🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Buick Model: Riviera Year: 1964 Trim Level: 4800 Codes Vin Code: 4 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Personal Luxury Coupe Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Thunderbird, Chrysler New Yorker, Cadillac Coupe de Ville Key Features Design Philosophy: Introduced as a groundbreaking design, the 1963-1965 Riviera set a new standard for American automotive styling with its crisp lines and pillarless hardtop design. Target Audience: Discerning buyers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and distinctive styling. Manual Utility Value Proposition: An inexpensive way to keep a classic vehicle working properly, empowering both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. Manual Delivery Delivery Method: Instant download after payment 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types Page Count Estimated Page Count: Variable (typical factory service manuals of this era range from 500-1000+ pages) Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete disassembly, assembly, specifications, diagnostics, and repair for the 401 V8 engine. Engine Fuel System: Carburetor (e.g., Rochester Quadrajet) overhaul, fuel pump, fuel lines, and vacuum systems. Engine Ignition System: Distributor, coil, spark plugs, timing specifications, and troubleshooting. Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications, and troubleshooting. Lubrication System: Oil pump, oil filter, oil specifications, and oil change procedures. Transmission Automatic: TH-400 Turbo Hydra-Matic: disassembly, assembly, adjustments, fluid specifications, and troubleshooting. Drivetrain Rear Axle: Rear axle assembly, differential, drive shafts, universal joints, and fluid specifications. Brakes System: Hydraulic system, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake shoes, drums, parking brake, and troubleshooting. Suspension System: Front and rear suspension components, ball joints, bushings, springs, shock absorbers, and alignment. Steering System: Power steering system, steering gear, linkage, pump, fluid specifications, and troubleshooting. Electrical System: Battery, generator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, lighting, gauges, and accessories. Body And Chassis: Body construction, doors, windows, seats, trim, weatherstripping, and structural components. Heating And Air Conditioning: HVAC system components, operation, and servicing. Specifications Tables: Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, and general data. Procedures Included Preventative Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication points, and tune-up procedures. Troubleshooting Guides: System-by-system diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues. Engine Repair: Complete engine rebuild procedures, including piston ring replacement, bearing inspection, cylinder head overhaul, and valve adjustments. Transmission Repair: Internal transmission component replacement, clutch pack servicing, valve body adjustments, and torque converter servicing. Brake System Repair: Brake drum/shoe relining, wheel cylinder replacement, master cylinder overhaul, and bleeding procedures. Suspension And Steering Repair: Ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, shock absorber installation, and power steering pump replacement. Electrical Component Testing: Testing of starter, generator, voltage regulator, and various switches and sensors. Body Panel Repair: Procedures for door alignment, window regulator repair, and minor body panel adjustments. Wiring Diagram Interpretation: Detailed wiring schematics for all electrical systems. Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Diagnostic Capability: Advanced: Includes detailed troubleshooting flowcharts and diagnostic procedures. Diagram Quality: High: Features top-quality diagrams, exploded views, and illustrations. Rebuild Instructions: Detailed, step-by-step instructions for complete component disassembly and reassembly. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Print Quality Print Quality: Printable without restriction Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) Software Recommendation Software Recommendation: Adobe PDF Reader ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: V8 Engine Displacement: 401 cubic inches (6.6 Liters) Engine Designation: Wildcat 401 Bore X Stroke: 4.1875 in x 3.6875 in (106.3 mm x 93.7 mm) Compression Ratio: 10.25:1 Performance Horsepower Gross: 325 hp @ 4400 rpm Torque Gross: 445 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm Fuel System Carburetor: Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended) Other Features Valvetrain: Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: Turbo Hydra-Matic (TH-400) Gears: 3-speed Automatic Features Torque Converter: Standard with lock-up feature (in some applications or later revisions, though early TH400s may not have lock-up). Fluid Specifications Transmission Fluid Type: Dexron (or equivalent GM Automatic Transmission Fluid - Type A) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 119.0 inches (3023 mm) Length: 207.0 inches (5258 mm) Width: 73.1 inches (1857 mm) Height: 54.7 inches (1390 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 4,100 - 4,300 lbs (1860 - 1950 kg) Wheel Tire Standard Tire Size: 8.25 x 15 Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5 x 4.75 inches (5 x 120.7 mm) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Safety Standards Era: Pre-modern safety standards; emphasis on structural integrity of the era. Active Features Brakes: Hydraulic drum brakes (front and rear) Passive Features Seat Belts: Optional front seat belts Steering Column: Collapsible steering column (introduced in later years, check specific design for '64) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio: Optional AM/FM Radio, often with a power antenna. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional 'Guide-Matic' or early forms of cruise control were available on some models. Comfort Features...
Ford Thunderbird, Chrysler New Yorker, Cadillac Coupe de Ville
Key Features
Design Philosophy:
Introduced as a groundbreaking design, the 1963-1965 Riviera set a new standard for American automotive styling with its crisp lines and pillarless hardtop design.
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and distinctive styling.
Manual Utility
Value Proposition:
An inexpensive way to keep a classic vehicle working properly, empowering both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Manual Delivery
Delivery Method:
Instant download after payment
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Scope:
All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Variable (typical factory service manuals of this era range from 500-1000+ pages)
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, assembly, specifications, diagnostics, and repair for the 401 V8 engine.
Due to age, wiring insulation degradation and contact point corrosion can lead to intermittent electrical issues.
Carburetor Issues:
The Rochester Quadrajet can be prone to diaphragm degradation and fuel delivery inconsistencies if not properly maintained.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Buick Heritage:
Buick, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing reliable and upscale automobiles since its founding by David Dunbar Buick.
Model Evolution
Riviera Introduction:
The first generation Riviera (1963-1965) was a groundbreaking model, designed by Bill Mitchell, intended to compete with European sports coupes and establish a unique identity for Buick.
1964 Updates:
The 1964 model received minor styling tweaks, including a revised grille and updated interior appointments, but retained the core design of the inaugural year.
Production
Production Years:
1963-1965 (First Generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Flint, Michigan, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Design Awards:
The Riviera's design was highly acclaimed and is considered a landmark in American automotive styling, often cited for its minimalist and sophisticated aesthetic.