Corvette 350 396 1978 Workshop Repair Service Manual

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🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Chevrolet Model: Corvette Year: 1978 Engine Options: • 350 cu in (5.7L) V8 (L48) • 350 cu in (5.7L) V8 (L82) • 396 cu in...

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Type: Car

Vendor:

Sku: 453914

Tags: 1978 350 396 Car Cars Chevrolet Corvette Misc

Product variants

Description

🏷️ Basic Information

Identification

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Year:

Engine Options:

• 350 cu in (5.7L) V8 (L48)

• 350 cu in (5.7L) V8 (L82)

• 396 cu in (6.5L) V8 (Big Block - Note: 396 was not a factory option for 1978 Corvette. This likely refers to potential engine swaps or a misprint in the original product name. Standard engines for 1978 were 350 cubic inches. For accuracy, the manual would cover the 350 CI engines.)

Codes

Vin Engine Codes:

{'L48': '350 CI V8 (base)', 'L82': '350 CI V8 (high performance)'}

👋 Introduction

Market Position

Market Position:

The 1978 Corvette marked the 25th anniversary of the iconic sports car, positioning it as a premium, performance-oriented American grand tourer with a focus on refined style and V8 power.

Competitive Analysis

Competitors:

Competed against other high-performance coupes and sports cars of the era, including select European models, but carved its niche with American V8 muscle and distinct styling.

Key Features

Key Features:

• Unisteel body-on-frame construction

• Independent front and rear suspension

• Choice of potent small-block V8 engines

• Distinctive 'Mako Shark' styling

• Removable T-tops

• Optional power amenities and performance packages

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas

Coverage:

All Models, Engines, Trims, Transmissions for 1978 Corvette.

Page Count

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era).

Manual Type

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language

Language:

English

Format

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered

Systems:

• Engine Mechanical (350 CI L48/L82)

• Engine Cooling System

• Fuel System (Carbureted)

• Ignition System

• Exhaust System

• Automatic Transmission (THM350 / THM400)

• Manual Transmission (Muncie M20/M21)

• Clutch System

• Driveshaft and U-Joints

• Rear Axle and Differential

• Front Suspension

• Rear Suspension (Independent)

• Steering System (Power/Manual)

• Brake System (Front Disc, Rear Disc)

• Parking Brake System

• Wheels and Tires

• Frame and Body Construction

• Interior and Exterior Trim

• HVAC System (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)

• Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components)

• Lighting System

• Instrumentation and Gauges

• Radio and Audio System

• Seat Belts and Restraint Systems

• Wiper/Washer System

Engine Mechanical Details:

Includes cylinder head removal/installation, valve train adjustment, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft bearing inspection, timing gear/chain replacement, oil pump service, and general engine assembly/disassembly procedures.

HVAC System Coverage:

Diagnosis and repair of the heating and air conditioning systems, including refrigerant handling (R-12 for this era), compressor service, blower motor replacement, and control actuator adjustments.

Procedures Included

Procedures:

• Routine Maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups)

• Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding

• Transmission Diagnosis and Repair

• Suspension and Steering Alignment

• Brake System Service and Repair

• Electrical System Troubleshooting

• Component Replacement (alternator, starter, water pump, etc.)

• Bodywork and Sheet Metal Repair

• HVAC System Servicing

• Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Diagnostic Procedures

• Torque Specifications

• Clearances and Adjustments

• Fluid Capacities and Specifications

• Wiring Diagrams Interpretation

Transmission Repair Procedures:

Covers diagnosis of common transmission issues, removal and installation of automatic and manual transmissions, internal component inspection and replacement (clutches, bands, gears, synchros), and fluid seal replacement.

Suspension Steering Procedures:

Includes replacement of ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, wheel bearings, steering box adjustment and replacement, power steering pump and hose service, and alignment specifications.

Technical Depth

Depth:

Comprehensive diagnostic, repair, and overhaul procedures. Includes detailed component breakdowns, exploded views, torque specifications, and troubleshooting guides. Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Electrical System Depth:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all circuits, component location charts, troubleshooting flowcharts for common electrical faults, and procedures for testing and replacing components like the alternator, starter motor, voltage regulator, headlights, and interior lights.

Body And Frame Depth:

Procedures for body panel alignment, repair of fiberglass components, door, hood, and T-top adjustment, and frame inspection for corrosion or damage. Includes details on interior trim removal and installation.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format

File Format:

Print Quality

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans suitable for printing, with clear text and legible diagrams.

Binding Type

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine

Engine 350 L48:

{'displacement': '350 cu in (5.7 L)', 'configuration': 'Overhead Valve (OHV) V8', 'horsepower': '185 hp @ 4400 rpm', 'torque': '295 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm', 'compression_ratio': '8.0:1'}

Engine 350 L82:

{'displacement': '350 cu in (5.7 L)', 'configuration': 'Overhead Valve (OHV) V8', 'horsepower': '220 hp @ 5600 rpm', 'torque': '260 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm', 'compression_ratio': '8.5:1', 'notable_features': 'Higher lift camshaft, dual-exhaust, aluminum intake manifold.'}

Performance

Acceleration 0 60:

Approximately 6.5 - 7.5 seconds (depending on engine and transmission).

