1995 GMC W5500 Forward

Introduction:

The 1995 GMC W5500 Forward is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its rugged construction and powerful engine options. It offers a choice between a 7.4L petrol V8 engine or a 6.5L diesel V8 engine, each paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission. Owners appreciate the vehicle’s towing and hauling capabilities, but some have reported issues in various areas.

Engine

7.4L V8 Petrol Engine:

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, misfires.
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.5L V8 Diesel Engine:

• Injection Pump Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power loss, black smoke, hard starting.
  • Solution: Replace injection pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: 95V078000

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission:

• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, overheating, no gear engagement.
  • Solution: Replace torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: 95V077000

5-Speed Manual Transmission:

• Synchronizer Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, grinding noises.
  • Solution: Rebuild transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Front Ball Joint Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, loose steering.
  • Solution: Replace ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dimming lights.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Starter Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine not cranking.
  • Solution: Replace starter solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

Exterior

• Tailgate Hinge Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate rattles, falls down.
  • Solution: Replace tailgate hinges.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Air Conditioning Compressor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: No cold air.
  • Solution: Replace compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+

Summary:

While the 1995 GMC W5500 Forward is a capable vehicle, it has been reported to have some common issues. Issues such as intake manifold gasket failure, injection pump failure, and torque converter failure can be costly to repair. Suspension components like leaf springs and ball joints may also require attention over time. Electrical problems and interior cracking are other reported concerns. Overall, the severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the extent of the problem and the specific parts affected.