🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Year:

1974

Internal Chassis Code:

C3

Engine Code 305:

L48 (typically)

Engine Code 327:

LM1 or L30 (depending on specification, though 327 less common in '74, more likely 350)

Vin Engine Designator 350 2Bbl:

H

Vin Engine Designator 350 4Bbl:

L

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Class:

Sports Car

Competitors 1974:

Datsun 240Z, Jaguar E-Type, Porsche 911, Ford Mustang

Corvette Advantage 1974:

American V8 power, more accessible price point than European rivals, increasing comfort features

Distinctive Design:

C3 Stingray styling, removable T-tops or convertible options

Powertrain Options:

Powerful V8 engines, choice of manual or automatic transmissions

Handling Dynamics:

Independent front and rear suspension for sporty handling

Manual Value Proposition:

Essential resource for owners and mechanics seeking to maintain, repair, and restore the 1974 Corvette.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 900-1200 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel system (carburetion, pumps, lines), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission (Muncie M20/M21/M22), Automatic transmission (Turbo Hydramatic 350/400), clutch system

Drivetrain Systems:

Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle assembly (corvette independent suspension), differential, half-shafts

Suspension Systems:

Front suspension (unequal length A-arms, ball joints, springs, shocks), rear suspension (transverse leaf springs, trailing arms, camber links, shocks), steering linkage

Brake Systems:

Front disc brakes (power assist), rear disc brakes (power assist), parking brake system, brake lines and hoses

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, wipers, horn, instrumentation, radio, power windows (if equipped), basic wiring diagrams

Body And Chassis:

Frame construction, body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, glass, interior trim, bumpers, convertible top (if applicable)

HVAC Systems:

Heating system, ventilation, air conditioning (if factory equipped)

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, tune-up procedures, coolant flush, lubrication points, belt adjustments, brake pad replacement, tire rotation

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic charts for common engine, electrical, and mechanical issues, symptom-based troubleshooting

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, carburetor rebuilding, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, starter/alternator repair, body panel repair

Special Tool Requirements:

Identification and usage of specialized tools for specific repair procedures

Depth Level:

Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced diagnostics and repair, including full engine and transmission rebuilds

Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed troubleshooting steps, component testing, and diagnostic specifications

Specifications Data:

Torque values, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable if properly converted

Scanned Image Quality:

Variable, dependent on source scan quality; expect clarity for diagrams and text

Original Binding Type:

Stapled or perfect bound (depending on publisher)

Original Paper Type:

Typically newsprint or light cardstock for diagrams

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Base Engine 1974:

350ci (5.7L) V8

Engine 350 2Bbl Specs:

Compression Ratio: 8.0:1, Horsepower: 195 @ 4000 RPM, Torque: 310 lb-ft @ 2400 RPM

Engine 350 4Bbl Specs:

Compression Ratio: 8.0:1, Horsepower: 250 @ 4800 RPM, Torque: 335 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM (L48)

Engine 350 4Bbl High Output Specs:

Compression Ratio: 8.0:1, Horsepower: 275 @ 5200 RPM, Torque: 360 lb-ft @ 3600 RPM (LM1 - if equipped, though less common than L48 for '74)

Engine 327 Notes:

While the product name mentions 327, Chevrolet largely transitioned to the 350 for 1974. If a 327 was indeed offered, it would be a late variant, likely the L30 or LM1 specification. The manual would cover its specific details if present.

0 60 Mph Estimate:

6.5 - 8.5 seconds (depending on engine and transmission)

Carburetor Types:

Rochester 2-barrel (base), Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel (optional)

Fuel Requirement:

Unleaded gasoline (introduced in 1971)

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Head Material:

Cast Iron

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

3-speed Turbo Hydramatic automatic (THM350)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed manual (Muncie M20, M21, or M22 - depending on specific order)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Column or floor shift availability

Manual Transmission Features:

Close-ratio options available (M21, M22 'Rock Crusher')

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Gear Lube (e.g., SAE 80W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

98.0 inches (2489 mm)

Overall Length:

175.1 inches (4448 mm)

Overall Width:

69.2 inches (1758 mm)

Overall Height:

47.8 inches (1214 mm) (Coupe) / 47.7 inches (1212 mm) (Convertible)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3300-3500 lbs (1497-1588 kg), depending on options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approximately 4300 lbs (1950 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Ratings 1974:

Not available in modern standardized format.

Braking System:

Four-wheel power-assisted disc brakes

Steering System:

Power steering (optional, but common)

Seat Belts:

Three-point lap and shoulder belts

Windshield:

Laminated safety glass

Collapsible Steering Column:

Standard

💡 Technology Features

Audio System 1974:

AM/FM radio, AM/FM with 8-track tape player (optional)

Advance Driver Assistance:

None typical for the era

Power Options:

Power windows, power steering (optional)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles or 6 months (typical for the era)

Tune Up Interval:

Every 10,000-12,000 miles or 12 months

Transmission Service Interval:

Automatic: Check fluid every oil change, change every 24,000 miles or 24 months. Manual: Inspect fluid level periodically, change as recommended by manual.

Engine Oil Specification:

API Service Classification SC, SD, or SE; SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific temperature ranges)

Coolant Specification:

50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze and water

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid

Common Corrosion Areas:

Frame rails, rear spring mounting points, wheel wells, birdcage area (under windshield wipers)

Common Engine Wear:

Oil leaks (valve covers, oil pan), worn valve guides, potential carburetor issues (stalling, rough idle)

Common Suspension Issues:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, aging rubber bushings, shock absorber degradation

Electrical Gremlins:

Corroded grounds, faulty switches, aging wiring harnesses

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Performance Legacy:

Chevrolet has a long history of performance vehicles, dating back to the early 20th century, with the Corvette being its flagship sports car since 1953.

C3 Generation Era:

1968-1982

1974 Corvette Context:

Marks a period of declining compression ratios and horsepower due to emissions regulations and the introduction of unleaded fuel, yet retains iconic styling. Introduction of a new rear bumper design incorporating body-colored urethane.

Manufacturing Location:

St. Louis, Missouri, USA

1974 Production Volume:

Approximately 37,537 units

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Iconic Status:

Considered a classic American sports car, highly collectible

Collectibility Index:

High, particularly for original, well-maintained examples.