Market Position:
Luxury Performance Personal Car
Target Audience:
Owners, mechanics, restoration enthusiasts seeking to maintain or repair their 1964 Buick Wildcat.
Buick Wildcat Positioning:
Positioned as Buick's sportiest and most powerful full-size personal car, offering a blend of luxury and performance.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with other full-size personal luxury coupes and convertibles of the era, such as the Ford Thunderbird, Chrysler New Yorker, and Oldsmobile Starfire. Known for its powerful V8 engines and distinctive styling.
Key Features:
Powerful V8 engines, luxurious interior appointments, distinctive styling, comfortable ride, often equipped with optional features like air conditioning and power accessories.
Manual Value Proposition:
Cost-effective, saves precious time, trusted resource for repairs and maintenance.
Coverage Areas:
All Models, All Engines, All Trim Levels, All Transmission Types for the 1964 Buick Wildcat
Page Count:
Not Specified (Comprehensive Coverage Implied)
Manual Type:
Service Repair Manual
Completeness:
Complete and intact, without missing or corrupt parts.
Format:
PDF (Electronic Delivery)
Delivery Method:
Fast and Free Electronic Delivery via Email
File Format Technical:
HTML (browser-based access)
Systems Covered:
General Information, Chassis, Powertrain, Electrical, Loads, Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Body, Fuel System, Cooling System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), Interior Components, Exterior Trim, Wiring Diagrams
Electrical System:
Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting for headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lighting, ignition, charging system, power windows/seats (if equipped).
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, ball joints, tie rod ends, steering linkage, steering gear service.
Brake System:
Drum brake service (shoes, drums, wheel cylinders, master cylinder), brake line inspection and replacement, brake fluid flush.
Fuel Cooling Exhaust:
Fuel tank and lines, fuel filter, radiator, water pump, thermostat, exhaust manifolds, muffler, exhaust pipes.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service, Troubleshooting, Diagnosis, Repair Procedures, Component Replacement, Reassembly, Adjustments, Electrical System Repair, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Service, Brake System Repair, Suspension and Steering Alignment, Bodywork and Trim Repair, Component Testing
Engine Repair:
Engine disassembly, inspection, reassembly, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, valve guide service, cylinder head gasket replacement, timing chain/gear replacement.
Transmission Service:
Transmission fluid and filter change, valve body inspection and service, seal replacement, torque converter diagnosis.
Body Trim Repair:
Door panel removal, window regulator adjustment, seat upholstery, exterior trim alignment, bumper service.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical circuits, and other common problems.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (Step-by-step instructions, exploded views, electrical diagrams, specifications, diagnostic charts)
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes diagnostic charts and procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.
Illustrations Diagrams:
Includes exploded views for component reassembly and detailed wiring diagrams for electrical system repairs.
Service Intervals:
The manual details recommended intervals for oil changes (e.g., every 3,000 miles or 6 months), lubrication, filter replacements, tune-ups, and fluid checks. Specific intervals for transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid are also provided.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (typical for the era, depending on climate, though the manual will specify exact weights and API service classifications).
Transmission Fluid Specification:
GM DEXRON®-III (or equivalent, though the original manual would likely specify Type A Suffix A (TASA) or Type CJ fluid for the THM400).
Coolant Specification:
Mixture of permanent antifreeze (ethylene glycol) and water (50/50 recommended for year-round protection). Manual will specify capacity.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. Manual will specify capacity and type.
Oil Capacity:
5 US quarts (approx. 4.7 liters) with filter change (confirm in manual).
Transmission Capacity:
Typically around 4-5 US quarts for a filter and fluid change (confirm in manual).
Common Issues:
Rust in common areas (wheel wells, rocker panels, subframes), carburetor tuning and rebuilding, ignition system maintenance (points, condenser, spark plugs), cooling system leaks, worn suspension bushings, potential for oil leaks from gaskets and seals due to age.
Brand Heritage:
Buick, founded in 1899, is one of America's oldest automotive brands, known for its reputation for reliable, comfortable, and well-engineered vehicles, often positioned as a premium offering below Cadillac.
Buick Brand Perception:
Reputation for quality, comfort, and advanced engineering for its time.
Model Evolution:
The Wildcat was introduced in 1963 as a performance-oriented sub-model of the popular Invicta. For 1964, it became its own distinct model line, offering a powerful V8 engine as standard and a sportier image than other Buick models. It was available as a two-door hardtop coupe and a convertible.
Discontinuation:
The Wildcat nameplate continued until 1970, evolving in styling and features throughout its run.
Production Years:
1963-1966
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Likely Flint, Michigan or other GM assembly plants)