2007 Chevrolet W5500 Tiltmaster

The 2007 Chevrolet W5500 Tiltmaster is a medium-duty cab-over truck designed for commercial use. A common engine option for this model year is the 5.7L Vortec V8 gasoline engine, which produces approximately 295 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include the 7.8L Isuzu diesel engine, as well as the 4HE1. Transmission options vary, including manual and automatic transmissions depending on the engine and configuration. Owners appreciate the truck’s maneuverability in tight spaces and its robust chassis for hauling. However, some common complaints include issues with the engine, transmission, and electrical systems due to the age of the vehicle.

Engine

5.7L Vortec V8

• Engine Knocking
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine makes a knocking or pinging noise, especially under load. Can lead to decreased performance and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the knocking. Could be due to low octane fuel, carbon buildup, faulty knock sensor, or more serious internal engine issues like worn bearings or pistons. Depending on the cause, solutions range from using higher octane fuel and cleaning the engine, replacing the knock sensor, or performing engine repairs or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause and severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various engine locations, such as valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the faulty gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the location and complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found

7.8L Isuzu Diesel

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased power, poor fuel economy, and black smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Diagnose which fuel injector(s) are failing and replace them.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per injector, depending on labor costs and injector prices.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke, and whistling noises from the turbocharger. Could be caused by worn bearings, damaged impeller blades, or a failing wastegate actuator.
  • Solution: Inspect the turbocharger for damage or wear. Repair or replace the turbocharger as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+ depending on whether the turbo can be repaired or needs replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• General Automatic Transmission Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping gears, hard shifting, failure to shift, or unusual noises from the transmission.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific issue. Common problems include worn clutch packs, valve body issues, or solenoid failure. Repair or replace the affected components, or rebuild/replace the entire transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits lower on one side, rough ride, and potential for leaf springs to break under heavy loads.
  • Solution: Replace the worn or broken leaf springs. Consider upgrading to heavier-duty springs for increased load capacity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per spring, depending on the type and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Shocks/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replace the worn shocks or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per axle, depending on the type of shock and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights not working, gauges malfunctioning, or starting issues. Corrosion and chafing are common causes.
  • Solution: Inspect the wiring harness for damage and repair or replace as needed. Use dielectric grease to prevent future corrosion.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the severity and location of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle fails to start, clicking noises from the starter motor.
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the starter and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the body panels, especially in areas prone to moisture and road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Treat the rust with rust converter, filler, and repaint. Or, replace the body panels if the rust is too severe.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the size and location of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Upholstery Tears
  • Description/Symptoms: Tears, rips, and fraying of the fabric or vinyl upholstery.
  • Solution: Repair the upholstery, or replace the entire seat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ depending on the severity and repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Chevrolet W5500 Tiltmaster has common issues that owners may encounter due to the age of the vehicle. The most prevalent include engine knocking and oil leaks in the 5.7L Vortec V8 and fuel injector or turbocharger failure in the 7.8L Isuzu Diesel engine, electrical, suspension, and rust issues. The cost to repair these issues can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on the problem and its severity. Due to the wide range of potential issues and repair costs, it’s recommended to thoroughly inspect any potential purchase and factor in potential maintenance costs.