Factory Service Manuals?

[human]

I'm looking at factory service manuals on eBay. My Bonneville is a '95 and manuals for that year model seem to be pretty scarce. Right now, the only '95 manual available is a very tattered looking volume 1 of 2. There are quite a few '94 and '96 FSM's available but neither is a perfect substitute. If I had to go with a '94 or '96 FSM, which would be preferable? The '94 and '95 models both have OBD 1.5 while '96 has OBD II. On the other hand, the '94 model would have a Series I engine while the '95 and '96 models both have Series II. As always, any insights are appreciated.

[MattStrike]

Get the 95 even though they aren't in great condition. The sections I use the most are the engine/controls, which are the ones that will be different in both cases. Worst case is that you have to punch and use a 3-ring binder.

[94SilverSSEi]

If you just keep an eye out an check often.
You could probably find some.

I know I got a set BRAND NEW still in plastic wrap an I think I payed like $13 shipping to my door.


Got a set for our Cadillac for $12 (used but decent shape)

And a set for our Buick for $12 (again used but ok shape)

[human]

You both make good points. The tattered cover on the '95 service manual is less of a problem than the fact that it's only half of the two-volume set. I'm in no hurry so I'll keep looking. Meanwhile, I did manage to snag a Haynes manual for practically nothing (probably pretty close to what it's worth) on Amazon. Not the greatest, I know, but it'll at least provide me a little usable information until I can get hold of the genuine article.

[94SilverSSEi]

The Haynes/chilton manuals are ok.
A heck of a lot better than nothing.

We did our first intake job with a haynes manual.

But for more complicated things they just dont cut it as they aren't detailed enough.

[Wes]

Fleabay changes quickly. If you dont see one you are happy with, you never know what you may find a week from now. If you can hold out, just wait. But if the question of 94 or 96 still applies, I would say the 94.

[myfirstbonnie]

Did you find any?

I am going to try to get these tomorrow and you can have first dibs, otherwise I will put them in the for sale section. I would only ask for payback and shipping. Not going to make anything on them, just my costs.

http://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/pts/2858326856.html

[human]

Thank you very much. Let me know if you're successful and we'll work something out for sure.

Did you find any?

I am going to try to get these tomorrow and you can have first dibs, otherwise I will put them in the for sale section. I would only ask for payback and shipping. Not going to make anything on them, just my costs.

http://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/pts/2858326856.html

[myfirstbonnie]

Will do. As soon as I hear something, I will let you know.

[myfirstbonnie]

I got an email saying someone is going to pick them up tomorrow. He is going to let me know if they don't.

[human]

Okay. Even if it doesn't work out, I really appreciate you thinking of me.

[charlie1593]

Just picked up a complete service manual (Paper) for $15 on ebay. They also had several vendors that provide manual on DVD for less than $10. You have to use on computer but it beats working blind. Good Luck.