🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Chevrolet Model: Corvette Year: 1981 Codes Engine Code Primary: LG4 (305 CID V8) Engine Code Optional: L81 (350 CID V8) Chassis Code: C3 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The 1981 Corvette represented Chevrolet's flagship sports car, a blend of performance and evolving technology within the iconic C3 generation. This manual caters to enthusiasts and professional mechanics maintaining this specific model year. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed with European sports cars like Porsche 924/944, Jaguar XJ-S, and domestic offerings like the Datsun 280ZX. Key Features Vehicle Highlights: Targa top, fiberglass body, advanced for its time engine management (Cross-Fire Injection on L81), independent suspension. Manual Value: Essential resource for accurate diagnostics, maintenance, and repairs, preserving the originality and performance of a classic Corvette. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals) Manual Type Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: 305 V8 (LG4), 350 V8 (L81), including: fuel injection (Cross-Fire Injection for L81), ignition, cooling, lubrication, emission controls, engine mechanical (disassembly, assembly, specifications) Transmission: Automatic (THM-200-4R), Manual (4-speed), including: overhaul, adjustments, troubleshooting, fluid specifications Drivetrain: Rear axle assembly, driveshaft, universal joints, CV joints (if applicable to specific configurations) Suspension: Front (independent, unequal-length A-arms, coil springs), Rear (independent, trailing arms, transverse leaf spring), including: alignment specifications, component replacement, shock absorbers, bushings Brakes: Front disc (ventilated), Rear disc, including: hydraulic system, power assist, parking brake, specifications, wear limits Steering: Power steering, steering column, linkage, including: overhaul, fluid specifications, troubleshooting Electrical: Starting system, charging system, battery, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power door locks, wipers, horn, radio, fuse/relay locations, wiring diagrams Fuel System: Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filters, carburetor (for 305), fuel injection (for 350), troubleshooting Exhaust System: Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, tailpipes Cooling System: Radiator, fan (mechanical/electric), water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications, pressure testing Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, trim, seats, dashboard, carpeting, sound insulation Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, lubrication, tune-ups, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation Troubleshooting: System diagnostics, fault finding for engine, electrical, transmission, brake, and other systems Repair: Component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major systems, including engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, dimensions, fluid capacities, alignment settings, electrical resistance values Wiring Diagrams: Detailed electrical system wiring schematics for all vehicle circuits Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive - covers basic maintenance through to major component overhauls and advanced diagnostics 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text (typical for high-quality PDFs) Printability: Printable pages Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scans of original factory documentation Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Name Standard: 305 V8 (LG4) Displacement Standard: 305 cubic inches (5.0 Liters) Horsepower Standard: 175 hp @ 4,200 rpm Torque Standard: 230 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm Optional Engine Engine Name Optional: 350 V8 (L81) - Cross-Fire Injection Displacement Optional: 350 cubic inches (5.7 Liters) Horsepower Optional: 190 hp @ 4,800 rpm Torque Optional: 240 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery Standard: Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor Fuel Delivery Optional: Bosch/AC-Delco L-Jetronic based Cross-Fire fuel injection Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline, premium recommended Ignition System Ignition Type: Electronic ignition (HEI distributor) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 3-Speed Automatic (THM-200-4R for L81/optional for LG4) Optional Transmission Type Optional: 4-Speed Manual (M20/M21 variants, less common) Features Overdrive Gear: THM-200-4R features an overdrive gear for improved fuel economy. Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron III (or equivalent) Manual Transmission Fluid: GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 185.4 inches Width: 72.8 inches Height: 47.8 inches Wheelbase: 98.0 inches Weights Curb Weight Approximate: 3,400 - 3,500 lbs Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approximately 4,200 lbs Cargo Trunk Volume Approximate: 10.6 cubic feet Dimensions Track Width Front: 61.0 inches Track Width Rear: 61.7 inches Ground Clearance: Approximately 4.5 - 5.0 inches 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Ratings: N/A - NHTSA ratings were not standardized for this era. Active Features Active Safety Features: Power front disc brakes, power steering, rear-wheel drive. Passive Features Passive Safety Features: 3-point seat belts, padded interior surfaces, collapsible steering column. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Standard AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, engine temperature, oil pressure, voltmeter. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Limited to power steering and power brakes. No modern electronic driver aids. Connectivity Connectivity: No external connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, USB). Comfort Features Comfort Features: Optional air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, tilt-telescopic steering wheel. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000...