Some 1983-1986 C/K Trucks may experience a condition where the grille mounting tabs exhibit cracks or break off. To address this condition, the valance panel and radiator grille assembly have been revised interim 1986. The changes incorporated in these parts will allow for the expansion and contraction of the grille assembly due to temperature changes. The revised valance panel and radiator grille assembly were changed in production beginning with the following vehicle identification breakpoints.
Assembly Plant VIN -------------- --- Janesville GJ118379 Flint GF323009 (Pick-up) GF117310 (Suburban) Oshawa G1131130 St. Louis GS125193
The valance panel on affected 1983 - 1986 C/K Trucks can be modified by slotting the two outboard grille mounting holes following the service procedure below.
Refer to the attached parts list for the revised assemblies.
1. Remove headlamp bezels and grille. Discard grille assembly if cracked or broken.
2. Remove the plastic nut from the two outboard mounting holes of the front valance panel (See Figure No. 1).
3. Use a nibbling tool to slot the two outer valance panel holes .1 inch on each side, in the cross vehicle direction (See Figure No. 1 View A). This will change the square .3 x .3 inch hole to a rectangular .3 x .5 inch hole.
4. Paint exposed steel edges as required to prevent corrosion.
5. Reinstall plastic nuts. Install appropriate grille assembly and nuts from part numbers listed. Reinstall headlamp bezels.
1983-84 14043877 Grille-Light Argent 1 Insert-No Moldings
1984 14043878 Grille-With Economy 1 Decor Package (Option Number YJ6)
1985-86 15598720 Grille-Requires 1 Bright Moldings
1985-86 15598721 Grille-Normal 1 Moldings
1985-86 15554911 Grille-Color Coat 1 to Match
1983-86 3919773 Plastic Nuts 5
General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.