🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Year:

1979

Engine Variant Indicated:

396

Chassis Code:

C3 (Third Generation)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Class:

Sports Car / Personal Luxury Coupe

Competitors 1979:

Porsche 924, Datsun 280ZX, Toyota Celica Supra, Ford Mustang (performance variants), Pontiac Firebird Trans Am.

Design Philosophy:

Front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout, fiberglass body construction, iconic long hood, short deck, and removable T-tops.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential, factory-level information for owners and technicians to maintain, repair, and troubleshoot the 1979 Corvette, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of this classic American sports car.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types for the 1979 Corvette

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific workshop manual, typically 800-1500+ pages for comprehensive coverage.

Manual Classification:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (including disassembly, assembly, overhaul for all applicable engines), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.

Drivetrain:

Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshaft, rear axle, differential, CV joints (if applicable).

Chassis And Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (including steering knuckles, control arms, springs, shocks), steering system (power steering, steering column, linkage), brakes (front and rear systems, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake).

Electrical And Electronics:

Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrumentation, gauges, switches, fuses, relays, horn, wiper system, power windows/locks (if equipped).

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, glass, seals, interior trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), body hardware.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, lubrication points, tune-ups, belt inspections and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable (though more common in later electronic systems).

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation. Includes engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuilding, etc.

Diagnostics:

Procedures for diagnosing electrical faults, engine performance issues, transmission problems, suspension and steering irregularities.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic preventive maintenance and routine adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs. Intended for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution scans, typically searchable text and clear image reproduction. May vary based on the original source.

Print Recommendation:

Printable on standard home or office printers. Recommend high-quality paper for durability.

Binding Type For Printed:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type For Printed:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family Indicated:

Big-Block V8

Engine Code Associated With 396:

L48 (likely, though a '396' designation for '79 Corvette usually refers to a specific variant of the 350 CI engine, or the manual might cover the L82 350 CI which was a high-performance option. The '396' in the product name might be a marketing term or an indication of a specific engine configuration sometimes colloquially associated with Chevy Big Blocks of that era, but the 1979 Corvette predominantly used 350 cubic inch engines. For specificity, the manual would detail the L48 and L82 350 V8s. If a 396 Big Block was indeed an option, it would be specified here.)

Displacement 350 Ci:

5.7 Liters

Horsepower L48 350:

Approx. 195 hp @ 4000 RPM

Torque L48 350:

Approx. 275 lb-ft @ 2400 RPM

Horsepower L82 350:

Approx. 225 hp @ 5200 RPM

Torque L82 350:

Approx. 275 lb-ft @ 3600 RPM

Fuel Delivery:

Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel Carburetor (L48) / Higher performance Quadrajet or similar (L82)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Regular and Premium, depending on L48/L82 and octane requirements for performance)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

3-Speed Turbo Hydramatic Automatic Transmission (THM350 or THM400 variations)

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Manual Transmission (Muncie SM465 or BorgWarner T-10 variations)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or equivalent GM specification for the era, e.g., Dexron II)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 176.7 inches (4488 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm)

Height:

Approx. 47.6 inches (1209 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 98.0 inches (2489 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,400 - 3,600 lbs (1542 - 1633 kg), depending on options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Safety Ratings:

NHTSA data for this era is less detailed than modern standards. Focus would be on the passive safety features of the era.

Braking System:

Power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional power-assisted front and rear disc brakes.

Steering System:

Power steering (standard on most models), variable ratio steering.

Seatbelts:

3-point retractable front seat belts (driver and passenger).

Rollover Protection:

Integrated roll bar behind seats (standard on T-top models) as a structural reinforcement.

Crumple Zones:

Designed with energy-absorbing front and rear sections, though less sophisticated than modern designs.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM Radio, often with optional 8-track player or cassette tape player. Speaker systems typically front dash and rear deck.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system, typically vacuum-actuated or early electronic design.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plug replacement, distributor cap and rotor inspection/replacement typically around 30,000 - 60,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Interval:

Check and change fluid and filter every 24,000 - 36,000 miles or as specified in the manual.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API Service SG or SF), depending on ambient temperature and engine condition. Check manual for precise viscosity recommendations.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., green conventional).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Heavy Duty Hydraulic Brake Fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

GM Power Steering Fluid or equivalent DEXRON type automatic transmission fluid.

Common Corrosion Areas:

Frame rails, birdcage (integral part of the chassis/body structure), rear trailing arms, differential mounts, door sills.

Carburetor Issues:

Rochester Quadrajet carburetors can require rebuilding due to aging seals, sticky linkages, and worn internal parts. Fuel mixture adjustments may be needed.

Electrical Gremlins:

Aging wiring harnesses, brittle insulation, corroded connectors, and failing switches are common sources of electrical issues. Faulty vacuum advance units or ignition modules can affect engine performance.

Suspension Wear:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings, and wheel bearings are common wear items that can lead to alignment issues and poor handling.

HVAC System:

Aging vacuum actuators for HVAC controls, leaking refrigerant lines (R12), and worn blower motors are common failure points.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Performance Legacy:

Chevrolet has a long-standing reputation for performance, particularly with the Corvette, its flagship sports car, known for V8 engines and RWD performance.

C3 Generation Timeline:

1968-1982. The 1979 model year saw significant updates and refinements within the C3 generation, particularly in aerodynamics and interior comfort compared to earlier C3 models.

1979 Specific Updates:

Introduction of the 'Z51' Gymkhana suspension option, revised interior styling, improved ergonomics, new seats, and standard power steering.

Production Location:

Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA (assembly plant)

Production Volume 1979:

Approx. 53,807 Corvettes produced in 1979, making it the highest production year for the C3 generation.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Period Awards:

While not specific awards, the Corvette consistently received praise for its performance and style in automotive magazines of the era. It was a benchmark for American sports cars.

Automotive Journal Reviews:

Praised for its handling improvements over earlier C3 generations and the powerful engine options, though criticized by some for fuel economy and the increasing weight compared to earlier Corvettes.