GM-GMC: 1988 S15, GMC Pick up, autos chevy, kelly blue book

Question
I'm considering buying a 1988 GMC S15 Pick up.  I don't know the previous owner.  The asking price is $3495.00.  It is a V6, Automatic, with air.

My question is what should I be looking for and what questions should I ask?

Also, I have not been able to contact the seller yet but I am assuming it is a 2.8L engine.  Some people tell me not to worry about the engine but others tell me don't even consider a 2.8L.  

There is something that sticks in the back of my mind about the 2.8L but I can't find anyone who can give me any specifics.

I would appreciate any advise you have.

Thank you.

Answer
Hi Rob - My experience with the 2.8 was actually pretty positive.  We sold quite a few in their day, and the big thing that made it work for us, was the axle ratio.  It seemed that with the Automatic transmission, if you had a 3.73 axle ratio, that little 2.8 really performed well and got better mileage than with the higher ratio rear end.  

Look for one of these codes in the glovebox:

GU4 - 3.08
GU5 - 3.23
GU6 - 3.42
GT4 - 3.73
GT5 - 4.10

I remember that there were always exhaust leaks where the exhaust manifold met up with the exhaust pipe.  The seal would burn out, or the spring or bolt would break.  An inconvenience that sounds terrible and can be hard to fix if a bolt breaks off.

Nothing major really sticks out in my mind, but that was awhile ago.  You should of course, have the truck inspected by either your own garage you trust, or AAA (CAA in Canada) to have them look for any surprises.  Try doing a search at Registries, or the GM dealership to see if they can take the VIN and help you locate the previous owner.  That would be great to be able to talk to him/her.

Check out the truck prices at places like Kelly Blue Book, the Truck Trader, and such, to find a comparable truck selling to see what it is being sold for.

Lastly, try asking one of the guys that lurk at alt.autos.chevy-trucks.  The newsgroups are a fantastic resource that is a great meeting place where you can get some good advice.

Hope this helps and if I can help any further, please feel free to drop me a line.

Automotively yours,


Dean