Chevrolet Light Duty Truck 1973 Service Manual page 22

0 - 1 6 GENERAL IN F O R M A T IO N A N D LUBRICATIO N
automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent as
DEXRON
necessary to bring level into proper range on filler cap
indicator depending upon fluid temperature.
If at operating temperature (approximately 150°F—hot to
the touch), fluid should be between "HOT" and
"COLD" marks.
If at room temperature (approximately 70°F), fluid
should be between "A DD " and "COLD" marks. Fluid
does not require periodic changing.
STEERING LINKAGE AND SUSPENSION
M aintain correct front end alignment to provide easy
steering, longer tire life, and driving stability.
Check control arm bushings and ball joints for wear.
Lubricate tie rods, upper and lower control arms, and
ball joints at fittings with water resistant EP chassis
lubricant which meets General Motors Specification GM
6031-M every 6,000 miles or 4 months.
Lubricate every 3,000 miles or 2 months whichever
occurs first under the following conditions:
• Driving in dusty or muddy conditions.
• Extensive ofF-road use.
NOTE: Ball joints must be at + 10°F. or
more before lubricating.
Keep spring to axle U bolts and shackle bolts properly
tightened (see Specifications Section for torque recom­
mendations). Check U bolt nuts after the first 1,000 miles
of operation if the U bolt or U bolt nuts are changed in
service.
HOOD LATCH AND HOOD HINGE
Every 6,000 miles or 4 months, whichever occurs first,
lubricate hood latch assembly and hood hinge assembly
as follows:
1. Wipe off any accumulation of dirt or contamination
on latch parts.
2. Apply Lubriplate or equivalent to latch pilot bolt
and latch locking plate.
3. Apply light engine oil to all pivot points in release
mechanism, as well as prim ary and secondary latch
mechanisms.
4. Lubricate hood hinges.
5. Make hood hinge and latch mechanism functional
check to assure the assembly is working correctly.
BODY LUBRICATION
Normal use of a truck causes metal-to-metal movement
at certain points in the cab or body. Noise, wear and
improper operation at these points will result when a
protective film of lubricant is not provided.
For exposed surfaces, such as door checks, door lock
bolts, lock striker plates, dovetail bumper wedges, etc.,
apply a thin film of light engine oil.
Where oil holes are provided in body parts a dripless oil
can be safely used, but any lubricant should be used
sparingly, and after application all excess should be
carefully wiped off.
The seat adjusters and seat track, ordinarily overlooked,
should be lubricated with water resistant EP chassis
lubricant which meets General Motors Specification GM
6031-M.
There are other points on bodies which may occasionally
require lubrication and which are difficult to service.
Window regulators and controls are confined in the
space between the upholstery and the outside door panel.
Easy access to the working parts may be made by
removing the trim. Door weatherstrips and rubber hood
bumpers should be lightly coated with a rubber
lubricant.
UNDERBODY MAINTENANCE
The effects of salt and other corrosive materials used for
ice and snow removal and dust control can result in
accelerated rusting and deterioration of underbody
components such as brake and fuel lines, frame,
underbody floor pan, exhaust system, brackets, parking
brake cables. These corrosive effects, however, can be
reduced by periodic flushing of the underbody with plain
water. In geographic areas having a heavy concentration
of such corrosive materials, it is recommended that the
complete underbody be inspected and flushed at least
once a year, preferably after a winter's exposure.
Particular attention should be given to cleaning out
underbody members where dirt and other foreign
materials may have collected.
FOUR WHEEL DRIVE
Most lubrication recommendations and procedures for 4
wheel drive-equipped trucks are the same for corre­
sponding components of conventional drive trucks.
In addition, the following items require lubrication at the
intervals mentioned.
LIGHT DUTY TRUCK SERVICE MANUAL