1993 Chevrolet Camaro Owners Manual

terrain. If you drive regularly in steep country. or if you're planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and more enjoyable. in good shape. 0 Keep your vehicle Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transmission. These parts can work hard on mountain roads.

1659 *

Your Driving and the Road

Know how to go down hills. The most important thing to know is this: let your engine do some of the slowing down. Don’t make your brakes do it all. Shift to a lower gear when you go down a steep or long hill. That way, you will slow down without excessive use of your brakes.

If you don’t shift down, your brakes could get so hot that

they wouldn’t work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You could crash. Shift down to let your engine assist your brakes on a steep downhill slope.

Coasting downhill in , N (Neutral) or with the ignition off is dangerous, Your brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down, They could get so hot that they wouldn’t work weiL You could crash. Always have your engine running and your vehicle in gear when you go downhill.

.. 166

Know how to go uphill. You may want to shift down to a lower gear. The lower gears help cool your engine and transmission, and you can climb the hill better. Stay in your own lane when driving on two-lane roads in hills or mountains. Don’t swing wide or cut across the center of the road. Drive at speeds that let you stay in your own lane. That way, you won’t be surprised by a vehicle coming toward you in the same lane.

It takes longer to pass another vehicle when you’re going uphill. You’ll want to leave extra room to pass. If a vehicle is passing you and doesn’t have enough room, slow down to make it easier for the other vehicle to get by. As you go over the top of a hill, be alert. There could be something in your lane, like a stalled car or an accident.

You may see highway signs on mountains that warn of special problems. Examples are long grades, passing or no-passing zones, a falling rocks area, or winding roads. Be alert to these and take appropriate action. Winter driving can present special problems. See “Winter Driving” in the Index.

Your Driving and the Road

- m

Parking Downhill Turn your wheels to the right. You don't have to jam your tires against the curb, if there is a curb. A gentle contact is all you need.

Parking Uphill If there is a curb, turn your wheels to the left if the curb is a t the right side of your vehicle.

Parking on Hills

Hills and mountains mean spectacular scenery. But please be careful where you stop if you decide to look at the view or take pictures. Look for pull-offs or parking areas provided for scenic viewing. Another part of this manual tells how to use your parking brake (see "Parking Brake" in the Index). But on a mountain or steep hill, you can do one more thing. You can turn your front wheels to keep your vehicle from rolling downhill or out into traffic. Here's how:

If you’re going uphill on a one-way street and you’re parking on the left side, your wheels should point to the right.

If there is no curb when you’re parking uphill, turn the wheels to the right. If there is no curb when you’re parking uphill on the left side of a one-way street, your wheels should be turned to the left.

Torque Lock (Automatic Transmission) If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transmission into P (Park) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transmission. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of P (Park). This is called “torque lock.” To prevent torque lock, always be sure to shift into P (Park)

properly before you leave the driver’s seat. To find out how, see “Shifting into P (Park)” in the Index. When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of P (Park) BEFORE you release the parking brake. If “torque lock” does occur, you may need to have another vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the pressure from the transmission, so you can pull the shift lever out of P (Park).

Your Driving and the Road

Winter Driving

Here are some tips for winter driving: Have your Chevrolet in good shape for winter. Be sure your engine coolant mix is correct. Snow tires can help in loose snow, but they may give you less traction on ice than regular tires. If you do not expect to be driving in deep snow, but may have to travel over ice, you may not want to switch to snow tires at all.

You may want to put winter emergency supplies in your vehicle. Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth, and a couple of reflective warning triangles. And, if you will be driving under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap bags to help provide traction. Be sure you properly secure these items in your vehicle.

Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the road probably have good traction. However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You’ll have a lot less traction or “grip” and will need to be very careful.

Your anti-lock brakes improve your ability to make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have the anti-lock braking system, you’ll want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See “Anti-Lock” in the Index.

What’s the worst time for this? “Wet ice.” Very cold snow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet ice can be even more trouble because it may offer the least traction of all. You can get “wet ice” when it’s about freezing (32°F; OOC) and freezing rain begins to fall. Try to avoid driving on wet ice until salt and sand crews can get there. Whatever the condition - smooth ice, packed, blowing or loose snow - drive with caution. Accelerate gently. Try not to break the fragile traction. If you accelerate too fast, the drive wheels will spin and polish the surface under the tires even more.

Allow greater following distance on any slippery road. Watch for slippery spots. The road might be fine until you hit a spot that’s covered with ice. On an otherwise clear road, ice patches may appear in shaded areas where the sun can’t reach: around clumps of trees, behind buildings, or under bridges. Sometimes the surface of a curve or an overpass may remain icy when the surrounding roads are clear. If you see a patch of ice ahead of you, brake before you are on it. Try not to brake while you’re actually on the ice, and avoid sudden steering maneuvers.

171

Your Driving and the Road

If You’re Caught in a Blizzard If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a serious situation. You should probably stay with your vehicle unless you know for sure that you are near help and you can hike through the snow. Here are some things to do to summon help and keep yourself and your passengers safe: Turn on your hazard flashers. Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that you’ve been stopped by the snow. Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you. If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body insulators from

m .

