Description
The fourth-generation GMT400 C/K model line was introduced in April 1987 for the 1988 model year. Produced for nearly 14 years, the fourth-generation C/K underwent multiple minor revisions through its production, including a mid-cycle revision for the 1995 model year.
From 1988 to 1991, the model line was sold alongside its predecessor (the "Rounded-Line" C/K) and was sold alongside its successor (the GMT800 Silverado/Sierra) from 1999 to 2000. For 2001 and 2002, pickup trucks were discontinued, with the model line sold only as a C3500HD heavy-duty chassis cab.
1988 - 1994
For 1988, the fourth-generation C/K was introduced, including (nominal) 1⁄2-ton, 3⁄4-ton, and 1-ton pickup trucks and chassis cabs.[8] In a nomenclature revision, the 1500/2500/3500 payload series previously used by GMC was also adopted by Chevrolet (the Rounded-Line R/V series would do so for 1989).[8] At its launch, the new generation was offered in two cab configurations and three bed configurations; the extended cab was a first for GM full-size trucks.
For 1990, Chevrolet and GMC pickup trucks underwent a minor exterior revision, with upper trims (Chevrolet Scottsdale/Silverado, and GMC SLX/SLE) replacing four sealed-beam headlamps with white-lens composite headlamps; base trims (Cheyenne and GMC SL) continued the use of two sealed-beam headlamps. Two new versions (exclusive to Chevrolet) were introduced: the W/T 1500 and the 454SS. The W/T 1500 (W/T= Work Truck) was a de-contented version of the Cheyenne marketed primarily for work use; the 454SS combined elements of the Sport appearance package and the Silverado with the 7.4 L V8 of 3500-series trucks.[11]
For the 1992 model year, the Rounded Line (R/V series) was retired (after 18 years), with GM moving the crew-cab pickups and full-size SUVs to the GMT400 model line (nearly 5 years after its introduction). As its design had effectively been overtaken by that of the extended cab, the single-seat "Bonus cab" was not carried over (all crew cabs were now fitted with rear seats). In another change, trim levels were reduced to two, with the mid-level Chevrolet Scottsdale and GMC SLX withdrawn.
For 1993, the body of the GMT400 saw few changes, introducing front bucket seats for extended-cab pickups.[12] For 1994, the body was largely carryover.
1995 - 1998
For the 1995 model year, all GMT400 trucks underwent a mid-cycle revision, distinguished by a revision of the front fascia (for both Chevrolet and GMC). The sideview mirrors were redesigned and enlarged (adopted from the Suburban SUV); on extended cabs, opening rear side windows became standard equipment.[13] Several updates coincided with safety mandates, adding a driver-side airbag to all 1500-series (and most 2500-series) vehicles, 4-wheel ABS, a center brake light (CHMSL), and a brake-shift interlock for the transmission.[13]
For 1996, as a running change through the model year, extended-cab models received a passenger-side third door.[14] Introduced at nearly the same time as Ford (though a model year before), the feature was an option for all 1500-series extended-cab trucks.[14] The bench seat of Silverado/SLE-trim vehicles underwent a revision, with the center seatback converted to a fold-down armrest/console.[14] In another change, the GMT400 platform received daytime running lights as standard equipment.[15]
For 1997, the dashboard underwent a minor revision to accommodate a passenger-side airbag (only vehicles with a GVWR under 8500 pounds were equipped, including 1500-series and non-HD 2500s).[15][16]
For 1998, GM revised the tailgate badging for pickup trucks. To reflect the 1996 divisional merger of GMC and Pontiac,[5] "GMC Truck" became "GMC" on all Sierras; Chevrolet introduced a tailgate badge for Silverado-trim pickups matching Suburban and Tahoe SUVs.
