1993 Oldsmobile Silhouette Owners Manual

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.

173

Your Driving and the Road

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. 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; 0°C) and freezing rain begins to f d . Try to avoid driving on wet ice until salt and sand crews can get there.

174

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. 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 the Index under Anti-Lock Brake System.

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.

If You’re Caught in a Blimrd 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 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.

U3023

Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. This ca

Lituse deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas to get inside. CC could overcome you and kill yo1 You can’t see it or smell it, so v( might not know it was in you 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 Open a window just a little on-the side of the vehicle that’s away from

there.

wind. This will help keep CO

i 2 - j /:

+%

vu t .

.. -.~~-G~~:~.-~:::j~ . ., , -.> ,-.;-z$

175

Your Driving and the Road

lf You’re Caught in a Blizard (CON X)

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 a while.

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 of the vehicle and do some fairly vigorous exercises every half-hour or so until help comes.

If Mu’re Stuck in Deep Snow This manual explains how to get the vehicle out of deep snow without damaging it. See the Index under Rocking Your Ehicle.

176

Towing a Tmiler

If you don’t use the correct

L L equipment and drive properly, 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.

Your Oldsmobile can tow a trailer. 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, transaxle, 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. All of that means changes in:

Handling Durability Fuel economy

177

Your Driving and the Road

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 if your trailer will weigh 2,000 pounds (900 kg) or less. You should always use a sway control if your trailer will weigh more than 2,000 pounds (900 kg). You can ask a hitch dealer about sway controls. Don’t tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles (804 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged.

Then, during the first 500 miles (804 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 1,400 pounds (630 kg) with up to six occupants or more than 2,000 pounds (900 kg) with up to two occupants unless you have the optional trailer- towing package. With the trailer- towing package (available only with the 3800 V6 engine), your vehicle can tow up to 2,400 pounds (1 090 kg) with up to six occupants or up to 3,000 pounds (1 360 kg) with up to two occupants.

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:

Oldsmobile Customer

Assistance

P.O. Box 30095 Lansing, MI 48909

In Canada, write to:

General Motors of Canada L Customer Assistance Center 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario, L1H 8P7

Jmited

I

Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total, gross weight of your vehicle. The gross vehicle weight (GVW) 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 add the tongue load to the GVW because your vehicle will be carrying that weight, too. See the Index under Loading Your khicle for more information about your vehicle’s maximum load capacity. If your vehicle is not equipped to tow a trailer weighing more than 2,000 pounds (900 kg) with the 3.1L V6 or

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

3800 V6 engine, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10% of the total loaded trailer weight (B). If your vehicle is equipped to tow up to 3,000 pounds (1 360 kg) with the 3800 V6 engine towing package, and if you’re using a “dead-weight” hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10% of the total loaded trailer weight (B). Or, if you have a “weight- distributing” hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 12% of the total loaded trailer weight (B). 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.

Your Driving and the Road

Trailer Brakes If your trailer weighs more than 1,OOO 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.

If You Do Decide to Pull a Trailer (CON X) 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:

If you’ll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will weigh more than 2,000 pounds (900 kg), be sure to use a properly mounted, weight-distributing hitch and sway control of the proper size. This equipment is very important for proper vehicle loading and good handling when you’re driving. 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 Index under Carbon Monoxide in Exhaust.) Dirt and water can, too.

180

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 allow safety chains to drag on the ground.

I

If you have a rear-most window open and you pull a m l e r with your‘vehicle, carbon monoxide (CO) could come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness or death (see the I n h under Engine Exhausb). To maximize your safety when towing a trailer: Have your exhaust system inspected for leaks, and Make necessary y i r s before starting on your trip. e KWP the =-most windows closed. If exhaust does corne into your vehicle through a window in the fear or another opening, drive with your front, main heating or cmling system on and with the fan on any speed. This WU bring fresh, outside air into your vehicle. Do not use RECIRC because it only recirculates the air imide ywr vehick, See the Index under Comfort &m&.

During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure, and that the lights and any trailer brakes are still working. 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.

1 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 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.

Your Driving and the Road

Driving with a Trailer (CONT.) 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 turn, 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.

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 W h ) to reduce the possibility of engine and transaxle overheating. If your vehicle has a 3800 V6 engine, you should also drive in D instead of Overdrive when towing a trailer on fairly level roads. This will help your engine and transaxle run cooler in this condition, too. If you are towing a trailer that weighs more than 1,000 pounds (454 kg), and you have an automatic transaxle with Overdrive, you may prefer to drive in D instead of Overdrive (or, as you need to, a lower gear).

