1996 Chevrolet B7 problems
The Chevrolet and GMC B series was a series of cowled chassis that were produced by General Motors. Produced across three generations from 1966 to 2003, the model line was a variant of medium-duty trucks marketed under the Chevrolet and GMC nameplates. Initially derived from the medium-duty C/K series, later examples were derived from the GMT530 architecture.
The B-series was constructed as a cowled-chassis design; also known as an incomplete vehicle, all bodywork aft of the firewall was produced by a second-stage manufacturer. While primarily used for school bus applications, General Motors offered the chassis for multiple commercial and specialty uses.
Following 2003 production, the B-series was discontinued as GM concentrated on bus production derived from cutaway cabs. Until its 2009 discontinuation, the medium-duty GMT560 chassis was used for bus applications (only in a cutaway configuration). As of current production, General Motors provides bus chassis for both school bus and commercial bus applications, deriving all production from the light-duty GMT610 (Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana) cutaway van.
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Common 1996 Chevrolet B7 problems
The 1996 Chevrolet B7 has been known to have several common problems that owners have reported. One of the most prevalent issues is related to the engine, specifically the 7.0-liter engine that was used in this model. This engine has been reported to have issues with the long block, which includes the crankshaft, connecting rods, bearings, pistons, rings, camshafts, and timing chain. Additionally, the cylinder heads, including head casting, valves, keepers, springs, and seals, may also experience problems. The remanufactured engines offered by some suppliers include updated rocker arms, pushrods, and lifters to complete the engine build, but these may still be subject to wear and tear over time.
Another common problem with the 1996 Chevrolet B7 is related to the starter motor. The starter motor is responsible for starting the engine, and if it fails, the engine will not start. The starter motor for the 1996 Chevrolet B7 is a 6.0L(366) V8 Gas 6449N, and it has been reported to have issues with the wiring, brushes, insulation, bearings, and coatings. These issues can lead to inconsistent performance in all conditions, and it is recommended to use high-standard components for replacement.
The 1996 Chevrolet B7 has also been reported to have issues with the Engine Control Unit (ECU). The ECU is responsible for controlling various engine functions, and if it fails, it can lead to a range of problems, including poor engine performance, poor fuel economy, and even engine failure. The symptoms of a faulty ECU can include reduced engine power, poor fuel economy, engine stalling, and difficulty starting the engine. If you believe you have a faulty ECU, it is recommended to have it tested before spending on costly diagnostic labor and sensors.
In summary, the 1996 Chevrolet B7 has several common problems that owners have reported, including engine issues, starter motor problems, and ECU problems. These issues can lead to a range of problems, including poor engine performance, poor fuel economy, and even engine failure. It is recommended to use high-standard components for replacement and to have any suspected issues tested before spending on costly diagnostic labor and sensors.
What are the common problems with a 6.5 turbo diesel?
6.5 Durability With High Power and Harsh Conditions
- Cracked heads.
- Cracked blocks.
- Failed PMD (FSD)
- Running hot, especially when towing.
- Failing injection pump.
- Blown head gaskets.
- Failed oil cooler lines.
What is the best year for the 6.5 Turbo Diesel?
The 6.5L Turbo Diesel engine option first became available in GM's 1992 model year 2500/3500 series pickup trucks. Looking back, we now know that the 1992 & 93 model years were the best years for the 6.5L in terms of performance, customer satisfaction and sales volume.
Was the 6.5 Turbo diesel a good engine?
Price wise, they not bad compared to other diesels. To either buy or fix. Buying is cheap because of their (well earned) bad rep. It's mostly because of the original "injector pump debacle" (was actually the PMD, not the pump), but they had lots of other faults that were equally as bad and maintains the bad rep.
How many miles per gallon does a 6.5 Turbo Diesel get?
A typical 6.5TD with 3.42 gearing will produce in excess of 20 mpg at 65 mph because the engine rpm at that speed is right at the engine's torque peak of about 1800 rpm. A truck with 4.10 gearing is running at about 2250 rpm at the same speed, which typically produces about 15 mpg.
What are the common problems with a 6.5 turbo diesel?
6.5 Durability With High Power and Harsh Conditions
- Cracked heads.
- Cracked blocks.
- Failed PMD (FSD)
- Running hot, especially when towing.
- Failing injection pump.
- Blown head gaskets.
- Failed oil cooler lines.
What is the best year for the 6.5 Turbo Diesel?
The 6.5L Turbo Diesel engine option first became available in GM's 1992 model year 2500/3500 series pickup trucks. Looking back, we now know that the 1992 & 93 model years were the best years for the 6.5L in terms of performance, customer satisfaction and sales volume.
Was the 6.5 Turbo diesel a good engine?
Price wise, they not bad compared to other diesels. To either buy or fix. Buying is cheap because of their (well earned) bad rep. It's mostly because of the original "injector pump debacle" (was actually the PMD, not the pump), but they had lots of other faults that were equally as bad and maintains the bad rep.
What kind of fuel mileage does a 6.5 diesel get?
Both Duramax and 6.5L TD fuel economy while running empty could range from 15-20 mpg depending on gearing and driving habits.
1996 Chevrolet B7 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet B7 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Chevrolet B7 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1996 Chevrolet B7 complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Chevrolet B7.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-01
- VIN: 1GNDT13WXT2
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE VEHICLE SWAYED WHEN AN OBSTACLE WAS HIT IN THE ROAD.*JB
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Chevrolet B7 problems:
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