1997 AM General Hummer

Description1997 Hummer H1 Open Top Diesel CTIS and Much More There were significant changes for the 1997 model year. All 1997 models came with a sound proofing package that reduced interior noise significantly, and turbo diesel engine changes that increased power 5 hp and 45 lb.ft. torque over the previous years model. The power increases on the turbo are enough that they are noticeable. Power output for the Turbo model Hummers remained consistent from '97 through the 2003 model year. The N/A Diesel was still available in '97 but the Gas engine was not available after the 1996 model year. Along with improved ventilation, the 1997 model also offered optional heated windshields to combat windshield frosting which can be a problem on earlier models. Mid year changes were significant enough that the later 1997 Hummers are referred to as "1997.5" models (the factory referred to them as 1997-2 models). The first "1997.5" has a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of VE176477 (last 8 digits). Changes for 1997.5 included a much improved HVAC system that was both much more efficient and easier to service and the new Monsoon stereo system with overhead console. 1997 and especially 1997.5 models have many features and refinements which make them favorite years for many Hummer enthusiasts. Powertrain and Identification Information. •VIN 10th Digit designating year = "V" •Engine: 6.5L Diesel 170 H.P. 290 lb. ft. VIN 4th digit ="Y" 129 produced. •Optional Engine: 6.5L Turbo Diesel 195 H.P. 430 lb. ft. VIN 4th digit ="Z" 1,080 Produced. •4L80E Electronic 4 speed Automatic Transmission. VIN 5th digit ="A" •Top Speed 83+ mph with Turbo. •1st "1997.5" VIN VE176477. •1209 '97 models built. Significant changes for 1997. •Increased horsepower and torque on Turbo Diesel engine. Compression ratio went from 21.5:1 in 1996 to 20.2:1 in 1997. Engine also now features an oil spray piston cooling system. •For 1997 both turbo and non-turbo diesel models are equipped with integrated power steering pump and reservoir. •Complete redesign of the exhaust system from the crossover pipe to the tailpipe. The new design incorporates a one-piece heatshield with added stiffeners to reduce exhaust resonance. •Heavy Duty rear bumper standard. •Black High Gloss Wheels. •Black Grille with High Gloss Black Underbody and Bumpers. •Different Seat Fabric and sew style pattern. •All seat adjustments moved to front of seat (some adjustments moved back to sides on later model years). •Low coolant and glow plug monitoring lights added on dash. •Sliding rear window on HMC4 and XLC2 now standard. •Deluxe Interior now standard. •Air intake Scoop for improved ventilation . •New Rear Scupper valves improve ventilation. •All vehicles meet new high speed fuel filling (CARB) requirement. •New style water crossover for non-turbo engine. •Additional bleeder valves added to radiator where overflow hose attaches to radiator. •Surge tank redesigned. •Shroud-mounted style power steering oil cooler now on non-turbo diesels also. •Turbos and non-turbos now have common accessory drives. •Heated Windshield option. •"6.5L Turbo" badges added on turbo models. •Shifter boot cover for increased boot protection and reduced heat and noise. •New Color Fly Yellow (only year for Fly Yellow, slightly darker "Competition Yellow" '98 on) •Tan and Blue Metallic dropped for '97. •VLCO Half Door Open Top and VLC2 2-Passenger regular cab no longer available. •HVAC Changes 1997. ?Newly designed auxiliary unit with angle-mounted louvers. Same compressor on turbo and non-turbo diesels. Improved air ducting. Blower motor revision to push rather than pull heat and A/C through HVAC system. Revised close-out dash panels to provide more air distribution to the floor vents. •Additional changes for '97.5 ?Enhanced HVAC system with increased efficiency and easier serviceability (in addition to changes listed for 1997 above). Read More