1981 CHEVROLET MONTE CARLO fuel

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syMBOL CH'AR't
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Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine SEcnON 1
BEFORE DRIVING YOUR MONTE
CARLO
DRIVER DAILY CHECKLIST
Be sure you know your vehicle and its equipment and how to use it safely .
Before Entering the Vehicle '
1. See that windows, mirrors and lights are clean and unobstructed.
2. Check whether any tire is low or flat (H any tire ,looks different from
normal,
we recommend you check it with a tire pressure gage.)
3. Look for fluid leaks.
4. Be sure everything is properly stowed.
5. Check the area behind the vehicle ~ you are about to back up.
Before Driving Off
1. Lock all doors .
2. Adjust the seat and movable head restraints, if so equipped .
3. Adjust inside and outside mirrors.
4. Fasten seat belts.
5. Check that all the warning lights work as the ,key is turned to "Start."
6. Check all gages (including the fuel gage).
7 . Release the parking brake
(and see that the "Brake" light turns off).
See related topics in this manual , or the Maintenance Schedule folder, il
~" problems are found.
Guard Against Theft
For tips on how to protect your vehicle and its contents, see "'Starting and
Operating," Section 2 of this manual.
KEYS
Two different keys are provided for the locks on your vehicle. The key code is
stamped
on the "knock-out" plug in each key head.
• Key withsquar, head -for ignition lock only .
'IDENTIFYING
IGNITION LOCK DOOR LOCKS & ALL OTHER LOCKS
• Key with oval head -for all other locks.
1-1

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine FUEL REQUIREMENTS
Your engine is designed to use only unleaded gasoline . Unleaded gasoline must be uSed for the emission control system to operate properly . Its use will
also reduce spark
plug fouling, exhaust .system corrosion and engine oil deterioration.
Using
leaded gaso~ne can damage the emission control system and could
result
in loss of warranty coverage. The effectiveness of the catalyst in the
catalytic converter decreases after use of as little as one tank of leaded
gasoline.
Also, your vehicle may have the "Computer Command Control" system, which includes an oxygen sensor. Leaded gasoline will damage the
sensor,
and attect emissioncont(ols. (For more information, see "Computer
Command Control
System" in "Service and Maintenance,"Section 5 of this manual. Federal regulations require that pumps delivering unleaded-gasoline
be labeled with the word UNLEADED. Only these pumps have nozzles whichftl the filler neck of your vehicle's gasoline tank.
In the United States, Federal law also requires that gasoline octane ratings be
posted on the pumps. The octane rating shown is an average of Research
octane (R) and Moto< octane (M). In most parts of the United States , you
should use unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of at least 87. However,
you may use unleaded gasoline with an Q!;tane rating as low as 85 in these
. high -altitude areas: Coloraclo , Montana, New Mexico , Utah , Wyoming,
northeastern Nevada, southern Idaho, western South Dakota, and that part of
Texas which is directly south of New Mexico .
Using unleaded gasoline with
an octane rating lower than stated above can
cause persistent, heavy
"spark knock." (" Spark knock" is a metallic rapping
noise.) " severe, this can
lead to engine darnage. " you detect heavy spark knock even ",hery using gasoline of the stated octane rating, 0<. if you hear steady spark knoo~ 'wfiil.)' Holding a' steady speed on level roads, have your
dealer correct the
problem . Failure to take steps to stop such knocking is
misuse
of the vehicle, for which Chevrolet is not responsible . However, now and then you may notice light spark knock for a short time while accelerating
or driving
up hills : This is no cause fo< concern, because you get the greatest
fuel economy
benem from the gasoline's octane rating when there is
occasional light spark knock. Using .gasoline with a higher .octane rating than
that which
allows occasional spark knock is an unnecessary expense.
Gasohol
Gasohol, a mixture of unleaded gasoline and ethanol (grain alcohol), is
available in some areas , You may use gasohol in yourvehicle ,provided it is no
more than 10% ethanoL Be sure the gasohol has octane ratings no lower than
those stated above for unleaded
gasoline . Some vehicles using gasohol could run leaner . Most drivers will not notice a difference, but some may. In such
cases your authorized dealer can make c.ertain adjustments, provided they are
not in violation of the Federal
Clean Air Act. " you. are still not satisfied with gaSOhol performance , you may prefer to uSe unleaded gasoline. •
NOTICE: ,Take care to not spiH gasohol on painted surfaces. Gasohol can cause paint damage, which may not be covered und~r the new vehicle warranty.
