Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, component testing, repair procedures, torque specifications, timing
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams
Emission Control:
Emission control systems specific to the era and region
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, carburetor(s), fuel filter, troubleshooting and repair
Clutch System:
Clutch assembly, clutch pedal, hydraulic system (if applicable), adjustments, and replacement
Transmission Manual:
Manual gearbox assembly, disassembly, gear selection, maintenance, and repair
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission assembly, disassembly, hydraulic control, torque converter, maintenance, and repair
Driveshaft Axle:
Driveshaft, universal joints, propeller shaft, rear axle assembly, differential, maintenance, and repair
Suspension System:
Front suspension (e.g., independent suspension, kingpins/ball joints), rear suspension (e.g., leaf springs), shock absorbers, springs, wheel alignment specifications
Steering System:
Steering box, steering linkage, steering wheel, power steering (if applicable), adjustments, and repair
Restraint Systems:
Seat belts, mounting points, and related hardware (airbags were not prevalent in this era).
Brake System:
Front and rear brakes (drum or disc depending on variant), master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, parking brake, hydraulic fluid specifications, bleeding procedures
Body Interior Exterior:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window mechanisms, interior trim, upholstery, paint and finish
Body Electrical:
Headlights, taillights, turn signals, dashboard lights, horn, wipers, washers, power windows (if applicable), wiring diagrams
HVAC:
Heating system, ventilation, air conditioning (if factory-equipped or dealer-installed), components, and service
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications for caster, camber, and toe-in for front and rear axles.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, tune-ups, lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all systems
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation
Diagnostics:
Methods for identifying problems using visual inspection, testing, and specifications
Engine Rebuild:
Complete engine overhaul procedures, including piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, cylinder head work, valve grinding.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed troubleshooting guides for electrical faults using wiring diagrams, voltage drop tests, continuity tests.
Brake System Overhaul:
Procedures for relining brake shoes, replacing wheel cylinders, master cylinder, brake hoses, and bleeding the system.
Depth Of Coverage:
Expert level, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, as used by professional mechanics.
Torque Specifications:
Includes essential torque values for critical engine, chassis, and driveline components.
Illustrations Diagrams:
Extensive use of exploded view diagrams, assembly illustrations, and system schematics.
Wiring Schematics:
Complete and accurate wiring diagrams for all electrical systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months, using the specified oil type.
Tune Up Interval:
Recommended at intervals specified in the manual, typically involving spark plug, points, and ignition timing checks/adjustments.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG classification, viscosity such as SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40, depending on climate.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 gear oil, viscosity typically SAE 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Common Wear Items:
Ignition points and condenser, fuel pump diaphragm, carburetor wear, clutch wear, suspension bushings, rust (especially in certain climates).
Engine Performance Issues:
Carburetor maladjustment leading to rough idle or poor performance, ignition timing drift, valve adjustments.
Cooling System Concerns:
Radiator leaks, thermostat sticking, coolant hose deterioration.
