Looking to buy 1996-1999 model..looking for avice :)

I'm looking to purchase a 1996-1999 Suburban because I like the body style for these years, the price range, plus the airbags for safty. I wanted to get your input on the best Suburban year and model to purchase as it is unclear between the differences between some of the models. Specifically I will be looking at only the 5.7l engine with 4x4 models. Also, any input on the differences between the models (Apperance or performance) would be appreciated, K1500, C1500, LS, LT, SLT... Also, I've even seen ones advertised as Z-71 model and it appears that the 4x4 is not a push button but rather a Gear Shifter on the floor between the front seats, similar to my S-10 4x4. What's the difference in this and the push button 4x4's???

I'm not sure the difference in price for the z-71 models will justify buying for these years as for these prices used, i could be buying a 2002 4x4 burb...

From reading the past threads, it looks like I want to stay away from the 1996 K1500, 5.7 w/4L60e as the transmission will need to be replaced soon since most models I am looking at will be around 130k miles. But I will keep an eye out for Burb's with rebuilt tranny's. Any thoughts??

I think Suburbans came standard with the 350 (5.7L) though some of the may have had diesels as options. Driver airbag was standard for 1995, with passenger airbag added for 1997. There were no side airbags in these models. The Suburban body style changed for 2000 and the 5.7L was replaced with the 5.3L. In 2000, the old-body style Tahoe was sold only as the Z71 and Limited alongside the new body style Tahoes.

Chevrolet LS trim package = power windows, cloth seats, power locks, etc.
Chevrolet LT = leather, power seats, heated seats
SLE and SLT were GMC versions, comparable to the LS and LT.

Z71 trim packages were added for the 2000 K1500 Tahoe and the 2000 new body style Suburbans and Tahoes. A Z71 on a 1996-1999 Suburban would probably be aftermarket decals only. The Z71 was used on the pickups, though, and included the offroad suspension and skid plates.

K1500 = 4x4 half-ton
C1500 = 2wd half-ton

The leather on the LT/SLT is subject to cracking unless maintained regularly. You've probably seen plenty with the leather split on the driver seat.

I think the push-button 4wd had an Auto function that made the computer shift into 4wd if slippage was detected. Otherwise, it stayed in 2wd. The floor shifter was probably standard on the LS and may not have been available on the LT. Some Suburbans also came with the Work Truck package for vinyl seats, manual windows, etc.

I've heard where some had problems with electrical glitches on the pushbutton switch, and some say the manual shifter can be balky in extreme weather or if mud gets caked up on the undercarriage. Neither would prevent me from buying one over the other. Note that if you have the floor shifter, you won't have the center floor console.

All trucks had the 4L60E transmission though I think each year they upgraded it some. Your best bet is probably the later years and one that's been regularly serviced.

Problem areas:

Intake manifold gasket (can't remember which one, but think there is an upper and lower). A mechanic should be able to spot a leak as they are pretty common on these 350s.

Wiper circuit board may have some cracked solder joints causing the wipers to work erratically (sp?) or not at all. Just pick up a new board at the dealer for $40 and replace it. Takes about 5 minutes. Some models were recalled however, so it would be free in that case.

The lights on the radio are probably blown out...you'll notice at night that there are several buttons not lit up. They can be replaced though I understand it is tedious to do.

These are pretty reliable vehicles if regularly maintained, etc. Go with the latest model you can afford and get a mechanic to go over it for you. For about $100, it's a good investment to avoid a headache.

Hope this helps, good luck with your purchase.

the model year range you have discussed is a total cancer ridden lemon.

2000 and later model is MUCH better.