Positioning:
A vital resource for owners, restorers, and mechanics seeking to maintain and repair the iconic 1970 Chevrolet Corvette, a benchmark of American sports car engineering.
Manual Value:
This manual is a professional-grade tool, directly comparable to official Chevrolet factory service manuals of the era, offering unparalleled detail.
Features:
Covers all powertrain configurations, extensive diagnostic flowcharts, detailed exploded views, and precise specifications essential for authentic restoration and maintenance.
Coverage:
All Models, Engines, Trim, Transmission Types
Estimated Pages:
Detailed; typically 500+ pages for comprehensive factory service manuals
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, manual transmission, automatic transmission, drive axle, driveshaft
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, front disc, rear drum)
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wipers, horn, radio, power accessories (where applicable), wiring diagrams
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, convertible top (if applicable), heating and ventilation
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid level checks, lubrication, filter replacements, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom charts, diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, adjustments, specifications for engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, steering, electrical components
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications, tolerances, and torque values.
PDF Quality:
High-resolution scans, often searchable text (OCR dependent)
Printability:
Designed for printing, often with clear diagrams and legible text
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF)
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF)
Base Engine:
350 cubic inch (5.7L) V8
Base Horsepower:
300 hp (L48 - 4-barrel carburetor)
Optional Horsepower:
350 hp (LT-1 - 4-barrel, higher compression, performance camshaft), 390 hp (LT-1 - rated at 370 hp with A.I.R. system, dual exhaust)
Torque:
Approx. 380 lb-ft (L48), 380 lb-ft (LT-1)
Carburetor Options:
Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel (L48), Holley 780 CFM 4-barrel (LT-1)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Bore X Stroke:
4.00 in x 3.48 in
Compression Ratio:
10.25:1 (L48), 11.0:1 (LT-1)
Oil Capacity:
5 quarts (with filter)
Cooling System:
Pressurized liquid cooling system
Standard Transmission:
Muncie M20 (4-speed Manual)
Optional Transmission:
Turbo Hydra-Matic 3-speed Automatic (THM400)
Manual Gear Ratios:
M20: 2.52:1 (1st), 1.88:1 (2nd), 1.42:1 (3rd), 1.00:1 (4th); M21 (optional for LT-1): 2.20:1 (1st), 1.66:1 (2nd), 1.31:1 (3rd), 1.00:1 (4th)
Automatic Gear Ratios:
THM400: 2.48:1 (1st), 1.48:1 (2nd), 1.00:1 (3rd)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent GM fluid)
Overall Length:
175.1 inches
Overall Width:
69.0 inches
Overall Height:
47.9 inches (Coupe), 46.1 inches (Convertible)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,300 - 3,500 lbs (depending on options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,200 lbs
Standard Tire Size:
F70x15
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 4.75 inches (5 x 120.7 mm)
Safety Ratings Era:
NHTSA crash testing was not standardized in 1970. Safety features focused on structural integrity and driver control.
Active Safety:
Power-assisted front disc brakes, responsive steering system, good weight distribution
Passive Safety:
Reinforced chassis, safety glass, padded interior surfaces, lap belts
Audio System:
AM/FM Radio, optional AM/FM Pushbutton, optional AM/FM Stereo with 8-Track Player.
Driver Assistance:
None in the modern sense. Focus on driver engagement and control.
Climate Control:
Optional Air Conditioning, standard heater and ventilation system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-4,000 miles or 6 months (depending on usage and oil type; early synthetic oils were not common)
Tune Up Interval:
Every 10,000-12,000 miles, including spark plug replacement, distributor adjustment, and carburetor tuning.
Engine Oil Specification:
API Service SG or earlier equivalent (e.g., SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40, depending on climate). ZDDP additive recommended for flat-tappet camshafts.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor adjustment/rebuild, fuel pump, vacuum leaks, suspension bushings, exhaust system corrosion, ignition points and condenser, clutch wear (manual transmission).
Engine Specific Concerns:
LT-1 engines may require careful tuning due to higher compression and performance camshaft. Proper ZDDP additive is crucial to prevent camshaft lobe wear.
Cleaning Recommendations:
Use appropriate cleaners for chrome, paint, and interior materials. Refer to manual for specific cleaning agents for vinyl, leather, and carpets.
Chevrolet Heritage:
Chevrolet has a long history of performance and innovation, particularly with the Corvette, its flagship sports car introduced in 1953.
C3 Generation:
The 1970 Corvette is part of the C3 generation (1968-1982), known for its distinctive 'Mako Shark' styling with sharp body lines and prominent fender flares.
1970 Updates:
Significant updates for 1970 included a revised front suspension for improved handling, a new engine option (LT-1), revised interior, and the introduction of side-exhaust options.
Production Volume 1970:
17,316 units (Coupe: 10,669; Convertible: 6,647)
Manufacturing Plant:
St. Louis, Missouri, USA
