1984 CHEVROLET CAVALIER maintenance schedule

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine SECTION 5
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Your authorized dealer has factory trained technicians and Genuine GM Parts
to service your vehicle properly_ For expert advice and quality service, see your authorized dealer.
CAUTION: As with any machine, take care when making any check, doing any maintenance, or making any repair, to avoid being injured. Some of the MATERIALS in this vehicle may also be hazardous if used, serviced, or handled improperly. Improper or incomplete service can affect the vehicle itself which may in turn result in personal
injury, or damage to the vehicle or its equipment. H you have ANY question about carrying out some service, have the work done by a skilled technician.
REPLACEMENT FASTENERS
During vehicle maintenance, any fasteners used to replace older ones must
have the same measurements and strength as those removed, whether metric or customary. (The numbers on the heads of rnetric bons and on the surfaces
of metric nuts show their strength. Customary bolts use radial lines to show
this,
while most customary nuts do not have strength markings.) Fasteners
taken from the vehicle should be saved for re-use in the same spot when
possible. Where a fastener cannot be used again, take care to choose a
replacement that matches the old one. For information and help, see your
authorized dealer.
CAUTION: This vehicle is primarily dimensioned In the metric system. Most fasteners
are metric and many are very close in dimension to well· known customary fasteners in the inch system. Mismatched or incorrect fasteners can result in damage to the vehicle or possibly personal injury.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
For owner convenience, a separate folder ,has. bee" providef;1 with your vehicle which outlines the maintenance your vehicle requires. The Maintenance
Schedule folder is supplemented by this section of the Owner's Manual.
Read this publication for a full understanding of your vehicle's maintenance
needs.
If you need a replacement Maintenance Schedule, see your dealer or contact the . Consumer . Aelations Representative, . Chevrolet Central Office,
Chevrolet Motor Division, Warren, MichigarL4809ll-13t~2-550Q1 (In Canada, contact the Customer Services Representative, General MotorsoT---­
Canada LId., Oshawa, Ontario, L1J 5Z6; 416/644-6624).
FUEL CAP
The fuel cap is located behind a hinged door on the right'rear fender. For your
convenience there
is a fuel cap hanger located on the filler door.
The
fuel tank filler cap has a "s£rew-on ratcheting type" feature.
• To remove -rotate cap counterclockwise to clear the inside of the filler
neck. This will allow any residual pressure to escape.
• To install - reverse this procedure and tighten cap securely until a
"ratcheting",
clicking sound is heard indicating cap is on properly.
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Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine NOTICE: H you need to replace the fuel cap, use only a cap specified for your model. An incorrect fuel cap can result in a serious maHunction of the fuel system or emission control system. You can get a correct replacement cap from your dealer.
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
The catalytic converter is an emission control device added to the exhaust system to reduce exhaust gas pollutants. The converter contains
a ceramic material coated with noble metal catalysts. To prevent contamination
and loss of effectiveness of the catalysts. unleaded gasoline must be used.
Unleaded
gasoline also reduces spark plug fouling, exhaust system corrosion and engine oil deterioration. Leaded gasoline will also damage the oxygen
sensor
in the Computer Command Control system which could affect emission
control.
To help prevent damage:
1. Keep your engine properly maintained. Engine malfunctions involving the
electrical, carburetion, electronic fuel injection or ignition systems may
result in unusually high catalytic converter and exhaust system
temperatures which, under extreme malfunctioning conditions, may ignite
interior floor ·covering materials above the converter. Do not keep driving
your vehicle if you detect engine misfire, noticeable loss of
performance, or other unusual operating conditions. Instead, have it
serviced promptly. See the Maintenance Schedule folder for information on inspecting and maintaining the engine, exhaust system, and other
components.
2. Do not push or tow this vehicle to start it. This may result in unusually
high catalytic converter
and exhaust system temperatures which under
extreme conditions may ignite interior floor-covering material above the
converter.
Disregarding these instructions
could damage the catalytic converter, the vehicle, or nearby property and affect warranty coverage.
COMPUTER COMMAND CONTROL SYSTEM
Most vehicles sold in the United States (and some vehicles sold in Canada)
have the Computer Command Control system.
