Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight 1969 User manual

Ninety-Eight
Delta 8E' , Royale
Delta 88 Custom
Delta 88
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MARK OF EXCElLENCE
THE GM MARK OF EXCELLENCE
This is the General Motors mark of excellence
that appears
on all Oldsmobile motor vehicles.
We use it in the same spirit with which craftsmen, through the centuries, have used
a personal mark to identify the products of their skills: We are proud of the things
we make, and we want our customers to be able to id entify them easily and to know
that
we stand behind them.
Whenever you see this mark of excellence, you can be certain that
it represents our
very
fine st in design and engineering ... th at it has been built with care and dedi·
cation
... and that it offers all the qua li ty, reliability, safety and value that you have
come to expect from Oldsmobile.
Your new 19 69 Oldsmobile meets or exceeds a ll app lic able U. S. Federal Motor Vehicle
Safe ty Standards.
Effectiveness of these safety features can best be continued through regular vehicle
inspection and maintenance. OLDSMOBILE DIVISION
General Motors Corporation
Lansing. Michigan 48921
Important! For maximum performance and economy keep your GM car all GM. Specify
Genera] Motors Parts identified by one
of tbese trade-marks.
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1969 OLDSMOBILE OWNER'S MANUAL
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
Table of Contents
Section
I. Operating Instructions
2. Instruments
3. Controls
4. Accessories ............................
5. Guardian Maintenance
Pages Section
5 6. Lubrication Services
13 7. General Maintenance
16
8. Appearance Care .
27 9. Maintenance ScbeduJe
38
10. Technical Data
Pages
........... 41
Services . . .. 44
49
51
52
The contents of this publicatio n we re applicable Clnd in effect 0 1 the time the monu ol was a p proved for
printing. However, Olds m obi le Division fe,orves the right to discontinue or make changes in pr oduct des i ""
and specifications ot Clny time without not ice Clnd wi thout incurring any obl i gat ion.
C Gene r ol Motors Corporation 1968
Important
Safely
and
Anti-Theft
Information
to Help
You
Enjoy the
Maximum
in
Vehicle
Satisfaction
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I
HIGHWAY SAFETY
DEPENDS ON-
1. You, the Driver
2. The Condition of Your Vehicle
3. The Troffic
and Highway Conditions
· . . BE SURE YOU UNDERSTAND All THREE!
REMEMBER Proper operation, periodic
maintenance
and safety inspections
help provide . ..
• Economical Operation of Your Vehicle
• Safety for You and Your Passengers
• Dependable Transportation
OBSERVE ALL TRAFFIC LAWS-
MAKE SAFE DRIVING A HABIT
2
SAFE DRIVER CHECK LIST
o BRAKES 0 PERSONAL CONDITION
PEDAL TRAVEL
FLU ID lEVel
o LIGHTS
BURNED QUT/BROKEN
HEADlAMP AIM
o SIGNAL DEVICES
PHYSICAL
MENTAL
o DRIVING CONDITIONS
WEATHER
ROAD
TRAFFIC
TURN SIGNALS 0
HAZARD WARNING fLASHER
SURROUNDINGS
BEFORE DRIVING AWAY
WHILE DRIVING
HORN
o TIRES 0
PRESS U RE (check at least monthly)
CUTS AND BRUISES
CAR ADJUSTMENTS
UNEVEN WEAR
REMAI NING TREAD
o SEAT BELTS
FASTENED
PROPERLY ADJUSTED
o GLASS AND MIRRORS
CRACKED, BROKEN OR
MISSING
MIRROR ADJUSTMENT
o STEERING CONTROL
EXCESSIYE PLAY IN WHEEL
EXCESSIVE VIBRATION
BENT WHEELS
o EXHAUST SYSTEM
MISSING OR DAMAGED PARTS
LEAkS, AnACHMENTS
SEAT
MIRRORS
VENTILATION
STEERING WHEEL
HEAD RESTRAINTS
o VISION
WIPERS AND WASHERS
WI PER BLADES
WASHER FLUID
DEFROSTER - DEFOGGER
WINDOWS
o SECURITY
DOORS-CLOSED AND LOCKED
NO LOOSE PACKAGES
OR CARGO
o PASSENGERS
PROPERLY BELTED
PROPERLY SEATED
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DON'T INVITE CAR THEFT! An unlocked car with the key still in the ignition is an open invitation to theft.
REMEMBER! LOCK the ignition, LOCK all doors, TAKE the key - ALWAYS!
ANTI-THEFT IGNITION, STEERING AND TRANSMISSION LOCK
Your 1969 Oldsmobile has the latest advancement in theft protection -the new Anti-Theft Ignition, Steering and
Transmission lock. This new system locks the steering and transmission systems at the same time it locks the engine
ignition system.
It will greatly reduce the hazard of theft, if you use it properly.
