I was over on ebay and did a quick search for "Subaru" "GL" and "manual" and came up with a whole slough of results--Haynes, Chilton, etc.

 

Is there any consensus about which manual is best? They are pretty cheap, so I could probably buy more than one, but I would prefer not to do so if I can avoid it.

 

P.S. I have an '83 GL Wagon and I tried a search before posting this.

this is my personal ranking...

 

1. FSM (factory service manual)

2. Bentley 78-84 Manual (FSM reworded for shadetree mechs essentially)

3. How to Keep You Subaru Alive

4. Haynes

5. Chiltons

 

I have rarely ever used a chiltons. I always consult all of them, because each is a bit different. I had a specific electrical issue, and I ended up finding exactly what I was looking for in the Bentley (and it wasn't in the FSM the same way!!!)

Originally posted by McBrat

this is my personal ranking...

 

1. FSM (factory service manual)

2. Bentley 78-84 Manual (FSM reworded for shadetree mechs essentially)

3. How to Keep You Subaru Alive

4. Haynes

5. Chiltons

 

I always consult all of them, because each is a bit different.

 

Makes sense--I'll probably start collecting in that order. FSM is a good place to start if I can find one. I've got Bentley for my VW and like it OK. I'll have something to look for next time I'm in a used bookstore...

i find the haynes book quite comprehensive. but its worded in funny british terms. but if you read the text you'll be alright!

i would rate them exactly like mick did, and add clymer to the bottom of the list.

 

dante what fsm are you looking for? i might be able to help

Originally posted by the sucker king

dante what fsm are you looking for? i might be able to help

 

Whatever I need for an '83 GL 4WD wagon. I'd like something that covers the whole car for repair and service. Thanks

Where can I find a Factory Service Manual for my 86 GL?

Keep checking eBay.. they pop up there..

 

I got mine from another board member, you might try putting up a post in the marketplace to let everyone know your searching.

There's an '82 FSM on ebay now, but it's up over $30 with shipping now

Thats not an unreasonable price . Factory service manuals are rarely cheap. Remember, you get what you pay for

What's reasonable? I don't want to overpay. Also, if I am going to spend $30 or $40, I'd rather hold out for an '83 manual--aren't there some minor differences year-to-year?

reasonable.. well.. they are $200+ new.. so its up to you.

 

I paid a total of $40 with shipping for mine, and I consider that a good deal

 

as far as year to year differences. there are more differences year to year in EA81 cars than in EA82 cars, and all I know about is EA82 cars, so I can't really answer your question very well

Thanks. I just missed the end of the auction for the '82 FSM. Now there's an '81 up there. I'll check the completed auctions for prices.