1917 Cadillac - GM Heritage Center

OPERATION AND GENERAL CARE 13
DRIVING AND CARING FOR A MOTOR CAR
Driving an automobile does not mean simply starting, steering, applying
the brakes and stopping. Pushing a wheelbarrow is one thing. Driving a
more or less intricate piece of mechanism like an automobile necessarily is,
to some extent, and doing it right, is quite another. To drive an automobile
properly requires an understanding of the principles involved and the exercise
of some intelligence and judgment.
We believe that we are safe in saying that, with well designed and correctly
built automobiles, 95 per cent, of so-called troubles are directly traceable
to lack of lubrication, abuse, carelessness, a lack of understanding of
the principles involved and improper handling generally.
Some drivers seem to think that so long as the car "goes" that is all there
is to it. It is not.
To begin with, the driver should study the construction of his car and
thoroughly acquaint himself with its mechanism, the functions of its various
parts and the "why" of everything connected with it. If he understands these
he is better able to realize why certain things must be done and why certain
other.things must not be done, if he is to obtain the most satisfactory results,
the greatest efficiency and the greatest economy, together with durability and
long life of the engine and car. Remember that the difference between a comprehensive
understanding of your automobile and the superficial knowledge
possessed by many drivers is the difference between having troubles and not
having them.
The old adage, "A stitch in time saves nine," applies with special significance
to the motor car. Intelligent care and proper attention will often correct
a needed adjustment or lubricate a part that is becoming dry, but which,
if neglected, may cause serious and possibly expensive damage.
On the other hand is frequently found the user who is constantly tinkering
with his car when there is no necessity for it. Avoid both extremes. If, after
seeing that all parts are properly lubricated and that all bolts, nuts and screws
are tight, your car is running well, let it alone. Many users drive their Cadillacs
for months without finding an adjustment necessary. If adjustment seems
necessary and you are not sufficiently acquainted with the construction of the
car to know what adjustment is necessary or how to make it, don't experiment
but take the car to a Cadillac service station.
The most important thing in the care of an automobile is its proper lubrication.
It will be readily understood that where one part moves or works
upon another, there is always more or less friction and these parts must be
oiled more or less frequently. Part Two of this book gives detailed instructions
regarding lubricating. Be sure to read and observe them carefully.
Care is also necessary to see that all nuts, bolts and screws about the
car are kept properly tightened. Most important parts subject to wear are,
wherever possible, provided with adjustments for taking up such wear and
these should be inspected occasionally and receive attention whenever required.
By far the greater portion of "automobile troubles" is the result of negligence
and carelessness, while the reasonable care to which any piece of machinery
is entitled will insure long life and satisfactory service.