Your 1952 Champion Owner's Guide
Part 3
2. Keep the engine in good mechanical condition. See that the compression is good and that the ignition and carburetion systems are kept in peak condition.
3. Clean the crankcase at least once a year, preferably when winter oil is changed for summer weight oil.
4. Use the proper grade of a reputable engine oil.
5. Use a good grade of fresh gasoline.
6. Check thermostat operation.
Operating an engine at subnormal temperatures causes a much more rapid dilution of the crankcase oil than is experienced at normal temperatures.
Rust and Corrosion Inhibitor
Because of the chemical reaction between metal and the lime or other minerals in water, one U. S. pint (.833 Imperial pt., 0.47 liters) of an approved inhibitor such as Studebaker Cooling System Rust Inhibitor or Resistor should be added to the cooling system of every new car and replenished as needed throughout the life of the car. This will help protect the entire cooling system (radiator, cylinder block, cylinder head, and water pump) from any chemical corrosions, rust, or calcification within the radiator core which may restrict the passages. This does not, however, dispense with the need of flushing the cooling system seasonally, spring and fall. Following each draining a pint of the inhibitor should be used unless it is included in the new coolant.
Many anti-freeze compounds do contain a rust inhibitor. Ask your dealer whether the anti-freeze you use during the winter is of this kind. If so, it will not be necessary to install a rust inhibitor in the cooling system while such an anti-freeze is in use.
CAUTION
Carbon Monoxide _is a lethal gas, odorless, tasteless, and colorless, found in the exhaust fumes of all engines. Never start the engine in a closed garage. Always open garage doors wide before starting the engine and keep the doors open as long as the engine is operating._
Gasoline Economy
The kind of gasoline you use in your new Studebaker is an important factor in performance, economy, and service.
It is important to purchase your gasoline from a dealer selling the product of a reputable refinery in sufficient volume to assure fresh, clean gasoline which hasn’t accumulated moisture, dirt and tank settlings from lying dormant for relatively long periods.
_Speed_ Drive at a moderate and constant speed.
_Idling_ Shut off the engine while parked, even for a few minutes, such as waiting for long freight trains at railroad crossings. Idling, except to warm up a cold engine, is sheer waste.
_Stopping_ Come to a gradual stop whenever possible. This saves fuel, brake lining, and tires.
_Accelerating_ If peak economy is to be obtained, acceleration must be gradual. Rapid acceleration wastes gasoline.
_Tires_ Keep your tires properly inflated.
_Lubrication_ Keep both the engine and chassis well lubricated at all times. This reduces friction to a minimum.
_Mechanical Condition_ Periodic “tuning” of the engine by your Studebaker dealer’s service department will insure maximum mechanical efficiency necessary to good gasoline mileage.
Tire Inflation and Care
Inflate and check tires to recommended pressures given on page 53 with the tires cold (at atmospheric temperatures), and not after a long run.
If your tires are checked immediately after a long run, do not permit the attendant to reduce the pressures by letting out air. Wait until the tires have had a chance to cool before checking pressures.
You can ensure more even wear of all tires by having your Studebaker dealer criss-cross them according to the latest factory recommendations at approximately 4000 mile (6437 km.) intervals. Have tires and wheels checked for need of balance after each criss-crossing.
Ignition Timing
For economy of fuel consumption and noiseless combustion relative to the type of gasoline used, the ignition timing may be advanced or retarded. Such an adjustment should be made by your Studebaker dealer.
Carburetor Air Cleaner
Two types of air cleaner are available for Studebaker cars. One is the “oil wetted” type for cars operated a greater part of the time over pavement and roads which are comparatively free from dust. The other is known as the “oil bath” type and is available at extra cost for cars operated where dust conditions are severe.
Dust particles, although microscopically small, are highly abrasive and tend to score and cut the smooth glasslike surfaces of working parts—increasing the rate of wear. The proper type of air cleaner installed on your car, properly maintained and serviced, will increase the life of the engine, and aid in maintaining its normal efficiency.
WING NUT FILTER ELEMENT
Because local conditions alone determine the frequency of air cleaner service, it will be necessary to ask your dealer how often this should be performed.
