starting the
engine.
3. Turn the engine control switch to start the engine.
Check that the engine starts
quickly with no abnormal
noises. Checking Condition of the Engine
at Low Speeds and during
Acceleration
1. Make sure the transmission is in the "P" or "N" position and
the parking brake is securely
engaged.
2. Turn the engine control switch to start the engine, and run it to
warm up.
3. Check that the engine is running at a speed within the
standard idle speed range.
During regeneration of the
diesel particulate filter (DPF),
the engine idle speed may
increase.
4. Drive the vehicle, making sure the accelerator pedal does not
stick when gradually
accelerating, the engine speed
rises smoothly and it does not
knock.

Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
Service and Maintenance 341
Recommended Daily
(Pre-operation) Inspections
These checks are in addition to, not
instead of, any legally required daily
inspections. See related topics
under "Maintenance Schedule",
especially if problems are found.
For safe and comfortable driving,
keep record of the distances driven
and the condition of the vehicle
during operation. Perform
inspections at appropriate intervals,
and perform maintenance in
accordance with the findings of the
inspections. If an inspection reveals
an abnormality or there was an
abnormality the previous time the
vehicle was driven, have the vehicle
repaired by the nearest dealer
before it is driven again.1. Components that showed abnormalities during the
previous operation
.Check components that
showed abnormalities
during the previous
operation 2. Checks performed at the
engine
.Fan belt looseness and
damage
. Engine oil level
. Engine coolant level
. Power steering fluid level
3. Checks performed from the driver's seat
.Brake fluid level
. Brake pedal free play
. Operation of meters,
gauges and warning/
indicator lights
. Engine startability,
abnormal noise and color of
exhaust gases
. Parking brake lever stroke
. Windshield washer fluid
spray condition and
windshield wiper
effectiveness
. Windshield washer fluid
level .
Steering wheel position and
free play
. Operation of horn and turn
signal lights
. Door lock operation
4. Checks performed during a walk around the vehicle
.Illumination, flashing,
contamination, damage and
obstruction of lights
. Contamination, damage ad
obstruction of windows,
mirrors and reflectors
. Leaf spring damage
. Oil, engine coolant, fuel,
brake fluid and power
steering fluid leaks
. Water separator
5. Checking wheels and tires .Air pressure
. Cracks and other damage
. Abnormal wear
. Tread depth

Chevrolet Low Cab Forward 5.2L Diesel Engine 4500/5500 Series (GMNA-
Localizing-U.S.-12407814) - 2019 - crc - 12/13/17
342 Service and Maintenance
.Mounting condition of all
wheel nuts
6. Checks performed after the engine startup
.Oil, engine coolant, fuel,
brake fluid and power
steering fluid leaks
. Inspect the exhaust system,
checking that the tailpipe is
clear
7. Checks performed while driving the vehicle
.Brake effectiveness
. Engine abnormal noises
Keep the Floor Around the Driver
Seat Clean and Tidy
{Warning
It is extremely dangerous to have
empty cans, empty bottles,
or other items rolling around on
the floor because they could get
trapped under the brake pedal
and prevent brake application. (Continued)
Warning (Continued)
For proper pedal operation, it is
also essential to lay floor mats
properly. Incorrectly installed floor
mats would hinder free movement
of the pedals.
Do not use the dashboard pocket
or the top of the dashboard as a
place to put items that could roll,
which could interfere with your
driving. You and others could be
seriously injured.
Choose Your Footwear Suitable
for Driving
{Warning
Choose footwear that ensures
proper operation of pedals when
driving the vehicle. Use of
footwear unsuitable for driving
may cause an accident. The
driver could be seriously injured
when not wearing the proper
footwear.
Electrical System
Following the after-delivery service,
it is the owner's responsibility to
check all wiring periodically for
cracked, chafed or oil-soaked
insulation and maintain it in a clean
and tight condition to ensure
satisfactory operation of the
electrical system.
Headlights and Turn Signal
Lights
Turn the engine control switch to the
"ON" position, and then check the
way in which the headlights, turn
signal lights, and other exterior
lights come on and flash. In
addition, press the brake pedal to
confirm whether the stop lights
come on, and shift the transmission
to "R" position to confirm whether
the back up lights come on. Also
examine the lights for discoloration,
damage, and looseness.