Segment:
Sports Car, Personal Luxury Coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, owners undertaking DIY maintenance and repairs, classic car restorers.
Competitors 1982:
Porsche 928, Jaguar XJ-S, Ferrari Mondial, Datsun 280ZX Turbo
Model Year Significance:
The final year of the C3 generation, featuring a unique 'Collector's Edition' package. This year also marked the introduction of the Cross-Fire Injection system on some models, though this manual specifically details the 350 4-bbl.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, factory-authorized information essential for maintaining and repairing the 1982 Corvette, crucial for preserving its value and performance.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, rebuilding, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor specifics), exhaust system.
Engine Management:
Ignition system, emissions control systems (CCC - Computer Controlled Catalytic Converter), sensors, actuators, diagnostic procedures.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission service, overhaul, clutch system (manual), torque converter (automatic), gear shift mechanisms, fluid specifications, troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle assembly, differential service, bearing specifications, lubrication.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, bushings, shock absorbers, springs, alignment specifications, troubleshooting.
Steering:
Steering column, steering gear (power steering pump, steering box/rack), linkage, troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems, caliper service, rotor replacement, brake pads, hydraulic system, parking brake, troubleshooting, fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting common electrical faults.
Body And Chassis:
Frame construction, body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass, weatherstripping, chassis lubrication, rust prevention.
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system components, refrigerant servicing (R-12), blower motor, evaporator, condenser, heater core, troubleshooting.
Emissions Control:
Detailed breakdown of the CCC system, EGR valve, catalytic converter, oxygen sensor operation, vacuum routing, diagnostic procedures.
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid level checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, starting problems, overheating, and braking issues.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper rebuilds, suspension component replacement, and driveline repairs.
Diagnostics:
Specific diagnostic procedures for the Computer Controlled Catalytic Converter (CCC) system, including component testing and fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Specifications And Measurements:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, critical component clearances, engine timing settings, wheel alignment angles.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, aiding in diagnosis and repair of electrical issues.
Emissions Testing:
Information and procedures related to emissions testing and system adjustments.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical troubleshooting and component-level diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
350 cubic inches (5.7 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
4.00 in x 3.48 in (101.6 mm x 88.4 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.2:1 (typical for this era)
Cylinder Head Design:
Cast Iron, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Camshaft Type:
Hydraulic flat tappet (stock)
Horsepower Gross:
190 hp @ 4,000 RPM (est. for 4-bbl manual)
Torque Gross:
285 lb-ft @ 2,000 RPM (est. for 4-bbl manual)
Fuel Delivery:
Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor (as specified for this manual)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Pump Type:
Mechanical, engine-driven
Oil Capacity:
5 Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for seasonal variations)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 20 Quarts (18.9 Liters) including heater core
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specifications).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months. Manual: Inspect every 15,000 miles, change as needed (refer to manual).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on plug type (refer to manual).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24 months or as needed due to moisture absorption.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems 1982:
Vacuum hose leaks affecting engine performance, carburetor tuning difficulties, aging electrical components (wiring harnesses, switches), fiberglass body cracks, aging rubber bushings in suspension and drivetrain, potential for carburetor issues on the 4-bbl models, early emission control system challenges.
Ccc System Considerations:
The Computer Controlled Catalytic Converter system's sensors and control module can be prone to failure over time, impacting performance and emissions. Proper diagnosis with factory tools or equivalent is crucial.
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing popular and performance-oriented vehicles, with the Corvette being its flagship sports car since 1953.
C3 Generation Timeline:
The C3 generation (1968-1982) is characterized by its iconic 'Coke bottle' styling and was a significant period for Corvette development, including the introduction of fuel injection, turbocharging, and increased emissions controls.
1982 Specifics:
The 1982 model year was the final year for the C3 Corvette and marked the transition towards more fuel-efficient technologies. It featured a distinct 'Collector's Edition' with unique badging and paint.
Production Location:
Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA
1982 Production Numbers:
25,241 units produced, including 6,759 Collector's Editions.