Market Segment:
Performance Sports Car
Target Audience:
Corvette enthusiasts, owners, mechanics, restoration specialists
Key Competitors Era:
Porsche 911, Ferrari 308 GTB, Datsun 280Z
Vehicle Identity:
Iconic American sports car with powerful V8 engines and distinctive styling.
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining, repairing, and restoring the 1979 Corvette, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, tuning, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition systems
Transmission:
Manual (M20, M21) and Automatic (TH400) transmission service, repair, and adjustment
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle assembly (differential, half-shafts), CV joints
Suspension:
Front (independent, transverse leaf spring) and rear (independent, trailing arms, transverse leaf spring) suspension servicing and alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering linkage, power steering pump
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems (including power assist), parking brake, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures
Electrical:
12V negative ground system, battery, alternator, starter, ignition system, lighting, gauges, horn, power windows, power seats
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, T-tops, interior trim, seats, bumpers, glass replacement
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (if equipped), component service and recharge
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, carburetor (Holley 4-barrel on LS4/L82), fuel filter
Exhaust:
Exhaust manifolds, pipes, mufflers, catalytic converters (if applicable), hangers
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, tune-up procedures, fluid checks and changes, lubrication points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation
Diagnostics:
Ignition timing adjustment, carburetor adjustment, engine compression testing, vacuum testing
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Engine Type:
V8, pushrod overhead valve
Ls4 Engine Displacement:
7.4 Liters (454 cubic inches)
Ls4 Engine Horsepower:
270 hp @ 4000 rpm (Gross)
Ls4 Engine Torque:
380 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (Gross)
L82 Engine Displacement:
5.7 Liters (350 cubic inches)
L82 Engine Horsepower:
225 hp @ 4800 rpm (Gross)
L82 Engine Torque:
285 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (Gross)
Carburetor:
Holley 4-barrel (Model 4175 or similar for LS4, Rochester Quadrajet for L82)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (owner's discretion/driving conditions)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 24,000-30,000 miles or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-40 or SAE 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations based on temperature)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter for 350, 6 quarts (5.7 liters) with filter for 454
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Common Problems:
Carburetor adjustment sensitivity, potential for rear main seal leaks, aging electrical components, vacuum hose deterioration, fiberglass body crack repair.
Restoration Considerations:
Upholstery wear, weather stripping degradation, suspension bushing wear, exhaust system corrosion.
Chevrolet Performance Legacy:
Chevrolet has a long history of performance vehicles, with the Corvette being its flagship sports car since 1953.
C3 Generation Overview:
The C3 generation (1968-1982) is characterized by its distinctive 'Mako Shark' design. The 1979 model year saw significant refinements and increased production.
1979 Specific Updates:
Introduction of a new dash, standard tilt-telescope steering wheel, larger engine options (454 Big-Block), and a glass-panel roof option.
Production Numbers:
Approx. 53,807 units produced for the 1979 model year, making it the highest production year for the C3 Corvette.
