Re: Online Engine and Outdrive Manuals
(Some of us don't work on everything every day and can't memorize it like Don can.)
First of all, let me say one thing. I do NOT memorize all that stuff. I try to remember things that helps me find problems. Specs are looked up in the manual EVERY time I need them. Even if it's the dwell on an old Merc or Volvo chevy V8 With points. While I know it's 28 to 32 degrees, I look it up to make sure something hasn't changed.
It takes a couple of minutes extra, but you then have other info. Idle speeds, timing, advance, for tuneups. Torque, specs, tolerances for rebuilds.
Not sure how these guys "Rebuild" an engine without a manual. How do they know is things are in spec or not.
When I worked at a Merc and Volvo dealer (I don't any longer) it was common practice to run the SN of the engine and drive and check for any new Service bulletins. Even the older ones.
Lots of things dealers can do that a DIYer can't, as far as information available.