When leaving your
car unattended,
• Set parking brake on manual transmission cars
• Place automatic transmission selector .in Park
(Reverse for
manual transmission)
• Turn key to LOCK position
• Remove key
• Lock a II doors
The ignition key warning buzzer warns you if you have left the key in the Anti-Theft Ignition, Steering and Transmission
lock when the driver's door
is opened. Heed its warning -Remove the key and lock the doors. The visible vehicle
identification number on the instrument panel aids
in apprehension of thieves and recovery of stolen vehicles. Help it
work; make sure it is not obscured by gloves, maps or other objects.
1969
WARRANTY
When purchased ne w, your Oldsmobile is cov er ed by the Oldsmobile New
Vehicle
Warranty and the Pol icy on Oldsmobile Owner Service given to you
by your Authorized Oldsmob il e Dealer at the tim e of delivery.
3
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GETTING ACQUAINTED WITH YOUR NEW OLDSMOBILE
Your 1969 Oldsmobile is the product of many years of experience. research and pre-
cision workmanship.
It represents the latest advances in automotive engineering, design
and styling.
In order to he
lp you get the greatest poss ibl e satisfaction out of your Oldsmobil e,
this book has been prep ared to familia ri ze you with th e op era ti ons and to outline th e
steps which will enable y
ou to keep your car in top condition.
Reading this manual- and heeding its recommendations -will payoff handsomely
in troublefree. continuous enjoyment of your 1969 Oldsmobile.
The service emblem of our Oldsmobile Dealerships serves to remind them and their
customers that quality, promptness and dependability
in service are the foundation
of good customer relationships. Whenever you need service, your Oldsmobile Dealer
is equipped with the required specialized tools and equipment to give yo ur car the
very best
of service care.
The service technicians
of our Oldsmobile Dealerships carry the Service Guild shoulder
patch which they receive after completing
an intensive course of the Oldsmobile
Service Guild. Their training includes special instruction at General Motors Training
Centers
and is a continuous program which keeps them abreast of changes and develop-
ments. These men are proud of their skill and stand ready to serve you.
4
OLDSMOBILE DIVISION
General Motors Corporation
Lansing, Michigan 48921
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1
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
A
W ord
Ab out
Yo ur
Keys
Two se parate keys are provided for your car .
Each key has a different cross section so
that
it can be inserted only in certain locks. The
key with the square head and the letter "E"
stamped on it operates the ignition switch
nod door locks. The key with the oval
head and the letter "H" is used for the lug-
gage compartment and glove box door locks,
as well as the center console lock on cars
so equipped. These compartments should be
l oc\..cd and the key removed from the car
should it be necessary to leave the ignition
key with an attendant.
The code number of each key is stamped on
a "knock-out" plug in the key head. Your
Oldsmobile deal er removed the key plugs
and placed them with the spare set of keys in
the special key envelope
that was given to
you at time of delivery. Record the numbers
on the key envelope and discard the key
plugs. Keep the key envelope in a safe place
such as
your wallet, NOT IN THE CAR, so
that you can have duplicate keys made in
the event the original keys are lost.
Door Locks
Front and rear doors can be locked from the
inside by depressing the passenger guard door
lock button located on the upper door panel.
All doors can be locked from the outside by
si mply depressing the interior door lock but-
ton and depre ss ing the outside door handle
plunger while closing the door. Once closed,
release the plunger and the
door is locked.
The front doors can also be locked by using
the square headed key. All models have, as
a standard safety feature, overriding door
locks. When the doors are locked, the door
latch mechanism is inoperative, preventing
s
inadvertent opening of the door by movement
of the inside handle.
CAUTION: A1ways lock the doors wben driv-
Jng for greater security in tbe event of an
accident and foJ' security against unauthorized
entries.
Do not close the vebicle door by
applying pressure on the glass.
Anti-Theft Ignition, Steering
and Transmission Lock
The Anti-Theft Lock, lo cated on the right
side of the steering column. has five positions.
Starting from the full counterclockwise posi-
tion they are, accessory, lock, off, on a nd
start. In "lock" position, the steering and
shift mechanisms arc automatically locked
along with the ignition system to provide
added theft protection for your car.
The
transmission se le ctor lever must be in "pa rk"
on automatic transmission model s. or reverse
on standard transmission models. before the
key can
be turned to th e "lock" position.
The ignition sw itch "accessory" position per-
mits operation of electrical accessories when
the engine
is not running. Th e "off" position
is provided so that the ignition can be turned
off without locking th e steer in g co lumn or
transmission linkage. The key can be inserted
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or withdrawn only when the switch is in the
"lock" position.
Starting the Engine
1. Insert the key in the ignition switch and
. turn switch clockwise from "LOCK" to
the
"ON" position. On cars equipped with:
Automatic
Transmission-Place the trans-
mission selector lever in "P" or "N" posi-
tion,
"P" preferred. A safety switch will
prevent the starter from operating with
the transmission
in any other position.
