When I was a kid, I was very hungry for any kind of knowledge about cars. My Dad, who is not a car guy, but knows how to repair anything, had 3 Motor manuals. When I found what they were all about, I could not put them down. The information available to kids today is immense, but those Motor manuals were like manna from heaven. I now have 3 of my own, my Dad STILL won't give his up, and he doesn't work on cars at all any more!
I have three, covering from '35 through '50 something. The one with masking tape on the binding I've had for at least 48 years. I do have a couple Chilton's too but rarely open any of them. Most repair work I've done enough to get through without them. For technical stuff I use shop manuals, mostly Oldsmobile and mostly reference engines.
In addition to that 1953 Motors manual, I have another from later in the 50s, and a bunch of Chiltons, and even more factory shop manuals. When I'm playing on the computer, and need to look up something in a Chevy manual, I usualy just go to chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com
tb33 I see you have a McMaster Carr book in your pile. To me there as invaluable as some of the repair manuals. Sent from my iPhone using H.A.M.B.
How about a Motor Age Flat Rate Manual. I dug this out last night to post some part numbers for a 49 Plymouth bushing question. As I stated in the other post, don't look for anybody to honor these prices Rick
These pictures are about 3/4 of my manuals ranging from 1938 to 1999. Service manuals, parts and time guides and some other odds and ends. I also have a collection of factory service manuals and other Motor Manuals at home and in my home shop. Oops, got one picture in there twice
I have numerous Motors and other specialty manuals like Carter and Rochester that I got from my grandfather. He had a service garage in the 50s, so they are well used for most part. Fun to read and see all the manufacturers that are long gone. I have used the manuals occasionally on my own old cars. But for most part they just have sentimental value to me. Sent from dumb operator on a smart phone
The new shop manuals have to much to cover In 1960 Chevy had a inline 6 a 283 a 348 and a Corvair 6. How many different engines carry a Chevy badge today?
Yes, the parts and time guides are a wealth of information. On occasion I've been able to give a parts person a part number that allowed them to order parts for me that had been said to be obsolete. Also great for determining what all will fit something else.
I believe I have a complete set of the Motors Car manuals, plus most of the truck manuals as well; all of which need a new home with some enthusiast much younger than I. Have always believed in having the information necessary to do the job. However, personal libraries take space! If one is into older vehicles, National Service Manuals are even better than Motors (opinion), and have much earlier coverage. Jon
There was a company in San Diego on Marina Blvd. that published flat rate books going back to the Model T days. Anybody have more info? While looking for info, I came across this web site...check out the prices!! http://www.autorepairmanuals.biz/page/134522
There was a company in San Diego on Marina Blvd. that published flat rate books going back to the Model T days. Anybody have more info? While looking for info, I came across this web site...check out the prices!! I'm thinking Hollander?