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Maintenance Information Chevrolet Chevette I

Procedures 5 illustrations ~1556 words

VIN LOCATION

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the left side of the dash panel at the base of the windshield. The VIN chart explains the code characters.

VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION

Numbers preceding the explanations in the legend below refer to the sequence of characters as listed on VIN identification label. See VIN example below.

VIN Code ID Explanation (1 Of 2). Scheme 1

Scheme 1: VIN Code ID Explanation (1 Of 2)
Scheme 1: VIN Code ID Explanation (1 Of 2)

VIN Code ID Explanation (2 Of 2). Scheme 2

Scheme 2: VIN Code ID Explanation (2 Of 2)
Scheme 2: VIN Code ID Explanation (2 Of 2)

SEVERE & NORMAL SERVICE DEFINITIONS

Note. Use the Severe Service schedule if the vehicle to be serviced is operated under ANY (one or more) of these conditions

Service is recommended at mileage intervals based on vehicle operation. Severe Service and Normal Service is based on the following primary operating conditions

Severe Service

  1. Short Trips (4 Miles Or Less)
  2. Towing Or Heavily Loaded
  3. Severe Dust Conditions
  4. Extended Below Freezing Temperatures
  5. Hot Weather, Stop-And-Go Driving
  6. Extensive Idling Conditions (Taxi Or Delivery Type Service)

Normal Service

  1. Driven More Than 10 Miles Daily
  2. No Severe Service Operating Conditions

CAMSHAFT TIMING BELT

CAUTIONFailure to replace a faulty camshaft timing belt may result in serious engine damage.

The condition of camshaft drive belts should always be checked on vehicles which have more than 50,000 miles. Although some manufacturers do not recommend belt replacement at a specified mileage, others require it at 60,000-100,000 miles. A camshaft drive belt failure may cause extensive damage to internal engine components on most engines, although some designs do not allow piston-to-valve contact. These designs are often called "Free Wheeling".

Many manufacturers changed their maintenance and warranty schedules in the mid-1980's to reflect timing belt inspection and/or replacement at 50,000-60,000 miles. Most service interval schedules in this manual reflect these changes.

Belts or components should be inspected and replaced if any of the following conditions exist

  1. Cracks Or Tears In Belt Surface
  2. Missing, Damaged, Cracked Or Rounded Teeth
  3. Oil Contamination
  4. Damaged Or Faulty Tensioners
  5. Incorrect Tension Adjustment

TIRE INFLATION

Tire inflation pressures are listed on the tire specification decal, located on rear of driver's door.

WHEEL TIGHTENING

Tighten lug nuts on standard wheels to 80 ft. lbs. (110 N.m).

BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS

CAUTIONWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION section.

REPLACING BLOWN FUSES

CAUTIONBefore replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off all lights and accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system. Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated amperage rating. The use of an incorrect amperage rating fuse may result in a dangerous electrical system overload.

BATTERY WARNING

WARNINGWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in GENERAL INFORMATION section.

BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR

CAUTIONIndicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning that brake pads need replacement.

CATALYTIC CONVERTER (GASOLINE MODELS)

CAUTIONTo prevent catalytic converter overheating, DO NOT allow engine to idle for more than 20 minutes.

COMPACT SPARE TIRE

CAUTIONThe compact spare tire rim should never have any other type of tire mounted on it. Do not try to use wheel covers or trim rings on the compact spare wheel since they will not fit. If such use is attempted, damage to wheel covers, trim rings, or other vehicle components may occur.

COOLANT (PROPYLENE-GLYCOL FORMULATIONS)

CAUTIONTo avoid possible damage to vehicle use only ethylene-glycol based coolants with a mixture ratio from 44-68% anti-freeze. DO NOT use 100% anti-freeze as it will cause the formation of cooling system deposits. This results in coolant temperatures of over 300° F (149°C) which can melt plastics. 100% anti-freeze has a freeze point of only -8° F (-22°C).
CAUTIONPropylene-Glycol Mixtures has a smaller temperature range than Ethylene-Glycol. The temperature range (freeze-boil) of a 50/50 Anti-Freeze/Water Mix is as follows: Propylene-Glycol -26° F (-32°C) - 257° F (125°C) Ethylene-Glycol -35° F (-37°C) - 263° F (128°C)
CAUTIONPropylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol Mixtures can cause the destabilization of various corrosion inhibitors. Also Propylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol has a different specific gravity than Ethylene-Glycol coolant, which will result in inaccurate freeze point calculations.

DIESEL FUEL ANTI-FUNGAL ADDITIVES

CAUTIONIf fuel contamination due to fungi or other microorganisms is suspected a fuel additive with a biocide may be used. Follow the manufacturers dosage as recommended on product label. Use biocides ONLY when necessary, excessive use can may cause other fuel system problems.

DIESEL FUEL CONTAMINATION

WARNINGDiesel fuel system may be contaminated with fungi or other microorganisms. Keep contaminated fuel away from open skin cuts or sores to prevent skin irritation or infection.

