Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, timing components.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, carburetor (likely Rochester Quadrajet or similar), fuel lines, fuel tank, emissions control systems.
Ignition System:
Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition timing, electronic ignition components (if applicable).
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan, cooling hoses, coolant specifications.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, pipes, mufflers, catalytic converter (if equipped), emission controls.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, transmission overhaul, gear shifts, linkages, lubrication.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission overhaul (e.g., Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 or 400), valve body, torque converter, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle assembly, differential, axle ratios.
Brakes:
Disc brake systems (front and rear), brake calipers, rotors, master cylinder, power brake booster, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, ball joints, steering fluid.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (control arms, ball joints, springs, shocks), rear suspension (leaf springs, shocks), bushings, alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, gauges, power windows, power locks (if equipped).
Chassis And Body:
Frame, body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, weatherstripping, bodywork repair.
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, operation, and service.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and adjustment.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step guides for identifying and resolving common issues across all systems.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for removing and installing major and minor components.
Engine Rebuild:
Comprehensive instructions for complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Transmission Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for rebuilding both manual and automatic transmissions.
Brake Service:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder service, bleeding, and rotor replacement.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Replacement of ball joints, tie rods, bushings, shock absorbers, and steering gear.
Electrical System Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting wiring faults, component testing, and repair.
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant handling (if A/C equipped), component testing, and repair.
Depth:
Comprehensive and detailed, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostics, including symptom-based troubleshooting flowcharts and component testing specifications.
Rebuild Level:
Full rebuild procedures for all major mechanical and drivetrain components.
Special Tools:
Identification and use of specialized tools required for specific procedures.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all fasteners across all systems.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Precise measurements for engine internal clearances, bearing tolerances, and other critical specifications.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era).
Tune Up Interval:
Every 12,000-24,000 miles or 12-24 months, involving spark plugs, points (if not HEI), condenser, rotor, distributor cap, and fuel filter.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 24,000-30,000 miles or 24 months (automatic transmission).
Engine Oil:
API SF/CD rated, SAE 10W-40 or 10W-30 recommended (check owner's manual for specific viscosity and capacity).
Coolant:
50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 heavy-duty hydraulic brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron-III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Rear Axle Fluid:
Hypoid gear lubricant, API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (or limited-slip additive if applicable).
Fiberglass Delamination:
Potential for delamination of fiberglass body panels over time, especially in areas exposed to moisture.
Carburetor Tuning:
Rochester Quadrajet carburetors can require precise tuning and rebuilding due to age and wear.
Brake System Wear:
Disc brake components (calipers, rotors) can wear and require regular maintenance or replacement.
Weatherstripping Deterioration:
Aging rubber weatherstripping can lead to leaks and wind noise.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and connections can lead to intermittent electrical issues.