2·3

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine OPERATION IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES
All models which have the Computer Command Control system, (see "Service
and Maintenance," Section 5), are designed
to use unleaded gasoline as
specified under
"Fuel Requirements" in this section of the manual. Therefore,
these cars are not intended for use in areas where unleaded gasoline is
not readily available,
There also is a chance the gasolines available in some countries will not meet the needs of your gasoline engine even if it is not equipped with the Computer
Command Control system; Low~octane-ratedgasolines may cause engine pre­
ignition and serious engine damage, for which Chevrolet is not responsible.
In either case (with or without the Computer Command Control system), the
use of leaded gasoline will cause the emission control system to lose its
effectiveness.
It could also affect coverage· under the emission warranty. In
case of emergency, leaded gasoline may be used in your vehicle if unleaded gasoline is not available, but it should not be used exclusively. If you must use
leaded gasoline exclusively
in a vehicle designed for unleaded gasoline,
different maintenance intervals will be required. For additional information and
a copy of the maintenance schedule write to: Chevrolet Motor Division, Consumer Relations Department, Warren, Michigan 48090, (in Canada, write
to General Motors of Canada Limited, Customer Service Department, Oshawa,
Ontario
L 1J 5Z6).
When writing, please
include:
•
the Vehicle Identification Number and
• the countries in which you plan to travel.
Tires
If you plan to use your vehicle in countries where speeds over 75 mph (120
km/h) are allowed, see lIem3 on page 5-12.
IMPORTANT FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT FUEL
ECONOMY AND HOW
TO IMPROVE IT
How you drive, where you drive and when you drive all affect how many miles/
kilometers you can get from a galion/liter of fuel. The careful attention you give
your vehicle as far as maintenance and repairs are concerned
will also help
fuel economy.
Fuel Selection
Use only unleaded gasoline meeting the octane ratings given under "Fuel Requirements" in "Starting and Operating," Section 2 of this manual.
Unleaded gasoline must be used. for the. emission control ,system to operate
properly. Leaded gasoline will damage the Computer Command Control system
oxygen sensor and affect emission control. Using leaded gasoline can also
damage other parts of the emission control system and
CQuld result in 19s8 of
emission warranty coverage.
"Jackrabbit" Starts
You can save fuel (and prolong engine and tire life) by avoiding fast starts
away from lights and stop signs.
2-4

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine Steady Cruising Speeds
Once you reach cruising sPeed, keep as steady a speed as road and traffic will allow . Speeding up and slowing down lessens your vehicle's efficiency and uses more fuel.
Stop-And-Start Driving
Frequent stops and starts while driving cut down on your miles per gallon
(kilometers per liter) . Plan even your short shopping trips to take advantage of
through streets to avoid traffic lights. Pace your driving
like the expert drivers
to avoid unneeded stops and braking .
Sudden Stops
Sudden stops can also waste fuel; instead of moving the vehicle, the energy of fuel is wasted as heat in braking. Energy in the fOrm of fuel is also needed to
accelerate
baCk to driving speed.
Excessive Idling
An idling engine uses fuel, too .. If you're faced with more than a minute wait,
and you're not in traffic , it may be better to turn off the engine and start again
later.
Lubricants
A well-lubricated vehicle means less friction between moving parts. See the Maintenance Schedule folder for the proper lubrication intervals.
Air Cleaner
Your vehicle receives its power from a mixture of fuel and air. The air enters
the engine through the air cleaner. A dirty air cleaner element lessens engine
perfOrrnance and can waste/Uel. ,So, it's important to replace the air cleaner
element (filter) at the intervals in Section C of the Maintenance Schedule folder .
Wind Drag
Open windows at high speeds cause "wind drag" which can lessen fuel
economy. Also, fuel economy is less when driving in crosswinds or headwinds .
To
help offset some of this loss, slow down when driving in these conditions.