DIESEL FUEL REQUIREMENTS

CAUTIONAll diesel engines are to use Diesel Fuel #2 when the outside temperature is above 20°F (-7°C). In temperatures that are below 20°F (-7°C) use Diesel Fuel #1, this will reduce the chance of the fuel thickening and forming wax.

Note. A Diesel Fuel #1 & #2 combination (Blended Fuel) may be used, and is recommended for mild winter driving.

ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS

WARNINGMany solid state electrical components can be damaged by static electricity (ESD). Some will display a warning label, but many will not. Discharge personal static electricity by touching a metal ground point on the vehicle prior to servicing any ESD sensitive component.

FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE

WARNINGRelieve fuel system pressure prior to servicing any fuel system component.

HALOGEN BULBS

WARNINGHalogen bulbs contain pressurized gas which may explode if overheated. DO NOT touch glass portion of bulb with bare hands. Eye protection should be worn when handling or working around halogen bulbs.

METHANOL GASOLINE

CAUTIONFuel that is more than 5% methanol should not be used in this vehicle. It can corrode metal parts in the fuel system, and damage plastic and rubber parts. Even at 5% methanol or less, solvents and corrosion preventers must be used with this fuel to avoid these problems.

RADIATOR CAP

CAUTIONAlways disconnect the fan motor when working near the radiator fan. The fan is temperature controlled and could start at any time even when the ignition key is in the OFF position. DO NOT loosen or remove radiator cap when cooling system is hot.

RADIATOR FAN

WARNINGKeep hands away from radiator fan. Fan is controlled by a thermostatic switch which may come on or run for up to 15 minutes even after engine is turned off.

SPARK PLUGS

Note. Allow engine to cool before removing spark plugs from aluminum cylinder heads.

TIRE REPLACEMENT

Do not mix different tire construction types (radials, bias, and bias-belted) on vehicle except in emergencies. Vehicle handling could be affected, resulting in loss of control. This caution does not apply to a compact spare tire furnished with vehicle.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

CAUTIONDue to the different warranties offered in various regions and the variety of after-market extended warranties available, please refer to the warranty package that came with the vehicle to verify all warranty options.

BASIC NEW CAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Everything is covered for 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Warranty covers the cost to all parts and labor needed to repair or adjust items on the vehicle (except tires) that have been proven defective in material, workmanship or factory preparation under normal use.

POWERTRAIN WARRANTY

This warranty takes effect upon the expiration of the 12-month/12,000-mile Basic New Car Limited Warranty and covers the following components. For 1983-85 vehicles with the 1.6L gasoline engine, the listed components are covered for 24 months or 24,000 miles, whichever occurs first. For some gasoline engine vehicles, the specified components are covered for 36 months or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Refer to customer's copy of warranty information for specific model applications.

For all vehicles with the 1.8L diesel engine, warranty limits for the specified components are for 36 months or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Warranty is subject to a 100.00 deductible for each repair visit.

  1. 1.6L Gasoline Engine Cylinder block, heads and internal parts, intake and exhaust manifolds, timing gears, timing gear chain/belt and cover, flywheel, harmonic balancer, valve covers, oil pan and pump, engine mounts, seals and gaskets, water and fuel pumps, turbocharger housings and internal parts, turbocharger valves, seals and gaskets.
  2. 1.8L Diesel Engine Same components as listed for 1.6L Gasoline Engine, as applicable, plus diesel fuel injection pump external seals
  3. Transmission Case and internal parts, torque converter, vacuum modulator, transmission mounts, seals and gaskets, transfer case and internal parts, seals and gaskets.
  4. FWD Components Final drive housing and internal parts, axle shafts, constant velocity joints, front hub bearings, seals and gaskets.
  5. RWD Components Axle housing and internal parts, drive shafts, "U" joints, axle shafts, bearings, supports, seals and gaskets.

CORROSION WARRANTY

Covers any rust-through in body sheet metal parts due to corrosion for 36 months regardless of mileage. Warranty begins on the date vehicle is delivered or put in use, whichever occurs first.

EMISSION COMPONENTS "DEFECT" WARRANTY

All GM emission components in the vehicle are warranted to be free of defects in material and workmanship which would cause it to fail to meet Federal standards for emission control system set at the time the vehicle was built. Warranty begins on the date the vehicle is delivered or first put in use, whichever occurs first. Refer to customer's copy of warranty information for the exact warranty periods on specific models.

EMISSION "PERFORMANCE" WARRANTY

Listed below are the primary components, if so equipped, which affect the vehicle's emissions performance. Other emission control related parts of these components are covered by the performance warranty where applicable. If another part fails due to the failure of one of these components, both parts are covered. Warranty begins at warranty start date and lasts for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

For some California vehicles, the warranty limits are for 3 years or 50,000 miles. Certain components listed for some California vehicles are warranted for 7 years or 70,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Refer to customer's copy of warranty information for additional information on specific model applications.

