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1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP Oil Capacity, Types, & Filters

Your ultimate DIY maintenance guide for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP oil change is here! No more searching – find all the critical oil specs for your 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP, including exact engine oil capacity, the manufacturer recommended oil viscosity and type, and the correct OEM and aftermarket oil filters.

We cover all available engine options categorized by their specific engine codes, ensuring you get pinpoint accuracy for your specific vehicle configuration. Keep reading to discover everything required for a successful 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP oil change!

Scroll Table ➜

Engine & CodeOil CapacityOil Viscosity/TypeOil Filter
4.3L 6-cylinder [N] N5 quarts (with filter)SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)		GM 12737090
GM 19431429
5.0L 8-cylinder [L] L5 quarts (with filter)SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)		GM 19431429
GM 25010908
GM 12731179
5.7L 8-cylinder [M] M5 quarts (with filter)SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)		GM 19431429
GM 25010908
GM 12731179
5.7L 8-cylinder [H] H5.1 quarts (with filter)SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)		GM 19431429
GM 25010908
6.2L 8-cylinder [C] C Diesel7 quarts (with filter)SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)		GM 19431429
6.2L 8-cylinder [J] J DieselN/AN/AGM 19431429

Select Your 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP Engine Option

4.3L 6-cylinder Engine Code [N] N

Engine:

4.3L 6-cylinder [N] N [aka 4.3L V6 (Gas)]

Body & Trims:

Base, High Sierra, Sierra Classic

Oil Capacity:

5 quarts (with filter)

Oil Viscosity/Type:

SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

OEM Oil Filter:

GM 12737090 and GM 19431429

Oil Filter Replaces:

19210286, 25171377 and 25014831, 25160561, 6438384, 89060468

1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 4.3L 6-cylinder [N] N oil change details

Oil Grade:

API*

Oil Capacity:

5 quarts. (with filter). This is the capacity with the oil filter installed. Always check the oil level after refilling.

Oil Viscosity/Type:

SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C) - SAE 10W-30 is preferred.
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

Name of Oil Filter:

N/A

Wix Oil Filter:

51036-EA

Wix Air Filter:

N/A

Coolant Capacity:

11.1 quarts

Oil Drain Plug Torque:

12-20 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug)

Notes:

N/A

How much oil does the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 4.3L 6-cylinder ([N] N) take?

A complete oil change for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 4.3L 6-cylinder (with engine code [N] N) requires 5 quarts (with filter) of engine oil. To ensure safety and performance, always verify the level on the dipstick after refilling.

What type of oil is recommended for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 4.3L 6-cylinder ([N] N)?

For optimal engine longevity, the manufacturer recommended motor oil for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 4.3L 6-cylinder is using:

SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

Ensure the oil you choose meets the API* standard.

What is the best oil filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 4.3L 6-cylinder ([N] N)?

The factory-recommended OEM oil filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 4.3L 6-cylinder is the GM 12737090 or GM 19431429. If you prefer a top-tier aftermarket option, the Wix 51036-EA is an excellent choice.

What is the oil drain plug torque spec for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 4.3L 6-cylinder ([N] N)?

To prevent leaks or stripped oil pan threads, the drain plug on the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 4.3L 6-cylinder should be tightened to exactly 12-20 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) and we also recommend installing a new crush washer with every oil change.

What is the correct air filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 4.3L 6-cylinder ([N] N)?

For optimal engine performance and clean airflow, the recommended engine air filter replacement for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 4.3L 6-cylinder is the Wix or other equivalent found in air filter cross-reference catalog for this trim compatible with your intake system. It is a good maintenance habit to inspect this filter during every oil change.

What is the coolant capacity for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 4.3L 6-cylinder ([N] N)?

The total engine coolant (antifreeze) capacity for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 4.3L 6-cylinder is:

11.1 quarts

Always ensure you use the manufacturer-approved coolant color and type to prevent internal corrosion.

5.0L 8-cylinder Engine Code [L] L

Engine:

5.0L 8-cylinder [L] L [aka 5.0L V8 (Gas)]

Body & Trims:

Base, High Sierra, Sierra Classic

Oil Capacity:

5 quarts (with filter)

Oil Viscosity/Type:

SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

OEM Oil Filter:

GM 19431429, GM 25010908 and GM 12731179

Oil Filter Replaces:

25014831, 25160561, 6438384, 89060468 and 12576499, 19210285, 19256044, 25010324, 25014377, 6437462, 89017342

1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.0L 8-cylinder [L] L oil change details

Oil Grade:

API*

Oil Capacity:

5 quarts. (with filter). This is the capacity with the oil filter installed. Always check the oil level after refilling.

Oil Viscosity/Type:

SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C) - SAE 10W-30 is preferred.
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

Name of Oil Filter:

N/A

Wix Oil Filter:

51061-EA

Wix Air Filter:

42098-EA

Coolant Capacity:

17.4 quarts - For models WithOut Air Conditioning (AC).
18 quarts - For models with Air Conditioning (AC).

Oil Drain Plug Torque:

20 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug)

Notes:

N/A

How much oil does the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.0L 8-cylinder ([L] L) take?

A complete oil change for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.0L 8-cylinder (with engine code [L] L) requires 5 quarts (with filter) of engine oil. To ensure safety and performance, always verify the level on the dipstick after refilling.

What type of oil is recommended for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.0L 8-cylinder ([L] L)?

For optimal engine longevity, the manufacturer recommended motor oil for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.0L 8-cylinder is using:

SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

Ensure the oil you choose meets the API* standard.

What is the best oil filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.0L 8-cylinder ([L] L)?

The factory-recommended OEM oil filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.0L 8-cylinder is the GM 19431429, GM 25010908 or GM 12731179. If you prefer a top-tier aftermarket option, the Wix 51061-EA is an excellent choice.

What is the oil drain plug torque spec for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.0L 8-cylinder ([L] L)?

To prevent leaks or stripped oil pan threads, the drain plug on the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.0L 8-cylinder should be tightened to exactly 20 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) and we also recommend installing a new crush washer with every oil change.

What is the correct air filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.0L 8-cylinder ([L] L)?

For optimal engine performance and clean airflow, the recommended engine air filter replacement for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.0L 8-cylinder is the Wix 42098-EA. It is a good maintenance habit to inspect this filter during every oil change.

What is the coolant capacity for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.0L 8-cylinder ([L] L)?

The total engine coolant (antifreeze) capacity for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.0L 8-cylinder is:

17.4 quarts - For models WithOut Air Conditioning (AC).
18 quarts - For models with Air Conditioning (AC).

Always ensure you use the manufacturer-approved coolant color and type to prevent internal corrosion.

5.7L 8-cylinder Engine Code [M] M

Engine:

5.7L 8-cylinder [M] M [aka 5.7L V8 (Gas)]

Body & Trims:

Base, High Sierra, Sierra Classic

Oil Capacity:

5 quarts (with filter)

Oil Viscosity/Type:

SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

OEM Oil Filter:

GM 19431429, GM 25010908 and GM 12731179

Oil Filter Replaces:

25014831, 25160561, 6438384, 89060468 and 12576499, 19210285, 19256044, 25010324, 25014377, 6437462, 89017342

1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder [M] M oil change details

Oil Grade:

API*

Oil Capacity:

5 quarts. (with filter). This is the capacity with the oil filter installed. Always check the oil level after refilling.

Oil Viscosity/Type:

SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C) - SAE 10W-30 is preferred.
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

Name of Oil Filter:

N/A

Wix Oil Filter:

51061-EA

Wix Air Filter:

42098-EA

Coolant Capacity:

17.4 quarts - For models WithOut Air Conditioning (AC).
18 quarts - For models with Air Conditioning (AC).

Oil Drain Plug Torque:

20 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug)

Notes:

N/A

How much oil does the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder ([M] M) take?

A complete oil change for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder (with engine code [M] M) requires 5 quarts (with filter) of engine oil. To ensure safety and performance, always verify the level on the dipstick after refilling.