172

newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor mats - anything you can wrap around yourself or tuck under your clothing to keep warm. You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful.

Snow can trap exhaust gases L under your vehicle. This can

cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas to get inside. CO could overcome you and kill you. You can’t see it or smell it, so you might not know it is in your vehicle. Clear away snow from around the base of your vehicle, especially any that is blocking your exhaust pipe. And check around again from time to time to be sure snow doesn’t collect there. Open a window just a little on the side of the vehicle that’s away from the wind. This will help keep CO out.

3f the vehicle and do some fairly vigorous zxercises every half hour or so until help Zomes.

If You're Stuck in Deep Snow This manual explains how to get the vehicle out of deep snow without damaging it. See "Rocking Your Vehicle" in the Index.

Towing a Trailer

you can lose control when you pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well - or even at all. You and your passengers could be seriously injured. Pull a trailer only if you have followed all the steps in this section.

Run your engine only as long as you must. This saves fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little faster than just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly. This uses less fuel for the heat that you get and it keeps the battery charged. You will need a well-charged battery to restart the vehicle, and possibly for signaling later on with your headlights. Let the heater run for awhile. Then. shut the engine off and close the window almost all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine again and repeat this only when you feel really uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as little as possible. Preserve the fuel as long as you can. To help keep warm. you can get out

Your Driving and the Road

I NOTICE:

AAtnage your vehicle and result i~ jtly repairs not covered by you.

warranty. To pull a trailer correctly, follow the advice in this section.

Your vehicle can tow a trailer if it is equipped with the proper trailer towing equipment. To identify what the vehicle trailering capacity is for your vehicle, you should read the information in “Weight of the Trailer” that appears later in this section. But trailering is different than just driving your vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes in handling, durability,

and fuel economy. Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to be used properly. That’s the reason for this section, In it are many time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules. Many of these are important for your safety and that of your passengers. So please read this section carefully before you pull a trailer. Load-pulling components such as the engine, transmission, wheel assemblies, and tires are forced to work harder against the drag of the added weight. The engine is required to operate at relatively higher speeds and under greater loads,

generating extra heat. What’s more, the trailer adds considerably to wind resistance, increasing the pulling requirements.

If You Do Decide to Pull a Trailer If you do, here are some important points.

There are many different laws having to do with trailering. Make sure your rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where you’ll be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police.

Consider using a sway control. You can ask a hitch dealer about sway controls, Don’t tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles (800 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged. Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that you tow a trailer, don’t drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and don’t make starts at full throttle. This helps your engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at the heavier loads.

Three important considerations have to do with weight:

Weight of the Trailer How heavy can a trailer safely be? It should never weigh more than 1,500 pounds (680 kg) under normal driving conditions. It should never weigh more than 1,000 pounds (450 kg) when driven on long grades at high ambient temperatures. But even that can be too heavy. It depends on how you plan to use your rig. For example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside temperature and how much your vehicle is used to pull

a trailer are all important. And, it can also depend on any special equipment that you have on your vehicle. You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at:

Chevrolet Motor Division Customer Assistance Department P.O. Box 7047 Troy, MI 48007-7047

In Canada, write to:

General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Assistance Center 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario LlH 8P7

Your Driving and the

Road

Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total capacity weight of your vehicle. The capacity weight includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. And if you will tow a trailer, you must subtract the tongue load from your vehicle‘s capacity weight because your vehicle will be carrying that weight, too. See “Loading Your Vehicle” in the Index for more information about your vehicle’s maximum load capacity.

The trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10% of the total loaded trailer weight (E). After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper. If they aren’t, you may be able to get them right simply by moving some items around in the trailer.

Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the limit for cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on the Certification label at the rear edge of the driver’s door (or see “Tire Loading” in the Index). Then be sure you don’t go over the GVW limit for your vehicle.

Hitches It‘s important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by. and rough roads are a few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch.

Here are some rules to follow:

Will you have to make any holes in the body of your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch? If you do, then be sure to seal the holes later when you remove the hitch. If you don't seal them, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get into your vehicle (see "Carbon Monoxide" in the Index). Dirt and water can, too. The bumpers on your vehicle are not intended for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other bumper-type hitches to them. Use only a frame-mounted hitch that does not attach to the bumper.

Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for attaching safety chains. Always leave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig. And, never a Jlow safety chains to drag on the ground.

Trailer Brakes If your trailer weighs more than 1,000 pounds (450 kg) loaded, then it needs its own brakes - and they must be adequate. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so you'll be able to install, adjust and maintain them properly. Because you have anti-lock brakes, do not try to tap into your vehicle's brake system. If you do, both brake systems won't work well, or at all. Driving with a Trailer Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before setting out for the open road, you'll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added

Your Driving and the Road

weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly so responsive as your vehicle is by itself, Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform, safety chains, electrical connector, lights, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working. This lets you check your electrical connection at the same time. During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure, and that the lights and any trailer brakes are still working. 178

Following Distance Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns.