Manual Transmission -Depress and hold
the clutch pedal to the floor
to engage the
starter safety switch. The starter will not
operate until the clutch
is fully depressed.
(When the engine
is started, be sure to
select the proper gear range before re-
leasing the clutch pedal.)
2. H the Engine is Cold -With the ignition
in the
"ON" position depress accelerator
to the floor once, then slowly release. This
sets the automatic choke and fast idle.
With foot complete
ly off the accelerator,
turn the ignition key to the "Start" posi-
tion and release the pressure on the key
when the engine starts.
Anow engine to
run for a few seconds before engaging
transmission in gear.
If the car has been
standing idle for several days or the tem-
perature is zero degrees or below, it may
be necessary to
"pump" the accelerator
pedal several times and then sta
rt per cold
engine procedure.
COL D WEATHER NOTE: Let the engine
id le for a moment or two after starting and
then drive at moderate speeds for several
miles, especially during cold weather, to pre-
vent unnecessary wear on the engine, trans-
mission and differential
3. If Engine is Warm -With the ignition
in the "ON" position depress the acceler-
ator halfway. Tum the ignition to the
"START" position and release it as soon
6
as the engine starts.
If the engine does
not start in a reasonable time, hold the
accelerator
to the floor (without pumping)
while holding the key
in the "START"
position.
4. For safely reasons, never leave the eogine
running when the vehicle is unattended.
Emergency Starting
If your Oldsmobile is equipped with a manual
3-speed transmission, it can be started in an
emergency by pushing. When being pushed
to start the eogin e, turn off all unnecessary
electrical loads, turn ignition
to "ON," de-
press the clutch, place the shift lever in high
gear and release
the parking brake. Release
the clutch when the car speed reaches
10 to 15
miles per hour. Bumpers and other parts
contacted by the pushing vehicle should be
protected from damage during pushing. Never
tow the
car to start.
NOTE: Engines in vehicles with automatic
trans mi ss ions cannot be started by pushing
the
CClr . To start the car when the Energizer
(battery) is discharged, use an auxiliary Ener-
gizer with
jumper cables. Be sure to observe
correct pol
ar ity, (positive terminal to positive
terminal and negative terminal to negative ter-
minal) when connecting the auxiliary Ener-
gizer to prevent possible damage
to the elec-
trical system.
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EXHAUsr GAS WARNING
Avoid inhaling exhaust gases especially in
an enclosed arca such as a garage. Exhaust
gases contain a percentage of carbon mon-
oxide which is a potentially lethal gas that,
by itself, is tasteless, colorless and odorless.
The exhaust system should be inspected for
proper mounting, leaks and missing or dam-
aged parts each time the vehicle
is raised for
lubrication or oil change service.
Automatic Transmissions
Automatic trans mi ssion shift quadrants of all
GM cars continue the uniform sequence of
selector position. Shift indicators are arranged
with "Pnr k" position at one end, followed in
sequence by "Reverse,"
"Neutral" and the
forward dr iving ranges. All automatic trans-
missions afC equipped wi th a slnrtcr switch
system designed 10 permit starting the engine
only when
the transmission selector is in the
"Pa rk " or "NeutrHI" position.
Turbo Hydra-Matic or Jetaway
When equipped with an automatic transmis-
sion, the
Delta 88, De lta Custom 88, Delta
Royale 88 and Ninety-Eight
ser ies Oldsmo-
biles wi ll have the Turbo Hydra-Matic dri ve
Turbo Hydra-Matic
Jetaway
and the Delta 88 may have the Jetaway drive
or Tu rbo Hydra-Matic drive.
On all models except the console equipped
cars, the
se lector level is located on the
right side
of the steering column and the
shift indica
tor is located directly above the
steering column on the instrument panel.
On console equipped cars, the selector lever
and
sh ift indicator are located on the console
between the front seats. When shifting
to
"Pa rk," "R ," "S," and "L" position, the
T-handle on the shift lever may be gripped
to depress the ball on top
of the shift lever.
On the Jetaway transmi ss ion, the balt must
be depressed to move the selector lever
to
"Park," "L" and "R" positions.
7
"Pa r k" provides a positive transmission lock
when
park i ng or while starting the engine.
Pull the se l ector lever toward you (column
shift)
or press the button on selector lever
(console shift) to select
or release this position.
Never move the selector lever to "Park"
position unless the car is completely stopped.
''R'' Reverse position is for backing the car.
Br i ng the car to a complete stop before mov-
ing the se lector lever into reverse.
"N" Neutral is the out-oi -gear position. It is
provided for starting a stalled engine while
the vehicle
is in motion and for running the
engine while standing with the brakes applied.
Do not coast in neutral.
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"D" Drive Range is the driving range for
norm
al city and highway driving. This position
permits the transmission to operate through
its complete range of gear ratios and to select
the proper ralio for road and load conditions.