TO SERVICE THE OIL WETTED AIR CLEANER
1. Remove the filter element, clean with kerosene, and shake out until dry.
2. When thoroughly dry submerge in a good grade of engine oil and allow excess oil to drain before reinstalling the element in the cleaner.
3. Replace filter element and wipe off all excess oil.
TO SERVICE THE OIL BATH AIR CLEANER
1. Remove the filter element, clean in kerosene, and allow to dry thoroughly.
2. Clean the oil reservoir.
3. Pour one pint of new engine oil into the reservoir. S.A.E. 50 for above 32° F. (0° C.) S.A.E. 20 for below 32° F. (0° C.) is recommended for this purpose. Do not use an oil lighter than S.A.E. 20 in the cleaner at any time.
4. Reassemble element and filter unit and install on car.
WING NUT COVER AND FILTER ASSEMBLY OIL LEVEL RESERVOIR
Draining The Cooling System
To drain the cooling system, drain the radiator, block, and, if car is so equipped, Climatizer and defroster.
_Remove one defroster hose under the hood._ _Cyl. Block water drain._ _Radiator drain._ _Remove both hoses from Climatizer heater core._
Anti-Freeze Solutions
Either the alcohol-base or ethylene-glycol base anti-freeze is recommended for use in your Studebaker. Be sure the brand you select contains a rust inhibitor. Do not use an anti-freeze preparation which contains salt, sugar, calcium chloride, soda, or petroleum base compounds.
Reputable anti-freeze companies supply their dealers with charts showing the amount of anti-freeze to use for protection to various anticipated temperatures, depending upon cooling system capacity given on page 53.
Care of Car Finish
The high luster, hard-baked enamel finish of your new Studebaker is best retained by an application of approved Studebaker Cleaner and Polish or Cleaner and Wax after each washing. The enamel, however, should not be subjected to an application of wax of any kind during the first 60 days so that sufficient time may be provided for the finish to become fully hardened.
Approved Studebaker appearance maintenance materials are available from your Studebaker dealer. These are recommended to remove the accumulation of road scum and dullness resulting from weather or road conditions and to restore the luster of the enamel finish. Do not become alarmed when polishing or waxing if a slight amount of color appears on the cloth. This is a natural condition.
Alcohol, anti-freeze mixtures containing alcohol, and calcium chloride or other chemical mixtures used to melt snow and ice or to settle dust should be flushed with water as soon as possible in order to avoid damage to the enamel finish and chromium parts.
Washing the Car
When washing the car, first saturate all foreign substances on the finish with cold water. Then use a clean sponge and running water for the removal of dirt. Dry the body with a clean, damp chamois skin, using a straight horizontal or vertical motion, rather than a circular motion. It is important that a different sponge and chamois skin be used on the body from that used on the chassis.
Chromium and nickel plated finishes are of a perishable nature and will deteriorate if not properly cared for. These parts should be kept clean and free from dirt and foreign matter. To clean chromium plated parts, use clear water and a clean cloth. To protect the finish after the parts are cleaned, apply a coating of paste-type body wax. _For further details on chrome plated parts, see the card placed in the package compartment._
Care of Cloth Upholstery
Clean upholstery means not only a better looking automobile but gives longer wear and affords greater comfort and enjoyment.
The use of a vacuum cleaner and a thorough brushing of the upholstery and headlining (with the nap or pile) will usually brighten the interior noticeably. Remove the cushions from the car and brush to remove foreign particles from the fabric.
Studebaker Fabric Cleaner (available through Studebaker dealers) is effective in removing all types of stains and does not harm the upholstery.
Seat and side upholstery can be washed safely with soap and water. Use lukewarm water and a neutral soap. The suds should be good and frothy, not watery. Apply in moderate quantities with a damp cloth, sponge, or soft brush. Remove soap suds with a clean, damp cloth or sponge, then wipe the surface several times with a dry cloth. While the material is still damp, brush it lightly with a whisk broom or brush of medium stiffness. Permit air to circulate freely over the wet upholstery. When dry, brush again to loosen any minute matting. When brushing, always brush fabric with the lay of the pile or nap.
