🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Plymouth

Model:

Valiant

Year:

1966

Vin Decoder Notes:

Manual likely contains VIN decoding information relevant to 1966 Plymouth models.

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

This manual serves the burgeoning Mopar enthusiast and restoration market for mid-1960s Plymouth models, known for their performance and styling.

Competition:

Directly competes with other factory service manuals of the era and aftermarket repair guides. Its strength lies in comprehensive factory data.

Key Features:

Unparalleled detail on the specific 1966 Plymouth lineup, essential for accurate restoration and maintenance. Includes all engine options and body styles.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical systems of 1966 Plymouth Barracuda, Fury, Belvedere, Signet, and Valiant models.

Total Pages:

866

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Reproduction (likely based on original factory publication)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, timing, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carburetion, fuel lines), exhaust system.

Engine Performance:

Engine specifications, troubleshooting, performance tuning, emission controls (where applicable).

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission overhaul, clutch system, shift linkage, gears, bearings.

Transmission Automatic:

TorqueFlite automatic transmission service, adjustments, overhaul, fluid specifications, troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Drive shafts, universal joints, rear axle assemblies, differential service, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, ball joints, control arms, leaf springs, coil springs, shock absorbers, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Steering gear overhaul, power steering system service, steering linkage, steering column.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system service, wheel cylinders, master cylinder, brake drums, brake shoes, brake lines, parking brake system, power brake booster.

Electrical:

Battery, starting system, charging system (alternator/generator), ignition system, lighting system, gauges, horn, wiring diagrams, fuse and circuit breaker information.

Body And Chassis:

Body repair, sheet metal, doors, windows, convertible top mechanism (Barracuda), interior trim, bumpers, frame specifications, rust prevention.

Heating And Air Conditioning:

Heater core service, defroster system, factory air conditioning system (if equipped) service and recharge procedures.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, lubrication, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, tune-up procedures, battery checks.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting guides for common drivability and system issues.

Repair Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper rebuilds, carburetor rebuilds, etc.

Adjustments:

Carburetor adjustments, ignition timing adjustments, clutch adjustments, brake adjustments, power steering adjustments, valve adjustments.

Specifications Charts:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearance specifications, gap settings, fluid capacities, and pressure readings.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed electrical schematics and troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Notes:

While the product is described as a 'manual,' it's likely a high-quality reproduction of the original printed factory service manual. If digital, expect searchable PDF.

Print Quality:

Assumed to be high-quality reproduction print suitable for workshop use.

Binding Type:

Likely perfect bound or saddle-stitched for printed versions.

Paper Type:

Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

273 V8 (2-barrel & 4-barrel), 318 V8 (2-barrel), 360 V8 (often found as an upgrade in later years but 383 V8 was available), 383 V8 (2-barrel & 4-barrel), 426 V8 HEMI (performance models), Slant-Six 225 (1-barrel).

Horsepower Torque Notes:

Horsepower and torque figures varied significantly by engine option and carburetor configuration. Manual will detail these.

Carburetors:

Single-barrel (e.g., Carter BBD on Slant-Six, Holley/Carter on 273/318) and two-barrel (e.g., Carter BBD, Holley 2300) and four-barrel carburetors (e.g., Carter AVS, Holley 4160/4150) were common.

Fuel Pump:

Mechanical fuel pump.

Ignition Type:

Breaker point ignition system with distributor, coil, spark plugs, and plug wires.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

3-speed Manual Transmission (A833) was a common option, particularly on performance models.

Optional Transmission:

TorqueFlite (A727 and A904) Automatic Transmission.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch for manual transmissions.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Barracuda: 106 inches; Valiant/Belvedere/Fury: 111 inches.

Length:

Varies by model, e.g., Barracuda ~192 inches, Belvedere ~199 inches.

Width:

Varies by model, approximately 70-72 inches.

Curb Weight:

Varies by model and engine, typically 3,000 - 3,700 lbs.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Available in manual, crucial for load capacity.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

Era-specific safety standards; manual covers mechanical safety systems of the time.

Brakes:

Front drum brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assist optional. Manual covers adjustment and maintenance.

Steering Safety:

Integrated steering system with safety features of the era.

Seat Belts:

Lap belts were standard, shoulder belts optional or model-dependent. Manual may cover installation.

Windshield:

Laminated safety glass windshield. Manual covers replacement.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

AM radio with optional FM tuner. Manual may cover removal, installation, and troubleshooting.

None:

No electronic driver assistance systems typical of modern vehicles. Focus is on mechanical reliability and driver control.

None:

No connectivity features.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months, but manual will specify by oil type.

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plugs, points, and condenser typically every 10,000-15,000 miles. Manual provides detailed schedule.

Engine Oil:

API Service Classification SC, SD (e.g., SAE 10W-30, 10W-40 depending on temperature). Manual will list specific recommendations and capacities.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Chrysler ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) Type A Suffix A (or equivalent). Manual will confirm.

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Manual specifies capacity.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid. Manual specifies type and procedure.

Common Issues Engine:

Valve stem seals (oil consumption), carburetor tuning, ignition system reliability, exhaust manifold gaskets (vacuum leaks).

Common Issues Drivetrain:

U-joint wear, differential leaks, clutch wear (manual transmission).

Common Issues Suspension:

Ball joint wear, kingpin wear (on older designs, though 60s were largely ball joint), shock absorber fatigue.

Common Issues Electrical:

Generator/alternator failure, voltage regulator issues, wiring harness degradation, starter motor wear.

Oil Filter Example:

Examples: Fram PH8A, Wix 51515 (cross-reference needed based on specific engine).

Air Filter Example:

Example: Fram CA101 PL (cross-reference needed).

📚 Vehicle History

Plymouth Heritage:

Plymouth, a division of Chrysler Corporation, was known for its value and innovation in the American automotive market.

Barracuda Evolution:

The 1966 Barracuda was part of the second generation (1964-1966), evolving from its compact muscle car roots with increased styling cues.

Fury Belvedere Evolution:

The 1966 Fury and Belvedere were part of Chrysler's 'C-body' platform, representing large, full-size sedans and coupes, with distinct styling from the Barracuda.

Signet Valiant:

Signet and Valiant were part of Plymouth's compact car line, sharing platforms and components, with the Signet being a more upscale trim level.

Production Years:

1966 model year production.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in the United States by Chrysler Corporation.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Recognition:

While specific awards for the 1966 models are not widely documented, these vehicles were significant in Chrysler's lineup, offering performance and style that resonated with buyers.

Performance Ratings:

The performance variants, particularly those with the 426 HEMI or high-performance 383s, were highly regarded in performance circles of the era.