Air Conditioner
" your vehicle has an optional air conditioner , use the "Economy, " ("Vent" or
"Heater") positions whenever possible. The air conditioner compressor, is not on in these positions and the reduced ,'engine-load can improve fuel economy.
Engine Maintenance
An engine that i. properly maintained ."iill provide better fuel economy than one
that is no\.
One misfiring spark plug will cut .fuel economy quite a bit, and will make a difference in the amount of pollution emitted from yOur vehicle.
Exces~ Weight
Fuel economy is related to the work. the engine must do. The heavier the load,
the more fuel it takes to run your vehicle. Keep weight to a minimum by taking
out any luggage or cargo when it is not needed.
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Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine Tire Inflation
Underinflation not only causes needless wear 01 the tires, but can also waste ' fuel. It's a good idea to check tire pressures often and, fO( the best fuel
eccnomy, keep your tires inflated to the highest pressures shown on the Tire
Placard on the left front door of your vehicle .
Wheel Alignment
Improper toe alignment will cause the tires to roll at an angle, which will result in faster tire wear. It takes' power to overcome this improper alignment which.
in turn, wastes fuel.
STEERING COLUMN CONTROLS
ANTI-THEFT STEERING COLUMN LOCK
The anti-theft lock (ignition) on the right side of the steering column has five
-""'positions: .
• Accessory-You can use SO the top of the key toward you.
• Lock -Normal parking position. It locks the ignition and prevents normal use
of the steering
wheel and shift controls. The ignition key cannot be turned
to "Lock" and removed until the shift lever is moved to "P"(Park).
• Off-You
can turn off the engine without locking the steering wheel and shift controls.
• Run-Normal operating position.
• Start-Cranks the engine.
If you have trouble turning the key to uniock the ignition, first be sure the key is
pushed in
all the way . Then , try to turn the steering wheel as hard as you can
in the direction the
wheels are turned. At the same time, turn the ignition key
with as much effort as you can apply with your hand; Do not try to use a tool of
any kind to
apply more force on the lock knob, as this could break the knob .
NOncE: Do not drive through, idle or park your vehicle over combustible marla Is, .uch •• grass or leaves. They could touch the hot eJlhauat .ystem .-.cIlgnite.
Parking
When leaving your vehicle unattended :
2-6

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine H Engine Fails To Start After Normal Starting Pr.ocedure:
1 . If you tried the cold ef1gine starting procedure and the engine did not start,
then
fully depress and release the acceleraior pedal several times. Take
your foot off the
pedal and crank the engine by turning the key to "Start."
2. If you tried the warm engine starting procedure (or the eold engine
procedure
and Step 1 above) , and the ef1gine still does not start, press the
accelerator pedal to the floor and hold it there while cranking the engine.
This should clear the engine if it is flooded. .
3. If the engine has been flooded with too much fuel, It may start to run but not have enough power to keep running, In that case, continue
cranking
with 11M! accelerator pedal aU the way to the 1100< until the
engine clears
~self of excess gascHne and runs smoothly. (But, do not
crank more than 15 seconds atatime Or you could damage the starter.)
TRANSMISSION
DESCENDING A GRADE
CAUTION : Before ,:,9C)i1l9,d ,01!Wn a steep or long grade, reduce speed and shift the transmission Into low or second gear '9 ~1p Driving on SliPPery Surfaces
Whether your vehiCle has an optional limited-slip rear axle or a standard axle ,
usecare,,¥t\1 range, whe;;1eitli'er'plt5()l!W_wIl~elS8fe..traveling over a slippery surface.
Sudden acceleration or engine braking action (due to
shilling to a lower ge,n)
could cause one or both drive wheels to spin or skid and the rear of the vehicle
to slide sideways on the crowned · surface.of a road or in a turn, Normal skid
correction is
called for at these times.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS
Automatic transmissions replace the standard cMch and transmission. After
starting
the engine with the selector lever in"P" (Park) or "N" (Neutral)
position, select the range desired
(see table) and depress . the accelerator. A
gradual start
with a steady increase in accelerator pressure will result in best
possible fuel economy . Rapid acceleration for fast startS will result in greater
fuel consumption. ..
