Dual Range Hydra-Matic Drive - Pontiac 1955 Owner's Manual

Dual Kange
Mydra-Matic Drive
The Hydra-Matic drive consists of a fluid coupling, which replaces
the conventional clutch, combined with a hydraulically controlled
automatic transmission having four speeds forward and one reverse.
Gear changing is accomplished automatically by the transmission in
accordance with the performance demands of the road conditions
encountered and the wishes of the driver.
HOW TO OPERATE THE DUAL RANGE HYDRA-MATIC
DRIVE—The Hydra-Matic drive is convenient to operate in that the
driver only selects, by use of the control lever and indicator segment,
the speed range in which he wishes the car to operate. The speed
ranges are clearly shown on the indicator segment, and are illuminated
when the instrument panel lights are turned on. The speed ranges are
designated as follows:
N—Neutral and starting
ADR—For all normal forward driving and improved fuel economy.
DRA—For faster acceleration and driving in congested traffic.
LO—For controlled power.
R—Reverse and parking
TO START ENGINE-Place Hydra-
Matic control lever in N (neutral) position.
The starting circuit is wired so that
the starter will not operate unless the
lever is in neutral; press accelerator pedal
to toeboard once and release, this allows the
automatic choke to close and position throttle as determined by the
"starting" step of the fast idle cam; turn the ignition switch key to
the right to the full stop position, release as soon as engine starts. As
soon as engine is running open accelerator slightly and then release
to position throttle as determined by the "running" steps of the fast
idle cam.
Should the engine fail to start in five to ten seconds, it is possible that
it is flooded. In that case, press the accelerator pedal slowly to the
floor and hold it there when starting. This renders the choke inoper
ative and relieves the flooded condition.
NOTES: When starting at temperature below 0° F. it may be necessary
to hold accelerator pedal down slightly to open throttle more than provided
by the "starting" step of, the cam.
When starting a warm or hot engine, hold accelerator pedal down half way.
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