Target Audience:
Owners, mechanics, restorers, and enthusiasts of the 1970 Chevrolet Corvette.
Value Proposition:
Provides essential, factory-level information crucial for maintaining, repairing, and restoring a classic performance vehicle, saving time and money compared to guesswork or less comprehensive resources.
Diagnostic Capability:
Empowers users to accurately diagnose issues, reducing unnecessary part replacement.
Restoration Support:
Offers detailed instructions and specifications vital for authentic restoration projects.
Ownership Support:
Facilitates proper maintenance and care, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Coverage Summary:
Comprehensive service, maintenance, and troubleshooting for all 1970 Corvette models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types.
Estimated Page Count:
Refer to product listing for exact count, typically 1000+ pages for complete factory service manuals.
Manual Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (assembly, disassembly, torque specs, timing), lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine overhaul.
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (Muncie), Automatic transmission (Turbo Hydra-Matic 400), clutch system, driveline, U-joints.
Chassis Systems:
Frame, suspension (front & rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, front disc, rear drum), wheels, tires.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, ignition system, power accessories, body electrical.
Body And Interior:
Body construction, sheet metal repair, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, convertible top mechanism, HVAC (heater, ventilation).
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks & changes, spark plug replacement, tune-up procedures, lubrication points.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper/wheel cylinder replacement, carburetor overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnostics & repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common symptoms (engine performance, electrical issues, braking problems), troubleshooting guides for specific components.
Diagnostics:
Systematic diagnostic approaches, component testing, wiring diagram interpretation for fault finding.
Depth Of Information:
Factory-level technical detail, including torque specifications, clearances, timing settings, diagnostic codes (where applicable), and detailed diagrams.
Component Level Detail:
Detailed breakdowns of major components for complete overhaul and rebuilding.
Engine Designation:
396 Turbo-Jet V8 (Big Block)
Displacement:
396 cubic inches (6.5 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
4.125 in x 3.625 in
Compression Ratio:
Typically 10.25:1 (varies slightly by specific model/option)
Horsepower Rating:
350 hp @ 5200 RPM (L34 option)
Torque Rating:
415 lb-ft @ 3600 RPM (L34 option)
Engine Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Cast Iron
Carburetor Type:
Quadrajet 4-barrel (e.g., Rochester Quadrajet)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (higher octane rating required)
Fuel Pump Type:
Mechanical
Ignition Type:
Breaker Point Ignition (typical for 1970)
Other Engine Variants:
Manual would also cover 350ci V8 (L46, L68), 427ci V8 (L36, L69, L71, L88, ZL1, if specified in manual title)
Standard Transmission Type:
Manual Transmission (e.g., Muncie M20, M21, M22 4-speed)
Optional Transmission Type:
Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 (THM400) Automatic Transmission
Clutch Type:
Single Dry Plate (for manual transmission)
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Dexron-III (or equivalent specification)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 Gear Lubricant (specific viscosity recommended in manual, e.g., 80W-90)
Overall Length:
Approx. 175.0 inches (4445 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 70.8 inches (1798 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.0 inches (2489 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3300-3600 lbs (1497-1633 kg), varies with options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4000 lbs (1814 kg)
Crash Test Ratings:
Not tested under modern NHTSA/IIHS standards; safety features reflect era.
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes (standard on all 1970 Corvettes), Rear Drum Brakes. Optional power brakes and vacuum-assisted power disc brakes.
Steering System:
Recirculating Ball Steering. Optional power steering.
Seatbelts:
Lap belts (standard). Shoulder belts became available as an option or on later models.
Rollover Protection:
No specific rollover protection system; reinforced windshield frame.
Audio System:
AM/FM Radio (optional factory-installed), often with 8-track tape player as an option.
Instrumentation:
Analog gauges including speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, ammeter, fuel level, water temperature. Warning lights for brakes and ignition.
Cruise Control:
Optional Kwiк-Check cruise control system available.
Factory Connectivity:
None (pre-digital era)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on usage and oil type (consult manual for specific recommendation).
Tune Up Interval:
Typically every 12,000-24,000 miles (includes spark plugs, points, condenser).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF or SG rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most conditions (check manual for precise recommendation and viscosity grades).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor (stalling, poor idle), ignition system components (points, condenser, coil), rubber fuel lines, vacuum hoses, suspension bushings, aging wiring.
Engine Specific Concerns:
Big Block engines can be sensitive to cooling system efficiency; potential for overheating if not maintained.
Restoration Challenges:
Corrosion in body panels, availability of specific trim pieces, original upholstery materials.
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet, founded in 1911, is a division of General Motors known for its wide range of vehicles from economy cars to performance sports cars.
C3 Generation:
The 1970 Corvette is part of the C3 generation (1968-1982), often characterized by its 'Mako Shark' design.
1970 Specific Changes:
Introduction of front fender louvers, recessed wiper area, revised interior, and engine lineup adjustments.
Production Years:
1968-1982 (C3 Generation)
1970 Production Volume:
Approximately 17,316 units
Manufacturing Location:
St. Louis, Missouri, USA
Collectible Status:
Highly collectible classic sports car, recognized for performance and iconic styling.
Automotive Press Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive press of the era for its handling, power, and design.
Historical Significance:
Considered a significant model in American automotive history and sports car evolution.
