Historical Context:
The 1955 Corvette marked a significant turning point, introducing the much-needed V8 engine and solidifying its place as America's sports car. It represented a shift from the initial, underpowered inline-six models.
Competitors:
Primarily competed against European sports cars like the Jaguar XK series, Austin-Healey, and MG models, as well as domestic performance offerings from Ford and Chrysler.
Design Highlights:
Iconic fiberglass body, distinctive 'cove' styling on the side panels (optional two-tone paint), wraparound windshield.
Performance Upgrade:
Introduction of the 'Blue Flame' V8 engine option, vastly improving performance and appeal.
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Shop Manual
Format:
Reprinted Paper Manual
Primary Coverage:
Chevrolet Corvette 1955 Model Year
Additional Coverage:
May include applicable information for late 1954 and early 1956 models due to carryover parts and design.
Estimated Page Count:
300-400 pages (typical for factory manuals of this era)
Engine:
V8 Engine Specifications, Overhaul Procedures, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Carburetion, Fuel System.
Transmission:
Powerglide 2-Speed Automatic Transmission: Operation, Disassembly, Assembly, Adjustment, Service.
Chassis:
Frame and Body Construction, Suspension System (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Mechanical Drum Brakes).
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Ignition System Components, Generator, Starter Motor, Battery, Instruments, Accessories.
Body:
Body Panel Repair, Door Mechanisms, Convertible Top Mechanism, Glass and Seals, Interior Trim, Bumpers, Grille.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication Points, Spark Plug Service, Tune-Up Procedures.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Identification of Common Problems, Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides for Engine, Transmission, Electrical, and Mechanical Systems.
Overhaul Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly. Transmission overhaul.
Adjustment Calibration:
Carburetor adjustments, ignition timing, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments (if applicable to linkage), steering system adjustments.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive Factory Level - Suitable for Professional Mechanics and Dedicated Enthusiasts.
Diagrams Illustrations:
Detailed exploded views, schematic diagrams, wiring diagrams, and step-by-step procedural illustrations.
Digital Quality:
N/A (Reprinted Paper Manual)
Paper Type:
High-quality, durable paper stock designed for workshop use.
Print Clarity:
Clear, legible text and sharp, detailed illustrations and diagrams.
Binding:
Professionally bound for durability and ease of use in a workshop environment (e.g., spiral bound, perfect bound).
Engine Type:
Overhead Valve (OHV) V8
Displacement:
265 cubic inches (4.3 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in x 3.00 in (95.25 mm x 76.20 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 (Standard V8), 8.5:1 (Optional High-Performance V8)
Horsepower:
180 hp @ 4600 rpm (Standard V8), 195 hp @ 4600 rpm (Optional V8 with 4-barrel carburetor), 205 hp @ 4600 rpm (Optional V8 with dual 4-barrel carburetors - 'Corvette Special')
Torque:
260 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (Standard V8), 275 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (Optional V8)
Carburetor:
Rochester 2-barrel carburetor (Standard V8), Rochester 4-barrel carburetor (195 hp V8), Dual Rochester 4-barrel carburetors (205 hp V8).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating appropriate for the era, typically 87-91 AKI equivalent)
Length:
167.7 inches (4259.6 mm)
Width:
72.8 inches (1849.1 mm)
Height:
51.6 inches (1310.6 mm)
Wheelbase:
102.0 inches (2590.8 mm)
Front Track:
54.0 inches (1371.6 mm)
Rear Track:
54.3 inches (1379.2 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,800 - 3,000 lbs (1270 - 1361 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly specified for this era, but generally around 3,500 lbs.
Trunk Volume:
Limited, typically around 5 cubic feet.
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (No standardized crash testing existed for this era)
Braking System:
Hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels.
Steering System:
Recirculating ball steering mechanism.
Seatbelts:
Not standard; typically optional or dealer-installed.
Frame Construction:
Body-on-frame construction with a separate steel frame for structural rigidity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (modern recommendation: 2,500-3,000 miles with appropriate oil).
Tune Up Interval:
Every 6,000-10,000 miles, including spark plug inspection/replacement, ignition timing adjustment, carburetor adjustment.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Check fluid level regularly; flush and refill as per manual recommendation (typically every 24,000-36,000 miles).
Engine Oil Capacity:
5 US Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter (for 265 V8)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 or SAE 10W-40 (for modern use with additives) / Original specification would have been straight-weight oils like SAE 10W or SAE 20W.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-III/VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent (Original specification: GM Dextron Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Coolant Type:
50/50 Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze / Water mixture.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor wear (especially metering rods and jets), ignition points and condenser failure, worn suspension bushings, aging brake components, potential for fuel system leaks due to age of rubber components.
Fiberglass Body Care:
Prone to cracking, especially around mounting points and stress areas. Proper repair techniques are crucial.
Electrical System Reliability:
Wiring insulation can become brittle with age. Generator output can be marginal for modern accessories. Lucas components (if fitted, though less common on US models than UK) known for potential issues.
Chevrolet Legacy:
Founded in 1911, Chevrolet quickly became a volume leader for General Motors, known for its reliable and affordable vehicles. The Corvette was Chevrolet's bold entry into the luxury sports car market.
Corvette C1 Progression:
The 1953 model was the inaugural year with an inline-6 engine. 1955 saw the crucial introduction of the 265 cubic inch V8, transforming the Corvette's performance and market perception.
Key Changes 1955:
Introduction of the 265 V8 engine (as standard and optional), revised grille, new side cove styling options, introduction of Powerglide automatic as the only transmission option.
Production Location:
Flint, Michigan, USA
Production Volume 1955:
700 units
Original Price 1955:
Approximately $2,934
