Buying a used Holden Suburban (1998-2000)

The February 1998 arrival of the mammoth Chevrolet Suburban wagon created a stir with the Holden lion spliced into its grille. Holden's first Chevrolet passenger model since 1968 was based on the full-size C/K series pick-up chassis from 1992.

Mexican-built, it combined Canadian instruments in a Blazer dash with RHD pick-up parts. Choose between revised Vortec 5700 version of the early iron block 350 petrol V8 with 190kW/440Nm or the 6.5-litre turbodiesel V8 with 145kW/522Nm. Three levels came in 1500 petrol and 2500 diesel models: base, LS and LT.

Entry levels including LS had a split three seat front bench while the LT had front buckets and leather. All had three row seating with large luggage area, ABS and a basic four-wheel-drive system. After Holden cleared the last examples in 2001, 286 diesel models and 460 petrol models had sold.

CHECKPOINTS
Suburban longevity depends on matching it with intended usage. The 1500 petrol series had a 770kg payload for recreational use only. The 2500 diesel payload was rated at 958kg with suspension, driveline, axles, chassis and brake components upgraded to suit its heavy duty focus.

A starting weight of 2540kg for the petrol model along with nine full-sized passengers pushed the package to the limit. The diesel's starting weight of 2942kg ensured that economy and performance were compromised but delivered a longevity margin when worked hard. Body develops creaks and groans then settles for long life.

Look for tired and sagging springs, noisy diffs, bouncy shocks and worn engines on overworked 1500 petrol models. A leaking intake manifold gasket on the petrol V8 can generate plug fouling and excessive oil consumption.  Platinum tipped spark plugs due for replacement at 160,000km.

The diesel must be serviced according to the 10,000km schedule or earlier under city driving with oil and filters that meet GM specifications. Its electronic injection pump is a routine replacement item so check recent maintenance history.

High brake pad and rotor wear on front wheels. Some aftermarket items can extend life. A replacement proportioning valve and upgraded rear brake shoes can even out the normally heavy brake wear.

The 1500 auto is the 4L60-E, the 2500 diesel has the upgraded 4L80-E. Similar to Commodore transmissions, there are no surprises except the occasional fluid leak near the valve body and normal wear and tear.

A turning circle of 14 metres, length of 5575mm and height just under 1900mm dictate light truck storage space and accessibility. The plus side is light truck longevity with many examples already topping 400,000km with few failures if maintenance is kept up to date.

Front ball joints, steering arms and other components work hard with this much weight and massive tyres especially with owners who haul on the steering while stationary. All front-end components must be checked carefully to ensure that already sloppy steering has not worsened.

All body parts need to be checked carefully. Neglected door hinges side and rear can seize and sag. Internal door handles can snap with abuse. Check that all gauges read steadily and all electronic components work.