Passing You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when you’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good deal longer, you’ll need to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle before you can return to your lane.

Backing Up Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible, have someone guide you.

Making Turns When you’re turning with a trailer, make wider turns than normal. Do this so your trailer won’t strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees, or other objects. Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance.

Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer When you tow a trailer, your vehicle has to have a different turn signal flasher and extra wiring. The green arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lights will also flash, telling other drivers you’re about to change lanes or stop. When towing a trailer, the green arrows on your instrument panel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are burned out. Thus, you may think drivers behind you are seeing your signal when they are not. It’s important to check occasionally to be sure the trailer bulbs are still working.

turn,

Driving on Grades Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start down a long or steep downgrade. If you don’t shift down, you might have to use your brakes so much that they would get hot and no longer work well. On a long uphill grade, shift down and reduce your speed to around 45 mph (70 km/h) to reduce the possibility of engine and transmission overheating.

If you are towing a trailer and you have an automatic transmission with Overdrive, you may prefer to drive in D instead of Overdrive (or, as you need to, a lower gear). Or, if you have a manual transmission with fifth (or sixth) gear and you are towing a trailer, it’s better not to use fifth (or sixth) gear. Just drive in fourth gear (fifth gear if you have a six-speed manual transmission) (or, as you need to, a lower gear.

Your Driving and the Road

Parking on Hills You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes wrong, your rig could start to move. People can be injured, and both your vehicle and the trailer can be damaged.

But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here's how to do it: 1. Apply your regular brakes, but don't

shift into P (Park) yet, or into gear for a manual transmission.

2. Have someone place chocks under the

trailer wheels.

3. When the wheel chocks are in place,

release the regular brakes-until the chocks absorb the load.

4. Reapply the regular brakes. Then

apply your parking brake, and then shift to P (Park), or R (Reverse) for a manual transmission.

5. Release the regular brakes.

180

When You Are Ready to Leave after Parking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold

the pedal down while you: 0 Start your engine; 0 Shift into a gear; and 0 Release the parking brake.

2. Let up on the brake pedal. 3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear

of the chocks.

4. Stop and have someone pick up and

store the chocks.

Maintenance When Trailer Towing Your vehicle will need service more often when you're pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for more on this. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transmission fluid (don't overfill), engine oil, axle lubricant. belts. cooling system, and brake adjustment. Each of these is covered in this manual, and the Index will help you find them quickly. If you're trailering, it's a good idea to review these sections before you start your trip. Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts are tight.

' Notes

Part 5 rroblems on the Road

H e r e you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road.

Hazard Warning Flashers ............................................. 184 Jump Starting ...................................................... 185 Towing Your Vehicle ................................................ 190 Engine Overheating ................................................. 193 If a Tire Goes Flat .................................................. 204 If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow .............................. 215

Problems on the Road

Hazard Warning Flashers

Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lights will flash on and off.

Press the button in to make your fronl and rear turn signal lights flash on and off. Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what position your key is in, and even if the key isn‘t in.

To turn off the flashers. pull out on the collar. When the hazard warning tlashers are on, your turn signals won’t work.

Other Warning Devices If you carry retlective triangles, you can set one up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m> behind your vehicle.

... 184

Jump Starting

If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your Chevrolet. But please follow the steps below to do it safely.

A Batteries can hurt you. They cm be dangerous because: 0 They contain acid that can

burn you. They contain gas that can explode or ignite. They contain enough electricity to burn you. you don’t follow these steps taclly, some or all of these things

c m hurl you.

Ignoring these steps could result i n cosily damage to your vehicle that wouldn’l : covered by your warrant) Trying to start your Chevrolet bl pushing or pulling it could dama your vehicle. even if you have a manual transmission. And if you have an automatic transmission, it won’t slart that way.

Problems an the Road

To Jump Start Your Chevrolet: 1. Check the other vehicle. It must have

a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system.

11 NOTICE:

l r tne otner system Isn’t a lz-vo~t --/stem with a negative ground, botn Yzhicles can be damaged.

... 186

3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles, Turn off all lights that aren’t needed, and radios. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And it could save your radio!

NOTICE:

II

be badly damaged. The repairs wouldn’t be covered warrar

your

2.

Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren’t touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you don’t want. You wouldn’t be able to start your Chevrolet, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems. ’WTION: 4 vehicles roll. Set the parking rou cows De rnJurea if the ,,ake firmly on each vehicle. Put an automatic transmission in P (Park) or a manual transmission in Neutral.

~ _ _ _ _

‘I

, Open the hoods and locate the

batteries.

CAUTION:

A An electric fan can start up

even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan.

Find the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on each battery.

A Using a match near a battery

can cause battery gas to

explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water, You don’t need to add water to the Delco Freedom@ battery installed in every new GM vehicle. But if a battery has filler caps, be sure the right amount of fluid is there. If it is low, add water to take care of that first. If you don’t, explosive gas could be present. Battery fluid contains acid that can burn you. Don’t get it on you. If you accidentally get it in your eyes or on your skin, flush the place with water and get medical help immediately.

Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged, too. Before you connect the cables, here are some basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+) and negative (-) will go to negative (-) or a metal engine part. Don’t connect (+) to (-) or you’ll get a short that would damage the battery and maybe other parts, too.

18799.

Problems an the Road

Fans or other moving engine

L parts can injure you badly. eep your hands away from moving -u-ts once the engines are running.

6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to

the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one,

7. Don't let the other end touch metal.

Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. But don't use the junction block on your Chevrolet.

8. Now connect the black negative (-) cable to the good battery's negative (-) terminal. Don't let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative cable doesn't go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy unpainted metal part on the engine of the vehicle with the dead battery.

9.

10.

11.

Attach the cable at least 18 inches (45 cm) away from the dead battery. but not near engine parts that move. The electrical connection is just as good there, but the chance of sparks getting back to the battery is much less. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run the engine for a while. Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery. If it won't start after a few tries, it Probably needs service.

12. Remove the cables in reverse order to prevent electrical shorting. Take care that they don't touch each other or any other metal. A. Heavy Metal Engine Part B. Good Battery C. Dead Battery

Problems on the Road

l e

=Towing Your Vehicle Try to have a CM dealer or a professional towing service tow your Chevrolet. The usual towing equipment is a sling-type (A) or a wheel-lift (B) or car carrier (C) tow truck. If your vehicle has been changed or modified since it was factory-new by adding aftermarket items like fog lamps, aero skirting, or special tires and wheels, these instructions and illustrations may not be correct. Before you do anything, turn on the hazard warning flashers.

190

When you call, tell the towing service: 0 That your vehicle cannot be towed

from the front or rear with sling-type equipment. That your vehicle has rear-wheel drive.

0 The make, model, and year of your

vehicle. Whether you can still move the lever. If there was an accident, what was damaged.

shift

When the towing service arrives, let the tow operator know that this manual contains detailed towing instructions and illustrations. The operator may want to see them.

1 TO help avoid injury to you or

b others: Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that is being towed. Never tow faster than safe or posted speeds. Never tow with damaged parts not fully secured. Never get under your vehicle after it has been lifted by the tow truck. Always use separate safety chains on each side when towing a vehicle, Never use “J” hooks. Use T-hooks instead.

When your vehicle is being towed, have the ignition key off. The steering wheel should be clamped in a straight-ahead position, with a clamping device designed for towing service. Do not use the vehicle’s steering column lock for this. The transmission should be in Neutral and the parking brake released. Don’t have your vehicle towed on the rear wheels, unless you must. If the vehicle must be towed on the rear wheels, don’t EO more than 35 mDh (55 kmh) or Farther than 50 miles (80 km j or your transmission will be damaged. If these limits must be exceeded, then the rear wheels have to be supported on a dolly.

CAUTION: RA

A vehicle can fall from a car carrier if it isn’t properly

secured. This can cause a collision,

I Front Towing Hook-Ups Attach T-hook chains to slots in frame rearward of front wheels on both sides.

tightly secured with chains or steel cables before it is transported. Don’t use substitutes (ropes, leather straps, canvas webbing, etc.) that can be cut by sharp edges underneath the towed vehicle.

Do not attach winch cables or 1 hooks to suspension components en using car carrier equipment I Always use T-hooks inserted in the I T-hook slots.

I I

191

Problems on the Road

Attach a separate safety chain around outboard end of each lower control arm.

not tow with sling-typc

equipment or fascia/fog light damage will occu Use wheel lift or car carrier equipment. Additional ramping may be required for car carrier equipment. Use safety chains and wheel straps.

contact. To help avoid damage, install a towing dolly and raise vehicle until proper clearance is obtained between * the ground and/or wheel-lift equipment.

192

I . .

Rear Towing Hook-Ups Attach T-hook chains in front of rear wheels in bottom of frame rail on both sides.

to suspension compontllLa using car carrier equipment.

/I

I

Do not tow with sling-type eauipment or rear bumDer valance

Attach a separate safety chain around outboard end of the rear axle.

Engine Overheating

You will find a coolant temperature gage on your Chevrolet's instrument panel. You may also find a low coolant warning light on your Chevrolet instrument panel.

equipment. Additional ramping may be required for car carrier equipment. Use safety chains and wheel straps.

NOTICE:

could damage a vehicle. Damage can occur from both vehicle-to-ground or vehicle-to-wheel-lift-equipment

To help avoid damage, install g dolly and raise vehicle until er clearance is obtained between

the ground and/or wheel-lift equipment.

193

Problems on the Road

If Steam Is Coming from Your Engine:

W 1 L d r - W

LUU I ILJN.'

Steam from an overheated engine can bum you badly, even if you just open k the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from x. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or coolant before opening the hood. If you keep driving when your engine is overheated, the liquids in it can catch fire. You or others could be badly burned. Stop your engine if it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the engine is cool,

... 194

11 your engine catches fire because

II I you keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged The costly repairs would not be covered by your warranty.

