Since the early 20th century, Chilton has been producing manuals that aid auto enthusiasts and car care professionals in performing do-it-yourself repairs. While these repair manuals are available through the Chilton website for a subscription pricing, there are ways to get these manuals for free.
The Internet has allowed many public libraries to link items such as manuals online. Search your local city, town or county public library where you are a member to see whether it has the Chilton guides. If it does, you will be able to read them online or go to the library and read them in person.
Community message boards, such as Craigslist, are places that bring enthusiasts together. Create a posting detailing what Chilton manual you are specifically looking to find. You can also place ads on social networking websites to see whether friends or family have copies of the guide you are interested in obtaining.
If you are looking for Chilton guides that are a little older, you can try calling auto repair shops that specialize in the make of your vehicle. If you are trying to perform a do-it-yourself repair, they may give you their Chilton guide or allow you to read about the repair while at their shop.
While the Chilton website is a subscription-based service, it does offer a free limited trial. The trial will allow you to view certain pages of the manual you are interested in obtaining. This allows you to perform your repair, using the guide for free.
