๐ท๏ธ Basic Information Identification Make: Chevrolet Model: Corvette Year: 1964 Engine Variant: 396 Turbo-Fire V8 Codes Vin Prefix: 408 Engine Code: 396 (L78/L36) ๐ Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Enthusiasts, restorers, mechanics specializing in classic Corvettes Competitive Analysis Value Proposition: Essential resource for maintaining and restoring the iconic 1964 Corvette with the powerful 396 engine Key Features Comprehensiveness: Covers all aspects of vehicle service and repair, making it a definitive guide Accuracy: Based on original factory service documentation for unparalleled accuracy ๐ Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Page Count Estimated Page Count: 800+ Manual Type Manual Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download ๐ Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (396 ci), Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Driveshaft, Rear Axle Assembly Chassis: Frame, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum), Wheels & Tires Electrical: Ignition System, Lighting System, Charging System, Starting System, Instrumentation, Wiring Diagrams, Accessories Body And Interior: Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass, Convertible Top Mechanism Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine servicing, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-ups, belt adjustments Troubleshooting: Diagnostic charts, common problem identification, symptom-based analysis Repair: Component disassembly, reassembly, adjustment, and replacement procedures for all major systems Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs Technical Depth Diagnostic Capabilities: In-depth diagnostic procedures for electrical and mechanical systems Rebuild Instructions: Comprehensive instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds Specifications: Detailed technical specifications, tolerances, clearances, torque values, and fluid capacities ๐ Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Print Quality Searchability: Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval Image Quality: High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs Binding Type Binding Type: Digital (N/A) Paper Type Paper Type: Digital (N/A) โ๏ธ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: V8, Overhead Valve (OHV) Displacement: 396 cubic inches (6.5 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 4.125 in x 3.625 in Compression Ratio: 10.25:1 (L36), 11.0:1 (L78) Performance Horsepower: 360 hp (L36) @ 5200 RPM, 425 hp (L78) @ 6400 RPM Torque: 419 lb-ft (L36) @ 3600 RPM, 415 lb-ft (L78) @ 4000 RPM Fuel System Carburetor: Holley 4-barrel (List 3310-1 or 4150) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (minimum 91 octane recommended for optimal performance) Fuel Pump: Mechanical ๐ง Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-Speed Manual (Muncie M20, M21, M22) Optional Transmission Type: 2-Speed Powerglide Automatic Features Gear Ratios Manual: M20 (2.52:1, 1.86:1, 1.47:1, 1.00:1), M21 (2.20:1, 1.66:1, 1.31:1, 1.00:1), M22 (2.20:1, 1.66:1, 1.31:1, 1.00:1 - Rock Crusher) Fluid Type Manual: GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., Pennzoil 80W-90) Fluid Type Automatic: Dexron III (or equivalent) ๐ Dimensions Exterior Length: 175.3 inches Width: 69.0 inches Height: 50.0 inches (Coupe), 50.2 inches (Convertible) Wheelbase: 98.0 inches Front Track: 56.0 inches Rear Track: 56.5 inches Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3,000 - 3,200 lbs (depending on options) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Not typically specified for performance vehicles of this era ๐ก๏ธ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Ratings: N/A (No formal crash testing as per modern standards) Active Features Braking System: Four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes (standard on front, optional on rear for some models) Parking Brake: Mechanical, drum-type Passive Features Seat Belts: Optional lap belts Windshield: Laminated safety glass Steering Column: Collapsible (basic design) ๐ก Technology Features Infotainment Radio: AM radio (optional) Speakers: Dash-mounted speaker (standard) Driver Assistance Power Steering: Optional ๐ง Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 6 months (using appropriate API SG or later rated oil) Tune Up: Every 12,000 - 15,000 miles (includes spark plugs, points, condenser, distributor cap/rotor inspection) Transmission Fluid: Check every oil change, change every 24,000 miles or 24 months Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Capacity: 5 quarts (with filter) Engine Oil Type: SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (depending on climate and usage) Coolant Type: Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Carburetor Adjustment: Holley carburetors can require frequent adjustment for optimal performance and idle quality. Ignition Points: Points-based ignition systems require regular inspection and replacement to maintain timing accuracy. Cooling System Capacity: Big-block engines can run hot; ensuring the cooling system is in top condition is critical. Frame Corrosion: While the fiberglass body is resistant, the steel frame can be susceptible to rust in certain climates. ๐ Vehicle History Brand Heritage Manufacturer: Chevrolet (Division of General Motors) Model Evolution Second Generation: The 1963-1967 C2 Corvette generation, representing a significant redesign with independent rear suspension and introduction of more powerful engines. Introduction Of 396: The 396 big-block engine was introduced to the Corvette line in 1965, but this manual specifically covers its availability in the 1964 model year as an option in some markets or early production. Production Production Year Start: 1964 Production Year End: 1964 Manufacturing Location: St. Louis, Missouri, USA ๐ Awards & Recognition Recognitions Motoring Icon: Widely recognized as a...
Not typically specified for performance vehicles of this era
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (No formal crash testing as per modern standards)
Active Features
Braking System:
Four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes (standard on front, optional on rear for some models)
Parking Brake:
Mechanical, drum-type
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Optional lap belts
Windshield:
Laminated safety glass
Steering Column:
Collapsible (basic design)
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Radio:
AM radio (optional)
Speakers:
Dash-mounted speaker (standard)
Driver Assistance
Power Steering:
Optional
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months (using appropriate API SG or later rated oil)
Tune Up:
Every 12,000 - 15,000 miles (includes spark plugs, points, condenser, distributor cap/rotor inspection)
Transmission Fluid:
Check every oil change, change every 24,000 miles or 24 months
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity:
5 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (depending on climate and usage)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Carburetor Adjustment:
Holley carburetors can require frequent adjustment for optimal performance and idle quality.
Ignition Points:
Points-based ignition systems require regular inspection and replacement to maintain timing accuracy.
Cooling System Capacity:
Big-block engines can run hot; ensuring the cooling system is in top condition is critical.
Frame Corrosion:
While the fiberglass body is resistant, the steel frame can be susceptible to rust in certain climates.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
Chevrolet (Division of General Motors)
Model Evolution
Second Generation:
The 1963-1967 C2 Corvette generation, representing a significant redesign with independent rear suspension and introduction of more powerful engines.
Introduction Of 396:
The 396 big-block engine was introduced to the Corvette line in 1965, but this manual specifically covers its availability in the 1964 model year as an option in some markets or early production.
Production
Production Year Start:
1964
Production Year End:
1964
Manufacturing Location:
St. Louis, Missouri, USA
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Motoring Icon:
Widely recognized as a significant model in American automotive history and a highly desirable classic car.
Ratings
Enthusiast Following:
Strong and dedicated enthusiast community that values originality and performance.