T (300 HP 327ci/5.4L V8, Turbo-Hydra-Matic), V (350 HP 327ci/5.4L V8, 4-speed Manual), P (300 HP 327ci/5.4L V8, 4-speed Manual - L30), S (365 HP 427ci/7.0L V8, 4-speed Manual - L36), R (400 HP 427ci/7.0L V8, 4-speed Manual - L68), N (435 HP 427ci/7.0L V8, 4-speed Manual - L71), M (460 HP 427ci/7.0L V8, 4-speed Manual - L89 Aluminum Heads), Z (430 HP 427ci/7.0L V8, 4-speed Manual - ZL1 Aluminum Block - Special Order)
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Market Position 1968:
The 1968 Corvette represented Chevrolet's entry into the third generation (C3) of its iconic sports car, aiming to compete with European exotics and other American performance cars with its dramatic new styling and powerful V8 engine options.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, collectors, and owners of the 1968 Chevrolet Corvette seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, and restorations.
Revolutionary 'Mako Shark' inspired design, a significant departure from the C2 Sting Ray, featuring a long hood, short deck, and concealed headlights.
Performance Focus:
Offered a range of potent V8 engines, cementing its reputation as an American performance benchmark.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential, accurate, and detailed information for owners and mechanics to maintain and restore the 1968 Corvette to factory specifications, crucial for preserving its classic status.
Approximately 800-1000 (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era, though exact PDF count may vary)
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF Download
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanics:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, assembly, tuning, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor and fuel pump), ignition system (distributor, coils, spark plugs), exhaust system, emissions control systems (if applicable for the era).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (Muncie M20/M21/M22) overhaul and repair, Automatic transmission (TH400) overhaul and repair, clutch system, driveshaft, rear axle assembly (Positraction and open differentials), universal joints, CV joints (if applicable).
Chassis Suspension:
Front suspension (independent, unequal length A-arms, coil springs, sway bar), rear suspension (independent trailing arms, transverse leaf spring), shock absorbers, steering system (power steering optional), wheel bearings, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes (power assisted), rear drum brakes, brake fluid specifications, hydraulic system troubleshooting, parking brake system, brake component replacement and adjustment.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, turn signals), instrumentation (gauges, warning lights), wiper system, horn, power windows (optional), radio, wiring diagrams, fuse panel, troubleshooting electrical faults.
Body Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, weatherstripping, interior trim, seats, dashboard, convertible top mechanism (if applicable), body repair techniques, rust prevention.
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, tune-up procedures, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points, tire rotation, belt inspection and adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical short/open circuit diagnosis, mechanical component failure analysis.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major systems.
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance and adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and bodywork repair.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF
Searchable Text:
Likely searchable text, enabling quick access to specific information.
Printability:
Printable pages for on-the-job use.
Resolution:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation ensure clarity of diagrams and text.
Carbureted (Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel for most 327 and 427, Rochester 2-barrel for base 327, Triple Rochester 2-barrels for Tri-Power 427s, specific Holley carbs for L71/L89/ZL1)
Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated (manual transmission)
Rear Axle Ratio:
Varied by engine and transmission, typically ranging from 3.08:1 to 4.11:1, including Positraction limited-slip differential options.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
98.0 inches (2489 mm)
Overall Length:
175.1 inches (4448 mm)
Overall Width:
69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Overall Height Coupe:
47.8 inches (1214 mm)
Overall Height Convertible:
47.2 inches (1199 mm)
Front Track:
56.1 inches (1425 mm)
Rear Track:
58.3 inches (1481 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Est:
3,100 - 3,400 lbs (approx. depending on engine and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Est:
Approximately 3,700 lbs
Cargo
Trunk Volume Est:
Approximately 10.7 cubic feet
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Safety Ratings Era:
Safety standards were significantly different in 1968; formal crash test ratings as we know them today were not widely available or standardized.
Active Features
Active Safety Features Standard:
Four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes, independent suspension for superior handling.
Active Safety Features Optional:
Power steering (improves maneuverability), Positraction differential (enhances traction).
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features Standard:
Three-point seat belts (introduced as standard on most new cars in 1968), padded dashboard and steering wheel, shatter-resistant windshield.
Passive Safety Features Optional:
Headrests (optional on some models).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment Options:
AM/FM radio, AM/FM Multiplex radio (Stereo), optional 8-track tape player.
Speakers:
Typically two speakers (dash-mounted), with optional rear speakers for some models.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
None by modern standards. Focus was on driver control and mechanical feedback.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. (Based on typical recommendations for the era; modern synthetic oils may allow for extended intervals but consult with a specialist for classic car use).
Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change.
Tune Up Recommendation:
Inspect and replace spark plugs, points, condenser, distributor cap and rotor at approximately 12,000-15,000 miles or annually. Check ignition timing annually.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Inspect fluid level every 12,000 miles. Automatic: Change fluid and filter every 24,000 miles (or as per service manual for heavy-duty use).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Flush and replace coolant every 24,000 miles or 2 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API Service Classification SE or SD (check original manual for specific viscosity recommendations, typically 10W-30 or 10W-40 for general use). For classic cars, consider high-zinc (ZDDP) content oils for flat-tappet camshaft protection.
Engine Oil Capacity:
5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter for 327ci; 6 US quarts (5.7 L) with filter for 427ci.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GM Synchromesh Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent GL-4 rated gear oil). Capacity: Approximately 2.0 US quarts (1.9 L).
Transmission Fluid Automatic Th400:
Dexron III/Mercon ATF. Capacity: Approximately 1.5 US quarts (1.4 L) for refill, 3.5 US quarts (3.3 L) for change with filter.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Heavy Duty Brake Fluid (glycol-based).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Known Issues
Common Issues Electrical:
Aging wiring harnesses can lead to intermittent electrical faults, corrosion in connectors, failing relays, and issues with the headlight vacuum system.
Common Issues Mechanical:
Carburetor adjustment and tuning, vacuum leaks, aging weatherstripping leading to water intrusion, suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), potential for overheating in heavy traffic with larger engines without proper cooling system maintenance.
Common Issues Body:
Corrosion, particularly around wheel wells, rocker panels, and chassis components. Fiberglass body cracks or delamination can occur with age or impact.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Chevrolet Heritage:
Chevrolet, founded in 1911, has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from economy cars to trucks and performance automobiles. The Corvette, introduced in 1953, is its flagship sports car, embodying American automotive performance and style.
Model Evolution
C3 Introduction:
The 1968 model year marked the debut of the C3 generation, a completely redesigned Corvette with styling heavily influenced by the Mako Shark II concept car. It was a bold statement for Chevrolet, moving away from the previous generation's lines.
1968 Specifics:
Notable changes for 1968 included the introduction of the T-tops on the coupe body style, concealed headlights, and a wider range of engine options, including the formidable 427 cubic inch Big Blocks.
Production
Production Location:
St. Louis, Missouri, USA
Production Volume 1968:
28,566 units produced for the 1968 model year.
Key Personnel Design:
Larry Shinoda (exterior design lead), Zora Arkus-Duntov (chief engineer, instrumental in performance development).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Icon Status:
The C3 Corvette, particularly the 1968 model year, is recognized as a significant milestone in automotive design and performance, holding a strong place in automotive history and collector circles.
Ratings
Collector Value:
Highly sought after by collectors, with values varying significantly based on engine, options, condition, and originality. The L89 and ZL1 models are particularly rare and valuable.
Certifications
Historic Vehicle Status:
Many 1968 Corvettes are eligible for historic vehicle registration and related benefits in various regions, recognizing their classic status.