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. 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).

5. Release the regular brakes.

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

the pedal down while you:

Start your engine; Shift into a gear; and 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 transaxle fluid (don’t overfill) engine oil, 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.

183

dotes

4'

.....

Part 5 Problems on the Road

Here you'll find what to do about road . some problems that can occur on the

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186 Hazard Warning Flashers . . . . Jumpstarting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187 Towing Your Oldsmobile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191 Engine Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195 If a Tire Goes Flat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203 ChangingaFlatTire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204 Compact Spare Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212 If You're Stuck: In Sand, Mud. Ice or Snow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213

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. But they won’t flash if you’re braking.

Your hazard warning flashers switch is on the steering column below the ignition switch. Press the button in to make your front 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 flashers are on, your turn signals won’t work. Other Warning Devices If you carry reflective triangles, you can set one up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind your vehicle.

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

a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system.

Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that wouidn’t becovered by your warranty. Trying to start your Oldsmobile b pushing or pulling it won’t work, and it could damage your vehicle

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

M U I I U I V

I;\ Batteries can hurt you. They h can be dangerous because: They contain acid that can burn you. They contain gas that can explode or ignite. They contain enough electricity to burn you.

If you don’t follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you.

Problems on the Road

Jump Starting (CONT.) 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 Oldsmobile, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems.

You could be injured if the

L vehicles roll. Set the parking brake firmly on each vehicle. Put an automatic transaxle in P (Park) or a manual transaxle in N (Neutral).

I I

I88

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!

4. Open the hoods and locate the

batteries.

I I uming and can injure you. Keep

An electric fan can start up even when the engine is not

hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan.

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

Your Oldsmobile has a remote positive (+) jump starting terminal. The terminal is in the red box on the same side of the engine compartment as your battery. You should always use the remote positive (+) terminal instead of the positive (+) terminal on your battery. To open the remote positive (+) terminal box, pull the tab and open the cover.

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. 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 bum 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.

5. 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 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.

Fans or other moving engine parts can injure you badly. Keep your hands away b m moving parts once the engines are running.

I 8 9

Jump Starting (CONT.) 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.

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. 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.

-wP 1

X51 O(

Towing Your Oldsmobile Try to have a GM dealer or a professional towing service tow your Oldsmobile. The usual towing equipment is : (A) Sling-type tow truck (B) Wheel-lift tow truck (C) Car carrier 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.

191

10. Now start the vehicle with the good

battery and run the engine for a while.

1 1. Try to start the vehicle with the

dead battery. If it won’t start after a few tries, it probably needs service.

1 2. Remove the cables in reverse order to prevent electrical shorting. Take care that they don’t touch each other or any other metal.

Problems on the Road

X6016

m,.

L ‘~‘n help avoid injury to you or

0 Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that is being towed. * Never tow faster than safe or posted speeds. 0 Never tow with damaged parts not fully secured. 0 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 transaxle should be in Neutral and the parking brake released. Don’t have your vehicle towed on the front wheels, unless you must. If the vehicle must be towed on the front wheels, don’t go more than 35 mph (56 km/h) or farther than 50 miles (80 km) or your transaxle will be damaged. If these limits must be exceeded, then the front wheels have to be supported on a dolly.

Towing Your Oldsmobile (CONT.:) When you call, tell the towing service:

That your vehicle cannot be towed from the front with sling-type equipment. That your vehicle has front-wheel drive. The make, model, and year of your vehicle. Whether you can still move the shift lever. If there was an accident, what was damaged.

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.

192

CAUTION

A A vehicle can fall from a car

carrier if it isn’t properly

secured. This can cause a collision, serious personal injury and vehicle damage. The vehicle should be tightly secured with chains or steel cables before it is transported. Don’t use substitutes leather straps, canvas webbing, &% etc.) that can be cut by sharp edges‘ underneath the towed vehicle.

(ropes, C;-

X508 1

Towing from the Front- Vehice Hook-up Before hooking up to a tow truck, be sure to read all the information on Towing Your Oldsrnobile earlier in this section. Do not tow with sling-type equipment or fascia damage will occur. Use wheel- lift or car carrier equipment. Additional ramping may be required for car carrier equipment. Use safety chains and wheel straps.

1. Attach T-hook chains on both sides in the slotted holes in the bottom of the frame rails, about 2 feet behind the front wheels.

