1973 OPEL 1900 park

LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE OC-7SERVICESLUBE AND GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Vehicle operation under conditions such as heavy
dust, continuous short trips, use of other than un-
leaded or low lead fuels or pulling trailers, is not
considered normal use and therefore more frequent
maintenance will be required. Such additional
maintenance requirements are included where appli-
cable.
Engine OilChange each 4 months or
3,COO miles, whichever
occurs first, or each 2 months or
3,ooO miles when
the vehicle is operated under the following condi-
tions: (a) driving in dusty conditions, (b) trailer pull-
ing, (c) extensive idling or (d) short-trip operation at
freezing temperatures (with engine not thoroughly
warmed-up).Engine oils have a definite effect on ease of starting,
oil economy, combustion chamber deposits and en-
gine wear. It is recommended that a” oil which,
according to the label on the can is; (1) intended for
service SE and (2) passes car makers’ tests be used.
Oils confotming to these types contain detergent ad-
ditives. -
Select the proper oil viscosity from Figure OC-3.
Engine Oil FilterReplace at the first oil change and every other oil
change thereafter using Part No. 7965051 or equiva-
lent.
ChassisLubricate transmission shift linkage, hood latch and
parking brake cable guides and linkage.
Fluid LevelsCheck level of fluid in brake master cylinder, battery,
engine, axle, transmission and windshield washer.
Engine coolant also should be checked for proper
level and for corrosion and freeze protection to at
least -20°F or to the lowest temperature expected
during the period of vehicle operation. Proper engine
coolant also provides corrosion protection.
Any significant fluid loss in any of these systems or
units could mea” that a malfunction is developing
and corrective action should be taken immediately.
A low fluid level in the brake master cylinder front
reservoir could also be a” indtcator that the disc
brake pads need replacing.
The engine oil should be maintained at proper level.
The best time to check it is before operating the
engine or as the last step in a fuel stop. THIS WILL
ALLOW THE NORMAL OIL ACCUMULA-
TION IN THE ENGINE TO DRAIN BACK IN
the crankcase. To check the level, remove the oil
gauge rod (dipstick), wipe it clean, and reinsert it for
a” accurate reading. The oil level should be main-
tained in the safety margin, neither going above the
“FULL” mark “or below the “ADD OIL” mark.
See Figure OC-4.
DIP STICK MUST BE
INSERTED TO STOP
---L- -FULL+, 1 OT. ,-ADD
OIL
Figure OC-4 Engine Oil Dipstick
All models are equipped with tandem brake cylin-
ders. Maintain fluid level between MIN and MAX
marks on reservoir. See Figure OC-5. When adding
fluid use Delco Supreme No. 11 or equivalent.
TiresTo equalize wear, rotate tires as illustrated in Figure
OC-6.Adjust clutch when necessary as indicated by the
clutch warning lamp on Opel 1900 and Manta or

IoC-91973 OPEL SERVICE MANUAL
Figure OC-5 Brake Master Cylinder
I
Figure OC-6 Tire Rotation Methods
when the clutch pedal has in excess of 1
l/4 inch fr&
travel. See Figure OC-7.
Rear Axle
Change lubricant every
12,ooO miies when vehicle is
used for pulling a trailer.
Cooling SystemCheck at 12-month or
12,000~mile intervals, wash
radiator cap and filler neck with clean water, pres-
sure test system and radiator cap for proper pressure
holding capacity (tighten hose clamps and inspect
condition of all cooling and heater hoses). Replace
hoses every 24 months or 24,000 ,miles or earlier :if
checked, swollen or otherwise deteriorated.
Also each 12 months or
12,ooO miles, clean exteribr
of radiator core. Every 24 months or
24,OCO miles,Floor-Pan
-Clutch Pedal
Figure OC-7 GT Clutch Lash
drain, flush, and refill the cooline svstem with a new
coolant so&ion of permanent
6~; anti-freeze and
water for protection-of -20°F.
D-6 NOT REMOVE
RADIATOR CAP WHEN SOLUTION IS HOT
AND UNDER PRESSURE.
