Positioning:
The Buick Riviera was positioned as a personal luxury car, offering a blend of style, comfort, and performance, directly competing with models like the Ford Thunderbird.
Competitors:
Ford Thunderbird, Cadillac DeVille, Oldsmobile Starfire, Chrysler 300.
Design:
Distinctive 'turbine' styling, long hood, swept-back lines, and a luxurious interior.
Value Proposition:
Comprehensive factory service information for enthusiasts and mechanics seeking to maintain or restore a classic 1964 Buick Riviera.
Engine Service Repair:
Comprehensive engine diagnostics, overhaul, and repair procedures.
Transmission Service Repair:
Detailed procedures for the Dynaflow automatic transmission.
Brake System:
Front and rear brake inspection, service, and repair, including drum brake adjustments and hydraulic system maintenance.
Wiring Diagram:
Complete electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Electrical System:
Troubleshooting and repair of all electrical components, including lighting, ignition, charging system, and accessories.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component service, alignment specifications, and shock absorber replacement.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering linkage service.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and heater core service.
Fuel Injection:
While the 1964 Riviera was not factory fuel-injected, this likely refers to the Rochester Quadrajet or similar high-performance carburetion common on this model, with advanced fuel delivery system coverage.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, and carburetor service and adjustment.
Emission System:
Early emission control components and troubleshooting relevant to the era.
Heater Air Conditional:
Service and repair of the climate control system.
Chassis Body:
Body and chassis repair, frame specifications, and related components.
Interior:
Interior trim, seating, and dashboard component service.
Differential Drive:
Rear axle and differential service, lubrication, and inspection.
Axle:
Front and rear axle component servicing.
General Maintenance:
Routine checks, fluid level adjustments, lubrication points, and filter replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues.
Periodic Lubrication:
Detailed lubrication schedule and specifications for all chassis points.
Depth:
Full factory service and repair, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first.
Tune Up:
Annually or every 10,000-12,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
API SF/CD, SAE 10W-30 (refer to manual for precise specification for the era).
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid (equivalent to original Dynaflow fluid).
Coolant:
50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water.
Common Problems:
Potential issues include carburetor wear, aging electrical components, rust in body panels, and wear in the Dynaflow transmission governor.
Part Number Example:
Manual likely includes specific part numbers for common replacement items (e.g., spark plugs, filters).
Heritage:
Buick has a long-standing reputation for building comfortable, stylish, and well-engineered automobiles.
First Generation:
The 1963 model year marked the introduction of the Buick Riviera, establishing its distinctive personal luxury niche.
1964 Updates:
Minor styling refinements, potential updates to powertrain and interior features compared to the inaugural 1963 model.
Production Volume:
Approximately 37,600 units produced in 1964.
