Re: got my tow vehicle
And now onto your new-to-you diesel.
I had a 1994 GMC 2500 with the 6.5L so have somewhat of a clue as to what I'm talking about. I now have a 2001 with the Duramax/Allison.
First, I would be very surprised if it doesn't have all the trailering stuff already. I don't think the diesels came without it.
You have a 4L80E tranny, which is a very good tranny. Keep it cool and it will be just fine. A tranny temp gauge goes a long way to letting you know if it is not cool. You can upgrade the tranny cooler, but I wouldn't unless you have an issue.
Look under the hood. 1997 was a transition year on the engine cooling. If you see two thermostats, you have the upgraded cooling which includes a higher volume water pump and two thermostats. If you have the single thermostat, you have the older cooling and I was able to overheat mine.
The real problems with the motor are the "Pump Mounted Driver (PMD)" also called something else I don't remember. Ebay is a good source for the fix. Search for PMD and you will see a bunch. Either carry a spare or relocate it somewhere cooler than the middle of the engine. The other problem is the Oil Pressure Sender (OPS). It shuts off the in-line fuel pump when the motor is off based on oil pressure. They go bad and your main pump ends up doing all the work. When towing, it can't pull enough fuel through and you have power problems.
Check the tow rating for your truck as it may be in the 7,000 pound range. I honestly think the 6.5L was able to pull more than the rating but GM downgraded it on the diesels. They kept the same 7,000 pound rating even in one ton pickups, despite heavier suspension, brakes etc. I towed about 6,500 pound with my pickup and found it towed fine. (The Duramax tows much better).
And think about an exhaust gas temp gauge (pyrometer) as you can cook your turbo. Once I put mine on I found I was exceeding 1300F with how I drove and had to change my habits a little.
The Diesel page was a good source for info on the 6.5L.
Let's see. What else. Use a decent diesel lubricant (alcohol free) especially with the low sulphur fuels out there now. Change the filters when you get it.