Wheel BearingsClean and repack front wheel bearings with a lubri-
cant as specified on the lubrication chart, Figure
oc-1.
Automatic Transmission FluidUnder normal driving conditions, change the trans-
mission fluid every 24,000 miles. Under unusual con-
ditions such as constant driving in heavy city traffic
during hot weather, trailer pulling, etc., this service
should be performed at
12,COO mile intervals.
General Motors DEXRON Automatic Transmis-
sion Fluid, which has been especially formulated and
tested for use in your automatic transmission, is
recommended. Other automatic transmission fluids
identified with the mark DEXRON are also recom-
mended.
Check the fluid level at each engine oil change
period. To make an accurate fluid level check:
1. Drive car several miles, making frequent starts and
stops, to bring transmission up to normal operating
temperature (approximately
180-190’F.)2. Park car on a level surface.
3. Place selector lever in “Park” and leave engine
running.

LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE OC-9
4. Remove dipstick and wipe clean.
5. Reinsert dipstick untip cap seats.
6. Remove dipstick and note reading.
If fluid level is at, or below the ADD mark, add
sufficient fluid to rais the level to the FULL mark.
One pint raises the level from ADD to FULL. Do
not overfill.
3OC8Figure OC-8 Automatic Transmission Dipstick
SAFETY MAINTENANCE
Brake Lines and HosesCheck for proper attachment, leaks, cracks, chafing,
deterioration, etc. Any questionable parts noted
should be replaced or repaired immediately. When
abrasion or wear is evident on lines or hoses, the
cause must be corrected.
Tires and WheelsCheck tires for excessive wear, nails, glass, cuts or
other damage. Make certain wheels are not bent or
cracked and wheel nuts are tight. Uneven or abnor-
mal tire wear may indicate the need for alignment
service. Tire inflation pressure should be checked by
the owner at least monthly, or more often if daily
visual inspection indicates the need.
Exhaust SystemCheck complete exhaust system and nearby body
areas and trunk lid for broken, damaged, missing orm&positioned parts, open seams, holes loose connec-
tions or other deterioration wiuch could permit ex-haust fumes to seep into the trunk or passenger
compartment. Dust or water in the trunk may be an
indication of a problem in one of these areas. Any
defects should be corrected immediately. To help
insure continued integrity, exhaust system pipes and
resonators rearward of the muftler must be replaced
whenever a new mufIler is installed. Use genuine
GM parts specified for the vehicle.
Engine Drive BeltsAdjust belts driving fan, alternator and other acces-
sories at first 4 months or
6,ooO miles of vehicle
operation. At each subsequent 4 month/6,000 mile
interval, check belts for cracks, fraying, wear and
tension. Adjust or replace as necessary. It is recom-
mended that belts be replaced every 24 months or
24,C00 miles, whichever occurs first.
Suspension and SteeringCheck for damaged, loose or missing parts, or parts
showing visible signs of excessive wear or lack of
lubrication in front and rear suspension and steering
system. Questionable parts noted should be replaced
without delay.
Safety Checks to be Performed by OwnerListed below are the safety checks that should be
made by the owner (items a thru t). These checks
should be made at least every 4 months or
6,ooOmiles, whichever occurs first, or more often when the
need is indicated. Any deficiencies should be brought
to the attention of your dealer or another service
outlet, as soon as possible, so the advise of a qualified
mechanic is available regarding the need for repairs
or replacements.
A. Steering Column Lock
_ Check for proper operat-
ion by attempting to turn key to LOCK position and
turning steering wheel with car stationary. Steering
wheel should turn as long as key remains in lock.
When key is removed steering wheel should lock.
Key should be removable only in LOCK position.
B. Lap and Shoulder Belts
- Check belts, buckles,
retractors and anchors for cuts, fraying or weakened
portions, loose connections, damage, and for proper
operation. Check to make certain that anchor
mounting bolts are tight.
C. Steering
- Be alert to any changes in steering
action. The need for inspection or servicing may
beindicated by “hard” steering, excessive free play or
unusual sounds when turning or parking.