The Computer Command Control system monitors the exhaust stream with
an oxygen sensor. Based on sensor signals, the electronic control module adjusts
the air-fuel ratio
as needed. It is very important to use only unleaded
gasoline in vehicles equipped with the Computer Command Control system.
Leaded gasoline will damage the oxygen sensor,
and may affect emission
control.
"Check Engine" Light
Most vehicles sold in the United States (and some vehicles sold in Canada)
have the Computer Command Control system.
Vehicles
.with the Computer Command Control system, include a "CHECK
ENGINE" light
on the instrument panel designed to indicate the need for
system service. It will come on during engine starting to let you know the bulb
is working. (The
light will stay on a short time aiter the engine starts.) Have the
system repaired if the "CHECK ENGINE" light does not come on during engine
starting.
If the light comes on, either intermittently or continuously while driving,
service to the Computer Command Control system is required. Although in
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Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE FLUID RECOMMENDATIONS
Use the Proper Fluid
Use only automatic transmission fluid labeled DEXRON'" II. You can buy this
fluid from your dealer or other service outlets.
Check the Fluid Level with Care
Check the automatic transaxle fluid level at each engine oil change. Driving
with too much or too
little fluid can damage the transaxle.
To check the fluid
level, first set the parking brake, then start the engine in
"P"(Park), and let idle for two minutes . You must check the fluid level with the
engine running at slow
idle and the vehicle level.
You cannot read the correct fluid level if you have just driven the vehicle for a
long time at high speed, in city traffic in hot weather, or if the vehicle has been
pulling a trailer. Wait
until the fluid has cooled down (about 30 minutes).
Remove the dipstick located
On the driver's side forward of the cowl. Carefully
touch the wet end of the dipstick to find out if the fluid is cool, warm or hot. Wipe it clean and push it back in until the cap seats. Pull out the dipstick and
read the fluid level.
• If it felt cool or warm (about roomternperature and warmer, but not too hot
to hold), the level should be between the two dimples above the "FULL"
mark.
• If it was too hot to hold, the level should be in the cross-hatched area on the dipstick, near the "FULL" mark.
Add just enough DEXRON'" II fluid to fill the transaxle. It takes only 0.5 liter
(one pint) to raise the level from "ADD" to "FULL" with a hot transaxle.
Automatic Transaxle Drain Intervals
Change the transaxle fluid and change the filter as outlined in the Maintenance Schedule folder.
MANUAL TRANSAXLE
See the Maintenance Schedule folder to find out how often the fluid level should be checked and what type of lubricant should be used.
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Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine The cooting system was filled at the factory with a quality coolant that meets
GM Specifications.
~ is important to use proper coolant to prevent damage to
cooling system components . Coolants meeting GM Specification 1825-M or
those specially formulated for aluminum co"1JOflent protection should be used.
The cooling system is designed to use coolant (a mixture of ethylene glycol ,
corrosion inhibitors and water) rather than plain water. The coolant solution
must be used year round
to provide:
• freezing protection down to -37'C (-34'F),
• boiling protection up to 128 'C (262'F),
• protection against rust and corrosion in the cooling system,
• the proper engine temperature for efficient operation and emission control,
and
• proper operation of the coolant temperature light or gage .
See the Maintenance Schedule folder to find out when the coolant must be
replaced . Note that changing the coolant is needed
to make certain that all
parts
of the cooling system work well.
.-~~~~--~-.
CooUng System Care
Check the cooling system at regular intervals, such as during fuel sI the engine hood and look at the "see through" coolant recovery tank. When Ih8 engine is cold, the coolant level should be at or slightly above the "Full
Cold' .' mark on the recovery ' tank. When the engine has fully warmed up, the
level should be at or slightly above the "Full Hot" mark on the recovery tank.
H·the coolant level is low, remove the cap on the coolant recovery tank. Add to the recovery tank enough of a SO/ SO mixture 01 water and a good quality
eIIlyIene gIyool antifreeze (meeting GM SpecWication 1825-M) to bfing the level
"" to the proper mark. Pui the cap back on the recovery tank.
CAUTION: Under some' condttlons . the ethytene glycol In engine' coolant is combultlble. To help Rold being burMCf when adding eoollnt, DO NOT spill It on the exhliUlt system or engine ~rtI tMt mIIy be haL tf there It any question,' have this .....,ice performed by .• quallftecl t.chnlclan.
