Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, tuning, specifications
Engine Cooling:
Radiator, hoses, water pump, thermostat, fan assembly
Fuel System:
Carburetor, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, emissions control
Ignition System:
Distributor, spark plugs, ignition coils, wiring
Exhaust System:
Manifolds, catalytic converter (if applicable), mufflers, pipes
Transmission Manual:
Manual gearbox assembly, disassembly, clutch, linkages
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission assembly, disassembly, torque converter, valve body
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle, differential
Suspension Front:
Control arms, ball joints, springs, shocks, steering knuckle
Suspension Rear:
Leaf springs, shock absorbers, trailing arms, sway bar
Steering:
Steering column, steering gear, power steering pump and components
Brakes Front:
Disc brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines
Brakes Rear:
Drum brake components, wheel cylinders, shoes, brake lines
Electrical System Charging:
Alternator, voltage regulator, battery, wiring
Electrical System Starting:
Starter motor, ignition switch, solenoids
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lights, wiring
Instrument Panel:
Gauges, warning lights, speedometer, tachometer, wiring
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, fenders, glass, trim
Body Interior:
Seats, dashboard, door panels, carpeting, headliner
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system components and controls
Emissions Control:
Components such as catalytic converters, EGR valves, and PCV systems, along with their function and maintenance.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom analysis, common fault identification
Repair:
Component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul procedures
Assembly:
Detailed step-by-step assembly instructions for various vehicle systems
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical circuit diagrams for all vehicle systems
Bodywork Repair:
Panel replacement, rust repair techniques, door and window alignment, bumper installation.
Chassis Lubrication:
Grease point identification and lubrication procedures for suspension and steering components.
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications and adjustment procedures for front and rear wheel alignment angles.
Tire Rotation:
Recommended tire rotation patterns and intervals.
Depth:
Full factory specifications and procedures, suitable for professional technicians and serious DIY enthusiasts
Diagnostic Tools:
Procedures and specifications for using basic diagnostic tools and multimeters.
Engine Timing:
Specifications and procedures for setting ignition timing and valve timing (if applicable).
Engine Options 1981:
2.5L (151 cu in) 4-cylinder (Iron Duke), 3.8L (231 cu in) V6, 4.4L (267 cu in) V8, 5.0L (305 cu in) V8 (LG3, L37, L39, ZL2), 5.7L (350 cu in) V8 (L81 - only for California)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 90 hp (4-cyl) to 215 hp (5.7L V8)
Torque Range:
Approx. 130 lb-ft (4-cyl) to 310 lb-ft (5.7L V8)
Carburetion:
Single-barrel (4-cyl, base V6, base V8), 2-barrel (V6, V8), 4-barrel (performance V8 options)
Engine Displacement Options
Engine Codes And Sizes:
151 ci (2.5L I4), 231 ci (3.8L V6), 267 ci (4.4L V8), 305 ci (5.0L V8), 350 ci (5.7L V8)
Block Material:
Cast iron for all engines
Cylinder Head Material:
Cast iron
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specifics).
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, points, and condenser usually every 12,000-24,000 miles (depending on ignition type and material).
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grades (e.g., 10W-30, 10W-40) and API service classification based on engine type.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant (typically a 50/50 mix with water)
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor adjustments, ignition system components (points, condenser, coil), fuel system seals, suspension bushings, exhaust system corrosion.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans, subframe mounts.
