1992 GMC W5500 Forward

Introduction: The 1992 GMC W5500 Forward is a heavy-duty commercial truck. It was available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including:

• 6.2L diesel V8 (200 hp, 440 lb-ft torque)
• 6.5L diesel V8 (215 hp, 460 lb-ft torque)
• 7.4L gasoline V8 (310 hp, 480 lb-ft torque)
• 6-speed manual transmission
• 5-speed automatic transmission

The W5500 Forward was a popular choice for businesses due to its durability and towing capacity. However, it had some issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

6.2L Diesel V8

• Fuel injector failure: The fuel injectors can fail, causing the engine to run rough or stall.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger failure: The turbocharger can fail, resulting in a loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.5L Diesel V8

• Head gasket failure: The head gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil to leak.
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Gear grinding: The transmission can grind gears when shifting.
  • Solution: Adjust or replace the shift linkage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission slipping: The transmission may slip gears, causing the vehicle to accelerate or decelerate unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission fluid and filter. If the problem persists, the transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf spring breakage: The leaf springs can break, causing the vehicle to sag and handle poorly.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery drain: The battery can drain prematurely, leaving the vehicle unable to start.
  • Solution: Test the electrical system for parasitic draw. Replace any faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust: The body panels and frame can rust, especially in areas with high humidity.
  • Solution: Prevent rust by regularly washing and waxing the vehicle. Treat any rust spots with a rust converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking: The dashboard can crack due to exposure to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or cover it with a dash mat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 1992 GMC W5500 Forward is a reliable workhorse but has some potential issues that owners should be aware of. The most common problems are fuel injector failure, turbocharger failure, and transmission slipping. These issues can be expensive to fix, so it’s important to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing.