GM service information and parts

[warr_wiz]

This may seem like a gripe session, but I would actually like some opinions on this. The new format for GM service information, since around 1995, is in my opinion, a very poor idea. Service manuals and SI2K have become a hide and seek ordeal. It was so nice to find a complete wiring schematic for not only 1 component, but the entire system, both easy to find. Now it seems the schematic is strewn throughout 4 different manuals. I just had a 2001 Pontiac Aztek with the rear lift glass release not working. If SI2K is available to you, take a look at what is there. And look at the diagnostic chart. Then throw it out. What little is there is incorrect. Why can't we focus some of the technology used to build the vehicle to publish the quality diagnostics needed to repair these vehicles. And yes, believe it or not, they do break on occasion.
I also have been waiting on a seat cover for a 2000 Diamond Edition Jimmy. After ordering, then starting a SPAC case, I got an answer back that said "no one has been contracted to build this part." Is it me or should I not be able to get a part for a vehicle that has been on the road almost a year now? A couple short opinions would be greatly appreciated. I'm sure we could fill the entire DE server with this.

[This message has been edited by warr_wiz (edited 10-06-2000).]

[Alan D. Goff]

I can not answer the portion about parts, but as far as the service manual concern, I can locate just about anything faster using the SI2000 then most people can using the service manuals and I know that there is not some bulletin updating the diagnostics that I then have to go looking for.

I am the shop foreman at a mid-sized GM dealership and helping techs locate service information has allowed me to have lots of practice with SI2000, which is the only way you can learn how to use it.

[warr_wiz]

I agree that information within SI2000 is somewhat easier to find than in service manuals. But it's the information not in SI2000 that I am talking about. For instance, a 2001 Pontiac Aztek. I have now had 2 in the shop. 1 had a problem with the rear liftglass not operating. The other had a SES light on. Both problems required either wiring schematics or DTC trouble charts. Both of which are not the greatest or most complete documents. Sorry about the griping. But I have been using SI2000 since it was first available. And I do have a good knowledge of how to find this information. But when information is just not there, that's a problem.

[lovemotors]

Someone needs to come out with a base course on how to effectivly use SI2000 as there are many of us who just barely know how to use it.

[warr_wiz]

Lovemotors...I have found that SI2000 is something that may take a little getting used to. But once your into it and have some experience using it, you'll find it is actually a big help. As for my original post, maybe my point was not clear, but my biggest problem is the service information is really lacking for the first 6 months or so that the vehicles are being sold and driven. I just recieved the 2001 Aztek preliminary information manual and we have had customers on the road and in the shop with problems for a couple months now. In my mind, as warped as it may be, preliminary information should have arrived "before" the vehicle. Not 2 or 3 months after. Anyway, back to your post, a little playing in SI2000 is probably the best way to get used to using it.
P.S. I think a base course on using internet applications and computers would be the place to start to learn SI2000. After that it's all basically the same.