Vehicle Description
1997 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). 4x4 Off-Road Package,
Additional Keys, Air Conditioning, Alarm System, Alloy Wheels,
All-Season Tires, Am/Fm Radio W/Cd Player, Armrests - Dual Front,
Automatic Transmission, Body Kit, Bucket Seats, California
Emissions System, Center Console Storage, Cruise Control, Dome
Lamp, Floormats, Fog Lights, High Performance Tires, Luxury
Package, Power Mirrors, Power Steering, Power Windows, Sports
Package, Tech Package, Tilt Steering Wheel, Tinted Glass, Tow Hitch
Receiver, Tow Hooks, Tow Package, Traction Control