193

Problems on the Road

Towing from the Front- Vehicle Hook-up (CONT:) 2. Attach a separate safety chain around

the outboard end of each control arm.

194

Towing from the Rear- Vehicle Hook-up Before hooking up to a tow truck, be sure to read all the information on Towing Your Oldsmobile earlier in this section. 1. Attach T-hook chains on both sides in the slotted holes in the frame rails just ahead of the rear wheels.

2. Position the lower sling crossbar

directly under the rear bumper. No 4x4 wood beam is needed.

3. Attach a separate safety chain around

the end of each axle inboard of the spring.

4. Be certain your vehicle is towed no

faster than 35 mph (56 km/h) and no farther than 50 miles (80 km) to avoid damage to your transaxle.

damaging a vehicle luring a tow over rough surfaces, Install a towing dolly beneath the wheels that would otherwise be on the ground during the tow. This will increase clearance between the wheel lift equipment and the underbody of the towed vehicle.

Engine Overheating You will find a coolant temperature gage on your Oldsmobile's instrument panel. See the Index under Coolant Temperature Gage.

If Steam is Coming from

Your Engine

A Steam from an overheated - n engine can bum you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. 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.

195

Problems on the Road

I Enaine overheating (CONT:)

you keep driving with no coolant your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs wou not be covered bv vour warrantv.

If No Steam is Coming from Your Engine: If you get the overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: Climb a long hill on a hot day. Stop after high speed driving. Idle for long periods in traffic. Tow a trailer.

If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so: 1 . Turn off your air conditioner. 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: (A) Coolant recovery tank (B) Radiator pressure cap (C) Electric engine fan, or fans if you

have the rear climate control system or the 3800 V6 engine.

I A An electric fan under the h o d L 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.

If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down.

197

Engine Overheating (CONTI) The coolant level should be at or above the FULL HOT mark. If it isn’t, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system.

rn Heater and radiator hoses, and b other engine parts, can be

V G I ~ 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 cou be burned. Get any leak fix before you drive the vehicle

Engine damage from running your : engine without coolant isn’t i.: covered by your warranty.

If there seems to be no leak, check to see if the electric engine fan(s) is running. If the engine is overheating, the fan(s) should be running. If it isn’t, your vehicle needs service.

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 the FULL HOT mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean water (preferably distilled) and a proper antifreeze at the coolant recovery tank. (See the Index under Coolant for more information about the proper coolant mix.)

, w r can . In cold- weatl and crack the engine, radial heater core and other parts.

A Adding only plain water to

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.

‘,A You can be burned if you spill

coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don’t spill coolant on a hot engine.

When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at or above the FULL HOT mark, 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.

199

Problems on the Road

Engine Overheating (CONX)

I A Steam and scalding liquids I from a hot cooling system can blow out and bum 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.

200

I Vow to Add Coolant to the Radiator: I. 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. 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.

4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to

the FULL HOT mark.

5. Put the cap back on the coolant

recovery tank, but leave the radiator pressure cap off.

201

Problems on the Road

7. 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.

Engine Overheating (CONI) 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) .

202

8. Then replace the pressure cap. Be

sure the arrows on the pressure cap line up like this.

Ifa Tire Goes Hat 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.

A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a skid and may require the same correction you’d use in a skid. In 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.

Air Inflator Your vehicle may have an air inflator for use in bringing tires up to the proper pressure. To learn about it, see the Index under Air Inflator System.

Inflating something too much can make it explode, and you or others could be injured. Be sure to read the inflator instructions and inflate any object only to its recommended pressure.

203

Problems on the Road

, c.

Changing a Flat Tire If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard warning flashers.

k.,

U6007

204

L

The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and change a tire. The equipment you’ll need is in the storage compartment at the rear of the vehicle.

1. Open the jack storage compartment

by sliding the latch down and removing the compartment cover.

2. Remove the jack and jacking tools by loosening the wing nut and retainer bar.

3. Separate the plastic pouch from the jack and remove the jacking tools (folding wrench and shaft) from the pouch.

Problems on the Road

Changing a Elat Tire (corn) 4. The compact spare tire is located

under the vehicle, behind the rear bumper. Insert the narrow end of the shaft into the hole above the rear bumper. Then attach the folding wrench to the shaft.

5. Rotate the folding wrench counter-

clockwise to lower the compact spare tire until it can be pulled from under the vehicle.

206

6. Slide the cable retainer through the

center of the spare, then place the compact spare tire near the flat tire.

7. Each wheel nut is covered with a

nylon cap. Use the folding wrench to remove the nylon caps from the wheel nuts before you loosen the nuts.

8. Loosen the wheel nuts-but do not

remove them-using the folding wrench.

9. Attach the folding wrench to the jack,

and rotate the wrench clockwise to raise the jack head a few inches.

10. Near each wheel, there is a notch in

the vehicle's frame. Position the jack and raise the jack head until it fits firmly into the notch in the vehicle's frame nearest the flat tire. Do not raise the vehicle yet. Put the compact spare tire near you.

A Getting under a vehicle when

it 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 only by a jack.

207

Problems on the Road

I Changing a Flat Tire (conm)

YO'

1 1. Raise the vehicle by rotating the folding wrench clockwise in the jack. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room for the spare tire to fit.

12. Remove all the wheel nuts and take

off the flat tire.

208

13. Remove any corrosion or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces or spare wheel. Place the spare on the wheel mounting surface.

I 14. Replace the wheel nuts with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub.

1 5. Lower the vehicle by attaching the

folding wrench to the jack and rotating the wrench counter- clockwise. Lower the jack completely.

Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. If you do, the I nuts might come loose. Your whel luld fall off, causing a serious accident.

209

Problems on the Road

Changing a FIat Tire (CONT:) 1 6. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence as shown.

Don’t try to put a wheel cover on the compact spare tire. It won’t fit. Store the wheel cover securely in the rear of the vehicle until you have the flat tire repaired or replaced.

..;~ compact spare. If you try to 1

I- .- wheel cover on your compact

spare, you could damage the cover

210

Stop somewhere as soon as you can and have the nuts tightened with a torque wrench. The torque setting should be 100 pound-feet (140 Nom).

17. Lay the flat tire near the rear of the vehicle with the valve stem down. Slide the cable retainer through the center of the wheel and raise the flat tire until you hear the hoist mechanism click twice. This means the wheel is firmly stored against the underside of the vehicle.

When storing the spare tire, be certain to turn the spare so the valve stem is near the rear of the vehicle. This will help you to check and maintain tire pressure in the spare. Push against the tire to be certain it is stored firmly.

18. Replace all jacking tools as they were stored in the jack storage compartment and replace the compartment cover.

Be sure to also store the nylon nut caps. When you replace the compact spare with a full-size tire, replace the nylon nut caps over the wheel nuts. Tighten them “hand tight” using the folding wrench (see step 7).

Storing a jack, a tire or other

- equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or ~dlision, loose equipment could >trike someone. Store all these in the proper place.

211

Problems on the Road

Compact Spare Tire 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 P a ) . 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. Your anti-lock brake system warning light may come on when you are driving with a compact spare. See the Index under Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light.

Don’t take your compact spare 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 vehicle.

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.

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.

‘

If you let your tires spin at high speed, they can explode and you or others could be injured. And, the transaxle or other parts of the vehicle can overheat. That could cause an engine compartment fire or other damage. When you’re stuck, spin the wheels as little as possible. Don’t spin the wheels above 35 mph (56 km/h) as shown on the speedometer.

.~.. ..

$ back and forth, you can desi F$ your transaxle.

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, spinning the wheels as little as possible. Release the accelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal when the transaxle 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 the Index- under Towing Your Oldsmobile.

213

Notes

Part 6 Service di Appearance Care

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

Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216 Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217 HoodRelease . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221 Engineoil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225 Aircleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230 TransaxleFluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232 Enginecoolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235 Power Steering Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 238 Windshield Washer Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239 Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 240 Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 242 Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 243 Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245 Loading Your Vehicle Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 247 Appearancecare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262 Add-on Electrical Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 263 Fuses & Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 264 Capacities & Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 269 Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 271 Fluids & Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 272 ReplacementBulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 273 215

-s%FsA-?mk

~.

Service Your Oldsmobile 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 Oldsmobile Service Manual. It tells you much more about how to service your Oldsmobile than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see the Index under Service Publications. You should keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileage and the date of any service work you perform. See the Index under Maintenance Record.

216

Fuel 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 on the pump. And only unleaded nozzles will fit into your vehicle’s filler neck. Be sure the posted octane is at least 87. 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 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. 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. Methanol is methyl or wood alcohol.

Fuel Capacity: 20 U.S. Gallons (76L). Use unleaded fuel only.

227

Service & Appearance Care

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.

”z 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.

