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1998 GMC B7

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By Research the Car 4 min read

1998 GMC B7 6.0L V8

The 1998 GMC B7 is a full-size pickup truck that was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The 6.0L V8 engine was paired with a 4L80E 4-speed automatic transmission. It produced 300 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. The B7 was known for its powerful engine and spacious interior, but it also had its share of problems.

Engine

6.0L V8

  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: The intake manifold gaskets can fail on the 6.0L V8 engine, causing coolant and oil leaks. Symptoms include overheating, low coolant levels, and a rough idle. The gaskets can be replaced for $500 - $1,000+.
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leaks: The valve cover gaskets can also fail on the 6.0L V8 engine, leading to oil leaks. Symptoms include oil leaks from the valve covers and a burning oil smell. The gaskets can be replaced for $200 - $500+.
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail on the 6.0L V8 engine, causing a rattling noise when the engine is started. The timing chain tensioner can be replaced for $500 - $1,000+.

Transmission

4L80E 4-Speed Automatic

  • Transmission Slipping: The 4L80E 4-speed automatic transmission can experience slipping, especially when shifting into higher gears. Symptoms include a lack of power when accelerating and a higher than normal engine RPM. The transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced for $2,000 - $4,000+.
  • Torque Converter Failure: The torque converter can fail on the 4L80E 4-speed automatic transmission, causing a shudder when shifting into gear. The torque converter can be replaced for $1,000 - $2,000+.
  • Solenoid Failure: The solenoids in the 4L80E 4-speed automatic transmission can fail, causing shifting problems. Symptoms include erratic shifting and a check engine light. The solenoids can be replaced for $500 - $1,000+.

Suspension

  • Front Ball Joints: The front ball joints can wear out on the B7, causing a clunking noise when driving over bumps. The ball joints can be replaced for $300 - $500+ per side.
  • Leaf Spring Failure: The rear leaf springs can fail on the B7, leading to a sagging rear end. The leaf springs can be replaced for $500 - $1,000+ per side.

Electrical

  • Alternator Failure: The alternator can fail on the B7, causing the battery to drain and the vehicle to lose power. The alternator can be replaced for $500 - $1,000+.
  • Starter Failure: The starter can fail on the B7, making it difficult to start the vehicle. The starter can be replaced for $300 - $500+.
  • Battery Drain: The B7 may experience a battery drain due to a faulty component, such as a light that stays on after the vehicle is turned off. The battery drain can be fixed by repairing or replacing the faulty component.

Exterior

  • Rust: The B7 is prone to rust on the frame and body panels, especially in areas where salt is used on the roads. Rust can be prevented or repaired by applying rust-resistant coatings and treating existing rust.
  • Door Handle Failure: The door handles on the B7 can fail, making it difficult to open the doors. The door handles can be replaced for $100 - $200+ per side.
  • Tail Light Failure: The tail lights on the B7 can fail, making it difficult to see the vehicle at night. The tail lights can be replaced for $50 - $100+ per side.

Interior

  • Heater Core Failure: The heater core can fail on the B7, causing the vehicle to lose heat. The heater core can be replaced for $500 - $1,000+.
  • Air Conditioning Failure: The air conditioning system can fail on the B7, making it difficult to keep the vehicle cool. The air conditioning system can be repaired or replaced for $500 - $1,000+.
  • Power Window Failure: The power windows on the B7 can fail, making it difficult to open and close the windows. The power window motors or switches can be replaced for $200 - $500+ per window.

Summary

The 1998 GMC B7 is a powerful and spacious pickup truck, but it has its share of problems. The engine and transmission are prone to failures, and the suspension and electrical system can also experience issues. The interior is also not immune to problems, with potential issues including heater core failure, air conditioning failure, and power window failure. Overall, the B7 is a reliable vehicle, but it is important to be aware of the potential problems before purchasing one. The severity and cost of the issues vary depending on the specific problem, but some of the more serious issues can be expensive to fix.

GMC, B7
GMC B7 1998
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