Oldsmobile VISTA-CRUISER 1970 User manual

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Important Operating, Safety and Maintenance Instructions
VISTA-CRUISER ·
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THE OLDSMOBILE OWNER
This manual has been prepared to acquaint you with the operation and maintenance of your 1970 Oldsmobile. We urge you
to read it carefully and follow the recommendations contained to help assure the most enjoyable and trouble-free operation
of your vehicle. Listed below ar e subjects that deserve your sp ecial attention .
AIR POLLUTION CONTROL - A special colored supplement describes the operation and maintenance
of the air pollution control systems on your car.
ALPHABETICAL INDEX - A complete index will be found in the back of the manual to assist you in
locating specific information ~ : m your vehicle.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS OR VEHICLE OWNERSHIP - U.S . Fed eral Law requires the manufacturer
to contact vehicle owners of record in the event a product safety defect is discovered. Your Oldsmobile
De aler should be notified if you change your address or purchased this car used.
SPECIAL ASSISTANCE -Your Oldsmobile Dealer knows your vehicle best and is interested in your
complete satisfaction. Return to him for Guardian Maintenance Service and any other assistance you may
require. To assist Dealers in handling your needs. Oldsmobile maintains a number
of Zone Offices through-
out the country. Should you have a problem that cannot be handled through normal channels, follow the
procedure contained in the section entitled "Owner Relations".
MAINTAINING SAFETY AND DEPENDABILITY - A special colored supplement contains recommen-
dations to help you maintain the safety and dependability originally built into your Oldsmobil e.
PROTECTING YOUR INVESTMENT -Only you can assure that the investment in your Oldsmobile is
adequately protected. Regular and proper service
as outlined in the manual will help you get the utmost
in satisfaction and extended service from your car.
WARRANTY -When pur('hased new, your Oldsmobile is covered by the Oldsmobile New Vehicle War-
ranty and the Policy on Oldsmobile Owner Service. Complete details will be found in tbe Oldsmobile
New Vehicle Warranty and Owner Protection Plan folder which was given to you by your Oldsmobile
Dealer at the time of new car delivery.
1
See Insert "B"
See Page 54
See Your Dealer
See Page 56
See Insert "A"
See
Page 35
See Your
Warranty Folder
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Safety on the Road
depends on ...
1. You, the Driver
2. The Condition of Your Vehicle
3. Traffic and Highway Conditions
• •• BE SURE YOU UNDERSTAND ALL THREEI
REMEMBER: Proper operation, periodic
maintenance and safety inspections help
provide • ••
• Economical Operation of Your Vellicle
•
Safety for You and Your Passengers
•
Dependable Transportation
Observe All TraHlc Laws-
Make Safe Driving a Habit
2
• WHEN PARKED-Don't invite theft by leaving your car
unlocked or leaving valuable articles in view. Never leave
children unattended in the automobile where they could
accidentally release the brake or activate other controls.
• IN TRAFFIC-Study and understand surrounding traffic
conditions before slowing. passing, turning or lane-changing,
so you won't run into the unexpected. Maintain proper
spacing, and check rearward conditions too.
When the light
turns green, make sure cross-wise traffic
has stopped before starting up.
Anticipate your next move and signal your intention at
a reasonable time to the drivers around you.
• DRIVING AT NIGHT-Remember to remove sun glasses
at dusk and at other times when the lighting is poor.
Be especially alert for pedestrians and unlighted vehicles
at dusk and after dark.
Use ~ 'low beam" when approaching or following other cars,
and look slightly to the right of oncoming lights.
Even properly aimed headlamps may cause annoying glare
if the car is heavily loaded in the trunk. Distribute the load
in your car as evenly as possible to avoid blinding other
drivers.
Turn on your headlamps at early dusk, and during bad
weather, to help other drivers see your car.
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• INCLEMENT WEATHER -Proceed cautiously in inel&-
ment weather, until you are sure it is safe to drive faster.
Be prepared for sudden crosswinds when crossing bridges
or viaducts.
Remember that some wet pavement is as treacherous as ice,
and bridges and viaducts can
be slipperier.
• BAD ROADS -Remember, dust obscures vehicles and ob-
stacles as completely as fog; drive cautiously in dust-clouded
areas.
Avoid striking sharp rocks and pot-holes to avoid unneces-
sary (and often hidden) tire damage_
Remember to clean off headlamps, tail lamps and side mark-
ers after driving on wet, dusty, or muddy roads.
• WINTER DRIVING -Drive extra cautiously when winter
comes, until you adjust to winter driving conditions.
Remember side streets may
be slippery for days after main
streets have been cleared, and drive accordingly.
In heavy snow or on icy roads, drive more cautiously,
allow more room to stop, and use the brakes conservatively,
and reduce the possibility of skids by using chains or special
tires.
To get moving in snow, press very lightly on the acceler-
ator pedal. increase pressure very slowly. and don't spin
the wheels. If the wheels spin, they will turn the snow to
slick ice or dig your wheels in deeper. Sand, rock salt,
Liquid Tire Chain. or a piece of carpeting under the drive
wheels can help if you do not get begged down.
