New Owner - What major items to check?

[beastofburban]

Just bought a 96 Suburban SLT, 4x4, 454, 3.73 LS w/ 140k miles. Truck appears to run well. What are major issues with these trucks and where should I start my check up. Here's what I've gleaned so far:

1) Change the Fuel Filter
2) Change the Fuel Filter
3) Change the Fuel Filter......etc.

Ok so what else should I look out for? Is Tranny overheating a typical problem with these rigs? Will need tow horse trailer and like over cascades on occasion. Any insight would be appreciated.

[Fireplug]

change the fuel filter
keep an eye on the intake gaskets for coolant leaks
rotate the tires every 6,000 miles
oil and filter every 3,000
check all fluids trans rear diff , trans case, front diff(if it a 4 wheel drive)

[beastofburban]

Thanks fireplug.
from your list doesn't appear to be any major worries other than fuel filter/pump concerns and intake manifold. I'll do an inquiry on the vortec manifold and see what's up. Haven't had a bowtie for the last 25 years as they had some reliability issues for a while. Really like the road manners on this beast. Maybe it's time to give the blue ovals a rest.

[DDotson]

Have 230,000 plus miles on my 93 Suburban. Pull a trailer (camper) bigger than the truck, been through the mountains over the hills in and out of tunnels. No real major problems. Like he said change the oil regular (still use recommended 5w-30 pennzoil) keep it clean (salt will eat it up) and pay attention to the gauges.

Things I have replaced over the years.

Radiator, Water Pump, 1 injector, Cap, Rotor, Plugs, Wires, ICM, Fuel Filter, Fuel Pump, Battery and Cables, Thermostat, Tires, Complete exhaust, Air Filter (went with a K & N), Oxygen sensor, Rear shocks (Air Shocks to stabalize and improve milage for pulling the trailer), a turn signal bulb, Brakes and Drums / Rotors thats about it.

Don't forget to have it lubed also. Have yet to replace a front end part on it. Had the alignment checked a year ago and thats all they did was check it. Every thing was still tight and in alignment. Can still let go of the wheel drivin down the road and straight she goes. Had it checked because of weird tire wear. Turns out they were cheap tires I guess when you only pay 400.00 for the set (4) thats what you get. Have a 800.00 set (4) now and no signs of wear. You get what you pay for.

By the way I always use original stock parts (cost a little more through the dealer but worth it) with the exception of the Rear shocks and Air filter of coarse. The positive battery cable cost me 80 bucks.

I am originally from Michigan but have little rust to speak of (kept it clean especially in the winter) Now live in Memphis, Tn. and it still passes emisions and inspections every year.

Bottom line if you take care of it like recommended, you will get many many years and miles out of it. I love my truck and wouldn't give it up for any thing.