Positioning:
The definitive guide for owners and mechanics of the iconic 1971 Chevrolet Corvette, a significant model in the C3 generation.
Uniqueness:
Provides in-depth technical data specific to the 1971 model year, covering all factory engine and transmission options of the era.
Value Proposition:
Empowers DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians with the knowledge to maintain, diagnose, and repair their 1971 Corvette effectively.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel, ignition, cooling, exhaust, lubrication, transmission (manual & automatic), driveline, differential.
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering, brakes (front disc, rear disc), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, ignition system, starting system, charging system, accessories, body electrical.
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, glass, doors, windows, seats, weatherstripping.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (if applicable).
Repair:
Component overhaul, assembly/disassembly, component replacement, adjustments, specifications for all major systems.
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, engine timing.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.
Displacement L48:
350 cubic inches (5.7 Liters)
Horsepower L48:
330 bhp @ 5600 rpm
Torque L48:
360 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Displacement Lt1:
350 cubic inches (5.7 Liters)
Horsepower Lt1:
370 bhp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Lt1:
380 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Displacement Ls5:
454 cubic inches (7.4 Liters)
Horsepower Ls5:
365 bhp @ 4800 rpm
Torque Ls5:
490 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Carburetion L48:
Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor
Carburetion Lt1:
Holley 780 cfm 4-barrel carburetor
Carburetion Ls5:
Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor
Standard Transmission:
Muncie M20/M21 4-speed Manual
Optional Transmission:
Turbo-Hydra-Matic 3-speed Automatic (TH400)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate diaphragm spring (manual)
Automatic Transmission Details:
Hydraulic torque converter with planetary gearsets.
Crash Testing Era:
Limited formal crash ratings compared to modern standards; focus on robust body-on-frame construction for the era.
Braking System:
Power-assisted disc brakes front and rear.
Steering System:
Recirculating ball, optional power steering.
Restraint System:
Lap belts standard, shoulder belts optional/standard on some trims.
Body Construction:
Fiberglass body panels over a steel ladder frame chassis.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (recommended by manual).
Tune Up Interval:
Recommended every 12,000 miles or 12 months.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF/CD, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for seasonal recommendations).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron-III (or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor adjustment, ignition points and condenser wear, vacuum leaks, exhaust system corrosion, suspension bushings.
Engine Specific Considerations:
Cooling system efficiency, valve stem seals (all engines), potential for oil leaks on big blocks.
Parts Catalogue Reference
Part Number Oil Filter Est:
AC PF25 or equivalent
Part Number Air Filter Est:
AC A362C or equivalent (Varies by engine)
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet has a long history of performance vehicles, with the Corvette being its flagship sports car since 1953.
C3 Generation:
The 1971 model year falls within the C3 generation (1968-1982), known for its distinctive 'Coke bottle' styling and shark-like front end.
Production Numbers 1971:
Approximately 2,115 Corvettes produced with the 454 LS5 engine, 8,151 with the 350 LT1, and 14,114 with the 350 L48.
Key Changes 1971:
Reduced compression ratios for lower octane fuel, introduction of the 454 LS5 big-block as standard.
Iconic Status:
The 1971 Corvette is widely regarded as a classic American muscle car and a collector's item.
Performance Reviews Era:
Received critical acclaim for its powerful engines and handling capabilities, though often criticized for ride quality and interior noise.
Historical Significance:
Represents a pinnacle of American automotive design and performance before emissions regulations significantly impacted engine power.