GOOD DRIVING PRAcrICE: Before de-
scending a steep or long grade, doWD a
mountain
or hiJIside, reduce speed and shift
into a lower gear. Use the brakes sparingly
to prevent them from overheating and thus
reducing brake effectiveness.
"5" Super Range position, on the Turbo
Hydra-Malic equipped car,
is used when
super' performance is needed for increased
acceleration
in traffic, hill climbing or "engine
braking" downhill. The selector lever may be
moved from
"0" to "S" and vice versa, under
most operati
ng conditions except when driving
on slippery surfaces, where caution should be
taken to prevent possible skiddi
ng. "S uper"
should not be used at speeds above 75 m.p.h.
"L" Low position is available for heavy pull-
ing through mud or sand and for "engine
braking" when descending steep hills. On the
Turbo Hydra-Matic, the
se lector lever may
be moved to "L" position at any speed but
the transmission
wiIl only shift automatically
into low range when car speed is under
approximately
40 m.p.h. On the Jetaway, the
selector lever shou
ld nol be moved to the "L"
position at speeds above 65 m.p.h. because
the transmission will down
sh ift to low range
immediately. Do not shift from "D'; to "L"
while traveling on slippery roads or a sk id
could be induced. Neither transmis.sion win
upshift from l
ow range as long as the
selector lever
is in "L" position.
Forced Downshift -When quick power
or
acceleration is desired to pass moving vehicles
or to climb steep grades at speeds between
approximately 35 and
65 mph, the trans-
mission can be downshifted
by depressing the
accelerator pedal completely to the floor.
It
8
is also possible to obtain a forced downshift
in "Drive" range
at speeds under 35 mph by
depressing the acce1erator pedal
part way
down. A forced downshift
is not recommended
in either case on slippery su rfaces.
Rocking the
Car -If it becomes necessary to
rock the car to free
it from sand, mud Of
snow, move the selector lever from "D" to
"R" in a repeat pattern while simultaneously
applying moderate pressure to the accelerator.
Do not race engine. Avoid spinning wheels
when trying to free car or rocking the car for
extended periods.
Three-Speed Manual
Transmission
The three-speed fully synchronized manual
transmission
is standard equipment on some
Oldsmobile models.
It incorporates three
synchronized forward speeds and one non-
sy nchronized reverse speed. The sh ift pattern
is the familiar "H" as shown in the illustra-
tion.
For smooth efficient operation and long
transmission life, tbe following shift proce-
dures are recommended:
First
Gear (Low) -Depress the clutch pedal,
shift into first gear, release the parking brake
and smoothly release the clutch pedal while
simultaneously pressing
on the accelerator
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R 2
three
speed
shift
pattern
pedal Fi rst gear should always be used to
start the
ca Tmoving.
Second Gear (lntennediate~As the car gains
speed, depress tbe clutch pedal, release the
accelerator and move the shift lever into sec-
ond gear. Release the clutch pedal and depress
the accelerator pedal as above. Use second
gcar at slow speeds (less than 30 m.p.h.) when
driving
in stop-aod-go tr affic, for improved
vehicle performance during acceleration and
when descending steep hills. Avoid starting
from a stop
in second gear as this practice
causes excessive clutch slippage and reduces
clutch life.
Third Gear (Higb) -As the car continues to
gain more speed, shift i nto third gear in the
manner described above. Slowly release the
clutch pedal and depress the accelerator pedal.
Third gear
is the cruising gear for all normal
driving.
NEVER use third gear to accelerate
from a stop.
For smoother performance at slow speeds,
the transmission can be downshifted from
third
to second or second to first while the
car is in motion by depressing the dutch
pedal and manually moving the shift lever
to second
or first position. On sl ippery sur-
faces, caution should be taken to prevent
skidding as a result
of in creased "engine
braking" from downshifting.
To Stop -Release tbe accelerator pedal and
depress the brake pedal. As
the car nears
stopping, depress the clutch pedal along with
the brake pedal and move the shift lever into
neutral as the car comes to a stop.
Neutral- For use when starting or idling the
car. Never coast in neutra
l. This practice is
illegal
in many states.
Reverse -Operate reverse as for first gear,
but always at a slow speed.
The car must be
brought to a complete stop before shifting
into reverse.
9
To Park -Use the reverse gear position and
FULLY APPLY the parking brake.
New Car Operating Speeds
Driving speeds for your new Oldsmobile
should be limited to a maximum
of 50 miles
per hour for the first
100 miles and 65 miles
per hour for the next 400 miles with no heavy
throttle acceleration
s. If most of your driving
is of the around-town variety, which is con-
sidered "severe service" especially
in cold
weather, be sure' to
indude some 25 to 50
mile highway trips during the break-in period
and va
ry the car's speed. The vehicle should
be driven a minimum of 500 miles before
hauling a trailer
of l ess than 2,000 Ib s. gro ss
weight and at least 1,000 miles if the trailer
exceeds 2,000 lhs. gross weight.