1.6L Gasoline Engine - 24 Months/24,000 Miles

  1. Thermostatic Air Cleaner Switch, Control Valve And Associated Parts
  2. EFE Valve, Heater And Associated Controls (Some Models)
  3. Exhaust System-to-Catalytic Converter
  4. Distributor Parts And Associated Controls
  5. Spark Plugs And Ignition Wires
  6. Intake, Exhaust Manifolds And Turbocharger (California)

1.6L Gasoline Engine - 5 Year/50,000 Miles

  1. Air Injector Reactor (AIR) Pump, Air Distributor And Valves
  2. Pulse AIR Valve And Associated Parts
  3. PCV Valve System And Oil Filler Cap
  4. EGR Valve And Associated Controls
  5. Choke Switches And Carburetor Parts
  6. Engine Control Module And Associated Sensors (Some Models)
  7. Electronic Fuel Injection System
  8. Carburetor Feedback Control System
  9. Throttle Return Control Parts (Some Models)
  10. Catalytic Converter, Catalyst And Associated Parts
  11. Fuel Tank, Filler Cap, Restrictor And Vapor Control Valves
  12. Evaporative Emission Control Carbon Canister And Associated Controls
  13. Emission Related Hoses, Clamps, Belts, Pulley, Tubes, Fittings And Wiring Harness

1.8L Diesel Engine

  1. Diesel Fuel Injection Pump, Nozzles And Lines (24 months/24,000 miles)
  2. EGR Valve And Associated Controls (5 year/50,000 miles)

Scheme 3

Scheme 3: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1983)
Scheme 3: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1983)

Fuse Identification

  1. 1 - 20 Amp - Choke Heater
  2. 2 - 10 Amp - Electronic Control Module
  3. 3 - 25 Amp - Heater/AC
  4. 4 - 20 Amp - Clock, Cigarette Lighter, Courtesy Lights, Key Warning
  5. 5 - 20 Amp - Turn Signal & Back-Up Lights
  6. 6 - 20 Amp - Taillights, Parking Lights, Side Markers
  7. 7 - 10 Amp - Gauges, Warning Lights, Headlight, Seat Belt Buzzer
  8. 8 - 20 Amp - Stoplights & Hazard Lights
  9. 9 - 10 Amp - Radio & Idle Stop Solenoid
  10. 10 - 4 Amp - Instrument Lights
  11. 11 - 25 Amp - Wipers & Washers

Scheme 4

Scheme 4: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1984 T-1000)
Scheme 4: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1984 T-1000)

Fuse & Circuit Breaker Identification

  1. 1 - 5 Amp - Instrument Lights
  2. 2 - 20 Amp - Choke Heater
  3. 3 - Blank
  4. 4 - 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker)
  5. 5 - Blank
  6. 6 - 25 Amp - Heater/AC
  7. 7 - Blank
  8. 8 - 10 Amp - Computer Command Control
  9. 9 - 25 Amp - Wiper/Washer
  10. 10 - 20 Amp - Stoplights & Hazard Lights
  11. 11 - 20 Amp - Gauges, Warning Lights, Headlight, Seat Belt Buzzer
  12. 12 - 20 Amp - Taillights, Side Marker, Parking Lights
  13. 13 - 15 Amp - Radio
  14. 14 - 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker)
  15. 15 - 20 Amp - Turn Signals, Back-Up Lights
  16. 16 - 20 Amp - Cigarette Lighter, Key Buzzer
  17. 17 - Blank
  18. 18 - Blank
  19. 19 - Blank

Scheme 5

Scheme 5: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1984-87 CHEVETTE & 1985-87 T-1000)
Scheme 5: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1984-87 CHEVETTE & 1985-87 T-1000)
  1. 1 - 5 Amp - Instrument Lights
  2. 2 - 20 Amp - Choke Heater, Stepped Speed Control (1985-86 Chevette), Electric Choke (1987 Chevette)
  3. 3 - Blank
  4. 4 - Blank (1984-86 Chevette & 1986-87 T-1000) - 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker)(1985 T-1000)
  5. 5 - Blank
  6. 6 - 25 Amp - Heater/AC
  7. 7 - Blank
  8. 8 - Blank (1987 Chevette & 1985-87 T-1000) - 10 Amp (1985-86 Chevette) - Computer Command Control
  9. 9 - 25 Amp - Wiper/Washer
  10. 10 - 20 Amp - Stoplights, Hazard Lights
  11. 11 - 20 Amp - Gauges (1984-87 Chevette & 1985-87 T-1000), Warning Lights, Seat Belt Buzzer, Headlights, Computer Command Control (1985-86 Chevette), Diesel Circuits (1985-86 Chevette), Rear Window Defogger (1985-86 Chevette)
  12. 12 - 20 Amp - Taillights, Side Marker Lights, Parking Lights, License & Instrument Lights (1985-86 Chevette)
  13. 13 - 15 Amp - Radio, Diesel (1985-86 Chevette)
  14. 14 - 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) - Rear Window Defogger (1984-86 Chevette & 1986-87 T-1000)
  15. 15 - 20 Amp - Turn Signals, Back-Up Lights
  16. 16 - 20 Amp - Cigarette Lighter, Key Buzzer, Clock (1985-87 Chevette), Courtesy Lights (1985-87 Chevette)
  17. 17 - Blank
  18. 18 - Blank
  19. 19 - Blank

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