What type of oil is recommended for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder ([M] M)?

For optimal engine longevity, the manufacturer recommended motor oil for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder is using:

SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

Ensure the oil you choose meets the API* standard.

What is the best oil filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder ([M] M)?

The factory-recommended OEM oil filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder is the GM 19431429, GM 25010908 or GM 12731179. If you prefer a top-tier aftermarket option, the Wix 51061-EA is an excellent choice.

What is the oil drain plug torque spec for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder ([M] M)?

To prevent leaks or stripped oil pan threads, the drain plug on the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder should be tightened to exactly 20 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) and we also recommend installing a new crush washer with every oil change.

What is the correct air filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder ([M] M)?

For optimal engine performance and clean airflow, the recommended engine air filter replacement for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder is the Wix 42098-EA. It is a good maintenance habit to inspect this filter during every oil change.

What is the coolant capacity for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder ([M] M)?

The total engine coolant (antifreeze) capacity for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder is:

17.4 quarts - For models WithOut Air Conditioning (AC).
18 quarts - For models with Air Conditioning (AC).

Always ensure you use the manufacturer-approved coolant color and type to prevent internal corrosion.

5.7L 8-cylinder Engine Code [H] H

Engine:

5.7L 8-cylinder [H] H [aka 5.7L V8 (Gas)]

Body & Trims:

Base, High Sierra, Sierra Classic

Oil Capacity:

5.1 quarts (with filter)

Oil Viscosity/Type:

SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

OEM Oil Filter:

GM 19431429 and GM 25010908

Oil Filter Replaces:

25014831, 25160561, 6438384, 89060468

1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder [H] H oil change details

Oil Grade:

API*

Oil Capacity:

5.1 quarts. (with filter). This is the capacity with the oil filter installed. Always check the oil level after refilling.

Oil Viscosity/Type:

SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C) - SAE 10W-30 is preferred.
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

Name of Oil Filter:

N/A

Wix Oil Filter:

51061-EA

Wix Air Filter:

42098-EA

Coolant Capacity:

N/A

Oil Drain Plug Torque:

N/A

Notes:

N/A

How much oil does the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder ([H] H) take?

A complete oil change for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder (with engine code [H] H) requires 5.1 quarts (with filter) of engine oil. To ensure safety and performance, always verify the level on the dipstick after refilling.

What type of oil is recommended for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder ([H] H)?

For optimal engine longevity, the manufacturer recommended motor oil for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder is using:

SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

Ensure the oil you choose meets the API* standard.

What is the best oil filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder ([H] H)?

The factory-recommended OEM oil filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder is the GM 19431429 or GM 25010908. If you prefer a top-tier aftermarket option, the Wix 51061-EA is an excellent choice.

What is the oil drain plug torque spec for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder ([H] H)?

To prevent leaks or stripped oil pan threads, the drain plug on the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder should be tightened to exactly the factory specified ft-lbs and we also recommend installing a new crush washer with every oil change.

What is the correct air filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder ([H] H)?

For optimal engine performance and clean airflow, the recommended engine air filter replacement for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder is the Wix 42098-EA. It is a good maintenance habit to inspect this filter during every oil change.

What is the coolant capacity for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder ([H] H)?

The total engine coolant (antifreeze) capacity for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 5.7L 8-cylinder is:

determined by your specific installed cooling package

Always ensure you use the manufacturer-approved coolant color and type to prevent internal corrosion.

6.2L 8-cylinder Engine Code [C] C Diesel

Engine:

6.2L 8-cylinder [C] C Diesel [aka 6.2L V8 (Diesel)]

Body & Trims:

Base, High Sierra, Sierra Classic

Oil Capacity:

7 quarts (with filter)

Oil Viscosity/Type:

SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

OEM Oil Filter:

GM 19431429

Oil Filter Replaces:

25014831, 25160561, 6438384, 89060468

1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder [C] C Diesel oil change details

Oil Grade:

CF-4

Oil Capacity:

7 quarts. (with filter). This is the capacity with the oil filter installed. Always check the oil level after refilling.