D. Windshield Wipers and Washers
- Check operat-
ion of wipers, as well as condition and alignment of

CC-10 1973 OPEL SERVICE MANUAL
wiper blades. Check amount and direction of fluid
sprayed by washers during use.,
E. Defrosters - Check performance by moving con-
trols to “DEF” and noting
am$nmt of air directed
against the windshield.
I
F. Wheel Alignment and
Balabce - In addition to
abnormal tire wear, the need fbr wheel alignment
service may be indicated by a pull to the right or
!eftwhen driving on a straight and level road. The need
for wheel balancing is usually
iddicated by a vibra-
tion of the steering wheel or
se;+ tihile driving at
normal highway speeds.I
IG. Brakes
- Be alert to illumiriation of the brake
warning light or changes in braking action,
SUCK as
repeated pulling to one side, unusual sounds when
braking or increased brake pedal travel. Any of thesecould indicate the need for
brakk system inspection
and/or service.
H. Parking Brake and Transmission “PARK”
Mechanism
- Check parking brake holding ability by
parking on a fairly steep hill and restraining the vehi-
cle with the parking brake only.
eon cars with auto-
matic transmissions, check the holding ability of the
“PARK” mechanism by releasing all brakes after
the transmission selector lever hak been placed in the“P” position.
I. Glass
- Check for broken, scrritched, dirty or da-
maged glass on vehicle that
coulld obscure vision’or
become an injury hazard.
J. Lights and Buzzers
- Check all instrument panel
illuminating and warning lights,’ seat belt reminder
light and buzzer, ignition key
b&er, interior lights,
license plate lights, side marker! lights, headlamps,
parking lamps, tail lamps, brake lights, turn signals,
backup lamps, and hazard warding flashers. Have
someone observe operation of
&ach exterior light
while you activate the controls: The operation of
instrument panel warning lights is covered in the
“Starting and Operating“ section of your
Own&%
Manual.K. Transmission Shift Indicator
‘- Check to be sure
automatic transmission shift
indiCator accurately i”-
dicates the shift position selected.
I
CAUTION: Before making thk check below,I
be sure to have a clear dist&e ahead and:
behind the car, set the parking brake and
firmly apply the foot brake.
Do not depress
accelerator pedal. Be prepared to
turn off ’
ignition switch
immediat+y if engine
should start.L. Starter Safety Switch (Automatic Transmissibn
Cars)
- Check starter safety switch by placing the
transmission in each of the driving gears while
at-tempting to start the engine. The starter should oper-ate only in the Park (“P”) or Neutral (“N”)
positions.
M. Horn
- Blow the horn occasionally to be sure thatit works. (Ignition switch must be in the “ON” posi-
tion.)
N. Seat Back Latches
- Check to see that seat back
latches are holding by pulling forward on the top of
each folding seat back.
0. Rearview Mirrors and Sun Visors
- Check that
friction joints are properly adjusted so mirrors and
sun visors stay in the selected position.
P. Door Latches
- Check for positive closing, latch-
ing and locking.
Q. Hood Latches - Check to make sure hood closesfirmly by pressing on the hood at the latching point
after each closing. Check also for broken, damaged
or missing parts which might prevent secure latch-
ing.R. Fluid Leaks
- Check for fuel, water, oil or other
fluid leaks by observing the ground beneath the vehi-cle after it has been parked for a while. If gasoline
fumes or fluid are noticed at any time, the cause
should be determined and corrected without delay
because of the possibility of fire.
S. Exhaust System
- Be alert to any change in the
sound of the exhaust system or a smell of fumes
which may indicate a leak.
Head Restraints
- Check that no head restraint
components are missing, damaged or loose. (Does
not apply to GT Models).
Disc BrakesCheck brake pads and condition of rotors while
wheels are removed during tire rotation. (Note belowregarding more frequent checks also applies to disc
brakes.)
Parking and Drum BrakesCheck drum
brake linings and other internal brake
components at each wheel (drums, wheel cylinders,
etc.). Parking brake adjustment also should be
checked whenever drum brake linings are checked.