3
Remember that wet ice - at about 32°F - is extremely
slippery; drive very cautiously_
• EXTENDED TRIPS -Before and regularly during the trip,
check tire pressure, windshield washer
and other fluid levels,
and have necessary maintenance performed on a regular
basis.
When driving along unfamiliar routes, it is safer ·to drive
during daylight hours, and it is wise to obtain up-to-<late
maps and route information beforehand.
Remember that a high percentage of rural accidents involve
head-on collisions and drive accordingly_
Budget your driving over the length of your
trip_ Share
the driving or take rest breaks.
When driving alone for a long period, counteract monotony
by changing radio stations, changing heater settings, open-
ing windows, etc. If fatigue sets in, pull off the road for
a short nap, or at least a rest.
• ALWAYS be prepared for stopped or slow moving vehicles
ahead_
Maintain an adequate distance between your car and the
car ahead, to reduce the chances of rear-end collisions.
If you smell, or otherwise suspect that exhaust fumes are
entering the passenger compartment, drive only with all
windows
and vents fully open, and then only until the cause
can
be detennined and corrected.
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OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
A
Word
About
Your
Keys
Two separate 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 "]" stamped on it operates the
ignition switch, door locks and the tail-
gate. The key with the oval head and
the leller "K" is used for the concealed
luggage compartment and glove box door
locks. These compartments should be
locked 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 dealer 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 wal-
let, 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 side doors can be locked
from the inside by depressing
the passen-
ger guard door lock buttons located on the
upper door panel.
All doors can be locked
from the outside
by first depressing the
door lock button and depressing
the out-
side door handle plunger while closing the
door. Once closed, release the plunger
and the door is locked.
The front doors can also be locked, in the
usual manner, by using the square headed
4
key. All models have, as a standard safety
feature, overriding door locks. When the
doors are locked,
the door latch mechan-
ism is inoperative, preventing inadvertent
opening of the door by movement of the
inside handle.
CAUTION: Always lock the doors
when driving for greater security in the
event
of an accident and for secmity
against wtauthorized entries. Avoid
pushing on the door glass when open-
ing or closing the doors -instead, use
the handles,
Anti-Theft Steering
Column Lock
The anti-theft lock, located on the right
side of the steering column, has five posi-
tions. Starting from the full counterclock-
wise position (the position nearest you)
they are, accessory, lock, off,
on and start.
To provide added theft protection for your
car, the system is designed to prevent nor-
mal operation of the steering and shift
controls when the ignition switch is in the
"lock" position. The transmission selector
lever must be in "
park" on automatic
transmission models,
or reverse on manual
transmission models, before the key can
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be turn ed to the "lock" position. The igni-
tion switch "accessory" positi
on permits
opera ti on of electrical accessories when the
engine is not running. It can be engaged
only by pushing in
on the ignition key and
turning the key toward you (counterclock-
wise).
The "off' position is provided so
that the ignition can be turned off with-
out locking the steering column
or trans-
miss i o~ selector lever. The key can be
withdrawn only when the switch is in the
"lock" position.
NOTE:
The Anti-Theft Steering Column
Lock
is not intended as a substitute for
the parking brake. Always set your park-
brake when leaving
the vehicle unattended
to help assure
that the vehicle will not
move.
CAUTION: In a parking situation, al-
ways let go of tbe steering wheel BE-
FORE turning the ignition key to LOCK
positioo. When parkiDg
on a bill with
wbeels turned
in to tbe curb, be sure
tbe car bas come to a complete stop
before
turning tbe key to LOCK posi-
tion. Turning tbe wbeels to
left or right
after tbe car stops "winds up" tbe steer-
ing system, wbich can resuk in a
"spring back"
of tbe steering wheel
when the lock is released. As a further
precaution, ne_ reacb through the
steering wheel to operate controls, or
for any other reason.
When leaving your car unattended:
• Set the parking brake
• Place automatic transmission selector
in Park (Reverse for manual trans-
mission)
• Turn key to LOCK position
• Remove the key
• Lock all doors
The ignition key warning buzzer warns
you if you have left
the key in the anti-
theft lock when the driver's door is opened.
Heed its warning- remove the key and
5
lock t he doors. The visible vehicle identi-
fication n
umber of the instrument panel
aids
in apprehension of thieves and recov-
ery of stolen vehicles.
He lp it work; make
sure it is
not obscured by gloves. maps
or other objects.
Starting the Engine
CAUTION: When starting the engine
with
tbe car parked, always have tbe
brake applied-use tbe foot brake on
automatic transmission cars and tbe
parkiDg brake on manual transmission
cars.
NOTE: To prolong battery life, turn off
switches for headlamps, radio. heater fan
and other unnecessary electrical loads
prior
to starting the engine in colder
weather. Leave accessories off until the
engine
is running smoothly.
Automatic Transmission Start Procedure-
Place transmission selector lever in "P" or
"N " CP" preferred). A starter s a f e t y
switch incorporated in automatic trans-
mission cars is designed
to prevent starter
operation while
the transmission selector
level is in any drive position.
If it is
necessary to re-start the engine with the
car moving, place
the selector lever in "N".
