2008 Chevrolet W5500 Tiltmaster

Introduction to the 2008 Chevrolet W5500 Tiltmaster

The 2008 Chevrolet W5500 Tiltmaster is a heavy-duty commercial truck designed for hauling and towing large loads. It is available with a range of engine and transmission options, providing buyers with the flexibility to choose the configuration that best suits their needs.

The W5500 Tiltmaster is powered by a standard 6.6L Duramax V8 turbocharged diesel engine. This engine produces 350 horsepower and 660 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for both hauling and towing. The 6.6L Duramax V8 is paired with a heavy-duty Allison 6-speed automatic transmission.

Drivers appreciate the W5500 Tiltmaster’s powerful engine, sturdy construction, and spacious cabin. However, some owners have reported experiencing issues with certain components of the vehicle.

Engine

6.6L Duramax V8 Turbocharged Diesel

• Injector failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine performance problems, black smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace faulty injectors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V646000
• Turbocharger failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from exhaust, whistling or squealing noise
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
• EGR valve failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor engine performance, rough idling, increased emissions
  • Solution: Clean or replace EGR valve
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Transmission

Allison 6-Speed Automatic

• Slipping gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission struggles to engage properly, hesitation or slipping when shifting
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
• Torque converter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, transmission overheating, abnormal noises
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500

Suspension

• Leaf spring breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive noise, uneven ride, loss of handling
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per leaf spring

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, stalling, battery discharge
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies quickly, even when vehicle is not in use
  • Solution: Diagnose and fix electrical component causing drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on source of drain

Interior

• Cruise control malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Cruise control does not engage or maintain speed properly
  • Solution: Replace cruise control switch or module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Exterior

• Door handle breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaks off or becomes loose
  • Solution: Replace door handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Summary

The 2008 Chevrolet W5500 Tiltmaster is a capable heavy-duty truck, but it is not without its issues. Common problems include injector failure, turbocharger failure, slipping gears, torque converter failure, and leaf spring breakage. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but in some cases, they can be significant. Owners should be aware of these potential problems and budget accordingly for repairs.