1988 Cadillac Brougham Repair Manual

The 1988 Cadillac Brougham Repair Manual provides comprehensive technical information for maintaining and repairing the luxury full-size sedan. This manual covers the 5.0L V8 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive system, electrical systems, suspension, brakes, steering, climate control, and body components. Below are key sections for maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, specifications, and repair instructions.

1. General Information 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Repair 4. Transmission Service 5. Electrical Systems 6. Brake System 7. Suspension & Steering 8. Climate Control 9. Body & Interior 10. Troubleshooting 11. Technical Specifications

General Information

Vehicle identification, manual organization, safety precautions, and tool requirements.

ComponentDescription
Vehicle Identification NumberLocated on driver's side dashboard
Engine Code5.0L V8 (L05) gasoline engine
Transmission4-speed automatic (THM 700-R4)
Fuel SystemElectronic fuel injection
Brake SystemPower-assisted front disc/rear drum
SuspensionFront independent, rear leaf spring
SteeringPower recirculating ball
Electrical12-volt negative ground

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals and procedures.

  1. Oil and filter change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
  2. Tire rotation: Every 6,000 miles
  3. Coolant flush: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
  4. Transmission fluid: Every 15,000 miles
  5. Brake fluid: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
  6. Spark plugs: Every 30,000 miles
  7. Air filter: Every 15,000 miles
  8. Fuel filter: Every 30,000 miles

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before electrical work. Use jack stands when lifting vehicle.

Engine Repair

5.0L V8 engine service and repair procedures.

  1. Compression test: Remove spark plugs, test each cylinder
  2. Valve adjustment: Hydraulic lifters, no adjustment required
  3. Timing chain: Replace at 100,000 miles
  4. Fuel injection service: Clean injectors every 30,000 miles
  5. Cooling system: Check radiator, hoses, thermostat
  6. Exhaust system: Inspect manifolds, catalytic converter

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool before opening cooling system. Relieve fuel pressure before fuel line work.

Transmission Service

Electrical Systems

Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, and accessory circuits.

Battery: Group 78, 12V 650 CCA. Alternator: 12V 100 amp. Starter: Direct drive 12V.

Fuse panel locations: Under dash driver's side, engine compartment. Wiring diagrams included in manual supplement. Common issues: Instrument cluster lights, power seat motors, window regulators.

Brake System

Hydraulic brake system maintenance and repair.

  1. Brake pad replacement: Front disc brakes
  2. Brake shoe replacement: Rear drum brakes
  3. Rotor turning: Minimum thickness 1.230 inches
  4. Drum machining: Maximum diameter 9.060 inches
  5. Bleeding procedure: Right rear, left rear, right front, left front
  6. Parking brake: Cable adjustment at equalizer

Tip: Always replace brake fluid with DOT 3. Inspect brake lines for corrosion.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications.

  1. Ball joints: Check for wear every 15,000 miles
  2. Shock absorbers: Replace if leaking or poor ride quality
  3. Springs: Front coil, rear leaf spring inspection
  4. Alignment: Camber: +0.5° to +1.5°, Caster: +1.5° to +2.5°
  5. Toe-in: 0° to +0.2°
  6. Power steering: Fluid check, pump replacement

WARNING! Use proper spring compressor for front spring removal. Never heat suspension components.

Climate Control

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service.

Body & Interior

Door panels, seats, trim, and exterior body components.

CAUTION! Use plastic trim tools to avoid damage. Follow proper sequence for panel removal.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery, starter, fuel pumpCheck battery voltage, fuel pressure, spark
Poor accelerationFuel filter, ignition timingReplace fuel filter, check timing
Transmission slippingLow fluid, worn bandsCheck fluid level and condition
Brake pullingStuck caliper, fluid leakInspect calipers, brake lines
Electrical issuesGround connections, alternatorCheck grounds, charging system

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 minutes to reset computer.

Service: Refer to GM service bulletins for specific issues.

Technical Specifications

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