NOTE: More frequent checks should be
made if driving conditions a.nd habits result
in frequent brake application. When brakes
require relining, it is recommended thatyou use those genuine General Motors
parts specified for your car,and Delco fluid
as required.

LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE OC-11
Throttle Linkage
Check for damaged or missing parts, interference or
binding. Any deficiencies should be corrected with-
out delay.
Headlights
Check for proper aim. Correct as necessary. More
frequent checks should be made if oncoming motor-
ists signal when you are already using your low
beams, or if illumination of the area ‘ahead seems
inadequate.
Underbody
In geographic areas using a heavy concentration of
road salt or other corrosive materials for snow re-
moval or road dust control, flush and inspect the
complete under side of the car at least once each
year, preferably after a winter’s exposure. Particular
attention should be given to cleaning out underbody
members where dirt and other foreign materials may
have collected.
EMISSION CONTROL MAINTENANCE
Thermostatically Controlled Air Cleaner
Inspect installation to make certain that all hoses and
ducts are connected and correctly installed. Also,
check valve for proper operation.
Carburetor Choke
Check choke mechanism for free operation. A bind-
ing condition may have developed from petroleum
gum formation on the choke shaft or from overtight-
ening of air cleaner clamp. Also check electric choke
terminal connections and fuse.
Timing, Dwell and Distributor
Adjust timing and dwell accurately as outlined under
Tune-Up in Group 6 at the first 4 months or 6,ooOmiles of operation, then at 12 month or
12,OQO mile
intervals. Adjustments must be made with test equip-
ment known to be accurate.
Replace distributor points every 12 months or 12,000
miles and carefully clean and inspect the complete
distributor cap to prevent misfiring and deteriora-
tion.
Carburetor and Idle
SpeedTorque carburetor attaching bolts and/or nuts to 12
ft.lbs. to compensate for compression of gasket atiirst 4 months or 6,000 miles of vehicle operation.Adjust idle speed to specifications with known accu-
rate equipment.
Proper functioning of the carburetor is particularly
essential to control of emissions. Correct mixtures
for emission compliance and idle quality have been
preset by Opel. Plastic idle mixture limiters have
been installed on the idle mixture screw, idle air
screw, and throttle stop screw to preclude unauthor-
ized adjustment. The plastic caps on the idle mixture
screw and the idle adjustment screw must be
removed to perform an idle speed adjustment. The
plastic cap on the throttle stop screw is not to be
removed unless some major carburetor repair or re-
placement which affects the throttle stop screw ad-
justment has been necessary.
Carburetor Fuel Inlet Filter
Replace filter at 12 month or
12,OCO mile intervals
or more often if clogged.
Spark Plugs
Replace at
6,ooO mile intervals when operating with
leaded fuels or at 12,000 mile intervals when using
unleaded fuels. Use of leaded fuels results in lead
deposits on spark plugs and can cause misfiring at
mileages less than
12,OilO miles. Where misfiring oc-
curs prior to
6,ooO miles, spark plugs in good condi-
tion can often be cleaned, tested and reinstalled in an
engine with acceptable results.
Spark Plug Wires
Inspect spark plug wires for evidence of checking or
cracking of exterior insulation and tight fit in the
distributor cap and at the spark plugs. Exterior of
wires should be cleaned, any evidence of corrosion
on ends removed and wire replace if deteriorated.
Positive Crankcase Ventilation System
The PCV metered orifice should be cleaned at 12,000
mile intervals under normal use, and at 6,000 mile
intervals when the vehicle is used under the follow-
ing conditions: driving in dusty conditions, extensive
idling, trailer pulling and short trip operation at
freezing temperatures (engine not thoroughly
warmed-up).
Evaporation Control System
Check all fuel and vapor lines and hoses for proper
connections and correct routing as well as condition.
Remove canister and check for cracks or damage.
Replace damaged or deteriorated parts as necessary.
Replace filter in open end of canister at 24month/24,000 mile intervals.

BATTERY AND CABLES - ALL MODELSlA- 5
and terminal connections should not exceed 2/10
volt.
5. Connedt voltmeter positive lead to ground on en-
gine.
