Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Drivetrain, Electrical System, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC), Bodywork, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Emission Control Systems, Chassis Components, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Inspections, Troubleshooting, Diagnosis, Repair Procedures, Component Replacement, Assembly/Disassembly, Electrical Circuit Diagnosis, Wiring Diagrams, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities, Special Tool Requirements, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to advanced repairs and diagnostics)
Engine Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed instructions for engine teardown, inspection of internal components (pistons, rings, bearings, crankshaft, camshaft), cylinder head service, and reassembly with torque specifications.
Brake System Service:
Procedures for brake pad replacement, rotor resurfacing or replacement, caliper service, brake line inspection and replacement, bleeding the brake system, and ABS system troubleshooting.
Suspension And Steering Service:
Guidance on replacing ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, shock absorbers, springs, steering gear, and power steering pump. Includes alignment procedures.
Electrical System Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits, fuse and relay identification, testing procedures for sensors, actuators, lighting, and diagnostic methods for common electrical faults.
HVAC System Diagnosis Repair:
Includes procedures for refrigerant charging, leak detection, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor), HVAC control panel diagnosis, and cabin air filter replacement.
Fuel System Diagnosis:
Testing and replacement of fuel injectors, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter, and diagnosis of TPI system faults.
Technical Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all major fasteners, critical clearances for engine components, electrical resistance values for sensors, and diagnostic voltage readings.
Maintenance Schedules:
Pre-defined maintenance schedules outlining tasks to be performed at specific mileage or time intervals, covering all major vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts and tables for identifying and resolving common problems based on symptoms.
Engine Type:
V8, Overhead Valve (OHV), Tuned Port Injection (TPI)
Displacement:
5.7 L (350 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
4.00 in x 3.48 in (101.6 mm x 88.4 mm)
Horsepower Gross:
260 hp @ 4400 rpm
Torque Gross:
330 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Tuned Port Injection (TPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Coolant Type:
GM DEX-COOL or equivalent (Orange)
Oil Type:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30
Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, collapsible steering column, reinforced body structure, front and rear crumple zones, three-point seat belts (front and rear outboard), interior impact padding.
Active Safety Features:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all models, power-assisted steering, power disc brakes (front and rear).
NHTSA Ratings:
NHTSA crash test data from this era is limited, but the B-body platform was generally considered robust for its time. Specific 1992 Roadmaster ratings may not be readily available through modern databases.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 3-6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or 24-36 months. Filter replacement recommended at each fluid change.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs, but check manual for specific recommendations.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified for newer formulations used as a replacement)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 16-18 US quarts (15.1-17.0 liters)
Known Issues Common:
Common issues can include: distributor cap and rotor wear, intake manifold gasket leaks, window regulator failures, AC system leaks (particularly the compressor clutch), rear main seal leaks, and potential transmission internal wear over time. Fuel pump issues and sensor failures (e.g., MAF sensor, O2 sensors) are also not uncommon with age.
Typical Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links, exhaust system components, brake pads and rotors, shock absorbers, and serpentine belts are typical wear items that may require replacement.
Brand Heritage:
Buick, a division of General Motors (GM), has a long history of producing upscale, comfortable, and reliable American automobiles. The Roadmaster nameplate itself dates back to the pre-war era, often signifying a top-tier, luxurious model.
Model Evolution:
The 1992 Buick Roadmaster marked the reintroduction of the nameplate after a hiatus. This iteration was part of GM's 'B-body' platform redesign, which retained body-on-frame construction but introduced more aerodynamic styling and updated powertrains compared to earlier iterations. It was positioned as a large, comfortable, rear-wheel-drive sedan, a segment that was shrinking but still had a dedicated following.
Production Years:
1991-1996 (for this generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
GM's Arlington, Texas Assembly Plant was a primary manufacturing site for the B-body sedans, including the Roadmaster.
