2001 GMC W5500 Forward
2001 GMC W5500 Forward
The 2001 GMC W5500 Forward is a heavy-duty pickup truck that was produced from 2001 to 2003. It was available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including a 6.0L V8 gas engine with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7.4L V8 diesel engine with a 6-speed Allison automatic transmission. The W5500 Forward was known for its rugged construction and powerful engines, but it also had some issues that owners should be aware of.
Engine
6.0L V8 Gas Engine
- Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. This can lead to overheating and engine damage. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $500 - $1,000.
- Head gasket failure: The head gasket can also fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. This can lead to overheating and engine damage. The solution is to replace the head gasket. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $1,000 - $2,000.
7.4L V8 Diesel Engine
- Injector failure: The injectors can fail, causing the engine to run rough and lose power. The solution is to replace the injectors. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $500 - $1,000 per injector.
- Turbocharger failure: The turbocharger can fail, causing a loss of power. The solution is to replace the turbocharger. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $2,000 - $3,000.
Transmission
6-Speed Manual Transmission
- Synchro failure: The synchros can fail, making it difficult to shift gears. The solution is to replace the synchros. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $500 - $1,000.
6-Speed Allison Automatic Transmission
- Torque converter failure: The torque converter can fail, causing the transmission to slip or shudder. The solution is to replace the torque converter. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $1,000 - $2,000.
Suspension
- Leaf spring failure: The leaf springs can fail, causing the truck to sag and ride rough. The solution is to replace the leaf springs. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $500 - $1,000 per spring.
Electrical
- Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to drain and the truck to lose power. The solution is to replace the alternator. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $500 - $1,000.
- Battery failure: The battery can fail, causing the truck to lose power. The solution is to replace the battery. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $100 - $200.
Exterior
- Rust: The W5500 Forward is prone to rust, especially in the frame and cab. The solution is to prevent rust by applying a rust-resistant coating to the affected areas. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $500 - $1,000.
Interior
- Cracked dashboard: The dashboard can crack, especially in hot climates. The solution is to replace the dashboard. The estimated cost to fix this issue is $500 - $1,000.
Summary
The 2001 GMC W5500 Forward is a powerful and rugged truck, but it also has some issues that owners should be aware of. The most common issues include engine gasket failure, injector failure, turbocharger failure, torque converter failure, and leaf spring failure. These issues can be expensive to fix, so it is important to factor them into the cost of ownership. Overall, the W5500 Forward is a good truck for heavy-duty work, but it is important to be aware of the potential issues before buying one.