Trailer Hauling
Since passenger cars are designed and in-
tended to be used primarily as passenger
conveyances, towing a trailer may affect
handling, durability and economy. Maximum
sa
ti sfaction and pleasure wi ll be derived
through use
of proper equipment and avoid-
ing overloads and other abusive operation.
Oldsmobile has a number of factory-installed
options available to better equip cars for
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pulling trailers over 1,000 pounds. For haul-
ing trailers heavier
than 2,000 pounds, it is
recommended that an appropriate load equal-
izing,
frame mounted hitch be purchased
from a reliable manuf acturer. Purchase of
bumper and axle type hitches is not rec-
ommended, Generally, trail er tongue loads
should be maintained at
ap proximately 10%
of loaded trai l er weight by proper distribu-
tion
of the load in the trailer. Tire inflation
recommendations outlined in this Owner's
Manual should be followed. When towing
trailer
s, the allowable passenger and cargo
load must be reduced
by an amount equal to
the trailer tongue load on the
trailer hitch.
General
information on trailer hauling, special
equipment required, and opti onal equi pment
offered by Oldsmobile is available in booklet
form and can be
obtained by writing to
Oldsmobile Division,
Owner Relations De·
partment. lansing, Michigan 48921.
Fuel Filler Tube Location
The fuel fi ll er lU be is located in the center of
the rear bumper directly behind the hinged
license plate.
The cap is removed by turning
it counterclockwise.
The li cense plate door
may be held down by placing the filler cap
between the hold-open l ab on the door and
the hinge as shown.
On Ninety-Eights the fuel
filler
door is located just below the trunk
lid lock.
CAUTION: Gasoline is flammable and explo-
sive under certain conditions. Always stop tbe
engine and do
not smoke or allow open flames
or sparks near tbe vehicle when refueling. If
gasoline fumes are noticed while driving, the
cause should be determined and corrected
without delay.
Fuel Requirements
Your Oldsmobile is designed to operate effi-
ciently
on "Regular" or "Premium" grade
fuels commonly sold in the United States and
10
Canada, depending on the engine installed
in
your car. The table indicates the fuel grade
requirements for various Oldsmobile engines.
Eng i ne
Fuel Grade
y.g (350 cu. in.)
2 Bbl. (Low Compression) Regu l ar
4 Bbl. (High Compression)
Premium
Y-8 (455 cu. in.)
2 Bbl. (Low Compression) Regu lar
4 Bbl. (High Compress io n) Pr emium
Use of a fuel which is too low in anti-knock
quality will result in
"spark knock." Since
the anti-knock quality of all regular grade
or of all premium grade gasolines is not the
same and factors such as altitude,
terrain and
air temperature affect operating efficiency,
knocking
may result even though you are
using the grade of fuel recommended for
your engine.
1f persistent knocking is en-
countered, it
may be necessary to cha nge
to a higher
grade of gasoline and, if knock-
ing continues, consult your authorized Olds-
mobile Dealer. In any case, continuous or
excessive knocking may result in engine dam-
age and constitutes misuse of the engine for
which the Oldsmobile Division
is not re-
sponsible
under terms of the Oldsmobile New
Vehicle
Warranty.
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Fuel Tank
The fuel tank, filler pipe and aU tank connec-
tions have been carefully designed to reduce
fuel leakage to an absolute minimum after
termination of certain collisions. This design
reduces fire hazards in these collisions.
Operat i on in Foreign
Countri es
1f you pl an to operate your Oldsmobile out-
side the continental limits of the Un ited
States or Cana da , there is a possibility that
the best fuels ava il able are so low in anti-
knock quality that excessive knocking and
serious engine damage may result from their
usc. To minimize this possibility, write to
Oldsmobile Division. Service Department ,
Lans in g, Michigan 48921, giving:
• The compress ion ratio of your engine (ob-
tain from your dealer).
• The vehicle identification number (on plate
on in st rument pane l ahead of the steering
wheel
and visible through the windshield,
or from registration slip or title).
• The co untr y or countries in which you
plan to tr avel.
You will be furnished details of adjustment
or modifications which should be made to
your eng in e at your Oldsmobile Dealership
prior to your departure. Failure to make the
necessary changes to
your car and subsequent
operation under conditi ons of continuous ex-
cessive knOCking is considered misuse
of the
engine
for which the Oldsmobile Division is
not responsible under the terms of the Olds-
mobile New Vehicle Warranty .
After arr iving in a foreign country, contact
the nearest authorized Genera l Motors Dealer
for brand names of the best fuel available
and advice as to where they may be pur-
cha se d.
