The Chevy Avalanche separates itself from the rest of the Chevy family of trucks as a cross between the pickup and sport utility vehicle. But, just as in any other gasoline engine, components wear out after a period of service, requiring adjustment or replacement at manufacturer recommended intervals. Fortunately, filters (fuel, oil and air), spark plugs and spark plug wires, distributor caps, rotors and other components are easy to inspect and replace if necessary; your Avalanche should provide you with years of service, if you tune up the vehicle properly and regularly.
Inspect the spark-plug wires insulation and electrical connectors for damage at 12,000 miles or every 12 months and replace them every three years. Also, replace the spark plugs every 18 months.
Remove the spark plugs using a ratchet, ratchet extension and spark-plug socket. Clean the spark plug and check the plug gap using a wire feeler gauge every 12,000 miles or 12 months. Check your vehicle owner's manual for the correct gap on your particular Avalanche model.
Examine the distributor cap and rotor for wear, carbon deposits and damage. Replace every 12,000 miles or 12 months, if necessary.
Check the V- or serpentine belt every three months for splits, tears, cuts and wear. Replace it every two years. If your particular Avalanche model is equipped with V-belts for the alternator, A/C or steering pump, check it every three months and replace it every two years or before if necessary.
Examine the condition of the radiator hoses and cap for damage every month. Clean the radiator of debris using a soft brush every three months and replace the coolant every 12,000 miles or 12 months each fall.
Replace the air and fuel filter, clean the crankcase breather--if equipped--and check the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve every 12,000 miles or 12 months.
Change the engine oil and filter every three months.
Inspect the condenser grille and check for connection leaks every 3,000 miles or three months.
Replace the brake fluid and hydraulic clutch fluid--if equipped--at least every two years. These fluids absorb moisture over time and may damage internal components if left unchecked.
