1997 Pontiac Firebird Owner's Manual - Page 369

Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Listed below are inspections and services which should be performed at least twice a year (for instance,each spring and fall). You should let your GM dealer's service department or other qualified service center do these jobs. Make sure any necessary repairs are completedat once. Proper procedures to perform these services be may found in a GM service manual. See "Service and Owner Publications" in the Index. Radiator andHeater Hose Inspection Inspect the hoses have them replalced they are and if cracked, swollenor deteriorated. Inspect all pipes, fittings and clamps; replaceas needed. Throttle Linkage Inspection Inspect the throttle linkage for interference or binding, and for damaged or missing parts. Replaceparts as needed. Replace any cablesthat have high effort or excessive wear. Do not lubricate accelerator and cruise conbd cables. Steering and Suspension Inspection Inspect the front and rear suspension and steering system for damaged, loose or missing signs of parts, wear or lack of lubrication. Inspect the power steering lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Wear Axle Service Check the gear lubricant level in the rear axle and add if needed. See "Rear Axle" in the Index. A fluid loss may indicate a problem. Checkthe axle and repair it if needed. Brake System Inspection Inspect the complete system. Inspect brake lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors Also inspect drumbrake linings for surface condition. for wearand cracks. Inspect other brake parts, including drums, wheel cylinders, calipers, parking brake, The etc. parking brake is self-adjusting and nomanual adjustment is required. You may needto have your brakes inspected more often your driving habitsor if conditions result in frequent braking. Exhaust System Inspection Inspect the complete exhaust system. Inspect the near body the exhaust system. Lookfor broken, damaged, missing or out-of-position parts as well as open seams, holes, loose connections or other conditions which could cause a heat build-up in the floor pan or could let exhaust fumes into the vehicle. See "Engine Exhaust" the Index. in