AutomatiC transmission shift quadrants of all GM vehicles continue the uniform
sequence of
selector positions. Shift indiCators are arranged with "P"(Park)
position atone end, followed in sequElf)ce by "R"(Reverse). "N"(Neutral) and
the forward
driving , ranges .. All .automatic transmiSsions are equipped with a
starter safety switch'
design'ld to permit starting the ef1gine only when the transmission selector is in the "P"(Park) or"N"(Neutral) position. For
additional engine braking
eflact, as SOmetimes needed in mountainous driving,
place thetransmi$Sion in an intermediate or low range.
2'9
::"

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine P~ _ PARK
R ~ REVERSE
N _ NEUTRAL
.. '
3 D -DRIVE
L''': LOW' '
AUTOMATIC'TRANSMISSION This position is __ to lock .. u~ ...... the _ islNdted or white JUftInt 1M engIH ......... __ -the Ihift .... r to .... 11. .. Mil YOlir elr is fully stoPped. Use thif; pcIIition 1Otf1h.r with the foot'­opel'ded "I~" .,.rlr.lnl b .. ke.
TIllis ,.,.otioR i, UIMI for Ndcing .... Uf. Bti,. yoM _ to.-..I_ nop before doiking to R-. -
This il the ollt-of-9Hf pc)Iltion. YOII may resUr! "ltalled Inginl while the Q)r it uill--II1CWiIIt with the selector ,in 0.1111". Thi. poIitlon is "so !ned wIMfI tawi"" ... Usl this pOtiJian for alL,norma forw.tddriying.
Forced dotonsIoita _ with t~ selector in "0.' you ean fM. an .utotnatic *'-shift It speeds unct.r 15 I'IIptI 100 Ir.mJhl by precsi"l ttle accel· _ator pedIII app,OIIim''' ,Y ..... fw.,. tClthe noar. , You wttJ '''10 get , forced downsnift at 5P"d$ IlboW$ ,35 mph 160 km/h) by prelling 'the pedlll ,II the way to the floor. This will gin you irw.: .. 1INd ace.J· ention for puling 1NnMIftn.
"This Pootnoct i. wed to pcoooide ..,Mimum""'ne brioking wlm! dmint doWiI .... 'Y, .h.rp II'~ or whtn m.ximum perlormanc. is required to climb a It..., hili or run throllgh deep ""OW or mild. You miIY lhift into L' It any tPMd but the trlllrmiS$ion will not loek into Low until_UI' spaid is ~ 40 ,"ph 160 k"""). --c-
Your automatic transmission may have either a clutch-type torque converter or an open,type torque COnverter . Both offer the quality performance associated
with General Motors products.
·~-so·_equipped, the converter clutch is designed to engage when the vehicle reaches a st)lady speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or, higher depending on
the particular model. When engagEid, the' clutch providE.s a direct connection
between the engine and the drive
wheels. This direct connection allows for
more efficient operation of the transmission and thereby helps contribute to
improved
fuel economy. With the ClUtch-type converter, you may notice some
operational d,ifferences · compared to other. automatic transmissions equipped vehicles. When the clutch engages , for example, you may notice what feels
like
an extra transmission shift. Also, on occasion, you may feeLcertain
incidental engine pulsations in the 30 to 50 mph (50 to' 80 km/h) range. This feel is similar to that so.rnetimes experienced in a manual transmisSK>n
equipped vehicle. In addrtion, when the accelerator pedal is released abruptly,
you may feel a slight impulse before the clutch disengages.
These conditions are normal. They have no adverse effect on your vehicle and do not indicate the need for repairs . .
Notice
The following practices could result in autoinatic transmission failure:
• Shifting between forWard and reverse driving' range while operati/lg the
engine at high speed or heavy throttle, such as when the driving wheels
are on snow Of ice--commonly called "rocking." (See the corre<:t method
for
"rocking" vehiCle under "Freeing Vehicle from Sand, Mud, Snow or Ice" in "In Case of Emergency," Sectiorl.'3 of this manual.)
•
Shifting to "R"(Reverse) or any forward range while operating the engine
at high speed in "N"(Neutral} or "P"(Park).
• ·Shifting to "P"(Park) while the vehicle wheels are still turning.
2-10