218

Remote Fuel Door Release The remote fuel door release can help keep your fuel tank from being siphoned. Always be sure the fuel door is closed and latched after refueling. To open the fuel door (on the left rear fender), lift the release lever beside the driver's seat.

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 LlH 7N1, Canada

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

h nammable. It burns violently,

lsoline vapor is highly ana that can cause very bad injuries. Don't smoke if you're near gasoline or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks, flames, and smoking materials away from gasoline.

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

219

Service & Appearance Care

If you get gasoline on you and then something ignites it, yor 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 ap slowly and wait for any "hiss' noise to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way.

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

220

Checking Things Under the Hood The following sections tell you how to check fluids, lubricants and important parts underhood.

If you get the

type. Your dealer can not fit or have your fuel tank

Hood Release To open the hood, first pull the hood release handle inside the vehicle.

Then go to the front of the vehicle and pull up on the underhood release. Lift the hood.

The hood prop rod may be hot due to increased engine temperatures under the hood, so be careful when handling it. Use your hood prop sleeve when handling the prop. Pull forward on the hood prop to release it from its storage clip. Then put the end of the hood prop into the slot in the underside of the hood.

221

Service & Appearance Care

1 Hood Release (CONT.)

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 electric fan.

*** I

- - I

I I. CAUT'aN

Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a These include liquids like

~ e . gasoline, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. Be cmh1 nut to drop or spill things that wiU burn onto a hot engine.

Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then lift the hood to relieve pressure on the hood prop. Remove the hood prop from the slot in the hood and return the prop to its retainer. Then just let the hood down and close it firmly.

P P

3,lL V6 Engine (CODE D) 1. Engine Coolant Reservoir 2. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir 3. Air Cleaner 4. Brake Fluid Reservoir 5. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir 6. Battery 7. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick 8 . Engine Oil Dipstick 9. Engine Oil Fill Can 1 0. Radiator Cap

U6084

223

Service & Appearance Cure

3800 V6 Engine (CODE L) 1 . Engine Coolant Reservoir 2. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir 3. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick 4. Brake Fluid Reservoir 5. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir 6. Battery 7. Air Cleaner 8. Engine Oil Dipstick 9. Engine Oil Fill Cap 10. Radiator Cap

(3

U6085

224

Underhood Light Your underhood light will go on when you open the hood.

I 3.1L V6: Checking Engine Oil

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. 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: 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.

3800 V6: Checking Engine Oil

225

Service & Appearance Care

Engine Oil (CONT:) When to Add Oil: If the oil is at or below the ADD mark, then you’ll need to add some oil. But you must use the right kind. This section explains what kind of oil to use. For crankcase capacity, see the Index under Capacities & Specljications.

UOTIC

engine has so much oil that the oi level gets above the crosshatched area that shows the proper operating range, your engine could

Just fill it enough to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you’re through.

I 3.1L V6: Adding Engine Oil

3800 V6: Adding Engine Oil

226

Grade E

For best fuel economy and cold starting, select the lowest SAE viscosity grade oil for the expected temperature range.

SG “SG” must be on the oil container, either by itself or combined with other quality designations, such as “SGICC,” “SGICD,” “SF, SG, CC,” etc. These letters show American Petroleum Institute (API) levels of quality.

If you use oils that don’t have the SG designation? you can cause engine damage not covered by your warranty.

SAE 5W-30 (3.X V6 Engine) As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 1OW-30 if it’s going to be 0°F (-18°C) or above. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 1OW-40 or SAE 20W-50.

Service & Appearance Care

necommenueu ~ A C vlsr;osny

Grade Engine Oils

For best fuel economy and cold starting, select the lowest SAE viscosity grade oil for the expected temperature range.

HOT

YEATHER

What Kind of Oil to Use (CONI) SAE 1OW-30 (3800 V6 Engine) As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 1OW-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 5W-30 if it's going to be colder than 60°F (16°C) before your next oil change. When it's very cold, below 0°F (-18" C), you should use SAE 5W-30. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 1OW-40 or SAE 20W-50.

228

. _._

SAE 5W-30

COLD N EATHER

GRADE OILS ARE AVAILABLE, S GRADE MAY BE USED AT TEMP ABOVE 40 DEGREES F (4 DEGREE DO NOT USE SAE 1OW-40, SAE 20W-

Energy Conserving II Oils with these words on the container will help you save fuel.

