97Cobra

Hey Everyone,

I am trying to decide which is best to buy for my 1997 Cobra. A Chilton Manual, a Haynes Manual or the Ford Service Manual???

Thoughts, either better/worse???

Thanks,
~Erik

universal1

ive always gone with the chilton manual personally...gets me everything i need

fast83gt

I always get the Haynes manual because the have them at the closes parts store to me. I've heard that Chiltons are better though. Then again Ford built the car, so you know that they know what they are talking about.

97Cobra

Anyone have/use the Ford Service Manual ... I have only seen them on ebay. Where do you think I could find one?

~Erik

fast83gt

I think roundman does

Hulk

That depends, how deep do you wanna get?

Haynes has been wrong a number of times, not the least of which was when it told me to use motor oil in a manual tranny, when the factory tech service bulletin had come out saying to use another special fliud. As far as I'm concerned, I won't change my wiper blades anymore based on Haynes' info.

Chilton is a really detailed, usually accurate, practical guide for the average DIY-er.

The factory chassis manuals for the new Cobras are not just one book. There is a separate one, say for wiring and electrical and electronic, for powertrain, etc. They are printed by Helms, and that's who you would buy them from, but starting at $100 or so, I'd go with the Chilton for normal hobbyist stuff.

Ryan
[:-]

vfast

I use a book called "motor" very detail..go to your local library as most carry it

97Cobra

I bought a chilton's .... have been watching for the Factory Manuals here and there. I know of 2, the main one and the EVTM. I wouldn't say I'm a hobbiest mechanic. I would rather repair my car than take it to some shop. In the past, I have always had chiltons, but no service manuals, and that seems to work. But with the Cobra, I am going to dig harder mechanically, so hence why I think I will need the factory manuals as well.

Thanks! I will take a look at it.

~Erik

samill2

Yes.

BeltFedBob

I always buy the factory manuals for all my vehicles. None of the others have the detail I need. When I bought my Cobra I went to egay and bought the EVTM and Service Manual used. Got them both for about $80.00 shipped.