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Manual Transmission Start Procedure-
Hold clutch pedal to the lIoor throughout
the starting procedure. A starter safety
switch incorporated in manual transmis-
sion cars is designed to prevent starter
operation when the clutch is not fully de-
pressed. Select the proper gear range
before releasing the clutch pedal.
Cold Engine -Fully depress accelerator
pedal and slowly release. With foot off
the accelerator pedal crank the engine by
turning the key to the Start position and
release when engine starts.
If the engine
starts, but fails to run, repeat above pro-
cedure. When the engine is running
smoothly, the idle speed may be reduced
by slightly depressing
the accelerator pedal
and then slowly releasing.
Warm Engine-Depress accelerator pedal
about halfway and hold while crank in g
the engine.
Extremely Cold Weather (Below 0' F) Or
After Car Has Been Standing Idle Several
Days-Fully depress and release acceler-
ator pedal two or three tim es before
cranking the engine. With foot off the
accelerator pedal crank the engine
by turn-
ing the key to the "Start" position
and re-
lease when engine starts.
If Engine Fails to Start using the appro-
priate procedure above, first, fully depress
and release the accelerator pedal several
times. Then remove foot from the accel-
eratOr and crank the engine.
If the engine still does not start, fully de-
press the accelerator pedal and hold to
the lloor while cranking the engine.
If
th e engine has been lIooded with gaso-
line it may start to run but not have
enough power to keep running. In that
case, continue cranking with the acceler-
ator fully depressed until the engine clears
itself of excess gasoline and runs smoothly.
Exhaust Gas Warning
(Carbon Monoxide)
Avoid inhaling exhaust gases because they
contain carbon monoxide, which is a po-
tenially lethal gas that by itself is colorless
and odorless.
SITIING IN A PARKED CAR WITH
ENGINE RUNNING FOR AN EXTEND-
ED PERIOD IS NOT RECOMMENDED.
Do not run engine in confined areas such
as garages any more than needed to move
vehicle in
or out of area. When vehicle is
stopped in
an unconfined area with the
6
engine running for any more than a short
period, the following precaution should be
observed:
• Adjust heatiog or cooling system to
force outside air into car with blower
set at medium or high speed and con-
trols set in any pOSition except "OFF"
or "MAX."
The trunk lid should be closed while driv-
ing to prevent drawing exhaust gases into
the car. However, if for some reason the
trunk must remain open while moving, the
following precautions should be observed:
• Close all windows.
• Adjust heating or cooling system to
force outside air into car with blower
set at high speed, and controls set in
any position except "OFF" or "MAX."
• On cars equipped with outside air
vents in or under instrument panel,
open vents fully.
The best protection against carbon mon-
oxide entry into the car body is a properly
maintained engine exhaust system. When-
ever a change is noticed in the sound
of
the exhaust system, when exhaust fumes
can be detected inside the vehicle,
or
when th e underside of the vehicle is dam-
aged, have a competent mechanic inspect
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the complete exhaust system and adjacent
body areas for broken, damaged or mis-
positioned parts, deterioration, open seams
or loose connections which could permit
exhaust fumes to seep into the
trunk or
passenger compartment. In addition, in-
speet the exhaust system each time the
vehicle is raised for lubrication or oil
change. Replace
or adjust as required.
Emergency Starting
If your Oldsmobile is equipped with a
manual 3- or 4-speed transmission, it can
be started in an emergency by pushing.
When being pushed to start the engine
turn ignition to "ON," depress the clutch,
place the shift lever in high gear. Release
the clutch when the car speed reaches
lO to 15 miles per hour. Bumpers and
other parts contacted by the pushing ve-
hicle should be protected from damage
during pushing. Never tow the car to start.
Engines in vehicles with automatic trans-
missions cannot be started by pushing the
car. To start the car when the Energizer
(battery) is discharged, use a single aux-
iliary battery or Energizer of the same
voltage as the discharged battery with
suitable jumper cables.
(Refer to Energizer, page 42.)
Turbo Hydra-Matic
The shift indicator is located on the instru-
ment panel just above the steering column
and the selector lever on the right side of
the steering column.
"Park" provides a positive transmission
lock to keep the car from rolling when
parking or when starting the engine. The
selector lever must be pulled toward you
before it can be moved to this position.
NEVER move the seleetor lever to the
"Park" position when the car is moving.
"R" Reverse position is for backing the car.
Bring the car to a complete stop before
moving the selector into reverse.
"N" Neutral is the out-of-gear position. It
is provided for starting a stalled engine
while the vehicle is in motion and for rUD-
ning the engine while standing with th e
brakes applied.
Do not coast in neutral.
"0" Drive Range is the driving range for
1
normal city and highway driving. This
pOSition pennits the transmission to oper-
ate through its complete range of gear
ratios and to select the proper ratio for
road and load conditions.
CAUTION: Care should
be taken to
avoid sudden accelerations when both
drive wheels of any vehicle are on a
slippery surface. This could cause both
drive wheels to spin, especially when
the car
is equipped with Anti-Spin dif-
ferential, and allow the vehicle to slide
sideways on the curved surface
of a
road or in a hun .
"S" Super Range position is used when
super performance is needed for increased
acceleration in traffic, hill climbing Or "en-
gine braking" downhill. The selector lever
may be moved from un" to "S" and vice
versa, under most operating conditions.
