The Chrysler Royal AP3, introduced in Australia in 1960, represented the final development of Chrysler Australia’s Royal series. Built by Chrysler Australia Limited in Adelaide, the AP3 continued the strong chassis and mechanical layout of earlier Royal models while introducing updated styling and mechanical refinements.
The AP3 was powered by Chrysler’s 313 cubic inch “Fury” V8 engine, providing strong performance for the large Australian sedan. Combined with Chrysler’s automatic transmission and durable chassis construction, the Royal AP3 was designed to handle the long-distance touring conditions common throughout Australia.
The following factory specifications outline the key mechanical and dimensional features of the Chrysler Royal AP3.
Dimensions
Wheelbase: 115 inches
Maximum length: 199 11/16 inches
Maximum width across bumpers: 73¼ inches
Kerb height: 63½ inches
Front track: 55⅜ inches
Rear track: 58⅞ inches
Ground clearance: 7 11/16 inches
Tare weight: 3,500 lbs
Engine
Fury V8
Configuration: Overhead valve V8
Displacement: 313 cubic inches
Bore: 3.875 inches
Stroke: 3.312 inches
Compression ratio: 9.0 : 1
Taxable horsepower: 48.05
Maximum horsepower: 220 hp at 4,000 RPM
Maximum torque: 325 lb-ft at 2,800 RPM
Cylinder head: cast iron
Engine mounting used eccentric rubber-insulated mountings at the front and bonded rubber mountings at the rear to reduce vibration.
Cooling System
Pressure cooling system with permanent by-pass thermostat.
Cooling capacity: 16 quarts
Fan: 18 inch four-blade fan
Centrifugal water pump.
Lubrication System
Normal oil pressure: 50–60 psi at 1,500 RPM
Oil intake: fixed type
Oil filter: replaceable element
Crankcase capacity: 4 quarts
Fuel System
Fuel tank capacity: 15½ gallons
Fuel filter: sintered bronze filter in tank
Carburettor: dual downdraft carburettor
Automatic choke.
Air cleaner: dry element type (replaceable)
Braking System
Hydraulic self-equalising internal expanding brakes.
Each front wheel used an individual hydraulic cylinder to ensure balanced braking force.
Total brake lining contact area: 150 square inches
The hand brake was operated by a T-handle release mechanism and acted on the rear of the transmission.
Power Brakes
Vacuum-assisted power brakes were available as optional equipment. The vacuum servo unit multiplied the pressure applied to the brake pedal, reducing the effort required for braking.
Steering
Conventional Steering
Direct double tie-rod steering system with worm and three-tooth roller gears.
Steering ratio: 27.5 : 1
Turning circle: 38 feet
The steering system was designed to be self-centering.
Power Steering
Hydraulic power steering was available as optional equipment.
The system used a rotary-type hydraulic pump driven from the engine to supply pressure to the steering linkage.
Oil filtration used a cartridge-type filter which did not require periodic oil changes.
Chassis and Frame
The Royal AP3 used a double channel box-section chassis frame with drop-centre side rails.
The frame was reinforced with four cross members to improve rigidity and structural strength.
Maximum side member depth: 5¾ inches
Maximum outside width at deepest point: 4½ inches
Steel thickness: 3/32 inch
Suspension
Front Suspension
Independent front suspension using:
Coil springs
Unequal length control arms
Telescopic shock absorbers mounted inside the coil springs
Rear Suspension
Long semi-elliptic leaf springs with telescopic shock absorbers mounted in “sea-leg” position.
Auxiliary rear springs were available as optional equipment.
Transmission
Push Button TorqueFlite Automatic Transmission
The Chrysler Royal AP3 used the TorqueFlite automatic transmission, controlled by push buttons on the instrument panel.
The transmission used a torque converter coupled to a hydraulically controlled planetary gear system, providing smooth automatic gear changes.
Gear ratios:
Reverse: 2.00 : 1
Neutral
Drive range:
1st: 2.45 : 1
2nd: 1.45 : 1
Direct: 1.00 : 1
Low range:
2.45 : 1
Rear Axle
Semi-floating hypoid rear axle.
Steel axle shafts with carbon molybdenum hypoid gears.
Differential used two-pinion design.
Final drive ratio: 3.31 : 1
Lubricant capacity: 2½ pints
Wheels and Tyres
Steel disc wheels with drop-centre safety rims.
Wheel size: 15 x 4.50K
Standard tyres:
6.70 x 15 (4 ply) tubeless
Optional equipment:
6.70 x 15 (6 ply) tubeless
Chrysler Royal AP3
The Chrysler Royal AP3 represented the final and most refined version of Chrysler Australia’s Royal series. With updated styling, improved suspension and the powerful 313 cubic inch V8 engine, the AP3 provided strong performance and comfort for Australian motorists during the early 1960s.
Workshop Information
The specifications listed above provide an overview of the Chrysler Royal AP3 mechanical design.
Complete servicing procedures, adjustment specifications and detailed repair information, service procedures and adjustment data, refer to the Chrysler Royal workshop manual available from Car Manuals Direct.