Towing
(With Ignition Key Available)
Normally your Oldsmobile may be towed
with all four wheels
on the ground for
distances up to 50 miles
at speeds of le ss
than 35 m.p.h. However, the drive wheels
(rear wheel s) must be raised off the ground
Of the drive shaft disconnected when the
tran smissi on is not operating properly or
when a speed of 35 m.p.h. Of distance of 50
miles will be exceeded.
CAUTION: For towing, the transmission
should be in neutral and the engine ignition
should
be "off," but tbe Anti-Theft Ignition
Steering and Transmission Lock should not
be in the "Jock" position.
11
Towing
(Without the Ignition Key)
Since the Anti-Theft Jgnition, Steering and
Transmission Lock locks the steering and
the
shirt mechanisms as well as the ignition sys-
tem, special provisions
are necessary for
towing a vehicle when the switch is in "lock"
position. Norm ally it will be necessary to
place a dolly
under the rear wheels and tow
the vehicle with the
front end raised.
Det a il ed towing information is available at
yOUf dealer and has been provided to tow
truck operators responsible for movement of
disabled or locked vehicles. Proper lifting
and towing
equipment is necessary to prevent
damage to the vehicle during
the towing
operation.
Jack Operation for
Changing Whee ls
Instructions for operating bumper jack are as
follows:
I. Fully apply the parking brake and block
wheel diagonally opposite from
the jack
position. With the
Turbo Hydra-Matic
or Jetawa y tran smission, place the selec-
tor lever in the "Park " position, and
with the manual transmission, place the
shift lever in the reverse gear position.
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2. Place the jack lever in the "UP" position.
3. Attach the jack lift pad to the column
assembly.
4. Position the jack lift pad so
that the
notch in the lift pad straddles the
bumper
bolts. The bumpers are notched for clear-
ance in this area.
S. Remove wheel discs or hub caps using
the
sharp end of the jack handle.
NOTE: On Ninety-Eig ht s, it is necessary to
r
emove the rear wheel opening panel. To
remo ve this panel, lift the panel lock (located
at the c
enter of the low er edge of the panel)
over the ins
id e flange and push the handle
downward and toward the fro
nt of the car.
Tip the panel o ut ward at the top while rais in g
up and away from the
mountin g hook s.
6. Loosen, but do not remove , wheel nuts
by turning counterclockwise,
7. Insert jack handle in jack, grasp
fi rmly,
and jack the
car off the ground.
8. Check stability of car on jack and then
remove wheel nuts and wheel.
9, Install spare wheel and fully tighten
wheel nuts.
10. To lower the car, place jack lever in
"DOWN" position and operate handle
through full travel. Before replacing the
jack in the car, put the jack lever in the
"UP" position to eliminate rattles.
Illustrated instructions
on jack operation and
stowage
arc also provided on the underside
of the trunk lid.
12
CAUTION: Never get beneath the car wben
it is supported only by jack. Always use
safety stand to support frame if it is neces-
sary to get under the car. Do not run the
engine
'for any reason with ODe rear wheel
oft the ground as the car may drive through
the rear wbeel remaining on the ground.
Extended Vehicle Storage
Tf you plan to store your Oldsmobile over an
extended period of time, certain steps should
be taken to give it maximum protection. It
is recommended that you write Oldsmobile
Division, Service
Department, Lansing, Michi-
gan 48921, for detailed instructions on how to
prepare your Oldsmobile for storage.
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2 INSTRUMENTS
The in struments, gauges and warning lights
which are conveniently grouped in the instru-
ment clusters on the dash, are designed to
give the operator important information on
Ihe car's performance.
GOOD DRIVING PRACI1CE: A good driver
familiarizes himself with the controls of any
automobile BEFORE op:erstiDg it.
13
1. Air Conditioning Outlet
2. left Turn Indicator
3, Broke System Worning Light
4. Hot
Worning light
S. Cold Warning light
6. Speedometer
7.
Odometer
8. High Beom Indicator
9. Chorging System Worning light
10. Fuel Gouge
11. Right Turn Indicat or light
12. Oil Pressure Worning Light
13. Electric Clock
U, Center Air Conditioning Outlet
15. Glove Box Door Knob
16. Cruise Control ON-OFF Switch
17. Headlight and Instrument Panel Switch
18. Windshield Washer.Wipe r Switch
19. Heater/Air Conditioner Control Ponel
20. Reo r Defogger Switch
21. Automatic TransmissiQ,Jl Shift Indicator
22. Cigor·Cigare"e Lighter
23. Ash Troy Door Bu"on
24. Convertible Top Switc.h
25. Radio ON·OFF and Volume Control
26. Power Antenna Switch
27. Radio Dial and Push Buttons
28. Courtesy Light Switch
29 . Manual Station Selector Switc.h
30 . Rear Seat Speaker Fader Control
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Brake System Warning Light
A dual purpose brake system warning light is
located in the lower section of the left instru-
ment cluster. The warning light glows red to
indicate to the
operator that the parking brake
has not been fully released. It also glows red
while braking in the event of broken brake
lines, major fluid loss, air in the brake lines
or a pressure deviation between the front and
the rear wheel brake lines. If this happens,
it may mean that braking effectiveness is
impaired. In any case, the cause should be
determincd and any problem co
rr ected as soon
<IS possible. To make sure the brake warning
light is not burned oul, set the parking brake
and start the engine. If th e light does not
come on, have your O ld smobile Dealer cor-
rect the trouble as soon as possible.