I1 F No Steam Is Coming from Your hgine: 'you get the overheat warning but see or I1 ear no steam, the problem may not be )o serious. Sometimes the engine can get tC little too hot when you:

Climb a long hill on a hot day. Stop after high speed driving. Idle for long periods in traffic.

1 Tow a trailer.

If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so: 1. If you have an air conditioner, turn it

off.

2. Turn on your heater to full hot at the

highest fan speed and open the window as necessary.

3. Try to keep your engine under load (in

a drive gear where the engine runs slower).

If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about ten minutes. If the warning doesn’t come back on, you can drive normally.

If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away. If there’s still no sign of steam, you can idle the engine for two or three minutes while you’re parked, to see if the warning stops. But then, if you still have the warning, TURN OFF THE ENGINE AND GET EVERYONE OUT OF THE VEHICLE until it cools down. You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away.

Cooling System When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see on the V6 engine: 1. 2. 3.

Coolant recovery tank Radiator pressure cap Electric engine fan

Problems on the Road

I. -

.. .

If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down. When it is cool, remove the coolant recovery tank cap and look at the dipstick. I I The coolant level should be at or above FULL COLD. If it isn’t, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the system.

cooling

II

A Heater and radiator hoses, and L other engine parts, can be very hot. Don’t touch them. If you do, you can be burned.

~ Don’t run the engine if there is a

leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine fire, and you could be burned. Get any leak fixed before you drive the vehicle.

On the V8 engine you’ll see this: 1. Coolant recovery tank 2. Radiator pressure cap 3. Electric engine fans

An electric fan under the hood

L can start up even when the

engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clbthing and tools away from any underhood electric fan.

... 196

eng~ witho r u -.. .

tolar .

[f there seems to be no leak, check to see f the electric engine fan is running. If the :ngine is overheating, the fan should be -unning. If it isn’t, your vehicle needs iervice.

How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at or above FULL COLD, add a 50/50 mixture of clean water (preferably distilled) and a proper antifreeze at the coolant recovery tank. (See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information about the proper coolant mix.)

A Adding only plain water to

L your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mix will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mix. With plain water or the wrong mix, your engine could get too hot but you wouldn’t get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mix of clean water and a proper antifreeze.

197-

Problems on the Road

and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant.

When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at or above FULL COLD, start your vehicle. If the overheat warning continues, there’s one more thing you can try. You can add the proper coolant mix directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling system is cool before you do it.

‘I - L coolant on hot engine parts. A You can be burne4 if you spill Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don’t spill coolant on a hot engine.

CAUTION:

Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the radiator pressure cap - even a little - they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and radiator pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap.

9.198

P

2. Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap.

3. Fill the radiator with the proper mix,

up to the base of the filler neck.

How to Add Coolant to the Radiator (3.4L L32 (Code S ) Engine) 1. You can remove the radiator pressure

cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly to the left until it first stops. (Don't press down while turning the pressure cap.) If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left.

Problems on the Road

. A 1

4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to

FULL COLD.

5. Put the cap back on the coolant

recovery tank, but leave the radiator pressure cap off.

6.

Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine fan( s). By this time the coolant level inside the radiator filler neck may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper mix through the filler neck until the level reaches the base of the filler neck.

... 200

m

7. Then replace the pressure cap. Be sure the arrows on the pressure cap line up like this.

(5.7L LTl (Code P) Engine) .

1. You can remove the radiator pressure

Hom7 to Add Coolant to the Radiator

II

1 engine (Code P) ha

'he ;pecmc radiator fill procedure. %lure to follow this procedure

cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly to the left until it first stops. (Don't press down while turning the pressure cap.) If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left.

201

Problems on the Road

-4

"sl

2. Then keep turning the pressure cap,

but now push down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap.

L coolant on hot engine parts. You can be burned if you spill 1 and it will burn if the engine parts ,oolant contains ethylene glycol are hot enough. Don't spill coolant on a hot engine.

4. Fill with the proper mix. Add coolant

until you see a steady stream of coolant coming. from the bleed valves.

11 5. Close the bleed valves.

3. After the engine cools, open the air

bleed valves on the heater return hose and water pump inlet.

. 202

I

6. Continue to fill the radiator up to the

base of the filler neck.

7. Rinse or wipe the spilled coolant from

the engine and compartment.

8. Start the engine and allow it to run in idle for approximately four minutes. By this time, the coolant level inside the radiator will be lower. Add more of the proper mix through the filler neck until the level reaches the base of the filler neck.

203

Problems on the Road

lh

$. '

CI.

9. Shut the engine off and replace the pressure cap. Be sure the arrows on the cap line up like this.

10. Then fill the coolant recovery tank

to the proper level.

For a complete drain. flush and refill, see your Chevrolet dealer or a Chevrolet Carnaro Service Manual. To purchase a service manual, see "Service Publications" in the Index.

