I wasnt aware that the 88 k1500 outside door handles are a known problem area.
Im looking to replace both the driver and passenger outside handles with as close as possible to stock metal handles.
Im not encouraged looking around the internet. Some are plastic, which I dont want. Others are metal with some reviews saying they have gasket fitment problems. Others say they are of poor quality or the lock cylinders install upside down.
Perhaps some of you who have been through this can help me narrow the options down to the ones you've purchased and are satisfied with.
My handles are in ok shape except for the gaskets are shot. To minimize the hassle of dismantling the old ones, and swapping parts to new handles. I plan to buy new handles and replace all the working parts (the lock cylinders, and clips etc) and just install a rebuilt new handle. .

 

I recently replaced my driver's door handle on a 1996 C1500 with a Dorman handle, and it worked out. I had to really work to get the lock cylinder to latch in place but it all worked out. I feel it was a mix of metal and plastic. But I've replaced the outside driver's door handle on that truck not just once, but probably 5-6 times in 29 years. It really is crappy metal, and I've used GM and 3rd party. They all eventually fail. The passenger door I've only had to replace once.

Rockauto has the GM genuine handle for your 1988 truck - but they are proud of it at $88 a pop. But it is steel, or says it is. My 1996 door handle is plastic+steel even in the GM OEM version.

 

Thanks for your response again. My problem is that the outside door handle unlocks and locks using the key. But, If I press the inside door lock button and close the door. It wont unlock with the key. Ive decided to live with it. Ive spent hours messing with the drivers door just to get it to this point, and I dont have any more patience for it. Im assuming the issue is with the tumbler. But Im not certain... Removing the handle again, and reinstalling a rebuilt handle with new tumblers, in the hope that I will be able to lock the door without using the key is a luxury I can live without.
You are a better man than I to have done it multiple times.