NOTE : Th is wa rn ing light is not a substitute
fo r vis ual checking of the fl uid le ve l in the
master cylinder,
whi ch is a norm al mainte-
nance item at i
nt ervals s pe cified on page 41.
Charging System
Warning Light
A red light "AMP" will appear with the
ignition key
in the "ON" position and the
engine
nOt running. This light lets you know
the warning signal is operational. Should the
light fail to come on, see
your Oldsmobile
Dealer. When the engine
is started, the warn-
in g light should go out. In certain types of
14
malfunction, the rt:d light will come on with
the ignition
"OFF" or with the engine running.
Should this happen, see your Oldsmobile
dealer.
The warning light will not indicate all
types
of charging malfunctions. Therefore, if
the starting
motor turns the engine slower
than normal, have the cause determined
promptly.
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Engine Oil Pressure Indicator
The red light "OIL" will appear when the
ignition is turned "ON," informing you that
the indicator light is operational. When the
engine starts and oil pressure builds up, the
light will go out. This signal light
is an oil
pressure indicator -not an oil level gauge.
Should the light go on while the engine is
funning, stop the engine immediately and have
the cause determined and corrected. Driving
the car with low oil pressure can cause exten·
sive engine damage.
Engine Temperature
Indicator Lights
A green signal light "COLD" will appear
when a cold engine is started and the light
will remain on until the engine reaches nor -
mal operating temperature. If the green light
remains on after several miles
of driving, have
the cause determined and corrected. The red
signal light
"HOT" will go on momentarily
when starting the
car to let you know the
warning light is operational.
The only other
time the red signal light should appe ar is
when the engine reaches an abnormally high
temperature.
Then it will appear as a flashing
light.
If this happens, the engine should be
stopped immediately and the
ca use determined
and corrected. When the engine
is operating
at normal temperature neither light should
appear.
Fuel Gauge
This gauge shows the approximate fuel level
in the tank. ONLY with the ignition in the
"ON" position will the pointer indicate the
fuel level.
15
NOTE: Approximate ly 2 gallons of fuel re·
main in the tank when the fuel gauge shows
empty.
Speedometer and Odometer
The speedometer indicates the forward speed
of the car in miles per hour. The odometer
or mileage recorder registers the accumulated
mileage the car has been driven.
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3
CONTROLS
Ash Trays
To expose the ash tray, located on the
instrument panel ju st to the right of the cigar
lighter, depress the ash tray button and the
ash tray door swings open to give access
to the tray. To close the ash tray door, push
down on the exposed edge until the door is
flush with the panel
sur face. To remove the
tray for cleaning, simply lift it
out of its
receptacle. Rear seat ash trays may be
removed by lifting them out of their arm-
rest re
cep tacle s.
Braking Systems
The service brake system is designed for
braking performance under a wide range of
driving conditions even when the vehicle is
loaded to its full rated vehicle load.
CAUTION: Driving tbrougb deep water may
atlect brake performance. Applying the brakes
lightly will indicate wbetber they bave been
affected. To dry them qulcldy, IIgbtly apply
brakes while maintaining a slow forward
speed with an assured clear distance ahead
until brake performance returns to normal.
Automatic Brake Adjusters
All Oldsmobiles are equipped with self~
adjusting brakes designed to eliminate peri-
odic
brake adjustments. Tbe self ~ adjusting
mechanism is actuated, as needed, whenever
the
car is moved in reverse and the brakes
are applied. On cars equipped with disc
brakes, the front wheel self~adjusters operate
when the car is moved in either direction. It
is possible, however, for excessive brake pedal
travel to develop if the required reverse move-
ment with a brake application does not take
place during a prolonged period
of stop and
go forward driving. Should this occ ur. the car
should be driven backward and forward with
the brakes applied
at the end of each direc~
tional movement, until the brake pedal travel
is back to normal. If this procedure fails to
16
restore
norma l pedal travel, or if any abno r-
mally rapid increase in pedal travel is ex~
perienced, immediate inspection should be
made by your Authorized Oldsmobile Dealer.
Care should be exercised to !Issure that full
brake pedal tr!lvel is not obstructed by im-
proper floor mats or other interfering materhd
under the ped!".
Parking Brake
The parking brake operates independently of
the regular foot brake hydraulic system. It is
app lied by fully depressing the foot pedal
which
is located to the lower left side of the
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front compartment under the instrument
panel.
