🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Model Variant:

427

Year:

1978

Chassis Code:

C3

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Performance Sports Car

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, owners, and professional mechanics specializing in classic Chevrolet Corvettes

Competitors:

Porsche 911, Jaguar E-Type, BMW 3.0 CS

Design Philosophy:

Iconic American sports car, blending potent V8 power with distinctive styling.

Performance Focus:

Engineered for exhilarating performance and driver engagement.

Durability:

Built with robust components designed for longevity and demanding use.

📋 Manual Details

All Models Engines Trims Transmissions:

true

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust systems

Transmission:

Manual (Muncie SM465, BorgWarner T-10) and Automatic (Turbo Hydramatic TH400) transmission repair, adjustment, and overhaul

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, U-joints, rear axle assembly, differential maintenance and repair

Suspension:

Front independent suspension (upper and lower control arms, ball joints, bushings, coil springs), rear transverse leaf spring, shocks, stabilizer bars

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis, repair, steering gear, linkages, alignment specifications

Brakes:

Front disc brakes (calipers, rotors, pads), rear disc brakes, parking brake system, hydraulic system, bleeding procedures

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system, ignition system (distributor, coils, spark plugs, wires), lighting, gauges, accessories

Body And Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, hood, T-tops, interior trim, bumpers, glass replacement, weatherstripping

Heating And Air Conditioning:

HVAC system components, diagnosis, refrigerant handling (where applicable for era), blower motor, controls

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump (mechanical), carburetor (Holley 4-barrel), fuel lines, filters

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and changes, tire rotation, lubrication points

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, electrical, braking, and drivetrain issues

Engine Overhaul:

Engine disassembly, inspection, machining recommendations, assembly, and break-in procedures

Transmission Rebuild:

Detailed steps for manual and automatic transmission disassembly, parts replacement, and reassembly

Brake Service:

Pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, caliper overhaul, brake fluid flushing

Electrical Diagnosis And Repair:

Component testing, wiring harness repair, troubleshooting electrical faults

Suspension And Steering Alignment:

Component replacement (ball joints, tie rods, bushings), caster, camber, toe adjustments

Body Panel Replacement:

Procedures for removing and installing fenders, doors, hoods, and quarter panels

Carburetor Adjustment And Rebuild:

Holley carburetor tuning, idle speed, mixture adjustments, rebuild kits

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Likely Yes (typical for professional PDF manuals)

Quality:

High Resolution (suitable for printing key sections)

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V8, Overhead Valve (OHV), Naturally Aspirated

Displacement:

7.4 L (454 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

4.25 in x 4.00 in (108 mm x 101.6 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 (typical for L82 variant)

Horsepower:

Approx. 270-370 hp (depending on specific L-code engine, e.g., L48, L82)

Torque:

Approx. 360-420 lb-ft (depending on specific L-code engine)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition System:

High Energy Ignition (HEI) distributor

Fuel Delivery:

Four-barrel carburetor (e.g., Holley 4160 or Rochester Quadrajet)

Fuel Pump Type:

Mechanical

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Cast Iron

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Manual (Muncie SM465 or BorgWarner T-10)

Transmission Type:

3-Speed Automatic (Turbo Hydramatic TH400)

Clutch Type:

Single Dry Plate (Manual Transmission)

Gear Ratios:

Varies by transmission model, detailed in manual

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (Automatic), GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil (Manual - consult manual for specific weight)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 185.4 inches (4709 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.8 inches (1798 mm)

Height:

Approx. 47.5 inches (1207 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 98.0 inches (2489 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3450 - 3650 lbs (1565 - 1656 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Consult VIN plate

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 4.75" (5 x 120.65 mm)

Standard Tire Size:

Front: G70-15, Rear: G70-15 (or P225/70R15)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Not applicable for the era in modern standardized terms.

Braking System:

Four-wheel disc brakes (power assist optional/standard depending on trim)

Steering System:

Recirculating ball with power assist (optional/standard depending on trim)

Seat Belts:

Three-point retractable front seat belts

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column

Windshield:

Laminated safety glass

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM Radio, Optional 8-Track Player or Cassette Player

Gauges:

Full complement of analog gauges including speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, water temperature, voltmeter, and fuel gauge.

Features:

Limited by era; primarily focused on the driving experience. No modern driver-assistance systems.

Features:

N/A (No provisions for external connectivity)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

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

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 24,000 - 36,000 miles or 24-36 months

Differential Fluid Change:

Every 24,000 - 36,000 miles or 24-36 months

Coolant Flush:

Every 24,000 miles or 24 months

Engine Oil Type:

API SF, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (consult manual for exact spec)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based (e.g., Prestone)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problems:

Carburetor tuning issues, vacuum leaks, electrical gremlins (age-related), aging weatherstripping and seals, potential fiberglass degradation (rare), transmission synchro wear (manual).

Diagnostic Focus:

Manual provides detailed troubleshooting for these common and uncommon issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Chevrolet (Division of General Motors)

Heritage Focus:

American automotive icon, known for performance and innovation.

Generation:

Third Generation (C3) Corvette

Significant Changes 1978:

Introduction of the 'Silver Anniversary' and 'Indy 500 Pace Car' editions, revised interior, new rear window (fixed glass instead of fastback).

427 Designation:

While '427' was a specific engine displacement in earlier Corvettes (e.g., 1967-1969), the 1978 model featured 350 cubic inch engines, typically the L48 or the higher-performance L82. The '427' in the product title likely refers to general Corvette enthusiasts who associate high-performance Corvettes with the 427 engine, or possibly a mistaken product title referencing earlier models. The manual itself covers the 1978 models with the engines available that year.

Production Years C3:

1968-1982

Manufacturing Location:

St. Louis, Missouri, USA (and later Bowling Green, Kentucky)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

Iconic Status, Collector Car Appreciation, Frequently featured in 'greatest cars' lists.

Pace Car Honor:

1978 Chevrolet Corvette Indy 500 Pace Car edition celebrated the car's performance and status.