Topic: Which shop manual is best?

['78 LadyBird]

Chilton's  or Haynes or some other?

Yes, I already bought the manual/cd from hitman's but it is not easy to navigate with the computer.  I think Frank and I prefer the old method................book! lol

And, I did buy Jim Hand's book to which really doesn't tell you much on how to repair things.

So, need your opinion, please.

[RENOVATIONS]

I agree that books are good for hands-on reference but there is a lot of info in the GM service manual that you won't find elsewhere.
I buy them all as I find that there is something useful in each one..as far as Haynes vs Chiltons, they're pretty even; either one will provide you with what you're probably looking for (and you have the CD service manual to fill in the gaps ).

[Rick]

I concur with Jeff -- I have an entire shelf dedicated to hard copy reference information.  It's not uncommon for me to spend as much or more time planning a project as I spend doing it, and I consult just about every reference before I start turning wrenches on any project of any complexity.  For what you spend on a Chilton's or a Haynes, I'd get them both.

['78 LadyBird]

Ok, sounds like a plan!

[jphillips3333]

Don't forget to put the bullwhip on the shelf  (poor Frank...)

[turbota400]

I try not to use Haynes if I can help it.  I was working on a fellow member's car and the Haynes manual said to use an air chisel to cut a hole in the inner fender to gain access to the blower motor.  I don't think so!!

[LWS78SE]

You could do like I did , buy a lot of paper and ink and print the manual off . The service manual really doesn't take that much. The parts manual may cost a small fortune to print off though. I printed both sides of the paper and it wan't too bad.

[pointman]

I actually have bought the Pontiac Service Manuals and am VERY happy with the information and diagrams! My 2 cents...............

[ta78w72]

The pontiac service manuals in hard copy format can be found on ebay.  I've never even looked at a chilton or haynes manual in the 30 years I've owned one of these cars.

[RENOVATIONS]

For what you spend on a Chilton's or a Haynes, I'd get them both.

Agreed....the more reference material you have, the better
Check eBay and www.half.com for the Chilton and the Haynes if you decide to get them; you can find used copies for less than new

But again, the GM service manual should be the final answer source on everything 

[Rarebird]

there is another manual that was not listed and I had used them for years but they are not in publication and this is where you need to check out swap meets (like Charlotte Auto Fair) for "MOTOR" Manual. They usually come in hardback versions for All makes of American or Foriegn cars for a particular time frame. For example ... MOTOR  Manual for American Cars 1972-1978. I have used these many many years and find they give the best "How To" procedures and time saver steps. But take in consideration even with the best documentaion a little common sence is still required. You dont want to cut away a inner fender just to reconnect a blower fan motor.

PS...
 the MOTOR Manual is usually with a Navy Blue hard cover, and expect to pay close to 50 bucks or more depending on condition but if you are into more than just Pontiacs its a great investment.

[rkellerjr]

I have the Chiltons, Haynes, and Hitmans CD's as well as an original Service manual in paper back (thanks to my buddy Rick).  I've used all of them in one way or another to help with projects.

[SoonerTA]

I have them all.  They all have different information like everyone has stated above.  Well worth the money. 

[brian c]

Haynes, Chilton, and Resto CD from Hitman - all have been very helpful on various projects.

I also have books on Holley, Rochester Quadrajets, and Jim Hand's book for building Pontiac Engines. These fill in the gaps of the other manuals.

[Gunner]

GOD I'm glad I went back to work. I have SO much refrence material to read before I even start taking on my car.

Gunner