Target Audience:
Owners with basic mechanical skills, independent auto service professionals, and informed car owners
Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level specifications and procedures at a fraction of the cost, enabling informed repair discussions and DIY maintenance.
Digital Convenience:
Instant download, viewable on PC, Mac, and various devices. Printable pages to maintain pristine condition.
Empowerment:
Empowers owners to understand repairs, communicate effectively with technicians, and perform basic maintenance confidently.
Engine Systems:
Engine service and overhauling, fuel system, induction, emission control, control system, mechanical components
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission (manual and automatic), differentials
Chassis Systems:
Chassis, steering, suspension, brakes, ABS (where applicable)
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, electrical components, troubleshooting
Body Systems:
Body repair, panel replacement, interior components
Fuel Induction Systems:
Detailed coverage of carburetor operation, fuel pump testing, fuel filter replacement, and intake manifold service.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake repair, suspension replacement, electrical system repairs
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom analysis, component testing, diagnostic flowcharts
Emission Control Procedures:
Details on emission control systems, including PCV valve operation, EGR valve function, and carburetor adjustments for emissions compliance specific to the era.
Steering Suspension Procedures:
Complete procedures for servicing steering components (e.g., power steering pump, steering gear) and suspension elements (e.g., shock absorbers, springs, bushings).
Brake System Procedures:
Detailed instructions for brake drum and shoe replacement, caliper service (if applicable), brake line inspection and replacement, and brake fluid flushing.
Engine Overhauling:
Step-by-step instructions for complete engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), and reassembly, including machining recommendations.
Technical Depth:
Detailed specifications, torque settings, overhaul procedures, diagnostic techniques
Diagnostics Focus:
Practical diagnostic techniques for common faults, including engine performance issues, electrical gremlins, and driveability problems
Torque Settings:
Specific torque specifications for all critical fasteners, including engine components, suspension parts, and body bolts, essential for proper assembly.
Wiring Diagram Detail:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams showing circuit layouts, wire colors, connector pinouts, and expected electrical readings for troubleshooting.
Engine Option 1:
3.7L Slant-Six (225 cu in) Inline-6
Engine Option 2:
5.2L LA Series V8 (318 cu in)
3.7L Horsepower Est:
Approx. 145-150 hp (varies by year and tuning)
5.2L Horsepower Est:
Approx. 230-255 hp (varies by year and tuning)
3.7L Fuel System:
Single-barrel carburetor (e.g., Carter BBD, Holley 1920)
5.2L Fuel System:
Two-barrel carburetor (e.g., Carter BBD, Holley 2300) or four-barrel carburetor on higher performance variants
3.7L Engine Designation:
Slant-Six (G-Series)
5.2L Engine Designation:
LA Series V8 (318 CID)
Standard Transmission 3.7:
3-speed manual (e.g., A-727 TorqueFlite Automatic was common, but manual options existed)
Standard Transmission 5.2:
3-speed automatic (TorqueFlite A-727 or A-904) or 3-speed manual
Optional Transmission:
4-speed manual (e.g., A-833) on some performance models
Torque Flite Features:
Known for durability and smooth operation, key features covered include valve body operation, clutch pack service, and fluid specifications.
Infotainment Era Features:
AM/FM radio (mono or stereo), optional 8-track player, basic climate controls (heater, defroster, optional A/C).
Driver Assistance Features:
Power steering, power brakes (optional front discs), cruise control (optional).
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No modern connectivity features).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-4,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plug replacement every 12,000-24,000 miles, ignition timing checks and adjustments as needed.
Engine Oil Spec 3.7:
API SF or SG classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Spec 5.2:
API SF or SG classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Chrysler ATF+2 or equivalent
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Common Issues Engine 3.7:
Carbon buildup in combustion chambers, timing chain wear, oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets.
Common Issues Engine 5.2:
Valve stem seal leaks (causing blue smoke on startup), oil pump pickup screen clogging, carburetor tuning issues.
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn ball joints and tie rod ends, sagging leaf springs (rear), deteriorated rubber bushings.
Common Issues Brakes:
Drum brake hardware wear, seized caliper pistons (if equipped with front discs), leaky wheel cylinders.
Common Issues Electrical:
Corroded wiring harnesses, faulty voltage regulators, failing ignition switch, aging alternator.
Dodge Heritage Context:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, was known for robust engineering and a range of vehicles from economical to performance-oriented. The Polara represented a comfortable, full-size offering.
Polara Evolution:
The Polara was introduced as a premium model, evolving through styling changes and powertrain updates reflecting American automotive trends of the late 60s and 70s. It was positioned as a more affordable alternative to the larger Chrysler Imperial and shared platforms with other Chrysler products like the Plymouth Fury and Dodge Monaco.
Production Period:
1960-1973 (Polara nameplate used for various Dodge models, with the full-size Polara sedan and coupe the focus of this manual's era).
