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which one is better for novice

3K views 17 replies 14 participants last post by  FASTCHEVY 
#1 ·
which one is a better manual haynes or chilton
 
#3 ·
Well, I use them both. I have often found info in one that wasn't in the other (yes, I have one of each for some vehicles). Fortunately, they are inexpensive (certainly compared to the other things we buy for cars) and you can never have too much info.
If you have access to a library, check out there auto reference section and it might help you decide which you prefer. I have used the large Chilton's books for info and just copied the sections I needed, the library usually has a copy machine so it's easy and inexpensive. I haven't tried to look up 37 chevy, but you should be able to find info on the 60's or later cars.
 
#4 ·
If I had to pick it would be Chilton, but I use both.
Chilton has more on computer codes and wiring than
Haynes.Haynes has good trouble shooting pages.
I did´nt use either for my engine build, I used a specific
"Workbench book" on small block Chevy.For the carb I use
Doug Roe´s Rochester carbs.
Can´t have too many books.
 
#6 ·
stony....You should also try to get the GM factory manual for your car. They are generally expensive, but seem to have more stuff in them. At least the older (60s) ones did. The one for my Pontiac even showed me how to put on a new convertible top.
 
#7 ·
poncho makes and excelent point, the GM service manual is great. I use the chiltons when I can get them, more year specific. The Haynes is too general, tries to cover to may years like say 88-93 to many years to many differences in vehicles. I get the chassis manuals specific to your car they are good reference too. You get what you pay for.


Tazz
trolloligest


Rat Rods Rule!
 
#8 ·
info

a friend of mine uses a camera to take a record of the steps
pulling most things apart it has helped him many times especially when he must leave it and come back to it later
his other trick was to leave the tools he was using right beside the job this way he lost no time upon his return
 
#9 ·
Re: info

ianhealey said:
a friend of mine uses a camera to take a record of the steps
pulling most things apart it has helped him many times especially when he must leave it and come back to it later
his other trick was to leave the tools he was using right beside the job this way he lost no time upon his return
I have always said that working on cars is 25% mechanical aptitude and 75% memory.............
 
#10 ·
I spend a good deal of time looking for tools.I tend to walk away from the job with a tool in hand,put it down and do something else.Then go back to the car and wind up retracing my steps.
I ought to book mark pages in manuals as I never refind info easily. 53 and shot!:smash:
 
#14 ·
I got a reprint factory shop manual for my 65 tempest on ebay for $25 usd - invaluable resource for an older car
 
#15 ·
For every car I have owned, and some I work on regularly-
I own both the Chiltons AND Haynes, because what one doesn't cover the other does (for the most part), and Haynes for Rochester carbs.
I also use the Clymer manuals for motorcycles, what little I do on them.
When I get rid of the vehicle the books cover, the manuals stay here with me.
I have a couple I can't remember where they went so I might have to re-invest in them.
 
#16 ·
Haynes......that's underwear isn't it?

I hate Haynes and Peterson manuals with a passion. I especially hate the part where I'm getting somewhere and it says something to the effect of " Further repairs or troubleshooting is best left to a qualified technician". And those "typical" wiring diagrams....give me a break. Can we say "Component locater"?

Do yourself a favor and spend a few bucks and get a real manual like the manufacturers or the big Chilton's. Or better yet, use the Mitchell manuals from the library, cause you surely don't wanna fork out the cash for a Mitchell anything. :eek: :pain:
 
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