Becoming familiar with my new '96 Suburban

[Turbogus]

Hi gang,
This is going to be my newest vehicular purchase in many years and I hope folks will bear with me over some elemental questions that I'll be posting for a while.
First off, the sound system was kaput but finding the fuse panel on the side of the dash I found a burned out 10 amp fuse and the AM/FM Cassette and CD all came back to life, also I found the alternator wire was loose on the side post battery.
I wonder if the terminals of the alternator and batter are bimetal or copper? After taking care of my CJ in this regard I'd like to do the same for this Subr.
Luckily I found the original Owner's Manual, thick sucker compared to the one's of the '70's and '80's that I'm used to... I wonder how many volumes are the TSM's

 

[Turbogus]

By the build sheet that I found in one of the many comartments are some of the highlights;
2 Stage Multi leaf RR springs
Front Stablizer Bar
100 amp Alternator
Four wheel Anti Lock brakes (presently with an amber warning light on the insturment panel)
42 Gallons fuel tank
Deep tinted windows
6 way Power Seats
Keyless Entry (missing Fob)
Front & Rear A/C
Electric Locker in rear 3.78 ratio
Skid Plate
Rear heater

I've got the ownber's manual and once I complete the purchase I may get into the TSM to address the issues listed above. Funds will dictate how soon I can addrewss any issues though.

 

[Turbogus]

Can anyone tell me what this thing is? Found it in the glove compartment;

 

[Turbogus]

Next project is to fix the missing parkng brake handle, does anyone have a pic of how it connects to the cable and panel? I've got two cables hanging out of the kickpanel, the other beng the hood latch I reckon.

 

[Turbogus]

 

[Turbogus]

Well, plunked down the $2500 clams today and now it's on to a few elements to fix, repair or replace.
1. Hood latch lever is AWOL it looks to have the cord and end intact (I hope) so I think only a lever is needed
2. Parking brake release level is also AWOL, there a couple of strands loose (as pictured above)
3. Diagnose and figure out what's up with the frequent idiot lights for the ABS and Service Engine Soon lights. I think this '96 is a OBD2 and I noticed NAPA has one on sale for $39, I may have to augment my test equipment.

 

[Turbogus]

......and now........ rod knocking. Luckily the shop is getting another motor from the wrecking yard so we'll see how it goes.

 

[Turbogus]

Got the repalcement motor swapped in and first full day of commute driving and radiator is leaking coolant from lower hose region. Anyone have a TSM to help me get past the radiator cover and other components to get a closer look at the lower hose? I've been over and under the motor but too many panels and parts blocking suspect area.