"Super" should not be used at speeds
above 75 mph.
CAUTION: Use caution when shifting
into lower gear ratios on slippery sur-
faces, with vehicle moving-the abrupt
braking action could cause the driving
wheels to skid.
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"L" Low position is available for heavy
pulling through
mud or sand and for
"engine braking" when descending steep
hills.
The selector lever may be moved
to
"L" position at any sped but the trans-
mission will only shift automatically into
low range when car speed
is under ap-
proximately
40 mph. The transmission
will not upshift from low range as long
as the selector lever
is in "L" position.
GOOD DRIVING PRACTICE: Before
descending a steep
or long grade, down
a mountain or hi1lside, reduce speed
and shift into a lower gear. Use tbe
brakes sparingly to prevent them from
overbeating and thus reducing brake
effectiveness.
Extra Power to Pass -
When a sudden
burst of power is desired
at speeds below
65 mQh, the transmission can be down-
shifted by depressing
the accelerator com-
pletely to
the floor. For passing at moder-
ate speeds, 30-45 miles per hour, depress-
ing the accelerator pedal only part way
down will usually provide sufficient accel-
eration.
Rocking the
Car -H it becomes necessary
to rock the car to free it from sand, mud
or snow, move the selector lever from "D"
to "R" in a repeat pattern while simulta-
neously applying moderate pressure to the
accelerator.
Do not race engine. Avoid
spinning wheels when trying to free the
car.
Three-Speed Manual
Transmission
All forward gears on the Oldsmobile 3-
speed manual transmission are fully syn-
chronized. This transmission is shifted
through the standard
"H" pattern as
shown in the illustration. Before shifting
into any gear, depress
the clutch pedal
and then shift into the desired gear. In
first and reverse gears, release the clutch
8
pedal slowly while simultaneously depress-
ing the accelerator pedal. In second and
third gears, release
the clutch a little
faster. This reduces
the wear on the
clutch and provides smoother operation.
OPERATING CAUTIONS
1. Do not "speed shift"; allow time be-
tween shifts for the transmission syn-
chronizers to coordinate.
2. Do not use second or third gear to
accelerate from a stop.
3. Always place gear selector in neutral
and set the foot brake when starting
the engine.
4. Never leave vehicle unattended with
the engine running.
5. Always set parking brake firmly before
leaving
the vehicle.
B. Do not coast in Neutral.
7. "Never ride" the clutch pedal as this
will cause excessive slippage with
resultant wear on
the clutch parts.
GOOD DRIVING PRACTICE: Do use
second
gear at slow speeds (\ess than
30 miles per bour) when driving in
"stop and go" traffic, for improved
vebicle performance during acceleration
and wben descending steep hills.
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Extended Vehicle Storage
If you plan to store your Oldsmobile over
an extended pe riod of time, certain steps
should
be taken to give it maximum pro-
t
ec tion. It is reco mmended that you write
Oldsmobile Division, Service Deparbnent,
Lansing, Michigan 48921, for detailed in-
structions on how to
prepare your Olds-
mobile for storage.
fuel Requirements
Your Vista-Cruiser is designed to operate
efficient1y
on "Regular" or "Premium"
grade fuels commonly sold in th e United
States and Canada.
The table indicates
the fuel grade requirements for your Vista-
Cruiser engine.
Use of a fuel which is too low in anti-
knock quality will result in a "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. If
persistent knocking is encountered, it may
be necessary to change to a higher grade
of gasoline and,
if knocking continues,
consult your authorized Oldsmobile Deal-
er. In any case, continuous or excessive
knocking may result in engine damage
and constitutes misuse of the engine for
which
the Oldsmobile Division is not re-
sponsible
under the terms of the Manu-
facturer's
New Vehicle Warranty.
I
FUEL
ENGINE GRADE
V-8 (350
cu . in.)
2 Bbl. (low compression)
4 Bbl. (high compression)
V-8 455 (cu in .)
4 Bbl. (high compression)
fuel
filler Tube
Location
Regular
Premium
Premi um
•
Access to the fuel tank filler tube on your
Vista-Cruiser is gained through the door
in the left rear fender. The cap is re-
moved by slowly turning it counterclock-
wise.
9
Guardian Maintenance Tip -Fill up with
gas when
the gauge shows below the half-
full mark because more condensation oc-
curs in a partially filled tank.
CAUTION, Gasoline is flammable and
explosive under certain conditions. Al·
ways stop th. engine and do Dot smoke
or allow OpeD flame. or !paries Dear the
vehicle when refueling. If gasoline
fmnes are noticed while driving, the
eause should be determined and cor·
rected without delay.
New Car Operating Speeds
Driving speeds for your new Oldsmobile
should
be limit ed 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 accelerations.
If
most of your driving is of the around-town
variety. which is considered "severe serv-
ice" especially in cold weather. be sure
to include some 25 to
50 mile highway
trips during the break-in period and vary
the car's speed.
The vehicle should be
driven a minimwn of 500 miles before
hauling a trailer
of less than 2,000 lbs.
gross weight
and at least 1,000 miles if
the trailer exceeds 2,000 lbs. gross weight.
