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.
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.
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.
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.
to provide more air distribution to the floor vents.
Additional changes for '97.5
with increased efficiency and easier serviceability (in addition to changes listed for 1997 above).