Cleaning Leather Upholstery
Leather upholstery may be cleaned with a soft sponge and saddle soap. Make a light suds with lukewarm water and saddle soap. This type of soap is especially suitable for cleaning leather and leaves the surface soft and pliable.
Rinse the sponge occasionally in clean water. After completing the cleaning operation, use a clean, soft cloth to polish the surface of the leather.
Cleaning Rubber Parts
Studebaker Chromium Cleaner (powder type AC-1464) is recommended for cleaning white sidewall tires. Studebaker Black Rubber Finish is recommended for black tires and all black rubber parts.
Care of the Convertible Fabric Top
The life of any convertible top can be materially lengthened if care is taken to _lower the top only when it is dry. Never operate the top motor when the car is in motion._
Tops used on Studebaker convertible models are made of a two-ply material. The face of the black top is made of cotton and rayon. The face of the light-colored tops used on some Studebaker convertible models is made of _Orlon_[4] acrylic fiber and will not shrink, mildew, or stretch as a result of exposure to the elements. These facing materials are bound to a cotton backing material.
_Cleaning_ Traffic grime and most other soiling may be removed by washing the top with a sudsy mixture of mild (neutral) soap and warm water. A soft brush may be used if necessary. Strong solvents, naphtha, or carbon tetrachloride are not recommended for cleaning this fabric.
_Rear Windows_ of convertible tops are made of a clear plastic material. They should not be wiped while dry since the abrasive particles in the dust will tend to scratch the surface of the plastic. Clean the convertible top rear window by flooding it with cold water and wiping off the dirt with a soft cloth or sponge during the flooding process.
[4]Du Pont trade-mark.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
Engine Tune-Up
Occasionally your serviceman will recommend an engine tune-up. The frequency of tune-ups depends almost entirely on the amount of driving and the type of driving you do. When you purchase a tune-up, we recommend that you request at least the following operations:
1. Check the manifold heater valve for free operation.
2. Clean and adjust spark plugs; install with new gaskets.
3. Clean carburetor air cleaner.
4. Clean fuel pump bowl and strainer; install with new gasket.
5. Clean inside of distributor cover, cable terminals, and sockets.
6. Tighten cylinder head cap screws to recommended tension.
7. Adjust fan belt.
8. Remove and clean carburetor choke thermostatic control. Replace with new gasket and adjust, if necessary.
9. Check and set ignition timing.
10. Adjust carburetor idle screw with engine at normal operating temperatures.
11. Adjust idle stop screw to produce engine speed corresponding with 8 miles (13 km.) per hour road speed in high gear.
Adjustments and Other Service
_Carburetor Adjustment for High Altitude_ The carburetor is carefully calibrated to provide efficient operation. Studebaker dealers are acquainted with the adjustments which are needed for high altitude operation.
_Brake Adjustment_ The self-adjusting brakes on your car are self-compensating for lining wear and require no adjustment. They are properly set at the factory.
With each application of the brakes, however, the linings wear and, after a time, new linings should be installed to provide the maximum braking area and to avoid damage to the brake drums. When the lining needs replacement, the self-adjusting feature ceases to operate. When this occurs, the brake pedal free travel will increase and the driver is warned that the brakes need relining. If your brakes do not operate satisfactorily, see your Studebaker dealer.
_Clutch Pedal Travel Adjustment_ Clutch pedal free travel is the distance the pedal moves forward before resistance of the release mechanism is felt. When the free travel is greater than one inch (25,4 mm.) or less than one-half inch (12,7 mm.) adjustment should be made by your Studebaker dealer.
_The Hill Holder_ (on cars so equipped) should be checked and adjusted if necessary whenever the clutch pedal travel is adjusted.
_Fan Belt Adjustment_ To insure efficient fan, water pump and generator operation, it is important that the fan belt is not over-tightened. Any readjustment should be performed by a Studebaker dealer.
_Front Wheel Camber Adjustment_ Camber adjustment is properly set at the factory ½° greater on the driver’s side of the car than on the other side. Should a front end alignment check reveal need of camber readjustment, it should be set as nearly to ¾° on driver’s side and ¼° on the other side as possible. In any setting, the driver’s side camber should be ½° more than the other side.
