1995 GMC W3500 Forward

The 1995 GMC W3500 Forward is a heavy-duty pickup truck that is known for its ruggedness and reliability. It is powered by a 7.4L gasoline engine that produces 230 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. People like the W3500 Forward for its towing and hauling capabilities, as well as its spacious interior. However, it is not as fuel-efficient as some other trucks in its class and can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

Engine

• 7.4L Gasoline Engine
  • Intake Manifold Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the intake manifold, causing the engine to overheat.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Head Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the head gasket, causing the engine to overheat and misfire.
    • Solution: Replace the head gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Rear Main Seal Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the rear main seal, causing the engine to run low on oil.
    • Solution: Replace the rear main seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter fails, causing the transmission to slip or shudder.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Input Shaft Bearing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The input shaft bearing fails, causing the transmission to make noise and vibrate.
    • Solution: Replace the input shaft bearing.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The solenoid fails, causing the transmission to shift erratically.
    • Solution: Replace the solenoid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Suspension

• Front Coil Springs Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The front coil springs sag, causing the front of the truck to sit lower than the rear.
  • Solution: Replace the coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Rear Leaf Springs Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear leaf springs break, causing the rear of the truck to sag.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Steering Stabilizer Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The steering stabilizer fails, causing the truck to wander and vibrate at highway speeds.
  • Solution: Replace the steering stabilizer.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator fails, causing the battery to drain and the truck to lose power.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The starter fails, causing the truck to not start.
  • Solution: Replace the starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, even when the truck is not running.
  • Solution: Test the electrical system to find the source of the drain and repair it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Exterior

• Tailgate Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The tailgate latch fails, causing the tailgate to open unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Replace the tailgate latch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Headlight Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The headlight switch fails, causing the headlights to not turn on.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handle fails, making it difficult to open the door.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Interior

• Dash Panel Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dash panel cracks, causing the interior to look unsightly.
  • Solution: Replace the dash panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Seat Cushion Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat cushion sags, making it uncomfortable to sit in.
  • Solution: Replace the seat cushion.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The window motor fails, causing the window to not roll up or down.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Summary

The 1995 GMC W3500 Forward is a reliable and capable truck, but it is not without its issues. The most common issues include intake manifold leaks, head gasket failures, and torque converter failures. These issues can be expensive to fix, but they are not typically catastrophic. Overall, the W3500 Forward is a good choice for those who need a heavy-duty truck that can handle tough jobs.