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Operation in foreign
Countries
If you plan to operate your Oldsmobile
outside
the continental limits of t he United
States or Canada. there
is a possibility that
the best fuels available are so low in anti-
knock quality that excessive knocking and
serious engine damage may result from
their use.
To minimize this possibility,
write to Oldsmobile Division, Service De-
partment, Lansing, Michigan 48921, giv-
ing:
• The compression ratio and cubic inch
displacement of your engine (obtain
from your dealer).
• The vehicle identification number (on
plate on instrument panel
ahead of the
steering wheel and visible through the
windshield, or from registration slip or
title).
• The country or countries in which you
plan
to travel.
You will be furnished details of adjustment
or modifications which should
be made to
your engine at your Oldsmobile Dealership
prior to your departure. Failure to make
the necessary changes to your car and sub-
sequent operation under conditions of
continuous excessive knocking constitutes
misuse of the engine for which t he Olds-
mobile Division is not responsible under
the terms of the Oldsmobile New Vehicle
Warranty.
After arriving in a foreign country. deter-
mine
and use the best fuels available.
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 less than 35 mph.
However, the drive wheels (rear wheels)
must be raised off
the ground or the drive
shaft disconnected when
the transmission
is not operating properly or when a speed
of 35
mph or distance of 50 miles will be
exceeded.
Without the Ignition
Key-Since the Anti-
Theft Steering Column Lock locks the
steering and the shift controls as well
as the ignition system. special provisions
are necessary for towing a vehicle when
10
the switch is in "lock" position. Normally
it will
be necessary to place a dolly under
the rear wheels
and tow the vehicle with
the front
end raised. Detailed towing in-
formation is available at your 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.
CAUTION. Attachment should NOT
be made to bumpers or bumper brackets
for towiDg. When vehicle is _ed in 8
IIIIIIIMr that requires hoisting one end
oft the ground, this is to be done only
with 8 sling-type attachm_ hooked to
main __ members of the ear . Al-
ways UR IBfety back-up chains crossed
under the _ bar in a manner that will
retain the ....hicle if the primary attach-
ment fails ... breaks free, preferably
attached to different structural members
than those URd for
the primary attach-
-. WMn towing vehicles on the
front wheels, the steering wheel should
be secured to maintain a straight ahead
positioIL
NO TE: Do not use the locking feature of
the Anti-Theft Lock to secure
the front
wheels for towing purposes.
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Trailer Hauling
Since passenger cars are designed and in-
tended to he used primarily as passenger
conveyances, towing a trailer may effect
handling, durability and economy. Maxi-
mum satisfaction
and safety will be
derived through use of proper equipment
and avoiding overloads and other abusive
operation.
This car can pull a trailer of 5,000 pounds
maximum load ed weight with a maximum
tongue load of 500 pounds if equipped to
the recommendations in Oldsmobile's 1970
Trailering Brochure.
Oldsmobile has a number of factory-in-
stalled options available to better equip
cars for trailers. For hauling trailers
heavi~ than 2,000 pounds, it is recom-
mended that an appropriate load equaliz-
ing hit
ch be purchased from a reliable
manufacturer.
NOTE: Whenever a trailer hitch is re-
moved, be certain to have any mounting
holes in the underbody properly sealed to
prevent possible entry of exhaust fumes
dirt or water. '
Purchase of bumper and axle type hitches
is not recommended. Rental in stallations
should he made only in accord with in-
staUation and usage instructions of a
reputable trailer agency. To assist in at-
taining proper handling of the car-tra il er
combination, it
is important that trailer
tongue loads be maintained at
approxi~
mately 10% of loaded trailer weight.
Tongue loads can
be adjusted by proper
distribution of the load in the trailer, and
can be checked by weighing separately
the loaded trailer
and then the tongue.
Tire inflation recommendations outlined
in this Owner's Manual should be fol-
lowed. When towing trailers, the allow~
able passenger and cargo load (as shown
in the instructions for tire inflation pres-
s
ur es, located in the tire section) must be
reduced by an amount equal to the trailer
tongue load on the trailer hitch. The fluid
in you r automatic transmission and differ-
ential should be changed each 12,000 miles
when the car is being used to pull a trailer.
Vehicles equipped with the trailer wiring
option
are furnished with a special tum
signal flasher. This special flasher, stored
in the glove compartment, should be in~
11
stalled in place of the regular turn signal
flasher when hauling a trailer.
NOTE: Do not tap into the car's hydraulic
brake system to couple with a trailer hy ~
draulic brake system.
General information on trailer hauling.
special equipment required, and optional
equipment offered by Oldsmobile is avail-
able in booklet form
and can be obtained
by writing to Oldsmobile Division, Owner
Relations Department, Lansing, Michigan
48921.
Guardian Maintenance Tip -Engine oil
changes are recommended at the interval
shown in the lubrication section of this
book. However, if you travel mainly
on
non-paved roads or do a lot of short trip,
stop-and-go driving, you should change
oil more frequently. Your authorized Olds-
mobile Dealer will be happy to advise you.
GOOD DRIVING P RAe TIC E-In-
crease your speed to ga in momentum
before starting
up an icy hill. As you
climb, come off your accelerator slowly
and feed just enough gas to keep your
traction. A heavy foot could cause your
wheels to Sl' ~ in. ~ ________ ...