If a Tire Goes Flat

It's unusual for a tire to "blow out" while you're driving, especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it's much more likely to leak out slowly. But if you should ever have a "blowout," here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly. Steer to maintain lane position, then gently brake to a stop well out of the traffic lane.

in-a skid. In

I Changing a Flat lire If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level I - 1 CAUTION:

’ A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a skid and may require the place. Turn on your hazard warning flashers. same correction you’d use any rear blowout, remove your foot from the accelerator pedal. Get the vehicle under control by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. Gently brake to a stop, well off the road if possible. If your tire goes flat, the next section shows how to use your jacking equipment to change a flat tire safely.

A Changing a tire can cause an injury. The vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over you or other people. You and they could be badly injured. Find a level I place to ccange your tire. To help prevent the vehicle from moving: (I

1. Set the parking brake firmly. 2. Put the shift lever in P (Park). 3. Shift a manual transmission to 1 (First) or R (Reverse). 4. Turn off the engine.

To be even more certain the vehicle won’t move, you can put chocks at the front and rear of the tire farthest away from the one being changed. That would be tht tire on the other side of the vehicle, at the opposite end.

205 -

Problems on the Road

If you have speakers in the trim panel, the speaker wire should be long enough to remove the trim panel without disconnecting the wire.

To remove the jack and wheel wrench, loosen and remove the bolt and remove the plastic cover.

The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and change a tire. The equipment you'll need is in the rear area. Find the plastic screw heads in the trim panel over the spare tire. Use a coin or a key to turn the screw heads until the slots point front and back. Lift the trim panel and move it out of the way,

... 206

A.

Remove the wing nut and adapter and pull out the spare.

Start with the jack (A) and wheel wrench (B).

The jack has a bolt at the end. Attach the wheel wrench to the jack bolt. Turn the wheel wrench to the right to raise the lift head a little.

Problems on the Road

If your wheel has a center cap, pry it off using the wheel wrench.

If your vehicle has a bolt-on wheel cover, loosen the plastic caps using the wheel wrench and remove the wheel cover.

If your vehicle has optional alloy wheels, each wheel may have one locknut in place of the standard wheel nut. A special wheel lock key (removal tool) and instructions are located in the center console. Attach the wheel lock key to the socket of the wheel wrench. Remove the locking wheel nut by turning counterclockwise.

208

Using the wheel wrench, loosen all the wheel nuts. Don't remove them yet.

Position the jack under the vehicle. There is a notch in the vehicle's rocker flange. Raise the jack head until it fits firmly into the notch nearest the flat tire.

Stay away from the moldings or fender flanges to avoid damaging them.

' Getting under a vtmicle when IL is jacked up is dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack, you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported onlv bv a iack.

209 .

Problems on the Road

Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned will damage the vehicle or may allow the vehicIe to fall off the jack. Be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising your vehicle.

Raise the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrench clockwise. Raise the vehicle far mough off the ground so there is enough room for the spare tire to fit.

Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat tire.

I -

210

I

A Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from the places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, you can use a cloth or a paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if you need to, to get all the rust or dirt off.

Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel 3olts, mounting surfaces or spare wheel. Place the spare on the wheel mounting surfxe.

Replace the wheel nuts with the roundec-1 end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub.

A Never use oil or grease on

studs or nuts. If you do, the

nuts might come loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident.

211

Problems on the Road

Lower the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrench counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely.

, .:

i l

Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a criss-cross sequence as shown.

CAUTION: ,A improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become loose and even come off. This could lead to an accident. Be sure to use the correct wheel nuts. If you have to replace them, be sure to get the right kind. Stop somewhere as soon as you can and have the nuts tightened with a torque wrench to 100 pound-feet ( 140 Nmm).

I I

Don't try to put a wheel cover on your compact spare tire. It won't fit. Store the wheel cover in the rear area until you have the flat tire repaired or replaced.

NOTICE:

-elcovers won't

fit on your

:ompact spare. If you try to put a wheel cover on your compact si re, you could damage the wer the spare.

Replace the jack, wheel wrench and flat tire using the storage instructions. When you replace the trim panel, be sure to tuck it under the weatherstrip.

1. Trim Panel 2. Bolt 3. Cover 4. Jack 5. Wing Nut 6. Adapter 7. Compact Spare Tire 8. Full-Size Tire 9. Carpet Flap IO. Tire Storage Bolt

Problems on the Road

I I

, Storing aJacK, a tlre or otner 4 equipment in the passenger Ldmpartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place.

Compact Spare Although the compact spare was fully inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be 60 psi (420 kPa). The compact spare is made to go up to 3,000 miles (5 000 km), so you can finish your trip and have your full-size tire repaired or replaced where you want. Of course, it’s best to replace your spare with a full-size tire as soon as you can. Your spare will last longer and be in good shape in case you need it again.

NOTICE: lr tne compact spare 1s use0 as a rear tire, do not drive faster than 50 mph (80 km/h). Damage to the rear axle may occur if the compac snare is driven faster than 50 mnh ( 0 km/h). This speed limitatia does not apply when the COI ware is used as a front tire.

rire chains won’t fit your CI

:t

w If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow

What you don’t want to do when your vehicle is stuck is to spin your wheels. The method known as “rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution.

spare

Don’t take your compact through an automatic car wash with guide rails. The compact spare can get caught on the rails. That can damage the tire and wheel, and maybe other parts of your vehicl

Don‘t use your compact spare on some other vehicle. And don‘t mix your compact spare or wheel with other wheels or tires. They won‘t fit. Keep your spare and its wheel together.

Problems on the Road

If you let your tires spin at high

\ speed, they can explode and

you or others could be injured. And, the transmission or other partsof the I cause an engine compartment fire or vehicle can overheat. That could other damage. When you’re stuck, spin the wheels as little as possible. Don’t spin the wheels above 35 mph (55 km/h) as shown on the speedometer.

Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the .ires. If you spin the wheels too fast Nhile shifting your transmission aack and forth, you can destro!, your transmission.

II I

Rocking your vehicle to get it out: First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That will clear the area around your front wheels. Then shift back and forth between R (Reverse) and a forward gear (or with a manual transmission, between First or Second gear and Reverse), spinning the wheels as little as possible. Release the accelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal when the transmission is in gear. If that doesn’t get you out after a few tries, you may need to be towed out. If you do need to be towed out, see “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.

... 21 6

H e r e you will find information about the care of your Chevrolet . This part begins with service and fuel information. and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels . There is also technical information about your vehicle. and a section devoted to its appearance care .

Part b Service & Appearance Care

Service .......................................................... 218 Fuel ............................................................ 219 ..................................... 223 Checking Things under the Hood HoodRelease ................................................... 223 Engineoil ...................................................... 226 Aircleaner ..................................................... 230 Automatic Transmission Fluid ...................................... 233 Manual Transmission Fluid ........................................ 235 Hydraulicclutch ................................................ 237 RearAxle ...................................................... 237 Enginecoolant .................................................. 238 Power Steering Fluid ............................................. 242 Windshield Washer Fluid .......................................... 243 Brake Master Cylinder ............................................ 244 Battery ........................................................ 246 ................................................. 247 Bulb Replacement .............................................. Loading Your Vehicle 255 Tires ............................................................ 256 Appearancecare .................................................. 265 Appearance Care and Maintenance Materials ............................ 274 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) .................................. 275 Service Parts Identification Label ..................................... 275 Add-on Electrical Equipment ........................................ 275 Fuses and Circuit Breakers 276 ................................................ 279 Replacement Bulbs Capacities and Specifications ......................................... 280

..........................................

217

Service & Appearance Care 1

Service

Your Chevrolet dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you’ll go to your dealer for all your service needs. You’ll get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people. We hope you’ll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks.

Doing Your Own Service Work If you want to do some of your own service work, you’ll want to get the proper Chevrolet Service Manual. It tells you much more about how to service your Chevrolet than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see “Service Publications” in the Index. You should keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileage and the date of any service work you perform. See “Maintenance Record” in the Index.

You can be injured if you try to

L do service work on a vehicle hout knowing enough about it. Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, and the proper replacement parts and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task. Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts and other fasteners. “English and “metric’” fasteners can be easily confused. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts can later break or fall off. You couId be hurt.

NOTICE:

Fuel

The 8th digit of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) shows the code letter for your engine. You will find the VIN at the top left of your instrument panel. (See “Vehicle Identification Number” in the Index.) 3.4L L32 (Code S) Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. It should meet specifications ASTM D4814 in the U.S. and CGSB 3.5-92 in Canada. These fuels should have the proper additives, so you should not have to add anything to the fuel. In the U.S. and Canada, it’s easy to be sure you get the right kind of gasoline (unleaded). You’ll see UNLEADED right

In the pump. And only unleaded nozzles will fit into your vehicle’s filler neck. Be sure the posted octane is at least 87. :f the octane is less than 87, you may get sl heavy knocking noise when you drive. If it’s bad enough, it can damage your engine. If you’re using fuel rated at 87 octane or higher and you still hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. But don’t worry if you hear a little pinging noise when you’re accelerating or driving up a hill. That’s normal, and you don’t have to buy a higher octane fuel to get rid of pinging. It’s the heavy, constant knock that means you have a problem.

Service & Appearance Care

5.7L LT1 (Code P) Use premium unleaded gasoline rated at 91 octane or higher. You may use middle grade or regular unleaded gasolines, but your vehicle may not accelerate as well. The gasoline you use should meet specifications ASTM D48 14 in the U.S. and CGSB 3.5-92 in Canada. These fuels should have the proper additives, so you should not have to add anything to the fuel. In the U.S. and Canada, it’s easy to be sure you get the right kind of gasoline (unleaded). You’ll see UNLEADED right on the pump. And only unleaded nozzles will fit into your vehicle’s filler neck.

Be sure the posted octane for premium is at least 91 (at least 89 for middle grade and 87 for regular). If the octane is less than 87, you may get a heavy knocking noise when you drive. If it’s bad enough, it can damage your engine. If you’re using fuel rated at 91 octane or higher and you still hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. But don’t worry if you hear a little pinging noise when you’re accelerating or driving up a hill. That’s normal and you don’t have to buy a higher octane fuel to get rid of pinging. It’s the heavy, constant knock that means you have a problem.

