🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Chevrolet Model: Corvette Year: 1974 Engine Variant: 454 Big Block Codes Chassis Code: C3 Engine Code: LS4 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Iconic American sports car known for performance and style Competitive Analysis Competitors 1974: Dodge Challenger, Ford Mustang, American Motors Javelin, limited European sports cars Key Features Performance Focus: Emphasis on powerful engine options and sporty handling Design Era: Representing the peak of the C3 Corvette's distinct Stingray styling Collectibility: Highly collectible classic car, making factory service information invaluable 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: All mechanical and electrical systems Body And Frame: Included Interior Trim: Included Paint And Finishes: Included Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds (exact number not specified, but implies comprehensive) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Download PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, rebuilding, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, emission controls Engine Electrical: Ignition system, starting system, charging system, lighting system, instrumentation Transmission: Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch, driveshaft, universal joints Chassis: Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering system, wheels and tires Brakes: Brake system components, hydraulic system, parking brake Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, power distribution, accessory systems, diagnostic procedures Body And Accessories: Body panels, doors, windows, seats, convertible top system, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, fluid changes, tune-up procedures Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, symptom analysis, diagnostic charts Repair: Component replacement, adjustments, rebuilding procedures Overhaul: Complete engine, transmission, and differential overhaul instructions Installation: Component installation and alignment Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for professional mechanics and experienced enthusiasts Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters Illustrations: Diagrams, schematics, and exploded views to aid in disassembly and reassembly 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Searchability: Likely searchable text, enabling quick location of information Print Quality Print Capability: Printable in its entirety or selected pages Binding Type Binding: Not applicable for PDF download, but implies a cohesive document Paper Type Paper Quality: Not applicable for PDF download, but original factory manuals were typically on high-quality paper ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: V8, Overhead Valve (OHV) Displacement: 454 cubic inches (7.4 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 4.25 in x 4.00 in (108.0 mm x 101.6 mm) Compression Ratio: 8.0:1 (LS4) Performance Horsepower Net SAE: 270 hp @ 4000 rpm (LS4) Torque Net SAE: 380 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm (LS4) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Four-barrel (4-bbl) carburetor, Rochester Quadrajet (typical) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (required from 1975, but 1974 engines were designed for it or low-lead) Engine Internals Cylinder Heads: Cast iron with 2.06" intake, 1.72" exhaust valves (LS4) Camshaft: Hydraulic flat tappet, specific lift and duration for LS4 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: Automatic: Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 (THM400) Optional Transmission Type: Manual: 4-speed Muncie (M21/M22, though less common with 454) Features Gearing Automatic: 3-speed planetary gear set Transmission Fluid Thm400: Dexron III (or equivalent, originally Dexron II) Clutch Type: Single dry plate (for manual transmission) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: approx. 176.9 inches (4493 mm) Width: approx. 69.0 inches (1753 mm) Height: approx. 46.0 inches (1168 mm) Wheelbase: 98.0 inches (2489 mm) Weights Curb Weight: approx. 3,400 - 3,700 lbs (1542 - 1678 kg) depending on options Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Not typically specified for sports cars of this era, but implied by chassis strength. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: No standardized crash test ratings exist for vehicles of this era in the modern sense. Active Features Brakes: Front disc, rear disc brakes Steering: Power steering (standard on 454 models) Passive Features Seat Belts: Three-point retractable seat belts (driver and passenger) Interior Materials: Impact-absorbing steering wheel and dashboard padding Windshield: Laminated safety glass 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio: AM/FM radio (optional factory or aftermarket) or standard AM radio Speakers: Dash-mounted speakers (typically two) Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional factory cruise control system Connectivity Connectivity Features: None in the modern sense; purely mechanical and analog systems. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 6 months (typical for the era) Tune Up: As needed, but typically every 12,000-24,000 miles (includes spark plugs, points, condenser, filters) Transmission Fluid Change: Every 24,000 - 36,000 miles (or as specified by manual) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Capacity: 5 quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter (check manual for exact capacity and type, e.g., SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40) Coolant Capacity: Approx. 20-22 quarts (18.9-20.8 Liters) (50/50 Ethylene Glycol/Water) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 (or DOT 4) hydraulic brake fluid Power Steering Fluid: Dexron III (or equivalent) Known Issues Carburetor Problems: Vacuum leaks, sticky accelerator pump, flooding (common with Rochester Quadrajet) Fiberglass Delamination: Potential for delamination or cracking of body panels due to age and stress Ignition System: Wear on points and condenser, distributor cap/rotor issues Differential Leaks: Common wear...
Vacuum leaks, sticky accelerator pump, flooding (common with Rochester Quadrajet)
Fiberglass Delamination:
Potential for delamination or cracking of body panels due to age and stress
Ignition System:
Wear on points and condenser, distributor cap/rotor issues
Differential Leaks:
Common wear items in rear axle seals and bearings
Part Numbers Example
Oil Filter Recommendation:
AC-Delco PF-2 (or equivalent equivalent from Fram, Wix, etc.) - manual will list specific GM part numbers.
Spark Plug Recommendation:
AC-Delco R45TS (or equivalent) - manual will specify exact type and gap.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet's long history of performance and innovation in American automotive manufacturing.
Model Evolution
C3 Corvette Generation:
Third generation (C3) Corvette, introduced in 1968, known for its 'Coke bottle' styling.
1974 Updates:
Introduction of a new rear bumper system with integrated lights, elimination of side vent windows, further refinements to the chassis and engine management.
Production
Production Year:
1974
Production Volume:
Approximately 37,500 Corvettes produced in 1974, with a smaller percentage equipped with the 454 engine.
Manufacturing Location:
St. Louis, Missouri, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Performance Awards:
While specific awards for the 1974 model are rare, Corvettes of this era were consistently praised for their performance capabilities within the American market.
Ratings
Consumer Satisfaction:
Corvettes generally held a strong reputation for enthusiast satisfaction, though repair costs and complexity were higher than mainstream vehicles.
Certifications
Manual Accuracy:
Certified as original factory documentation, ensuring accuracy and completeness.