How much horsepower does a 88 4.3 have?
The 1988 Chevrolet/GMC 4.3-liter V6 is typically rated at 165 horsepower (SAE net) with about 255 pound‑feet of torque. This figure is standard for most 1988 applications, though very small variations could occur depending on the exact vehicle and emission setup.
In 1988, GM used the 4.3L V6 across a wide range of models, including light‑duty pickups, vans, and some SUVs. The engine design and fuel system (primarily throttle body injection for most models of that year) were aimed at balancing smooth delivery, reliability, and fuel economy for the era. The following sections lay out the core figures and context for that horsepower rating.
Core horsepower figures for the 1988 4.3L V6
The most commonly cited power figure for the 1988 4.3L V6 is 165 horsepower (SAE net). The corresponding torque figure is around 255 lb-ft. Ratings reflect typical configurations and the SAE net standard used at the time, which accounts for accessories and engine load under normal conditions. Variations may exist by model year nuances or emission-control setups.
Before listing the specifications, here are the key numbers you’re most likely to encounter when researching an 1988 4.3L V6:
- Horsepower: 165 hp (SAE net)
- Torque: approximately 255 lb-ft
- Fuel system: throttle-body injection (TBI) for most 1988 applications; some regions or models used carburetion
- Common applications in 1988: light‑duty pickups, vans, and certain SUVs in the GM lineup
In summary, the 1988 4.3L V6 is typically rated at about 165 hp with around 255 lb-ft of torque, with small, model-specific variations tied to emission controls and fuel system configuration.
Context: how horsepower is measured and what can change
What affects the published horsepower figure
Horsepower ratings reflect standardized testing conditions and can vary with testing method, altitude, temperature, and engine wear. The 1988 GM figures used SAE net horsepower, which subtracts power losses from accessories and other components from the engine’s gross output. Real-world performance may differ based on maintenance, air quality, exhaust condition, and vehicle weight.
- Engine condition and maintenance can affect measured horsepower
- Altitude and ambient conditions influence air density and power output
- Differences between carbureted and fuel-injected configurations may yield small rating variations
These factors help explain why some engines in the same model year might feel slightly different in day-to-day driving, even if the published figure is the same.
Summary
For the 1988 4.3L V6, horsepower is generally about 165 hp with roughly 255 lb-ft of torque in typical configurations, with minor variations based on vehicle application, fuel system, and testing conditions.
How much horsepower does a 1992 4.3 S10 make?
The 1992 S10 Regular Cab ranges in power from the Long Bed with 105 horsepower to the EL Short Bed with 160 horsepower.
How much horsepower does a 1989 Chevy S10 4.3 have?
Engines
| Years | Engine | Power |
|---|---|---|
| 1987–1993 | 2.8 L LL2 60° V6, TBI | 125 hp (93 kW; 127 PS) at 4800 rpm |
| 1988–1992 | 4.3 L LB4 90° V6, TBI | 160 hp (119 kW; 162 PS) at 4000 rpm |
| 1993 | 165 hp (123 kW; 167 PS) at 4000 rpm | |
| 1992–1993 | 4.3 L L35 90° V6, CPI | 195 hp (145 kW; 198 PS) at 4500 rpm |
What are common problems with a 4.3 Chevy?
And fixing this issue is as simple as either cleaning the sensors or just replacing them entirely. The second most common problem is with the intake manifold gaskets.
How much horsepower does a 4.3 V-6 have?
EcoTec3 Engine Family Features
| Type: | 4.3L Gen V V6 VVT (LV3) |
|---|---|
| Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra: | 285 hp (213 kw) @ 5300 RPM SAE Certified |
| Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra: | 297 hp (221 kW) @ 5300 RPM SAE Certified - E85 |
| Torque lb.-ft. (Nm) | |
| Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra: | 305 lb.-ft (413 Nm) @ 3900 RPM SAE Certified |