Certain conditions, such as air trapped in the system, may effect the coolant level in the radiator . You should check the coolant level in the radiator at the
time you change the engine 011 and when the engine Is cold. Follow the steps
under
"Adding Coolant" for the correct way to remove the radiator cap and add coolant.
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Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine Radiator Pressure Cap
The radiator cap, a 105 kPa (15 psi) pressure type, must be installed tightly, otherwise coolant may be lost and damage to engine may resuK from
overheating . Radiator pressure cap
should be checked periodically for proper
operation .
If replacement is required, an AC cap is recommencled.
ACCELERATOR LINKAGE
Lubricate all pivot points with .engine oil at the interval shown in the
Maintenance
Schedule. Do not lubricate the accelerator cable.
AIR CLEANER ELEMENT
When replacement of air cleaner fmer element is necessary, an AC air Imer
elemenl
is recornmencled .
See your Maintenance Schedule for change intervals . Operation of vehicle in
dusty areas will necessitate more frequent replacement. Your dealer can be of
assistance
in determining the proper replacement frequency for the conditions
under which you operate your
vehicle.
CAUTION: The air cleaner a* functions ... name arrestor in the event of engine backfire . The -air cleaner ehould be lnstaIIed at an times unit .. III removal is neceaary for repair or maintenance. To help reduce the-risk of pereonal Injury and lor property damage , be sure that no one 18 ne.-the engine comJ*1ment before starting the engine wiU'l the air cleaner removed. If engine backfire occurs with the air cleaner remowd, thwe could be-a burst of flame and posaibly other fnln the engine compartment.
HOOD LATCHES AND HOOD HINGE
SeetHe Maintenance Schedule folder to find out how to lubricate hood.latch ·
and hood hinge assembly .
BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER
Check masler cylinder fluid· level in the reservoir at the interval shown in the Maintenance Schedule . If the fluid is low in the reservoir, it should be filled to
the maximum
level line with Delco Supreme No. 11 or OOT-3 fluids.
POWER STEERING SYSTEM
Check the fluid level in the optional power steering pump as recommended in
the Maintenance Schedule folder. Add GM Power Steering Fluid (Part Number
GM 1050017) as needed:
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Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine • If the fluid is warmed up (about 66"C or 150"F -- hot to the touch), the
fluid level should be between the "HOT" and "Cold" marks on the power steering reservoir.
• If cool (about 21"C or 70"F), the fluid level should be between the "Add" and "Cold" marks.
This fluid does not need periodic changing.
FRONT SUSPENSION AND STEERING LINKAGE
Lubricate fillings at the interval shown in the Maintenance Schedule with water
resistant
EP Chassis Lubricant which meets GM Specification 6031M.
NOTICE: Ball joints should not be lubricated unless their temperature is -12"C (10"F), or-higher. During cold weather, they should be allowed to warm up as necessary before
being lubricated or damage to the ball jOint could occur.
FREEDOM BATTERY
Your new vehicle has a Delco FREEDOM battery. It needs no periodic
maintenance.
Its top is permanently sealed (except for two small vent holes) and has no filler caps. ,You will never have to add water.
The hydrometer (test indicator) in the top of the battery provides information for
testing purposes only.
If the vehicle is not going to be driven .f?r 30 days or longer, disconnect the cable from the "-" (black) negative terminal of the battery to prevent
discharge. For
full power needs at replacement time, a Del~o battery with the sarne catalog number as shown on the original battery'if . !abel " is recommended.
CAUTION: Follow the precautions listed in the "Jump Starting" Caution (see the "In Case of Emergency" section of this manual) when working on or near the battery. Personal injury (particularly to eyes) or property damage may result from battery explosion, battery acid, or electrical (Short circuit) burns.
AIR CONDITIONING
Periodically have your dealer check your air conditioning system to be sure
there has been no loss in cooling output. See your dealer immediately if you
suspect the system is not performing"as it should.
Your vehicle's air conditioning system will not operate below ambient
temperatures of approximately
4·C (40·F) regardless of control position.

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine 4. Always use a tire pressure gage when checking inflation pressures (we
suggest you purchase a
quality pocket-type gage). Simply looking at the tires to check inflation pressures is not enough, . especially with radial. tires.