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INSTRUMENTS
The instruments, gauges and warning
lights which
are conveniently grouped in
the instrument clusters on the dash, are
designed to give the operator important
information on the car's perfonnance.
GOOD DRIVING
PRACflCE: A good
driver familiarizes bimseIf with the c0n-
trols of any automobile BEFORE op-
era ting it.
12
1. Air Conditioning Outl.t
2. arake System Warning Indicator
3. Fuel Gauge
... Engine T emperature {HOT} Warning Indicator
5. Speedometer
6. Odometer
7. Engine Ta chom et.r
8. EJectric Clock
9. Cigar. Cigar ette lighter
10. Left Center Air Conditioning Outl.t
11. Ash Tray Ooor
12. AU, Tray
13. Right Cent.r Air Conditioning Outfet
U. Coumsy L",ht Switch
1'. Glove Box Door
16. Rotary Glove Box Lock and Latch
17. Driving and Dome Light Switch
18. Windshield Wiper and WCllh ... Switch
19. Charging System Indicator
20. Crui.e Control ON - OFF Switch
21 . Oil Pressure Warning Indicator
22. Power Rear Window Switch
23. left Lower Air Conditioning Outlet
24. Automatic Transmission Shift Indicator
25. Heater· Ventilation or Air Conditioning
Controls
26. Fan Control Switch
28. Radio ON· OFF and Volume Control
29. Radio Tone Control
30. Radio Dial and Station Selector Button.
31. Radio Manual Station Selector
32. Rear Seat Speak .r Foder Control
33. Right
lower Air Conditioning Outlet
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Brake Warning Indicator
A brake system warning light is located in
the left instrument cluster. The warning
light
is designed to glow red to indicate
to the operator
that the parking brake has
not been fully released.
It also glows red
whUe braking in the event of broken brake
lines, major brake 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. It will be pos-
sible to bring the vehicle to a stop, but
depending on the severity of the malfunc-
tion, greater pedal force and pedal travel
may
be required and stopping distance
may be increased. The cause should be
detennined and any problem corrected as
soon as possible. To make sure the brake
warning light
is not burned out, set the
parking brake and start the engine. If the
light does not come on, have your Olds-
mobile dealer correct the trouble as soon
as possible.
NOTE: This warning light is not a sub-
stitute for visual checking of the fluid level
in the master cylinder, which is a norma l
maintenance it em at intervals specified on
page 49.
Charging System
Indicator
A red light "GEN" will appear with the
ignition key in the "ON"
pOSition and the
engine not running. Thfs light lets you
know the warning signal is operational.
Should the light faU to come on, see your
OldsmobUe Dealer. When the engine is
started, the warning light should go out.
In certain types of malfunction, the
red
light \vill come on with the ignition "OFF"
Or with the engine running. Should this
happen, see your OldsmobUe 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.
13
Engine Oi' Pressure
Indicator
The red light "OIL" will appear when the
ignition is twned "ON," informing you
that the nirucator 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
aU level gauge. Should the light go on
while the engine is running, stop the en-
gine immediately and have the cause de-
termined and corrected. Driving the
car
with low pressure can cause extensive
engine damage.
Engine Temperature
Indicator
A red signal light "H OT" wUl appear mo-
mentarily when starting the car to let you
know that it
is operating. The only other
time the "HOT" light should appear is
when the engine reaches an abnormally
high temperature. If this happens, the en-
gine should be stopped immediately and
the cause determined and corrected.
Fuel Gauge
This gauge shows the approximate fuel
level in the tank. ONLY with the ignition
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in the "ON" position will the pointer indi-
cate
the fuel level.
NOTE: Approximately 2 gallons of fuel
remain in
th e tank when th e 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
accumulat
ed mileage th e car has been
driv en .
GOOD DRIVING PRACTI CE- In cold
weather, even if the highwa y is appa r ..
ently clean, be prepared for icy spots
on bridges, under overpasses and in
shady areas.
CONTROLS
Ash Trays
The instrument panel ash tray and lighter
are located just above the radio dial. They
are exposed by lifting the bottom edge of
the ash tray door
and it will swing up into
the instrument panel. For easier accessibil-
ity, the ash tray may be pulled out part
way. To ciose, simply pull downward on
the lower edge of the door. To remove
the tray for cleaning. open the ash tray
door
and slide the ash tray out to the stop,
then lift
up on the forward edge as you
pull it towards you.
Cigarette Lighter
Push the cigarette lighter all the way in
to operate. When
it is heated sufficiently
to use, it will "snap" back to normal posi.
tion
with an audible sound. Avoid holding
14
the lighter in by hand while it is heating
as this may damage the heating element.
Braking Systems
The service brake system is designed for
breaking performance under a wide range
of driving conditions even when the ve-
hicle
is loaded to its full rated vehicle
load.
CAUTION: Driving through deep wa-
ter may affect br ake performance. Ap-
plying the brakes lightly will indicate
whether they have been affected. To
dry them quickly, lightly a pp ly the
brakes while maintaining a slow for-
ward speed with an assur ed clear dis-
tance a head until brake performance
returns to nonna!.