Engine Cooling Capacity:

Approximately 16-18 quarts with heater.

Fuel System

Fuel System:

Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor (L48); Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor (L82 - often with dual exhaust for improved flow).

Fuel Pump Type:

Mechanical fuel pump, driven by the camshaft.

🔧 Transmission

Standard

Standard Transmission:

3-speed Turbo Hydramatic THM350 automatic transmission.

Optional

Optional Transmission:

• 4-speed manual transmission (Muncie M20 wide-ratio or M21 close-ratio)

• 3-speed Turbo Hydramatic THM400 (heavy-duty, often paired with L82)

Features

Transmission Features:

All transmissions were robust, designed to handle the V8 power. Manual transmissions offered a more engaging driving experience, while automatics provided comfort for cruising.

Manual Transmission Gear Ratios:

{'M20_wide_ratio': '1st: 2.52, 2nd: 1.88, 3rd: 1.42, 4th: 1.00', 'M21_close_ratio': '1st: 2.20, 2nd: 1.66, 3rd: 1.31, 4th: 1.00'}

📐 Dimensions

Exterior

Overall Length:

177.4 inches

Overall Width:

69.0 inches

Overall Height:

47.8 inches

Wheelbase:

98.0 inches

Weights

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,300 - 3,500 lbs (depending on options and engine).

Front Axle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1,700 lbs

Rear Axle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1,800 lbs

Interior

Front Headroom:

Approx. 37 inches

Front Legroom:

Approx. 42 inches

Cargo

Cargo Volume:

26.4 cu ft (rear compartment).

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings

Safety Ratings:

NHTSA ratings were not standardized in the same way as today. Primary safety features focused on the structural integrity of the frame and body, along with driver-controlled systems.

Active Features

Active Safety Features:

• Four-wheel disc brakes

• Power steering (optional)

• Wide-profile tires

Passive Features

Passive Safety Features:

• Reinforced frame structure

• Energy-absorbing steering column

• 3-point seat belts

• Padded interior surfaces

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment

Infotainment System:

AM/FM radio, optional power antenna, optional 8-track tape player or cassette player. Basic audio system typical for the era.

Driver Assistance

Driver Assistance Features:

No electronic driver assistance features as understood today. Relied on driver skill and active safety systems like brakes and steering.

Connectivity

Connectivity:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals

Basic Maintenance Intervals:

{'oil_change': 'Every 3,000 miles or 6 months.', 'oil_filter_replacement': 'With every oil change.', 'air_filter_replacement': 'Every 12,000-15,000 miles or as needed.', 'spark_plugs': 'Every 20,000-30,000 miles.', 'transmission_fluid_service': 'Every 24,000-30,000 miles for automatic, check manual periodically.', 'coolant_flush': 'Every 24,000 miles or 2 years.', 'brake_fluid_flush': 'Every 2 years.'}

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 12,000-15,000 miles or annually.

Fluid Specifications

Fluid Specifications:

{'engine_oil': 'API Service SE or SF, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific ambient temperature recommendations).', 'coolant': 'GM Type A or equivalent ethylene glycol coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).', 'transmission_fluid_automatic': 'Dexron-III (or equivalent)', 'transmission_fluid_manual': 'GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 80W-90.', 'rear_axle_fluid': 'API GL-5, SAE 80W-90.', 'brake_fluid': 'DOT 3.'}

Engine Oil Capacity:

5 US quarts (with filter).

Known Issues

Common Issues 1978 Corvette:

• Carburetor tuning and adjustment (Rochester Quadrajet)

• Vacuum leaks affecting idle quality

• Ignition system maintenance (points, condenser, distributor cap/rotor)

• Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump)

• Rubber component degradation (bushings, mounts, seals)

• Fiber optic system maintenance (if equipped, for warning lights)

• Power steering leaks

• Electrical connector corrosion

Brake System Maintenance:

Regular inspection of brake pads, rotors, calipers, and brake lines. Caliper piston seal replacement, brake fluid flush, and parking brake adjustment are common service items.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage

Chevrolet Heritage:

Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing accessible, reliable, and performance-oriented vehicles since its founding in 1911. The Corvette, introduced in 1953, is its flagship sports car, embodying American performance and design.

Corvette Legacy:

The Corvette has been synonymous with American performance and style for decades, evolving through distinct generations while maintaining its identity as the quintessential American sports car.

Model Evolution

Corvette C3 Evolution:

The 1978 model is part of the third-generation (C3) Corvette, which ran from 1968 to 1982. The 1978 model year was significant for the C3's evolution, featuring a redesigned fastback rear window for improved visibility and a more aerodynamic profile. It also celebrated the 25th anniversary with special editions.

Corvette C3 Notable 1978 Features:

Introduction of the fastback rear for improved aerodynamics and luggage space, dual exhaust standard on L82, front and rear spoilers standard, interior upgrades, and the 25th-anniversary Silver Anniversary and Indy 500 Pace Car editions.

Production

Production Years:

Corvette C3: 1968-1982. 1978 Model Year Production: Approximately 49,000 units.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions

Industry Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1978 model year might be hard to pinpoint, the Corvette consistently received recognition for its performance and styling throughout the C3 generation, solidifying its status as a desirable American sports car.