🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Chevrolet Model: Corvette Year: 1997 Codes Platform: C5 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The introduction of the C5 Corvette in 1997 marked a significant technological and design leap, establishing it as a premier sports car. This manual reflects that advanced engineering. Competitive Analysis Competitors: The 1997 Corvette competed against performance cars like the Porsche 911 (996 generation), Ferrari 355, and high-performance variants of the Dodge Viper and Ford Mustang Cobra. Key Features Innovations: The C5 platform introduced a hydroformed 'backbone' frame for increased rigidity, a transaxle for better weight distribution, and the new LS1 V8 engine. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: All models & all repairs A-Z Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 2500-3000 pages (typical for full service manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Print (likely comb-bound or hard cover originally) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emission controls, engine performance diagnostics Transmission: Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and diagnostics Drivetrain: Driveshaft, rear axle, differential service and repair Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs, control arms Steering: Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion service Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (including ABS), hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake Electrical: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control modules, power accessories, wiring diagrams HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair Body: Body panels, doors, windows, locks, exterior trim, interior trim, seating systems Chassis: Frame components, structural integrity, corrosion protection Diagnostics: On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I/OBD-II) procedures, fault codes, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) Procedures Included Maintenance: Regular scheduled maintenance procedures, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues Repair: Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems Rebuild: Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including specifications and tolerances Adjustment: Component adjustments (e.g., clutch, throttle linkage, parking brake) Disassembly Assembly: Complete instructions for disassembling and reassembling all vehicle systems Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics Target Audience: Professional technicians, advanced DIY mechanics 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: N/A (Original product is print) Print Quality Print Quality: High (Factory original documentation) Binding Type Binding: Likely comb-bound or hardcover Paper Type Paper Type: Durable, high-quality paper suitable for shop use ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: LS1 Configuration: 5.7L (350 cu in) V8 Displacement: 5735 cc (350 cubic inches) Bore X Stroke: 3.90 in x 3.62 in (99.0 mm x 92.0 mm) Compression Ratio: 10.1:1 Performance Horsepower: 345 bhp @ 5600 rpm Torque: 350 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended) Ignition System Ignition Type: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual coil packs 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 6-speed manual transmission Optional Type: 4-speed automatic transmission (4L60-E) Features Layout: Rear transaxle configuration for optimal weight distribution Fluid Specs Manual Transmission Fluid: Dexron III-H ATF or equivalent (check specific manual for exact part number and capacity) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron III-H ATF or equivalent (check specific manual for exact part number and capacity) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 178.5 inches (4534 mm) Width: 73.1 inches (1857 mm) Height: 47.8 inches (1214 mm) Wheelbase: 104.5 inches (2654 mm) Weights Curb Weight Approx: 3150-3250 lbs (1429-1474 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: Approximately 3750 lbs (1701 kg) Cargo Cargo Volume: 15.0 cubic feet (split between rear storage and trunk) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Not explicitly rated by NHTSA in a comparable format to modern standards; generally considered safe for its era. IIHS Front Overlap: Not applicable to 1997 models. Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Standard Traction Control System (TCS) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger frontal airbags Seat Belts: Three-point active seat belts with pretensioners Chassis Structure: Hydroformed steel frame designed for high torsional rigidity and crash safety 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player and cassette tape player. Optional premium sound system. Display: Digital odometer and information center display. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard electronic cruise control Connectivity Telematics: N/A for 1997 models (OnStar was not yet integrated). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact recommendation). Spark Plug Replacement: Typically around 100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs. Coolant Flush: Recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles or as per manual specifications. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (GM-specific specifications likely apply, e.g., GM6094M - consult manual for exact spec) Engine Oil Capacity: Approximately 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter Coolant Type: GM-specified Orange Long-Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or...