🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Chevrolet Model: Corvette Model Variant: 427 Year: 1973 Codes Engine Code Primary: LS4 Chassis Code: C3 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Corvette enthusiasts, classic car restorers, independent mechanics, DIY owners Competitive Analysis Value Proposition: Provides authoritative, factory-level repair information, crucial for maintaining and restoring a valuable classic Corvette. Key Features Manual Advantage: Official factory data ensures accuracy and completeness, avoiding guesswork and incorrect repairs. Content Scope: Covers all mechanical and electrical systems specific to the 1973 Corvette with the 427/454 engine options. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: Complete Factory Service and Repair Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds (Specific count not provided, but implies comprehensive) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (427ci, 454ci), Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain Chassis: Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Disc), Frame Electrical: Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Instrumentation, Accessories Body: Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Glass, Bumpers Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Lubrication, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements Repair: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Troubleshooting Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Component Testing Procedures Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic adjustments to complete component disassembly and reassembly) 📊 Manual Specifications File Format PDF Quality: High-resolution, printable Searchable Text: Likely (standard for quality PDF manuals) Print Quality Printability: Full or selective page printing supported Binding Type Binding Ideal For Print: Coil or comb binding recommended for lay-flat use in a shop environment Paper Type Paper Recommendation: Durable, coated paper for shop use to resist oil and grease ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Name Primary: L48 454 V8 (454 cubic inches) Engine Name Secondary: LS4 454 V8 (454 cubic inches) - Higher Performance Variant Engine Code Secondary: L48 Performance Horsepower Ls4: 275 net hp @ 4000 rpm (SAE Gross, potentially higher depending on exact configuration, but net is more relevant) Torque Ls4: 395 lb-ft net @ 3200 rpm Horsepower L48: 275 net hp @ 4000 rpm (Standard) Torque L48: 390 lb-ft net @ 3200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery Ls4: Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor Fuel Delivery L48: Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor Ignition System: High-energy electronic ignition (HEI) with single coil 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: Muncie M20/M21 4-speed manual Optional Optional Transmission: Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 (THM400) 3-speed automatic Features Manual Transmission Features: Close-ratio gearsets available (M21), robust construction. Automatic Transmission Features: Smooth shifting, durable, torque converter lock-up (later models, verify for '73). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 175.1 inches Width: 70.8 inches Height: 47.0 inches Wheelbase: 98.0 inches Weights Curb Weight Est: 3,600 - 3,800 lbs (depending on options) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Est: 4,400 lbs 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Safety Ratings Era: Early 1970s safety standards, no modern crash test ratings available. Active Features Active Safety Features: Power front disc brakes, Rear disc brakes, Independent front suspension, Rear independent suspension Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Lap belts, Steel-reinforced chassis and body structure, Padded interior surfaces 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: AM/FM radio (optional AM/FM stereo, optional 8-track tape player) Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: None by modern standards; features focused on the driving experience. Connectivity Connectivity Features: No external connectivity features; internal focus on mechanical and electrical systems. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (depending on usage and oil quality, consult manual) Tune Up Interval: Typically every 12,000-24,000 miles for spark plugs, points (if not HEI), and filter replacements. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SF or SG classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (verify viscosity for climate) Transmission Fluid Manual: GL-4 gear oil (e.g., Mobil Mobilube HD 75W-90, or equivalent) Transmission Fluid Automatic: Dexron III/Mercon (or earlier spec depending on original fill, consult manual for exact spec) Coolant Type: Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water Known Issues Common Wear Items: Brake components (pads, rotors, lines), suspension bushings, engine seals (oil leaks), carburetor adjustments, electrical connectors Carburetor Issues: Rochester Quadrajets can be finicky and require regular tuning or rebuilding due to age and fuel deposits. Electrical Issues: Corroded wiring connectors, aging insulation, and failing relays are common in vehicles of this age. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Brand Focus: American icon for performance and sports cars. Model Evolution C3 Generation Era: 1968-1973 (early C3 Stingray). 1973 Specific Changes: Last year for chrome bumpers on the front, new urethane-covered front bumper assembly. Production Production Volume 1973 Est: ~25,000 units (all models) Engine Availability 454: The 454ci V8 was a prominent, though optional, engine choice for this era. 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Iconic Status: The C3 Corvette, particularly with big-block engines, is a highly desirable classic sports car and a significant cultural icon.