Positioning:
The 1973 Corvette represented a refinement of the C3 generation, known for its blend of American muscle and sports car styling. It was positioned as a premium performance grand tourer.
Competitors:
Primarily competed with European sports cars and other American performance coupes, though few offered a comparable combination of style and V8 power.
Features:
Unique '73 features included the elimination of the chrome front bumper in favor of a 5-mph impact-absorbing bumper system with a urethane cover, a significant styling change. T-tops were standard on coupe models.
Value Proposition:
This manual is essential for owners and mechanics seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1973 Corvette. Its comprehensive nature covers all critical systems, ensuring accurate and effective service.
Coverage:
All Models, Engines (350ci, 454ci), Trim Levels, Transmissions
Page Count:
Estimated 800-1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Engine:
350ci Small Block V8 (LS4, L82), 454ci Big Block V8 (LS4) - Overhaul, Tuning, Diagnosis, Emissions Control Systems
Transmission:
Manual 4-Speed (M20, M21, M22), Automatic 3-Speed (TH400) - Overhaul, Adjustment, Diagnosis, Fluid Service
Chassis:
Suspension (Independent Front, Rear), Steering (Recirculating Ball), Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Disc), Frame and Body Structure
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Gauges, Horn, Wiper System, Radio
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, T-Tops, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Weatherstripping, Glass, Seats
Maintenance:
Lubrication, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Tensioning, Tire Rotation
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Diagnosis for Engine, Electrical, and Mechanical Systems
Repair:
Component Overhaul, R&R (Remove and Replace) Procedures for Major Assemblies, Component Level Repairs
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized Chevrolet tools required for specific procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed diagnostic procedures, and wiring schematic interpretation.
Standard Engine:
350ci (5.7L) Small Block V8
Optional Engine Big Block:
454ci (7.4L) Big Block V8 (Designated LS4)
Horsepower 350 Std:
190 hp (SAE Net, LS4 - low compression due to emissions mandates)
Horsepower 350 Hi Perf:
250 hp (SAE Net, L82 - higher compression, dual exhaust)
Horsepower 454:
275 hp (SAE Net, LS4 - low compression)
Torque 454:
370 lb-ft @ 3600 RPM (LS4)
Fuel Delivery 350 Std:
Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor
Fuel Delivery 350 Hi Perf:
Holley 4-barrel carburetor (L82)
Fuel Delivery 454:
Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor
Ignition Type:
Breaker Point Ignition (standard), High Energy Ignition (HEI) available on some later models or as upgrade.
Emissions Controls:
Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV), Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), Air Injection Reactor (AIR) system (Air Pump)
Standard Transmission:
Manual 4-Speed (M20 - Wide ratio, M21 - Close ratio, M22 'Rock Crusher' optional)
Optional Transmission:
Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 (TH400) 3-Speed Automatic
Clutch Type:
Single Dry Plate (Manual Transmission)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III (or equivalent specification)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (typically SAE 80W-90)
Height:
47.9 inches (coupe)
Curb Weight Approx:
3,500 - 3,700 lbs (depending on engine and options)
Standard Tire Size:
F70-15 or ER70-15
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 4.75 inches (5 x 120.65 mm)
Wheel Type:
Standard steel wheels with hubcaps, optional Rally wheels (15x7 or 15x8)
Crash Testing:
No standardized crash test ratings (NHTSA/IIHS) existed in the same way they do today. Focus was on structural integrity and occupant protection with available features.
Braking System:
Power-assisted 4-wheel disc brakes (standard on all 1973 Corvettes)
Steering System:
Power steering (optional, but common)
Seat Belts:
3-point lap and shoulder belts
Impact Protection:
Reinforced frame, energy-absorbing steering column, 5-mph impact bumpers (front urethane, rear steel with guards).
Audio System:
AM/FM Radio, optional AM/FM Stereo with 8-track tape player.
Gauges:
Speedometer, Tachometer, Fuel Gauge, Temperature Gauge, Oil Pressure Gauge, Voltmeter. All analog.
Assistance Features:
No electronic driver assistance features as understood today. Focus was on mechanical systems like power brakes and power steering.
Connectivity:
N/A (No electronic connectivity features available)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, or as specified by the manual.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 24,000-36,000 miles for automatic, or as per manual recommendations for manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 20,000-30,000 miles, depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 API SF/CD. Refer to manual for specific viscosity based on ambient temperature.
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Upholstery wear, fiberglass cracking (especially around windows), vacuum line deterioration, carburetor tuning issues, potential for rear main seal leaks on high mileage examples.
Emissions Related:
EGR valve operation, AIR system functionality, vacuum leaks affecting performance and emissions.
Heritage:
Chevrolet's Corvette is the quintessential American sports car, introduced in 1953. It has consistently evolved, blending performance, style, and American engineering.
C3 Generation:
The C3 generation (1968-1982) is characterized by its 'Mako Shark' styling. 1973 marked a transition, moving away from chrome bumpers towards the federally mandated 5-mph impact standards.
Production Volume 1973:
39,467 units
Assembly Location:
St. Louis Assembly Plant, St. Louis, Missouri
