The 1997 Chevrolet 2500 Series trucks were available in two different versions, the K2500 and the C2500. The C2500 was only available in two-wheel drive, while the K2500 was available in four-wheel drive. Bleeding the rear brakes on either model of the 1997 2500 is the same process, regardless of vehicle type. Bleeding the rear brakes should take about a half hour to complete. This process can be completed with the rear wheels still on the vehicle, but will require raising the rear end of the truck.
Instructions
- 1
Park the truck on a level surface. Raise and support the hood of the truck for the duration of this project. View the brake fluid reservoir to check that it is at the "Full" mark. Add brake fluid to the reservoir to obtain a full level to begin this project. Always replace the reservoir cap after each filling.
2Raise the rear of the 2500 using a 2-ton jack, or a jack with greater capacity. Place jack stands beneath the rear axle housing, on either end. The farther apart you place the jack stands, the lower the truck's center of gravity and greater its stability will be.
3Lie beneath the rear bumper of the 2500 and slide yourself into position to access one of the bleeder screws, on the back of either rear brake housing. The bleeder screw is a small nipple with a hole through the middle. When released, the bleeder opens and allows air and brake fluid to escape the brake system. Place a drain or catch pan directly beneath the bleeder screw, so that the pan will catch fluid and brake spray.
4Instruct your assistant to enter the truck. Ask him to pump the brake pedal until the pedal provides solid resistance. If after three pumps the pedal is still going to the floor, instruct your assistant to remove his foot completely from the brake pedal.
5Open the bleeder screw on the rear of the brake housing 1 1/2 to 2 turns. Instruct your assistant to depress the brake pedal slowly to the floor of the truck. Ask your assistant to say "down" when the pedal is to the floor. Close the bleeder screw firmly, but do not torque the bleeder. Instruct your assistant to pump the brake pedal back up and hold his foot on the pedal. Ask him to say "holding" when the pedal is up. Repeat this step three times or until you have only fluid coming out of the line, rather than air.
6Check the brake fluid reservoir at the front of the truck after bleeding one side of the truck. Ensure the fluid level is at the "Full" mark. The fluid will be at a slight angle as the rear of the truck is raised. Add the fluid until the middle of the angle aligns with the "Full" mark. Replace the reservoir cap when finished.
7Repeat Steps 3, 4, and 5 to bleed the second side of the 2500. Use verbal commands like "down" and "holding" to ensure proper communication between you and your assistant. Ensure you complete the bleeding cycle at least three times, or until you hear no air escaping the brake line. The brake pedal should pump up to its full upward position when you have completely bled the system of air.
8Instruct your assistant to exit the truck. Raise the rear of the 2500 from the jack stands, using your jack. Remove the jack stands from beneath the truck and then lower the truck to the ground.
9Check the brake fluid reservoir to ensure that it is filled to the "Full" mark. Add fluid as necessary and then replace the reservoir cap.
