🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Chevrolet Model: Corvette Year: 1978 Engine Code: L48 (350 ci V8) Engine Code Optional: L82 (350 ci V8 - High Performance) Generation Generation: C3 (Third Generation) Codes Vin Prefix: 1G1 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Sports Car, Performance Vehicle Target Audience: Enthusiasts, Owners, Professional Mechanics, Restoration Specialists Competitive Analysis Competitors: Datsun 240Z, Porsche 911, Jaguar E-Type (in its era) Key Features Design Era: Iconic 'shark' design, distinctive fender flares, fastback profile Performance Focus: V8 engine power, rear-wheel drive handling Collectible Status: Highly sought-after classic, significant collector's item 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmission Types Page Count Page Count: Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals) Manual Type Manual Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Engine mechanical, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, emissions control Transmission: Manual (Muncie SM465, M20, M21) and Automatic (Turbo Hydramatic 350, TH400) transmission overhaul, diagnosis, and repair Drivetrain: Driveshaft, U-joints, rear axle assembly (P-30 series) Suspension: Front and rear suspension component diagnosis, alignment, and replacement (independent front suspension, multi-leaf rear springs) Brakes: Front disc, rear disc brake system diagnosis, service, and overhaul Steering: Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering linkage Electrical: Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, gauges, switches, power windows, radio Body: Body panel alignment, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, bumpers, T-tops HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes, belt and hose inspections Troubleshooting: System-specific diagnostic charts and procedures for common and intermittent faults Repair: Component overhaul, replacement of worn or damaged parts, assembly and disassembly procedures Diagnostics: Step-by-step diagnostic routines for engine, electrical, and mechanical systems Specifications: Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchable: Likely searchable text for efficient information retrieval Printable: Printable pages for on-the-job reference Print Quality Quality: High resolution, clear diagrams and text (typical for professional workshop manuals) Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: 350 cubic inch (5.7L) V8 Bore X Stroke: 4.00 in x 3.48 in (101.6 mm x 88.4 mm) Compression Ratio L48: 8.0:1 Horsepower L48: 195 hp @ 4800 rpm (SAE Net) Torque L48: 285 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (SAE Net) Optional Engine Engine Type L82: 350 cubic inch (5.7L) V8 (High Performance) Compression Ratio L82: 8.5:1 Horsepower L82: 220 hp @ 5000 rpm (SAE Net) Torque L82: 260 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (SAE Net) Performance Fuel Delivery: Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor (L48), Rochester M4MC 4-barrel carburetor (L82) Fuel System Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Fuel Pump Type: Mechanical, engine-driven Ignition System Ignition Type: Electronic Ignition (HEI - High Energy Ignition) Cooling System Cooling Type: Water-cooled, pressurized system Lubrication System Oil Capacity: 5 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter Oil Type: Refer to manual for specific API service classification and viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Std: 4-speed Manual Transmission (M20 or M21, depending on engine option) Optional Transmission Type Opt: 3-speed Automatic Transmission (Turbo Hydramatic TH350 or TH400) Features Clutch Type: Dry single plate, hydraulic actuation (manual transmission) Transmission Fluid Automatic: Dexron II (or equivalent) Transmission Fluid Manual: GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 180.5 inches (4585 mm) Width: 70.8 inches (1798 mm) Height: 47.1 inches (1196 mm) Wheelbase: 98.0 inches (2489 mm) Front Track: 59.6 inches (1514 mm) Rear Track: 60.0 inches (1524 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3,300 - 3,500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg), varies by options Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 4,100 lbs (1860 kg) Cargo Cargo Volume: Approx. 10.4 cubic feet (behind seats) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: Not available by modern NHTSA standards; designed to earlier safety regulations. Active Features Brakes: Power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes Steering: Recirculating ball steering, power assist optional Passive Features Seatbelts: Three-point retractable front seat belts Headrests: Integrated headrests Lighting: Halogen headlights, standard lighting system 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM radio, optional 8-track player or cassette player Gauges: Full complement of analog gauges including speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, water temperature, voltage, and fuel level. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional cruise control system Connectivity Connectivity Features: N/A (No modern connectivity features) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (typical recommendation for the era). Tune Up Interval: Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, depending on component wear. Transmission Fluid Change: Every 20,000 - 30,000 miles or 24 months. Coolant Flush Interval: Every 24,000 miles or 24 months. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: API SF, SG, or SH service category; SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40...
Not available by modern NHTSA standards; designed to earlier safety regulations.
Active Features
Brakes:
Power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering, power assist optional
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Three-point retractable front seat belts
Headrests:
Integrated headrests
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, standard lighting system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio, optional 8-track player or cassette player
Gauges:
Full complement of analog gauges including speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, water temperature, voltage, and fuel level.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No modern connectivity features)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (typical recommendation for the era).
Tune Up Interval:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, depending on component wear.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 24,000 miles or 24 months.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SF, SG, or SH service category; SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most climates.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II (or equivalent)
Known Issues
Fiberglass Cracks:
Cracking or crazing of fiberglass body panels, especially around stress points.
Weatherstripping:
Deterioration of door, window, and T-top weatherstripping leading to leaks.
Vacuum Lines:
Leaky or brittle vacuum lines affecting various systems (headlights, climate control).
Corrosion:
Frame and chassis corrosion, particularly in salt-belt regions.
T-Top Leaks:
Common issues with T-top seals and latches causing water ingress.
Maintenance Tips
Carburetor Adjustment:
Regular carburetor tuning and cleaning is essential for optimal performance.
Ignition Maintenance:
Checking spark plugs, distributor cap, and rotor for wear is crucial for the HEI system.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet's long history of performance vehicles and iconic American cars
Model Evolution
C3 Development:
The C3 Corvette, introduced in 1968, underwent continuous refinement through the 1970s, with 1978 marking a significant year with the introduction of the Gymkhana 500 'Indy Pace Car' and Collector's Edition models.
1978 Updates:
Introduction of the 'fastback' style rear window, eliminating the previous removable rear glass. New interior design elements and improved ergonomics. Unibody construction with bolted-on fiberglass body panels.
Production
Production Years:
1968-1982 (for C3 generation)
Manufacturing Location:
St. Louis, Missouri, USA (prior to 1981 move to Bowling Green, Kentucky)
Sales Figures 1978:
Approximately 47,000 units sold
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Collectible Status:
Widely recognized as a desirable classic Corvette model
Special Editions:
1978 Indy 500 Pace Car Edition and Collector's Edition are highly prized.
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