At&h prod to voltmeter negative lead and
apply prod to center of battery negative post. Volt-
age drop across the battery ground cable and termi-
nal conne$tions should not exceed 2/10 volt at
200amps.
6. A reading in excess of 2/10 volt when testing
either battery cable indicates excessive resistance in
cable or cpnnections. Clean and tighten cable or con-
nections. Clean and tighten cable terminals
(sub-para. c, below) and recheck for voltage drop. If volt-
age drop Still exceeds 2/10 volt, replace cable with a
genuine Buick-Opel cable to insure ample capacity.
Undercharge Failure of BatteryThe most frequent trouble experienced with storage
batteries is failure to maintain a state of charge suffi-
cient to crank the engine and also furnish current to
the ignitibn system, lights and accessories. Failure to
maintain a proper state of charge may be due to one
or more of the following conditions:
1.
Opertiting Conditions. When determining cause
of premature failure of a battery, consideration must
be given /to the conditions under which the car is
operated.,
In very low temperatures the capacity of a storage
battery
ii considerably reduced and the energy re-
quired f& cranking the. engine is considerably in-
creased. :
Frequent starting, particularly in cold weather,
ac-compani the batteqy for cranking than the generator can re-
place in the limited running time. This condition is
aggravated by night driving when lights are turned
on, or by operation of an air conditioner in heavy
traffic.
When thk car is operated under these conditions,adjusting,the voltage regulator to the high limit may
allow enough increase to keep the battery at a safe
state of charge. If the high limit setting does not
maintain a safe state of charge, an occasional booster
charge should be given to the battery.
2. Low charging Rate. In case of premature battery
failure, tbe charging rate of alternator should always
be checked and adjusted if below specifications.
3.
Zntemd Condition The internal condition of the
battery niay be such that it cannot hold a chargesatisfactoiily. Check electrolyte level and test the
battery using the 421 Battery Test.
Overcharge Failure of BatteryA common cause of battery failure is overcharging,
that is, continued input of excessive charging current
after the battery has reached a fully charged condi-
tion.
One evidence that battery is being overcharged is the
need for frequent addition of water to the battery in
order to maintain the electrolyte level above the tops
of the battery separators, since overcharging causes
rapid water loss. When this becomes evident, the
charging rate of alternator should be immediately
checked, as well as the voltage regulator, and ad-
justed to avoid internal damage to battery.
ADJUSTMENTS AND MINOR SERVICEPERIODIC BATTERY INSPECTION AND SERVICE
The battery requires very little attention, but peri-
odic inspection is essential to secure the maximum
efficiency and life. The following services are essen-
tial to maintain the battery at maximum efficiency.
WARNING: Never expose battery to open flame or
electric spark
- battery action generates hydrogen gas
which is flammable and explosive. Do not allow bat-
tery fluid to contact skin, eyes, fabrics or painted
surfaces
- fluidis a sulfuric acid solution which could
cause serious personal injury or property damage.
Wear eye protection when working with battery.
Maintain Electrolyte LevelAdd distilled water as required to maintain the elec-
trolyte level at the split ring at bottom of tiller well.
See Figure IA-2.
Figure lA-2
Battery Filler Well

19- 12 1973 OPEL SERVICE MANUAL :ConditionPosiible CauseCorrection4. Voltage drop.1. Check wiring and wiring
connections.
5. Overrun&g clutch slips.1. Replace overrunning clutch.
The cranking motor keeps
on rotating after ignition
switch is off.1. Ignition
{witch does not
cut off or solenoid switch
sticks.
1, Immediately disconnect cranking
motor cable from battery. Inspect
and/or replace or repair ignition and
solenoid switches as required.
The drive pinion does notdemesh after engine has
been cranked.1. Drive pinion or ring gear
1. Clean components as specified.
teeth clogged or flattened.Replace as required.
Return spring slack or broken.MAlNTEilANCE AND ADJUSTMENT
/
STARTING SYSTEM CHECKS
Voltage Loss ChecksWhen the starter cranks too slowly, check the bat-
tery state of charge and all electrical connections
between the battery and starter.