Underinflated radial tires may look like correctly inflated radial tires. H the
inflation pressure on a tire is often low, have your dealer correct the
cause.
5. Sesure to put the tire inflation valve caps or extensions back on, if so
equipped. This will help keep dirt and moisture from getting into the valve core which could cause a leak.
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\' , --I PROPERLY INflATED PROPERLY INFLATED IMPROPERLY INFLATED BIAS l ) OR BIAS-BelTED TIRE Y RADIAL TIRE
6. H an air loss. occurs while driving, do not drive on the flat tire more than is
needed to stop safely. Driving even a short distance on a flat tire can
damage a tire and
wheel beyond repair.
Inspection and Rotation
Front and rear tires perform different jobs and can wear differently depending
on the types of roads driven, your driving habits, etc.
For
longer tire IHe, you shOuld inspect and rotate your tires as recommended in
the Maintenance Schedule folder. Many car and tire dealers will perform a free
tire
inspection to look for \meven or abnormal tire Wear (usually caused by
wrong inflation pressures, lack of regular rotation, improper wheel alignment,
out of bslance tires, or poor driving habits).
After rotation, adjust the front and rear tire pressures (see the Tire
Placard)
and be sure to check wheel nut tightness (see also "Wheel Nut Torque" in
Section 3 of this manual.)
fXi
I I 4 WHEEL ROT A I iON ·OPTIONAl
00 NOT INCLUDE "TfMPOT1MIY uS~ ONLY' SPARE TIR E IN .R01 AllON • THE OPTIONAL 'X' ROTATIO N PATTfR N FO R RADIALS IS ACCEPTABU WHE N HEQUIRW
FOR MO RE UNIfOR M TIRE WEAR
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Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine CAUTION; Whenever a wheel is changed, always remove any corrOsion that may be present on inside of wheeland wheel mounting surface on vehicle. Installing wheels
without good metal·to--metalcontact at the mounting surfaces can cause wheel nuts to
loosen, which can later allow a wheel to come off while the vehicle -is moving, possibly
causing loss of control.
Alignment and Balance
Proper wheel alignment improves tire tread life. Your vehicle's suspension
parts should be inspected often and
aligned when needed. (See the
Maintenance
Schedule Folder for more information.) Ball joints have built-in
wear indicators and some movement in the joints is normal.
Improper alignment • will not-cause the vehicle to vibrate. However, improper
alignment can cause:
• the tires to roll at an angle, which will result in faster tire wear;
• your tires _ to wear unevenly;
•
your vehicle to "pull" to the left or right.
Proper tire balancing provides the
best riding comfort and helps reduce tire
tread wear. Out-of-balance tires can cause annoying vibration and uneVen tire
wear such as cupping and flat spots.
Traction
Driving, cornering, and braking traction are reduced -w~ater. snovv' ic:e., gravel, or other material is on the road. Adjust driving practices and vehiCia
speed to road conditions.
When driving on wet
or sluShy roads, a wedge of water can build up between
the tire and road. This is known as hydroplaning, and may cause partial or
complete loss of traction, vehicle control, and stopping ability.
To red\ICe the chance of traclion loss, follow these tips:
1. Slow down during rainstorms or when roads are slushy.
2. StoW down if the road has standing water or puddles.
3. Replace the tires when the tread wear indicators are showing.
4. Keep the tires properly inflated.
H your vehicle has Tpc radial tires (see "Tire Replacement" in this section),
yoU, .lifes were designed to provide better snow traction. In fact, these tires
shOuld be adequate for driving in mO$ wiAter conditions. Howeve" ij you do feel you do need to buyconvenlional snow tires, be sure they are the same
size, load range, and .construction type (bias, bias· belled, Or radial) as your
other tires.
Tire Chain$ or Similar Traction Devices
If you buy tire chains for your car, make sure they are'designated as SAE
Class "S" type chaios. Use of other types of chains may cause damage to
your vehicle.
Use
of chains may adversely affect your vehicle's handling. -When using
chains: (1) adjust speed to road conditions, (2) avoid sharp turns, and (3) when
possible, avoid
locked-wheel braking.
In addition, to help prevent chain damage to your vehicle:
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