This doughnut-shaped logo (symbol) is used on most oil containers to help you select the correct oil. You should look for this on the oil container, and use only those oils that display the logo. GM Goodwrench@ Oil (in Canada, GM Engine Oil) meets all the requirements for your vehicle.

Engine Oil Additives Don't add anything to your oil. Your Oldsmobile dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added.

Engine Block Heater (omoN) An engine block heater can be a big help if you have to park outside in very cold weather, 0°F (-18" C) or colder. If your vehicle has this option, see the Index under Engine Block Heater.

When to Change Engine Oil See if any one of these is true for you:

Most trips are less than 4 miles (6 km). It's below freezing outside and most trips are less than 10 miles (16 km). The engine is at low speed most of the time (as in door-to-door delivery, or in stop-and-go traffic). You tow a trailer often. Most trips are through dusty places.

If any one of these is true for your vehicle, then you need to change your oil and filter every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or 3 months-whichever comes first. If none of them is true, change the oil every 7,500 miles (12 500 km) or 12 months-whichever comes first. Change the filter at the first oil change and at every other oil change after that.

229

Service & Appearance Care

What to Do with Used Oil

Used engine oil contains things that have caused skin

cancer in laboratory animals. Don’t let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly throw away clothing or rags containing used engine oil.

230

the

the filter

Used oil can be a real threat to environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to See drain all free-flowing from oil before disposal. Don’t ever dispose of oil by pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil. If you have a problem properly disposing of your used oil, ask your dealer, a service station or a local recycling center for help.

Air Cleaner Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when

replace to the Index under Scheduled

the air filter.

services*

CAUTION

Operating the engine with the I

I.\ air cleaner off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame if the engine backfires If it isn’t there, and the engine backfires, you could be burned Don’t drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner off.

3.1L V6: Checking Air Cleaner Filter To Check or Replace: 1. Remove the large wing nut and lift

the cover.

3.1L V6: Replacing Air Cleaner Filter 2. Remove the air cleaner filter. 3. Be sure to install the air cleaner filter,

replace the cover and tighten the wing nut securely.

can cause a damaging engine fire. 3 And, dirt can easily get into your engine, which will damage it. Always have the air cleaner in dace when you’re driving.

231

Service & Appearance Care

3800 V6: Checking Air Cleaner Filter Air Cleaner (CONT.) To Check or Replace: I,+ Loosen the four wing nuts.

232

3800 V6: Replacing Air Cleaner Filter 2. Pull the top of the air cleaner toward

the front of the vehicle and remove the air cleaner filter.

3. Be sure to install the air cleaner filter,

replace the cover and tighten the wing nuts securely.

Automatic Transaxle Fluid When to Check and Change: A good time to check your automatic transaxle fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to change your fluid. See the Index under Scheduled Maintenance Services. How to Check: Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at an Oldsmobile dealership Service Department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.

;:-...Too much or too little fluid can

your transaxle. Too much

that some of the fluid out and fall on hot ..engine parts, starting a fire. Be accurate reading if

To Check the Fluid Level:

Park your vehicle on a level place. Place the shift lever in P (Park) with the parking brake applied. With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shifi lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds in each range. Then, position the shift lever in P (Park). Let the engine run at idle for three to five minutes.

Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxle fluid level if you have been driving: When outside temperatures are above 90" F (32 " C) . At high speed for quite awhile. In heavy traffic-especially in hot weather. While pulling a trailer.

To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C). Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50" F (10°C). If it's colder than 50°F (lO"C), you may have to drive longer.

233

Service & Appearance Care

Automatic mansaxle Fluid (CONK) Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: 1. pull out the dipstick and wipe it with

a clean rag or paper towel.

3.1L V6: Checking Automatic Transaxle Fluid

2. Push it back in all the way, wait three

seconds and then pull it back out again.

3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level must be in the cross-hatched area. 4. If the fluid level is where it should be, push the dipstick back in all the way.

234

3800 V6: Checking Automatic Transaxle Fluid

Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transaxle fluid to use. See the Index under Fluids & Lubricants. If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level into the cross-hatched area on the dipstick. It doesn’t take much fluid, generally less than a pint (0.5 L). Don’t overfill. We recommend you use only fluid labeled DEXRON@-IIE, because fluids with that label are made especially for your automatic transaxle. Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRON -DE is not covered by your new vehicle warranty. After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level as described under How to Check. When the correct fluid level is obtained, push the dipstick back in all the way.

;.1L V6: Adding Automatic Transaxle Wid

_I