1. Turn on headlights and
opera’te starter. If head-
lights dim considerably when starter is engaged, the
battery may be discharged or be defective. Check the
battery.
2. If the headlights stay bright but the starter d&s
not turn over, the starter cables may be faulty or the
starter defective.
(a) Test battery voltage while cranking engine
1(9volts minimum).
(b) Check voltage from starter tkrminal of solenoid
to starter frame while cranking engine.
3. The difference in readings taken in Operations 2a
and 2b above represents the
volt& drop through the
cables and solenoid switch. Voltdge drop should
Gotexceed
.5 volt.
4. Locate excessive resistance as follows:
(a) Turn voltmeter to scale above 12 volts and con-
nect voltmeter leads
across connection or switch: to
be checked.
(b) With starter switch closed, turn voltmeter switch
to lowest scale and take reading as quickly as possi-
ble, then turn switch back to higher scale and stop
cranking engine.(c) Voltmeter must not read more than
.2 volt across
any
c:onnection. If voltmeter reads more than .2 volt,
the
d~efect must be corrected.
Starter Current Draw - Lock Test1. Make sure battery is fully charged and in good
condition.
2. Connect a volt ampere starter tester according to
manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Pull parking brake on securely, shift transmission
into 4th (direct) gear and actuate starter. (Starter will
not
t,urn engine because engine is locked through
transmission.)
4. While starter is actuated, read voltage and current.
Refer to Specification Chart.
(a) Voltage low
_ poor battery or a voltage loss in the
starter circuit.
(b) Current high
- short circuit in starter. Overhaul
starter.
(c) Current low
- commutator dirty, brushes worn,
solenoid switch contacts defective or open circuit in
starter. Overhaul starter.
Starter Current Draw. On Car1. Bring engine to normal operating temperature.
2. Stop engine and disconnect coil wire from dis-
tributor.
3. Ground coil wire to prevent excessive coil voltage
build up.

1 C- 18 1973 OPEL SERVICE MANUAL
IGNITIPN SYSTEM
CbNTENTS
Subject
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION: Ignition System ..................................................................
Ignition
Switc,h....................................................................
Ignition Coil
..........................................................................\
Distributor
............................I...............................................
DIAGNOSIS: (Not Available)
MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS: Contact PointReplacement ............................................
Dwell Angle Adjustment :
................................................
Ignition Timing Adjustment ..........................................
Ignition Wire Inspection :
..................................................
Check Ignition Output ......................................................
Check Distributor
..............................................................
Check Spark Plugs
............................................................
MAJOR REPAIR: Distributor Removal ..........................................................
Disassembly ........................
I...............................................
Reassembly
..........................I...............................................
Distributor Installation
....................................................
SPECIFICATIONS: /
Ignition
Coil ..........................................................................
Distributor
....‘........................i...............................................
Spark Plugs ........................................................................\
..
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
INGITION SYSTEM
The ignition system basically consists of an ignitipn
switch, ignition coil, distributor, battery and related
wiring. The ignition switch is located in the steering
column, the ignition coil is located left front inner fender
skirt and the distributor is located at the left
front of the engine.
IGNITION SWITCH
The combined ignition switch and steering lock ian
be switched to any one of the below listed positions.
Insert key with notch pointing upward.
Page No.
lC-18
lC-18
lC-19
lC-19
1 c-20
1 c-20
1 c-20
lC-21 r
lC-21
1 c-22
1 c-22
1 r-23
1 C-23
1 c-24
1 C-25
1 C-26
1 C-26
1 C-26
(Fully counterclockwise) Lock position. Ignition
locked, steering locked, only with key removed.
Electrical circuits disconnected except to main light-
ing switch and dome lamp. The
key can be removed.
0- (First position clockwise from lock) Garage posi-
tion. ‘The key and lock assembly must be pushed “in”
to reach this position from lock. The steering is un-
locked and the ignition is off. The electrical circuits
are the same as in lock position. The key cannot be withdrawn.
l- [Chposition.) All electrical circuits controlled by
ignition switch are completed through the switch.
The key cannot
be removed while switch is in drive
position.