Target Audience:
Corvette enthusiasts, classic car mechanics, restoration specialists
Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining and troubleshooting the electrical systems of a highly collectible 1959 Corvette.
Essential Tool:
Indispensable for accurate diagnosis and repair of electrical issues on this iconic vehicle.
Restoration Aid:
Crucial for authentic restorations, ensuring correct wiring and component placement.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition, starting, charging systems, fuel injection (if applicable)
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, parking lights, interior lights, turn signals
Instrumentation:
Gauges, warning lights, speedometer, tachometer wiring
Accessories:
Radio, power windows (if equipped), wipers, horn, heater blower
Chassis Electrical:
Brake lights, reverse lights, hazard warning system
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common electrical faults
Component Testing:
Methods for testing specific electrical components (e.g., voltage regulator, ignition coil)
Wiring Repair:
Guidance on repairing damaged wiring harnesses, splices, and connections
Fuse And Relay Identification:
Diagrams showing fuse box layouts and relay functions
Ground Point Identification:
Location of critical ground points for electrical system integrity
Depth:
Detailed, comprehensive coverage of all factory electrical systems
Diagrams Quality:
High-resolution, color-coded wiring diagrams showing circuit paths
Component Locations:
Illustrations and descriptions of electrical component placement
Connector Pinouts:
Detailed diagrams of electrical connector pin configurations
Service Bulletins:
May include references or summaries of relevant technical service bulletins (TSBs) for electrical issues.
PDF Quality:
High resolution, searchable text (if digital)
Print Quality:
Professional printing on durable paper stock
Binding:
Spiral bound or perfect bound for lay-flat usability (if printed)
Paper Type:
Glossy or matte finish paper suitable for diagrams
Engine Options:
283 cu in (4.7 L) OHV V8
Horsepower Options:
230 hp, 245 hp, 255 hp, 270 hp, 290 hp, 315 hp (fuel injected)
Torque Options:
Varies by specific engine variant
Carburetion:
Single 2-barrel, dual 2-barrel, or Rochester Ramjet fuel injection
Ignition Type:
Contact breaker points, distributor, coil
Crash Testing:
No formal crash ratings or testing standards as we know them today.
Brakes:
Four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering
Seat Belts:
Optional, not standard equipment
Oil Change:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on usage and oil quality of the era.
Tune Up:
Regularly scheduled tune-ups involving points, condenser, spark plugs, and carburetor adjustment are crucial.
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-30 or SAE 10W-40 (check manual for specific recommendation based on climate/engine type)
Coolant:
50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (for Powerglide) or manual transmission fluid (for 3 & 4 speed manuals)
Electrical Reliability:
Aging wiring insulation, corrosion at terminals, voltage regulator issues, and generator problems are common.
Carburetion Issues:
Carburetor leaks, vacuum leaks, and maladjustment affecting performance and starting.
Chassis Corrosion:
Rust can be an issue, particularly around the frame and body mounts, requiring careful inspection.
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet's first true sports car, establishing a performance and style legacy.
Second Generation:
The 1959 model year represents a significant styling update for the C1 Corvette, part of the second generation's early development.
Design Influence:
Introduction of 'cove' styling on the sides and redesigned rear.
Production Years:
1953-1962 (C1 generation)
1959 Production Numbers:
9,670 units
Manufacturing Location:
Flint, Michigan, USA
