Which Shop Manual

[Eddie-O]

Hi Guys,

Even though I have Buick's 1941 shop manual, which leaves a lot to be desired, I understand that the later manuals like 1942, etc. are much more in depth and many procedures are the same for 1941. My question is, I can get the 42 manual or , there is a 42-47 manual for a few bucks more but is one more in depth as far as procedures go than the other. Thanks in advance.

[Eddie-O]

Anybody? Just want to know which is better detailed.

[Kenneth Carr]

I have seen the 1942 shop manual online for free download in a couple places. Unfortunately you must download one page at a time. If you are looking for information on only one system that is easy to do. Go to this link: http://buick.oldcarmanualproject.com/manuals/1942/Buick shop manual/index.html#google_vignette.  I attached a sample page to this posting.

The Old Car Manual Project site that hosts the manual is, in my opinion, a legitimate site. They fully discuss contribution guidelines. I once tried to get copyright information from GM regarding some 1941 material I owned. Over a period of several months I made phone calls, was referred to the proper office, and submitted written inquiries. I was ignored ... only got as far as a secretary. Her boss was unresponsive and never answered phone messages either.

 

Regarding a ‘42-‘47 manual, I have not seen that. I believe a new one was issued each year.

l

Edited June 26, 2020 by Roadmaster71 (see edit history)

[Jim Nelson]

Buy a '42' manual.   Get a 47 manual.   I have 6 manuals,  35, 36, 37, 38, 47 and a 53.    Every year was amazing changes Buick did to make them better.    When I have a question,  I look in several for the answer.     I found that sometimes an earlier manual will give you an answer because those mechanics could not fix something our modern way but they were given a solution using what they had.   Sometimes a later gave the best solution.   Depends on problem.   Having at least three of these ie:   38, 42,  and 47 (maybe 53 - last of the straight 8 engines)  will give you a good solution.    I learned from my 38,  47, and 53 the best way to rebuild a rear end and how.   You will need some new instrumentation  ( a good  1/2" torque wrench, dial indicator  (with mag base would be very nice - used is good)  dial caliper reading out in .001" minimum tick's. ( 0.100" per revolution ) , With that one, you can interpret to half thou. (.0005).   A good battery drill w/18 or 20 volt battery (NOT CHINESE).   I now can tell you and do a pinion bearing change.   Check main bearings with green  plastigage,  (I also have a trusted machinist).   I am of the 'been there - done that" type guy now.    I'l help anyone who has a question,  if I have no answer,  I will send you to someone who can.    Our Buick club is a fantastic learning club.      I have a '38-46s' that I can travel with.   My longest trip was 1800 + miles.    BTW,  I'm a fan of over drives so traveling 65 mph at 2350 rpm is a no sweat issue.    You can do it or find a friend who can help / do it.   

[Daves1940Buick56S]

The 1950 manual is also incredibly good. I should add that this one is the last to cover the 248 engine as in '51 it was the 263. Not much difference though.

Edited June 27, 2020 by Daves1940Buick56S (see edit history)

[Eddie-O]

Thanks guys! You all have been very helpful.

All the best

Ed