Which is better, Haynes Manuals or Chilton Manuals?

Question

I've used both and never notice anything "wrong" with a haynes manual but I have notice many problems when using Chilton manuals. With chilton I've seen a lack of info, pictures, and a complete lack of a trouble shooting guide chapter. With Chilton's I've seen where they will skip steps like for example, just one of many in my current manual, it says to "locate the fuel filter which is either on rear frame rail or on the passenger side of the engine, it will vary by model." Okay... Didn't I buy this manual so they could tell me these things for my specific model not so they could just say that it varies and I should figure it out on my own. Second, shouldn't there be a picture of the fuel filter like haynes provides so that I can find it as there are several different types and colors of filters? Another example in my current manual is when telling you how to take off a drive axle instead of telling you how to remove the "hub" it just says "remove the hub." I like how haynes manuals take out all the guess work and shows it to you in a way that even someone who has never worked on a car in their life could pick up the book and tear it down to the frame and rebuild it too. Tell me what your experience with both these manuals has been and which you prefer and I'll dole out the ten points to the best answer I get, thanks!

Answer 1

I like Haynes better than Chilton. Chilton manuals tend to cover more than one model of automobile. Haynes seems to have more pictures and explains the parts in more detail. I would have to say the best manual to have is the one from the factory if you are a DIY person. I have both Chilton and Haynes myself to have more information.  

Answer 2

I buy both the Haynes and Chilton manuals because one might cover one repair better than the other and for the next repair the opposite is true.  The manuals only cost about $15 so any help they provide is worth the cost.

Answer 3

chilton is people who already their car ,just a guide. haynes is to help you understand everthing.

Answer 4

I'm with you, the Haynes manual is meant for DIY'ers~ I have the Chilton and Haynes for my "77 Camaro, and my mechanic has to explain logistics from Chilton's~ Haynes makes sense~ I do reference Camaro websites which are also helpful, just kinda Google around until you find one you like for your vehicle ~  Also,  I take digital photos as I tear down to make sure it goes back together the same way~  !