Segment:
Mid-size personal car
Competitors:
Ford Granada, Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Aspen
Offering:
Comfortable ride, spacious interior, wide range of engine options
User:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, automotive technicians
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and overhaul
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, rear axle, differential service
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, steering system
Brakes:
Brake system diagnosis, repair, hydraulic components, drum and disc brakes
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, charging system, starting system, accessories
Body:
Body construction, doors, windows, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, tune-up procedures
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for common and uncommon issues
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle components
Overhaul:
Complete overhaul procedures for engine, transmission, and other major assemblies
Depth:
From basic maintenance to complete component rebuilds, suitable for DIY and professional technicians
Quality:
Hundreds of detailed illustrations and diagrams
Feature:
Searchable PDF for quick access to information
Feature:
Printable pages for on-hand reference during repairs
Engine Options:
Multiple V6 and V8 gasoline engines, including 3.8L V6, 4.3L V6, 5.0L V8, 5.7L V8 (specific options vary by Cutlass sub-model, e.g., Supreme, Salon, Brougham, Calais)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 105-180 hp depending on engine and tuning
Torque Range:
Approximately 160-270 lb-ft depending on engine
Induction:
Carbureted (Rochester Quadra-Jet, Varajet, or similar), some diesel options may have different fuel systems
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.
Oil Capacity V6:
Approximately 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter (verify with manual)
Oil Capacity V8:
Approximately 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter (verify with manual)
Recommendation:
API Service SF, SE, or SG rated. Viscosity typically 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific recommendations based on temperature).
Type:
Three-speed Turbo Hydramatic (THM) automatic transmission (e.g., THM200, THM350, THM200-4R for some models)
Type:
Four-speed manual transmission (less common for 1981 Cutlass, but potentially available on specific trims)
Fluid Type Automatic:
Dexron II automatic transmission fluid (ATF). Manual will specify exact type and capacity.
Capacity Quarts:
Approximately 3-5 quarts (2.8-4.7 liters) for refill after drain and fill, full capacity higher (verify with manual)
Crash Testing Era:
Pre-NHTSA standardized testing; focus on passive restraint systems of the era.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes standard. Power assist often standard. Optional front/rear power disc brakes.
Seatbelts:
Lap and shoulder belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear passengers.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column
Airbags:
Airbags were not standard or widely available in 1981
Audio System:
AM/FM radio, AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional premium sound systems.
Cruise Control:
Optional electronic cruise control
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning, optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Oil Change Miles:
Typically every 3,000 to 6,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for precise recommendations).
Tune Up Miles:
Spark plugs, ignition timing, and carburetor adjustments typically at 20,000-30,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change Miles:
Every 24,000 to 30,000 miles for automatic transmissions, or as specified in the manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (verify with manual)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent power steering fluid (verify with manual)
Electrical System:
Corrosion on grounds, aging wiring harnesses, starter and alternator issues common with age.
Carburetor:
Carburetor wear, vacuum leaks, and tuning issues can affect performance and fuel economy.
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, worn water pump, and heater core issues are common due to age.
Oil Filter Example:
AC Delco PF2 or equivalent (specific to engine, manual will detail).
Air Filter Example:
AC Delco A570C or equivalent (specific to engine, manual will detail).
Marque:
Oldsmobile, a division of General Motors known for innovation and comfort
Cutlass Lineage:
The Cutlass nameplate had a long history, evolving from a sporty compact to a popular mid-size personal luxury car, with the 1981 model belonging to the third generation (1978-1987).
Manufacturing Location:
United States (GM assembly plants)
1981 Volume:
Over 350,000 units sold across all Cutlass models in 1981, making it a very popular vehicle.
