2006 GMC W5500 Forward

Introduction

The 2006 GMC W5500 Forward is a heavy-duty commercial vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 34,000 pounds. It comes standard with a 7.8-liter Vortec V8 engine producing 320 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. A 6.6-liter Duramax V8 diesel engine with 350 horsepower and 700 lb-ft of torque is available as an option. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual Allison RS2900 transmission and a 6-speed automatic Allison 3000SP transmission.

Drivers praise the W5500 Forward for its towing and hauling capabilities, spacious cab, and comfortable ride. However, some issues have been reported with the vehicle.

Engine

• Engine: 7.8-liter Vortec V8
  • Issue: Valve stem failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust
    • Solution: Replace the valve stems
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Engine: 6.6-liter Duramax V8 diesel
  • Issue: Injector Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, rough idle, decreased power, increased fuel consumption
    • Solution: Replace the injectors
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Transmission: 6-speed manual Allison RS2900
  • Issue: Synco issue
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noise when shifting
    • Solution: Replace the synchronizers
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic Allison 3000SP
  • Issue: Torque converter failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, shuddering, overheating
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $3,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Issue: Leaf spring breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Severe vibration, rough ride, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Issue: Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, weak battery, no charging
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Issue: Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots on the body panels and frame
  • Solution: Rust proofing and repairs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of damage
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Issue: HVAC system failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No heat or air conditioning, blower motor noise
  • Solution: Replace the HVAC components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 GMC W5500 Forward is a capable workhorse, but it has some potential issues that owners should be aware of. The engine and transmission issues can be expensive to repair, and the rust issue can affect the vehicle’s longevity. Overall, the severity and cost of the issues vary, so it’s important for potential buyers to research the vehicle thoroughly before making a purchase.