_Body Drain Holes_ All drain holes should be kept open to prevent accumulation of water.
The door drain holes are easily cleared with a pen-knife or other flat instrument which can be inserted in the holes and run back and forth a few times to loosen any congestion.
Body drain holes should be cleaned by the serviceman.
See page 54 for minimum seasonal service recommendations.
TECHNICAL REFERENCE DATA
If emergency adjustments or repairs must be made at shops other than authorized Studebaker dealerships, ask the repairman to refer to this section of your Owner’s Guide to be sure that he understands the several “special-to-Studebaker” measurements and other service data given below.
IGNITION
Breaker point gap .020″ (0,508 mm.) (_Check every 10,000 miles_ [_16,090 km._]) Breaker arm tension 17 to 20 oz. (481,95 to 566,99 grams) Spark plug gap .022″-.027″ (0,559-0,686 mm.) Note:—_In normal use, check every 5000 miles (8046 km.) and replace after 10,000 miles (16.090 km.). Under some conditions of operation it may be desirable to clean and adjust spark plugs every 2500 miles (4023 km.)._ Firing order 1-5-3-6-2-4 (_No. 1 is the front cylinder_)
VALVES
Tappet clearance (engine cold) .016″ (0,406 mm.) _Intake and Exhaust_ Angle of valve seat 45°
ENGINE OIL PRESSURE
40 miles (64 km) per hour 20 to 40 lbs. (1,4 kgs. to 2,8 kgs.) reading on oil gage Pressure at which relief valve opens 40 lbs. (2,8 kgs.)
CIRCUIT BREAKERS AND FUSES Amperes
Circuit Breaker—Head, Parking, Tail, and Instrument 30 Lights Circuit Breaker—Convertible Top Motor 30 Circuit Breaker—Body and Stop Lights 20 Circuit Breaker—Climatizer and Defroster 20 Overdrive 20 Fog Lights 20 Radio 14 Electric Directional Signal 14 Underhood Light 5 Electric Clock 3
BATTERY
Voltage 6 Specific Gravity 1.280-1.300 fully charged Willard Number HDW-1-100 _Do not overfill. Check water level frequently_
BRAKES (HYDRAULIC)
Pedal free travel 1/16″ to 3/16″ (1,6 to 4,8 mm.) (_Before the master cylinder piston starts to move_)
CLUTCH
Pedal free travel ½″ to 1″ (12,7 to 25,4 mm.)
LAMP BULB SPECIFICATIONS Location Voltage and Number Candle Power
Headlight 6-8 Sealed Beam No. 4030 (_For Right Hand Drive Use 45-20 Watt Metal Back Sealed Unit_) Parking 6-8 Mazda No. 63 3 (With Directional Signals) 6-8 Mazda No. 1158 3-21 Tail 6-8 Mazda No. 1154 3 Stop ″ 21 Instruments 6-8 Mazda No. 55 1½ Trunk ″ ″ Dome 6-8 Mazda No. 88 15 License Plate 6-8 Mazda No. 63 3 Tell-Tale Headlight Beam 6-8 Mazda No. 51 ½ Directional Signal Front 6-8 Mazda No. 1158 21-3 Rear 6-8 Mazda No. 1129 21 Tell-Tale 6-8 Mazda No. 55 1½ Map 6-8 Mazda No. 88 15 Package Compartment 6-8 Mazda No. 55 1½ Underhood 6-8 Mazda No. 87 15 Fog Lamp 6-8 Mazda No. 4015 clear glass Radio 6-8 Mazda No. 44 Clock 6-8 Mazda No. 55 1½ Cigar Lighter 6-8 Mazda No. 51 ½ Ash Tray 6-8 Mazda No. 51 ½
STEERING
Toe-In 1/16″ to ⅛″ (1,58 mm. to 3,16 mm.) Caster -1° to -2½° No Load Camber 0° to +1° No Load (_See page 50 for camber adjustment_) King Pin Inclination 5¼°
TIRE PRESSURES
6.40 x 15 26 lbs. (1,82 kgs) front 24 lbs. (1,68 kgs) rear _Above pressures are with tires cool (local temperatures)_
CAPACITIES U. S. Imperial Liters
Engine (Crankcase) 5.00 quarts 4.17 quarts 4,73 Cooling System 10.00 quarts 8.35 quarts 9,50 with Climatizer 11.50 quarts 9.60 quarts 10,80 Transmission—Conventional 1.60 pints 1.33 pints 0,75 Transmission—Overdrive 2.75 pints 2.29 pints 1,36 Rear Axle 2.50 pints 2.08 pints 1,18 Gasoline Tank 18.00 15.00 68,00 gallons gallons
LICENSE DATA
Model Number 12G Number of Cylinders 6 Cylinder Bore 3″ (76,2 mm.) Stroke 4″ (101,6 mm.) Piston Displacement 169.6 cu. in. (2780 cc.) Horsepower (NACC or RAC Rating) 21.6 Weight—See your dealer. Weight varies by body style and special equipment. Your car’s registerable weight is ............ pounds.