The brake system warning light will
also be " ON" whenever the parking brake is
not fully released and the ignition switch is
"ON ." The parking brake is released by
pulling the "BRAKE RELEASE" lever located
direc
tl y over the parking brake foot pedal.
Neyer
dr ive the car with the parking brake
engaged.
CAUTION: When leaving the car unattended,
always place the selector lever in 'TARK"
position (if equipped with an automatic trans-
mission). On manual transmission·equipped
CDr, place the shift lever in reverse and fully
apply the parking brake.
Cig ar Lighter
Push the cigar li ghter all the way in to
operate. When it is heated sufficiently to
use,
it will "snap" back to normal position
with
nn audible sound. Avoid holding the
lighter in
by hand while it is h eat ing as this
may damage the heating element.
---------------- ---
~ 'liT' ~ ~
- -
- ~ - .~- .~. "
Convertible Top
The convertible top can be raised or lowered
with the
rear quarter windows either open or
closed.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to lower top in
temperatures below 40· Fahrenheit. Prior to
raising or lowering the top, the car must be
at a complete stop and the sun visors turned
down. Also, when lowering the top, make cer -
tain the top Is thoroughly dry and that there
are
no items stored on or beneath the top
well.
To Lower Top -stop tbe car and rotate in-
board the locking handles located at the front
of the side rails near windshield header until
the lock hook lever is disengaged from the
striker on the windshield header. The locking
bandies must remain in the inboard position
until top is again locked
to windshield header.
17
The convertible top control switch is located
on
tbe instrument panel just to tbe right of
the ash tray. To operate the switch, turn the
ignition switch to "ON" or "ACCESSORY"
position. Move the switch lever to the right
(under the letters
"DN") and hold lever in
this position until top
is fully lowered.
To Install Top Boot-remove the top boot
which is normally stored in a plastic bag in
the rear compartment. Grasping the forward
end of the boot, slide the welt on the boot
into the retainer located on the top
of the
rear seat back panel.
The boot is then placed
over the lowered top and the metal
snap
fasteners on the boot are snapped onto the
studs located on the quarter trim. The rear
and sides of the boot are secured by st~rting
at the center and pulling the boot away from
the belt molding and sliding the plastic re-
tainer under the belt molding.
To Raise the Top -always stop the car first.
Then turn down sun visors, and unsnap top
boot. Move switch lever to the left (under
the word
"UP") until top is fully raised and
guide-studs on lock assembli
es are engaged in
striker holes on windshield
header . Rotate
each locking
handle outboard until lock lever
is fully engaged with striker on windshield
header and handle is parallel with side
roof
rail.
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NOTE: Be sure lOp is securely locked to
windshield header before slarting
car in
motion.
Turn Signa ls and Lane
Change Fea ture
The turn signal lever is located on the left
side
of the steering column immediately
under the steering wheel.
The lever is moved
upward to signal a right turn and downward
to signal a left turn.
lamp s on the front and
rear
of the car transmit this signal to other
motorists and pedestrians. The ignition switch
must be
in the "ON" position in order for
the turn signals to be operational. This fea·
ture prevents battery drain if the lever is
left
in an "ON" position when your car is
not in use.
In a normal turning situation such as turning
a corner, the turn signal is cancelled autO·
matically after the turn is completed. How·
ever, in some driving maneuvers such as
changing lanes on
an expressway, the steer·
ing wheel is not turned back sufficiently after
completing the turn to automatically cancel
the turn signal.
For convenience in such
maneuvers the driver can flash the turn signals
by moving the turn signal lever part way and
holding it there. The lever returns to the
neutral
or canceled pos it ion when the driver
releases
hi s hold on the lever.
A green light on the
in strument panel fl ashes
to indicate proper operation of the front and
rear turn signal lamps.
If the indicator lamp
remains on and does not
fla sh, check for a
defective signal Jamp bulb.
If the indicator
fails to light when the lever is moved, check
the fuse and indicator bulb.
Hazard Warning Flasher
In the event your car is di sabled or yOli stop
for any
re ason on the highway, the four·way
hazard warning flasher system on your ve hi cle,
front and rear signal lamps, should be used to
warn
other drivers that your vehicle is a
traffic hazard. However, you should do every·
thing possible to avoid stopping on the actual
highway.
18
CAunON: Use of the hazard flasher while
the vehicle is moving is prohibited
in some
states.
The hazard warning system is activated by
pushing
in on the button located below the
steering wheel on the right side
of the stee r·
ing column. When the system is operating,
the turn signal indicators on the
in strume nt
panel will flash Simultaneously.
NOTE: The hazard warning flasher will
operate with the ignition
in the "LOCK" posi·
tion and the key removed, allowing the car to
be locked while help is sought. Use this system
only when
your vehicle is stopped on or near
the roadway or otherwi se constitutes a
traffic hazard.
The hazard flasher may be
canceled by pulling the button outward.
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