The service brake system is designed so
that in the event of a hydraulic fluid leak,
in one-half of the system,
the other half
still provides braking action.
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CAUTION: "Riding the brake- by rest-
ing your foot on the brake pedal wben
not intending to brake can cause ab-
nonnally high brake temperatures, ex-
cessive lining wear and possible dam-
age to the brakes.
Automatic Brake Adiusters
All Oldsmobiles are equipped with self-
adjusting brakes designed to eliminate
periodic brake adjustments.
The self-
adjusting mechanism is actuated, as
needed, whenever the car is moved in re-
verse and the brakes are applied. (Option-
al power front wheel disc brakes do not
require adjustment.)
It is possible, however, for excessive brake
peda l travel to develop if the required
reverse movement
with a brake applica-
tion does not take place during a pro-
longed period of stop
and go forward
driving. Should this occur, the
car should
be driven backward
and forward with the
brakes applied firmly
at the end of each
rearward movement, until the brake pedal
travel
is back to nonnal. If this procedure
fails to restore
nonnal pedal travel, or
if any abnormally rapid increase in pedal
travel is experienced, immediate inspec-
tion should be made by your Authorized
Oldsmobile Dealer.
CAUTION: Brake pedal travel should
not_ aIIotructecI by improper lloor mats
or odier lutezfeaing material under the
pedal.
Parking Brake
The parking brake operates by cables to
the rear wheel brakes independently of
the regular foot brake hydraulic system.
It is applied by fully depressing the foot
15
pedal which is located to the low er left
side of the front compartment
under the
instrument panel.
The brake system warn-
ing 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 directly over the
parking brake foot pedal. Never drive the
car with the parking brake engaged.
CAUTION: When leaving the ear un-
attended, always place the selector
1..- in ·PAlIK" position (if equipped
with an automatic transmission). On
manual transmission..,quipped car, place
the -shift lever in reverse and fully ap-
ply the
parking brake.
Turn Signals and
Lane Change Feature
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 l eft turn. Lamps
on the front
and rear of the car transmit
this signal
to other motorists and pedes-
trians.
The ignition switch must be in
the "ON" position in order for the turn
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signals to be operational. This feature
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 turn·
ing a corner, the turn signal is canceled
automatically after the turn is completed.
However, in some driving maneuvers such
as changing lanes on an expressway. the
steering wheel is not turned back suffi-
ciently after completing
the turn to auto-
matically cancel the turn signal. For con-
venience in such maneuvers the driver can
flash the turn signals by moving the turn
signal lever part way (to the first stop)
and holding it there. The lever returns
to the neutral or canceled position when
the driver releases his hold on
the lever.
A green light on
the instrument panel
flashes to indicate proper operation of
the front
and rear turn signal lamps. If
the indicator lamp remains on and does
not flash. check for a defective signal
lamp 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 disabled or you
stop for any reason
on the highway. the
four-way hazard warning flasher system
on your vehicle, front and rear signal
lamps. should
be used to warn other driv-
ers that your vehicle is a traffic hazard.
However. you should
do everything pos.
sible to avoid stopping on the actual high·
way.
CAUTION, Use of the hazard warning
flasher wbile the vehicle is moving is
prohibited in some states.
16
The h~zard warning system is activated
by pushing in on the button located just
be low the steering wheel on the right si de
of the steering column. When the system
is operating, the
turn signal indicators
on the instrument panel will flash simul-
taneously. Use this system only when your
vehicle is stopped on or near
the roadway,
or otherwise constitutes a traffic hazard.
The hazard warning flasher may be can-
celed by pulling the button outward.
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.
CAUTION. If the brake pedal is de-
pressed wheu the hazard wamiDg Oas_
is in operaticm, the lights will _ flasb
but will glow eoo tin uousJy iostead.
Fuse Block Location
The fuse block is mounted under the in·
strument panel to the left side of the steer-
ing column and just behind the parking
brake.
For fuse specifications see "FUSE
SPECIFICATIONS" in the technical sec-
tion.
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Glove Box
Door Latch
The glove box door is opened by turning
the door knob clockwise. It latches auto-
matically when closed firmly. The oval
headed key will lock the door when the
key is inserted and turned counterclock-
wise .
Headlight, Instrument
Panel and Dome Light
Switch
The headlight sw itch located at the lower
left end of the instrument panel serves four
functions.
(1) Pulling the switch half-way
out provides parking lights, instrument
panel lights, tail lights a
nd side marker
lights.
(2) Pulling the switch all the way
out provides all driving lights which in-
cludes headlights, parking lights, side
marker lights, tail lights
and instrument
panel lights.
(3) To dim instrument panel
lights,
tum switch knob clockwise. (4) To
operate the dome light, tum switch knob
fully counterclockwise.
Th e headlamp circuit is protected by a
circuit breaker in the light switch. An
overload on the breaker will cause the
lamps to "flicker" on
and off. If this con-
dition develops, have your headlamp wir-
ing checked immediately.
17
GOOD DBIVING PBACI'ICE. A good
cIrivw _ .... his bead)_PI at _ly
dusk, and duriDg bad weather to help
other drivers see his car &om a distance,
even though be himseJf may stilI be
able to .. the roadway adequately.