MINIMUM SEASONAL SERVICES
FALL
_Cooling System:_ Drain and reverse flush cooling and heating systems. Check entire system for leaks. Refill radiator with correct _anti-freeze_ solution, including Rust Inhibitor if not contained.
_Crankcase:_ Drain and refill crankcase with good oil of correct grade. Change filter cartridge if not recently changed.
_Brakes:_ Check for need of service.
_Steering:_ Check wheel alignment (camber, toe-in, king pin inclination). Inspect all steering connections.
_Generator:_ Check generator output.
_Battery:_ Test specific gravity of battery. Check water level. Clean, tighten, and coat terminals with petroleum jelly.
_Cylinder Head:_ Tighten cylinder head bolts with torque wrench.
_Lubrication:_ Lubricate chassis (unless performed in last 1000 miles) including any periodic lubrication requirements due.
_Fuel System:_ Clean fuel pump bowl and reset carburetor adjustment if necessary.
_Starter:_ Check efficiency for proper current draw from battery.
SPRING
_Cooling System:_ Drain and reverse flush. Check thermostat. Check condition of radiator hose fan belt. Refill cooling system and install Rust Inhibitor.
_Crankcase:_ Clean inside of engine crankcase. Clean Floto screen. Change engine oil. Install new filter cartridge if not recently changed.
_Brakes:_ Check brakes for need of service.
_Steering:_ Check wheel alignment (camber, toe-in, king pin inclination). Inspect all steering connections.
_Generator:_ Check generator output.
_Battery:_ Test specific gravity of battery. Check water level. Clean, tighten, and coat terminals with petroleum jelly.
_Cylinder Head:_ Tighten cylinder head bolts with torque wrench.
_Lubrication:_ Lubricate chassis (unless performed in last 1000 miles) including any periodic lubrication requirements due.
_Fuel System:_ Clean fuel pump bowl and reset carburetor adjustment if necessary.
_Starter:_ Check efficiency for proper current draw from battery.
THESE REQUIREMENTS MAY VARY WITH DIFFERING CLIMATIC CONDITIONS.
WIRING DIAGRAM
HEAD LAMP FOG LAMP PARKING LAMP PARKING LAMP FOG LAMP HEAD LAMP CONNECTOR GENERATOR BATTERY HORNS RELAY COIL DIST. STARTER START SWITCH FOOT DIMMER-SWITCH IGNITION SWITCH HEADLIGHT SWITCH FOGLIGHT SWITCH 20 AMP. FUSE HORN BUTTON AMMETER AUXILIARY CIRCUIT BREAKER STOPLIGHT SWITCH
A-#10 BLACK B-#10 RED C-#10 WHITE D-#12 BLACK E-#12 RED & BLACK F-#14 WHITE & BLACK G-#14 BLACK H-#14 RED I-#14 BLUE J-#14 BLACK & GREEN K-#16 BLACK L-#16 RED N-#16 GREEN O-#16 BLACK & OAK T-#16 WHITE & RED V-#14 CHROME Z-#16 RED & WHITE
INDEX