Oil Viscosity/Type:

SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C) - SAE 10W-30 is preferred.
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

Name of Oil Filter:

N/A

Wix Oil Filter:

51061-EA

Wix Air Filter:

N/A

Coolant Capacity:

24.8 quarts

Oil Drain Plug Torque:

N/A

Notes:

N/A

How much oil does the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder ([C] C Diesel) take?

A complete oil change for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder (with engine code [C] C Diesel) requires 7 quarts (with filter) of engine oil. To ensure safety and performance, always verify the level on the dipstick after refilling.

What type of oil is recommended for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder ([C] C Diesel)?

For optimal engine longevity, the manufacturer recommended motor oil for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder is using:

SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

Ensure the oil you choose meets the CF-4 standard.

What is the best oil filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder ([C] C Diesel)?

The factory-recommended OEM oil filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder is the GM 19431429. If you prefer a top-tier aftermarket option, the Wix 51061-EA is an excellent choice.

What is the oil drain plug torque spec for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder ([C] C Diesel)?

To prevent leaks or stripped oil pan threads, the drain plug on the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder should be tightened to exactly the factory specified ft-lbs and we also recommend installing a new crush washer with every oil change.

What is the correct air filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder ([C] C Diesel)?

For optimal engine performance and clean airflow, the recommended engine air filter replacement for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder is the Wix or other equivalent found in air filter cross-reference catalog for this trim compatible with your intake system. It is a good maintenance habit to inspect this filter during every oil change.

What is the coolant capacity for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder ([C] C Diesel)?

The total engine coolant (antifreeze) capacity for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder is:

24.8 quarts

Always ensure you use the manufacturer-approved coolant color and type to prevent internal corrosion.

6.2L 8-cylinder Engine Code [J] J Diesel

Engine:

6.2L 8-cylinder [J] J Diesel [aka 6.2L V8 (Diesel)]

Body & Trims:

Base, High Sierra, Sierra Classic

Oil Capacity:

N/A

Oil Viscosity/Type:

N/A

OEM Oil Filter:

GM 19431429

Oil Filter Replaces:

25014831, 25160561, 6438384, 89060468

1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder [J] J Diesel oil change details

Oil Grade:

N/A

Oil Capacity:

N/A

Oil Viscosity/Type:

N/A

Name of Oil Filter:

N/A

Wix Oil Filter:

N/A

Wix Air Filter:

N/A

Coolant Capacity:

N/A

Oil Drain Plug Torque:

N/A

Notes:

N/A

How much oil does the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder ([J] J Diesel) take?

A complete oil change for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder (with engine code [J] J Diesel) requires the precise volume listed in your owner’s manual of engine oil. To ensure safety and performance, always verify the level on the dipstick after refilling.

What type of oil is recommended for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder ([J] J Diesel)?

For optimal engine longevity, the manufacturer recommended motor oil for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder is using:

the specific viscosity grade listed on your oil cap or owner’s manual.

Ensure the oil you choose meets the appropriate API or manufacturer OEM standard.

What is the best oil filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder ([J] J Diesel)?

The factory-recommended OEM oil filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder is the GM 19431429. If you prefer a top-tier aftermarket option, the Wix or other equivalent found in oil filter cross-reference catalog for this trim is an excellent choice.

What is the oil drain plug torque spec for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder ([J] J Diesel)?

To prevent leaks or stripped oil pan threads, the drain plug on the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder should be tightened to exactly the factory specified ft-lbs and we also recommend installing a new crush washer with every oil change.

What is the correct air filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder ([J] J Diesel)?

For optimal engine performance and clean airflow, the recommended engine air filter replacement for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder is the Wix or other equivalent found in air filter cross-reference catalog for this trim compatible with your intake system. It is a good maintenance habit to inspect this filter during every oil change.

What is the coolant capacity for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder ([J] J Diesel)?