Headlight
Dimmer
Switch
To obtain high Or low beam headlights,
push the foot dimmer switch located on
the floor below the parking brake. A red
light in the upper center of the speedo-
meter cluster appears when you are driv-
ing on high beam.
GOOD DBIVING PBACI'ICE: Al ways
use the "low "-" when approaching
or following other can.
For better night driving VISIon and for
compliance with regulations of certain
states, it is recommended that the head-
lights be checked periodically for proper
aim and adjusted if necessary. Whenever
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the headlamp is replaced the aim should
be checked. Adjustment can be made
without removing
the headlamp rim.
Heating and Defrosting
(Without Air Conditioning)
Two levers, for air (upper) and tempera-
ture (lower), located in the heater control
panel to the right of the steering column,
provide maximum regulation and distribu-
tion of heated air in the passenger com-
partment.
Mf A I( I
MU I IIIU1b
For Heating-The air control lever must
be moved to the "HEAT' position. The
temperature control regulates the degree
of h
ea t as it is moved to the right.
For Defrosting-Move the air control lever
to the
"DEFROST" position. When the
air control lever is at the extreme right
position, about 90% of the air will flow
through the defroster outlets
and 10% to
the passenger compartment through
the
heating outlets.
CAUTION:
In inclement _the., clear
snow
or ice &om cowl air inlets. This
will improve beater and cIe&oster ef·
ficieDcy and reduce f_ation of fog or
&oat on the iDside of the windshield
duriDg initial operation under certain
atmospheric conditioas_ Also, clear the
windshield, rear window, outside mir·
rors and all side windows of ioe or mow
prior to operation of the vehicle. This
will impJOve driver's vision during in·
itiaI operation.
To Control the Blower-Forced air for
heating or defrosting may be obtained by
moving the fan switch lever
upward which
is located to tlle right of the sliding lever
controls.
The first upward position from
"OFF" is low. The second is medium and
the third or top position is «HI." For maxi-
mum heat in
the rear seat area, put the
fan on "HI," move the air control to
"HEAT' and the temperature control to
the
~ extreme right, close the windows and
make certain the space
under the front
seat
is clear of any obstructions.
To Turn the System Off-Move the air
control lever to
the extreme left, which is
the "OFF" position, and move the blower
switch to ··OFF."
18
Dual-Action
Safety Hood Latches
The hood is unlatched in two steps by
means of disengaging the primary and sec-
ondary levers.
Th e primary lever is acces-
sible just below and to
the right of the
center grille when
vi e wed from th e front
of the car. Pulling on
the "1" type handle
will release
the hood, but it will be pre-
vented from opening further by a second-
ary latch, located between the
upper
center grille and hood panel just to the
right of the center. This lever must be
moved, allowing the hood to be rais ed .
After closing always check to make sure
the hood
is properly secured.
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Manual Seat Adiustment
The front seat may be adjusted to suit an
individual's preference. Simply release the
seat lock mechanism, by forward move-
ment of the lock lever, locat ed at the side
of the seat. Once released, exert slight
body pressure in
the direction desired.
Release
the lever to lock the seat in the
desired position.
Occupant Restraint Belts
Lap and shoulder belts provide added se-
curity and comfort for you and your pas-
sengers. Proper use
and care of these
belts will assure continuance of this se-
curity .
Standard Lap Belt - Mter the front seat
has been adjusted to the satisfaction of the
driver, grasp the buckle
end and the flat
metal "eye"
end of your individual be lt as-
sembly and positi on the be lt across the lap
as LOW ON THE HIPS Afj POSSIBLE.
Insert the metal eye into the open end of
the buckle until
an audible snap is heard.
LIFT TO
LOO SEN
'---_ "lESS TO
RELEASE
Make sme the connection is secure and
adjust the belt to a SNUG FIT by pulling
on the end of the belt extending from the
buckle.
The snug and low positions are
essential in order
that the force ex erted
by the lap belt in a collision may be spr ead
over the strong hip bone structure and
not across the soft abdominal area. For
retractor
eq uipped be lts, pull the retractor
half of
the belt to a solid stop to make
sure
that the belt webbing is completely
unwound from the retractor drum, then
co
nnect the belt and make the necessary
adjustments
at the buckle for proper fit.
To lengthen a lap belt, place the buckle at
right angles to the belt webbing. The belt
will
then slide easily through the buckle.
19
To release the l ap belt, simply depress the
push button located in
the center of the
buckle.
CAUTION: N~ use the same belt for
more than ODe person at a time. Be sure
to avoid: (a) wearing a lap belt I........ ,.
or with slack in the system; (b) wearing
the belt with the webbing not fully
extracted &om a non-locking _adOl';
and (c) wearing the belt in a twisted
condition or pincbecl between the _
structural (metallic) memben.
De luxe Lap Belt -Automatic-locking lap
belt retractors are provided for the added
convenience of the driver
and outboard
front seat passenger
on all Oldsmobiles
as an extra· cost option.
The automatic-
locking retractors
ad just and lock the lap
belts into positi on au tomatically to pro-
vide a snug and comfortable fit.
To fasten a lap belt
equ i pped with an
automatic-locking retractor, pull the web -
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