1992 GMC Jimmy - a TRUCKLOAD of questions!?

[Dez]

This is a repost. I think I asked at the wrong time the first time (3AM or so).

New (for me) vehicle. 2wd, 5 speed - cute little thing.

Can those shift indicator lights be adjusted? If I went by this one I'd be bogged down in 5th gear at 35mph!

The oil pressure gauge doesn't drop below 40 when off, then when I start it it jumps to above 80. It's supposed to run in the 40 range, but can the gauge be adjusted or does it need to be replaced?

Then there are additives. Are oil/gas/radiator treatments worth the money? Do they really help? I'm thinking of one for the radiator (just a flush), some kind of sludge cleaner for the oil before changing it and a gas treatment to clean the lines. Am I going to overdose the poor thing? An old man drove this, never maintained it, drove it maybe 20 miles twice a week at 30mph. I'm planning on an oil change, radiator flush, changing the plugs (and maybe the wires) and going to have them look underneath while they have it on the rack - axles, universal joints, transmission fluid levels checked...

Anything else I haven't thought of mechanically?

Now interior - living in a small town, we only have one junkyard and it isn't very helpful. Anyone know of an online site that could help me with little stuff like armrests, ashtrays, etc?

Oxidation - Do I just wash and wax it? Is there an all-in-one product I can use? I'm old and get tired quick! If I washed the little Toyota p/u I've been driving it would probably fall apart.

Chilton or Haynes?

And if I don't get a perfect 56/44 mix for the antifreeze (who thought of that ratio, anyway??) will it damage anything? That's about 7qts/5qts for a 12.1 qt capacity, right?

Oil types! I was told if I went synthetic I had to stay with it or it would damage my vehicle. What's a blend? Do you buy it blended or mix the oil types? Are there serious pros to switching? I have old stuff ('48 Willys, '69 GMC p/u) and I've always used a regular detergeant type oil. I get good results with what I use - it isn't necessary that I go synthetic, is it?

I love the 'net - where else could I be asking a million people all these questions, and they'll actually answer! THANKS! I really appreciate it...
Thanks for the informative answer! The premixes I've seen have all been 50/50, and that isn't what my book calls for. I hate math...

I'm still in the distributor caps, rotor and condensor kind of tune-up mentality. Never had anything computerized before.

 

[superb9006]

Haven't heard of shift indicators in a long time. These work off of a speed sensor or a sensor for the R.P.M. So no, they are not adjustable. The sensor that sends the signal probably needs replaced.

As far as the oil pressure, the gauge is only an idea of the pressure. A more accurate reading is with a numbered dial. As long as it isn't low or fluctuating, it's fine. And no, you don't need a synthetic oil.

The internet is a good place to find parts. Just try and find a place that has everything or most of what your looking for to save on shipping.

As far as the exterior, for a good shine, it takes work. A mild polish can give an almost new shine. But it takes hours of work with a buffer. If you don;t think your up to it, take it to a detailer.

I prefer Haynes.

No, a not so accurate mix of anti-freeze will damage the engine. If in doubt, buy the premixed.

A good tune up is always a good idea. Don't forget air filter, P.C.V. valve, tire tread, brakes, and see when the service schedule calls for a timing chain/belt.

And don't worry about additives. The manufacturers of oil, gas, and anti-freeze have to meet government standards. I know this isn't saying much, but they can't sell you something that will cause your engine to fail.

 

[Mike W]

First Those Lights R The Least Of Issues. Maybe Resetting Computer Will Fix This. Additives Are A Good Idea In Moderation. Definitely Get An Oil Change And Flush The Radiator. Half And Half Is Fine For Coolant Just Make Sure You Use The Same Color Or You Will Get Sludge! And For Crying Out Loud Use Regular Motor Oil. Its Cheaper.

 

[sonna]

HI
I would really appreciate any info you can give me. I am in Kentucky. I would travel or have items shipped to me. I've been looking everywhere. I know there is some out there.
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