= 220

All Engines What about gasoline with blending materials that contain oxygen, such as MTBE or alcohol? MTBE is “methyl tertiary-butyl ether.” Fuel that is no more than 15% MTBE is fine for your vehicle. Ethanol is ethyl or grain alcohol. Properly-blended fuel that is no more than 10% ethanol is fine for your vehicle.

I

Methanol is methyl or wood alcohol.

NOTICE:

I rue1 mat is more than 3% metha

is bad for your vehicle. Don’t use it. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage plastic and rubber parts. That damage wouldn’t be covered under your

rranty. And even at 5% or less, there must be “cosolvents” and corrosion preventers in this fuel to help avoid these problems.

Gasolines for Cleaner Air Your use of gasoline with detergent additives will help prevent deposits from forming in your engine and fuel system. That helps keep your engine in tune and your emission control system working properly. It’s good for your vehicle, and you’ll be doing your part for cleaner air. Many gasolines are now blended with materials called oxygenates. General Motors recommends that you use gasolines with these blending materials, such as MTBE and ethanol. By doing so, you can help clean the air, especially in those parts of the country that have high carbon monoxide levels.

In addition, some gasoline suppliers are now producing reformulated gasolines. These gasolines are specially designed to reduce vehicle emissions. General Motors recommends that you use reformulated gasoline. By doing so, you can help clean the air, especially in those parts of the country that have high ozone levels. You should ask your service station operators if their gasolines contain detergents and oxygenates, and if they have been reformulated to reduce vehicle emissions.

221

Service & Appearance Care

Filling Your Tank

To check on fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil company that does business in the country where you’ll be driving. You can also write us at the following address for advice. Just tell us where you’re going and give your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). General Motors of Canada Ltd. International Export Sales P.O. Box 828 Oshawa, Ontario L1H 7N1 Canada

Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. It burns violently,

and that can cause very bad injuries. Don’t smoke if you’re near gasoline or refueling your vehicle. Keep

, sparks, flames, and smoking C materials away from gasoline.

‘I

The cap is behind a hinged door on the left side of your vehicle.

Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the U.S. or Canada, unleaded fuel may be hard to find. Do not use leaded gasoline. If you use even one tankful, your emission controls won’t work well or at all. With continuous use, spark plugs can get fouled, the exhaust system can corrode, and your engine oil can deteriorate quickly. Your vehicle’s oxygen sensor will be damaged. All of that means costly repairs that wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.

c L. 222

To take off the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise).

I A If you get gasoline on you and L then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Gasoline can spray out on you if you open the fuel filler cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather. Open the fuel filler cap slowly and wait for any “hiss” noise to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way.

Checking Things under the Hood Hood Release To open the hood, first pull the handle inside the vehicle.

sure

When you put the cap back on, turn it to the right until you hear a clicking noise.

If you _____1

be

cap,

need a new

to get

the right type. Your dealer can get one for you. If you get the wrong type, it may not fit and your fuel tank and emissions system might be

I damaged.

223

Service 8t Appearance Care

Then go to the front of the vehicle and pull up on the hood release. Lift the hood. I CAUTION:

An electric fan under the hood can start up and injure you

even when the engine is not running. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood * xtric fan.

224

3.4L L32 (Code S )

When you open the hood you'll see. 1. Battery 2. Engine Coolant Reservoir 3. Engine Oil Dipstick 4. Automatic Transmission Dipstick

(if equipped) 5. Air Cleaner

6. Oil Fill Cap 7. Brake Fluid Reservoir 8. Power Steering Reservoir 9. Windshield Washer Reservoir 10. Engine Fan 11. Clutch Fluid Reservoir (if equipped)

I

\ I

- : E =

When you open the hood you'll see: 1. Battery 2. Engine Coolant Reservoir 3. Engine Oil Dipstick 4. Automatic Transmission Dipstick

(if equipped)

5. Air Cleaner

6. Oil Fill Cap 7. .Brake Fluid Reservoir 8, Power Steering Reservoir 9. Windshield Washer Reservoir 10. Engine Fans 11. Clutch Fluid Reservoir (if equipped)

II

Things that burn can get on hot b engine parts and start a fire.

mese include liquids like gasoline, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. Be careful not to drop or spill things that will burn onto a hot ennine.

Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on. Then just pull the hood down and close it firmly.

Service & Appearance Care

3.4L L32 (Code S)

Engine Oil It's a good idea to check your engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground,

5.7L LTl (Code P) Turn off the engine and give the oil a few minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you don't, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.

To Check Engine Oil (3.4L L32 (Code S) Engine) Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip lower.

. = 226

3.4L L32 (Code S:

5.7L LT1 (Code P)

To Check Engine Oil (5.7L LT1 (Code P) Engine) Pull out the dipstick slightly. Pinch the end of the dipstick tube as you remove the dipstick to wipe the oil from it. Then push it all the way back in. Now remove