Clymer repair manuals are vehicle repair manuals that often focus on powersport vehicles such as motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, personal water craft and snowmobiles. Clymer also has several books dedicated to small engines and "outdoor power equipment" such as leaf blowers, chainsaws and other lawn and garden power equipment.
Clymer repair manuals are named after their creator Floyd Clymer, who is described in the Motorcycle Hall of Fame as:
"a pioneer in the sport of motorcycling. He was a racer, a motorcycle dealer and distributor, a magazine publisher, a racing promoter, an author and a motorcycle manufacturer."
Clymer repair manuals are categorized as an aftermarket product or non-OEM. Unlike OEM manuals, Clymer repair manuals are written specifically for the do it yourself as well as the professional and experienced mechanic. OEM manuals are often designed for a professional technician, who often has at their disposal an array of specialized tools, equipment and knowledge.
One valuable step in the creation process of a Clymer repair manuals is the complete disassembly and reassembly of the machine. This helps the writers for Clymer provide easy-to-follow instructions that allow the manual user to safely and efficiently service and repair their machine. This high level of detail sets Clymer apart from its factory "OEM" counterparts.
In 2013, Haynes Publishing Group acquired Clymer repair manuals from Penton Media.
Manufacturers covered
Clymer currently has over three hundred repair manuals that cover thousands of models. Some of the most popular models are the Honda TRX ATVs, International Harvester Farm Tractors, BMW K1200 Series, Harley-Davidson FLH & FLT Twin Cam 88 & 103 models and the MerCruiser Stern Drive Marine Engines.
Here are some of the manufacturers covered in the Clymer library: