Sub Model:
C3 (Third Generation)
Engine Codes:
LS5 (454ci), L48 (350ci), L82 (350ci)
Trim Levels:
Base, LT-1 (N/A on 1972), Z07 (N/A on 1972)
Transmission Codes:
Muncie M20 (3-speed manual), Muncie M21 (4-speed manual), Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 (3-speed automatic)
Vehicle Segment:
Sports Car / Grand Tourer
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, collectors, and owners seeking to maintain and repair their 1972 Corvette
Key Competitors 1972:
Ford Mustang Mach 1, Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, AMC Javelin AMX, Dodge Challenger R/T
Vehicle Highlights:
Iconic C3 styling, powerful V8 engine options, focus on performance and luxury
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for preserving the originality and ensuring the operational integrity of a classic Corvette
Engine Systems:
Engine Mechanical (V8 350ci, V8 454ci), Fuel System (carburetion, pumps), Ignition System (distributor, coils, spark plugs), Cooling System (radiator, water pump, thermostat), Lubrication System (oil pump, filter, oil pan), Exhaust System (manifolds, mufflers), Emission Controls (if applicable to 1972)
Transmission Systems:
Manual Transmission (Muncie M20/M21), Automatic Transmission (Turbo Hydra-Matic 350), Clutch Assembly, Drive Axles, Differentials
Chassis Systems:
Frame and Body, Suspension (front & rear independent), Steering System, Brake System (hydraulic, power assist), Wheels and Tires
Electrical Systems:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Ignition Switch, Gauges and Instruments, Horn, Wiper System, Radio, Power Windows (if equipped), Battery and Charging System, Starter Motor
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Seats, Interior Trim, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flushes, Brake Fluid Changes, Tune-ups, Lubrication Points
Repair Procedures:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Clutch Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Gear Reconditioning, Electrical Component Repair, Body Panel Repair and Replacement
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic procedures for common engine, transmission, electrical, and chassis issues; symptom-based troubleshooting trees
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive diagnostic and repair procedures, including detailed disassembly and reassembly instructions, torque specifications, and clearance measurements
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic techniques, component testing procedures, and troubleshooting flowcharts
Standard Engine 350:
350 cubic inch (5.7L) V8, L48 Base (200 hp @ 4000 rpm, 315 lb-ft torque @ 2400 rpm)
Optional Engine 350:
350 cubic inch (5.7L) V8, L82 High Performance (255 hp @ 5600 rpm, 315 lb-ft torque @ 3600 rpm)
Optional Engine 454:
454 cubic inch (7.4L) V8, LS5 (365 hp @ 5400 rpm, 469 lb-ft torque @ 3600 rpm)
Compression Ratio L48:
8.5:1
Compression Ratio L82:
9.0:1
Compression Ratio Ls5:
8.0:1
Carburetion 350 L48:
Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor
Carburetion 350 L82:
Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor
Carburetion 454 Ls5:
Holley 4-barrel carburetor (some documentation may cite Rochester Quadrajet)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (transition year, some leaded may still be in use depending on region)
Standard Transmission:
3-speed manual (Muncie M20)
Optional Transmission Manual:
4-speed manual (Muncie M21 - closer ratio)
Optional Transmission Automatic:
3-speed automatic (Turbo Hydra-Matic 350)
Clutch Type:
Dry, single plate (manual transmission)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GM Synchromesh Transmission Fluid (or equivalent SAE 80W-90 GL-4 Gear Oil)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-III/Mercon (or equivalent ATF)
Crash Test Ratings:
No standardized crash test ratings available for this era (NHTSA and IIHS were in their infancy)
Braking System:
Power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes
Parking Brake:
Mechanical parking brake acting on rear wheels
Seat Belts:
Lap belts (three-point shoulder belts optional or standard depending on build date/market)
Windshield:
Laminated safety glass
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months (recommended for classic vehicles)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (automatic); Every 50,000 miles or 48 months (manual)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 24 months or 30,000 miles
Tune Up Recommendation:
Annual inspection of ignition components, carburetor adjustments, and fluid checks
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF, SG, SH rated oil, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for precise recommendation based on climate)
Coolant Specification:
50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid
Common Engine Issues:
Carburetor tuning, ignition system maintenance (points, condenser, spark plug wires), oil leaks (valve covers, oil pan), potential cooling system inefficiencies
Common Chassis Issues:
Fiberglass body cracks or stress fractures, suspension bushing wear, power steering leaks, headlight vacuum system issues
Common Electrical Issues:
Aging wiring harnesses, switch failures, gauge cluster problems, vacuum headlight door operation
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of performance and innovation in the automotive industry.
C3 Generation:
The 1972 Corvette is part of the C3 generation (1968-1982), known for its distinctive 'Coke bottle' styling and long hood.
Year Specific Changes 1972:
Introduction of standard side-mounted exhaust, power steering became standard on all models, and the LT-1 engine option was discontinued for 1972 due to emissions regulations. The LS5 454 was the top engine. Seatbelt extenders were added.
Production Volume 1972:
26,566 Corvettes produced for the 1972 model year.
Manufacturing Location:
St. Louis Assembly Plant, Missouri, USA