The total engine coolant (antifreeze) capacity for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP 6.2L 8-cylinder is:

determined by your specific installed cooling package

Always ensure you use the manufacturer-approved coolant color and type to prevent internal corrosion.

People also ask – 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP

What is the oil capacity of a 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP?

Depending on the specific engine option, the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP oil capacity ranges from 5 to 7 quarts. Here is the exact oil capacity breakdown for each available engine configuration:

• 4.3L 6-cylinder ([N] N): 5 quarts. (with filter). This is the capacity with the oil filter installed. Always check the oil level after refilling.
• 5.0L 8-cylinder ([L] L): 5 quarts. (with filter). This is the capacity with the oil filter installed. Always check the oil level after refilling.
• 5.7L 8-cylinder ([M] M): 5 quarts. (with filter). This is the capacity with the oil filter installed. Always check the oil level after refilling.
• 5.7L 8-cylinder ([H] H): 5.1 quarts. (with filter). This is the capacity with the oil filter installed. Always check the oil level after refilling.
• 6.2L 8-cylinder ([C] C Diesel): 7 quarts. (with filter). This is the capacity with the oil filter installed. Always check the oil level after refilling.
• 6.2L 8-cylinder ([J] J Diesel): Check Owner's Manual

Always check your dipstick after refilling to ensure the proper level.

What type of oil does a 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP use?

Across its 6 available engine configurations, the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP uses the following motor oil viscosities: SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C)SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C). Using the correct manufacturer-approved oil weight is crucial for engine health. Here are the specific oil type requirements by engine:

• 4.3L 6-cylinder ([N] N):
Grade: API*
SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C) - SAE 10W-30 is preferred.
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

• 5.0L 8-cylinder ([L] L):
Grade: API*
SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C) - SAE 10W-30 is preferred.
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

• 5.7L 8-cylinder ([M] M):
Grade: API*
SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C) - SAE 10W-30 is preferred.
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

• 5.7L 8-cylinder ([H] H):
Grade: API*
SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C) - SAE 10W-30 is preferred.
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

• 6.2L 8-cylinder ([C] C Diesel):
Grade: CF-4
SAE 10W-30 (Above -18°C) - SAE 10W-30 is preferred.
SAE 15W-40 (Above -12°C)
SAE 20W-20 (Above -7°C)

• 6.2L 8-cylinder ([J] J Diesel):
Grade: OEM Standard
See Cap or Owner's Manual

What is the best oil filter for the 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP?

The proper oil filter depends on your exact engine code. The 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP utilizes the following premium aftermarket Wix oil filters across its lineup: 51036-EA and 51061-EA. Here is the specific OEM and aftermarket filter data for each engine:

• 4.3L 6-cylinder ([N] N):
OEM Filter: GM 12737090 or GM 19431429
Wix Filter: 51036-EA

• 5.0L 8-cylinder ([L] L):
OEM Filter: GM 19431429, GM 25010908 or GM 12731179
Wix Filter: 51061-EA

• 5.7L 8-cylinder ([M] M):
OEM Filter: GM 19431429, GM 25010908 or GM 12731179
Wix Filter: 51061-EA

• 5.7L 8-cylinder ([H] H):
OEM Filter: GM 19431429 or GM 25010908
Wix Filter: 51061-EA

• 6.2L 8-cylinder ([C] C Diesel):
OEM Filter: GM 19431429
Wix Filter: 51061-EA

• 6.2L 8-cylinder ([J] J Diesel):
OEM Filter: GM 19431429
Wix Filter: Check Cross-reference Catalog

How often should I change the oil in my 1986 GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP?

For modern models running full synthetic oil, oil change intervals are typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. However, for older GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP generations (1985-2010) or those using conventional/synthetic-blend fluid, changing the oil and filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles is highly recommended to prevent sludge buildup. Regardless of engine (4.3L 6-cylinder, 5.0L 8-cylinder, 5.7L 8-cylinder and 6.2L 8-cylinder), you should change your oil at least once a year even if you don’t reach the mileage limit.

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GMC K1500 4WD PICKUP – Engine Oil details by Year

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