🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Year:

1966

Engine Designations:

350ci, 396ci

Engine Code 350Ci:

L79 (High Performance 327 CID, but often associated with later 350 CID era discussions, manual covers 350CID as a general descriptor, implying the high-performance small-block of the era which evolved into the 350. The 1966 did not officially have a 350 CID, but the 327 CID L79 often performed similarly to early 350s. This manual likely includes detailed info for the 327 CID as a precursor to the 350.)

Engine Code 396Ci:

L36 (Turbo-Jet 396 V8)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

American Luxury Sports Car

Competitors 1966:

Ford Mustang (though a pony car, it competed for enthusiast attention), Jaguar E-Type, Triumph TR4, AC Cobra (in performance).

Performance Focus:

Renowned for its V8 power, handling capabilities, and iconic Sting Ray styling.

Styling:

Second generation ('C2') Sting Ray design, considered a styling masterpiece with its hidden headlights, side vents, and removable roof panels (coupe).

📋 Manual Details

All Models Trims:

Yes, covers all 1966 Corvette models, trims, and configurations.

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 600-800 pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual of this era).

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, component testing, diagnosis, tuning for both 327 CID (mentioning 350 as the evolution) and 396 Big Block engines, including cylinder heads, valve train, crankshaft, pistons, rings, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system.

Fuel System:

Carburetor systems (e.g., Holley, Rochester Quadrajet), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, emissions control (if applicable for the era).

Ignition System:

Distributor, spark plugs, ignition coil, wiring, timing specifications, troubleshooting.

Brake System:

Hydraulic system, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake shoes, brake drums, front disc brake systems (standard on '66 Corvette), parking brake, troubleshooting and repair.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear independent suspension, control arms, ball joints, shock absorbers, coil springs, leaf springs, power steering system (if equipped), steering gearbox, tie rod ends, alignment specifications.

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, heater core, defroster, system flush and refill procedures.

Transmission Manual:

Service and overhaul procedures for Muncie 4-speed manual transmissions, clutch system, flywheel, driveshaft.

Transmission Automatic:

Service and overhaul procedures for the Powerglide 2-speed automatic transmission (if equipped).

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, starter, alternator, voltage regulator, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, turn signals), instrument cluster, ignition switch, horn, power windows (if equipped), radio, troubleshooting electrical faults.

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal and installation, frame inspection and repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, convertible top mechanism, bumpers, trim pieces, weatherstripping.

Preventative Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-up procedures, lubrication points, belt and hose inspection/replacement, fluid checks and top-offs.

Troubleshooting Diagnosis:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all major vehicle systems, including no-start conditions, rough running, braking problems, electrical faults.

Engine Rebuilding:

Complete engine disassembly, cleaning, inspection, measurement, component replacement, assembly, and break-in procedures.

Transmission Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for manual and automatic transmission overhaul, including gear set replacement, seal replacement, and clutch pack servicing.

Brake Service:

Disc and drum brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper and wheel cylinder rebuilding, brake bleeding, parking brake adjustment.

Suspension Alignment:

Component replacement (ball joints, tie rods), steering linkage repair, wheel alignment specifications and procedures.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Schematic interpretation, component testing, circuit tracing for diagnosing electrical issues.

Body Repair:

Panel alignment, door and lock adjustments, convertible top adjustments and repairs.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed and accurate wiring schematics for troubleshooting and repairs of the entire electrical system.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, from basic fluid checks and adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic flowcharts.

Diagnostic Charts:

Includes specific diagnostic flowcharts for identifying the root cause of problems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Digital Delivery:

Instant PDF download for immediate access.

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Image Quality:

High-quality scans of original factory documentation, including clear diagrams and photographs.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 327 Base:

327 cubic inch (5.4L) Small-Block V8, 250-365 horsepower variants (e.g., L79 high-performance 327 with 350 hp, often colloquially linked to the later 350 CID). The manual would detail this engine extensively.

Engine 396 Big Block:

396 cubic inch (6.5L) Turbo-Jet Big-Block V8, 360-425 horsepower variants (e.g., L36). This manual specifically calls out the 396, indicating coverage for the Big Block option.

Engine 327 Performance:

327 cubic inch (5.4L) Small-Block V8, 300 hp (base), 350 hp (L79), 375 hp (L79 with specific options/tuning).

Horsepower Range:

250 hp to 425 hp, depending on engine and options.

Torque Output:

Ranging from approximately 320 lb-ft to 460 lb-ft.

Carburetion Standard:

Single 4-barrel carburetor (e.g., Rochester Quadrajet or Holley) for most models.

Carburetion Performance:

Optional dual 4-barrel carburetors or higher-performance single 4-barrel units (e.g., L79 327).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Muncie 4-speed manual transmission.

Optional Transmission:

Powerglide 2-speed automatic transmission.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch for manual transmission.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

98.0 inches

Overall Length:

175.3 inches

Overall Width:

69.0 inches

Overall Height Coupe:

47.7 inches

Overall Height Convertible:

47.5 inches (top up)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,000 - 3,200 lbs depending on engine and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

Safety standards were different. Focus was on structural integrity and basic safety features. No modern NCAP ratings available.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes (standard on '66 Corvette), independent suspension for predictable handling.

Passive Safety Features:

Lap belts (standard), padded dash (optional or standard depending on build), reinforced chassis.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

AM/FM radio (optional factory or aftermarket), often with upgraded sound systems in restorations.

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern standards. Focus was on the driving experience itself.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or every 6 months (depending on usage and oil quality).

Tune Up Interval:

Approximately every 10,000-15,000 miles, including spark plug replacement, timing adjustment, carburetor adjustment.

Transmission Service:

Manual transmission fluid change every 25,000-50,000 miles. Automatic transmission service (fluid and filter) every 20,000-30,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SF rated oil, viscosity grade typically SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact recommendation based on climate).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter for small-block, 6 quarts (5.7 liters) for big-block.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 80W-90 recommended.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron-III/Mercon (or equivalent for Powerglide). Check manual for specific GM specification designation.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.

Engine Carburetion:

Carburetor adjustment and rebuilding, vacuum leaks, potential for valve seat recession on early unleaded fuel conversions.

Cooling System:

Radiator efficiency, water pump leaks, thermostat issues, fan clutch (if equipped).

Electrical System:

Aging wiring harnesses, voltage regulator issues, starter solenoid problems, headlight vacuum actuators.

Suspension Steering:

Wear in ball joints, bushings, and tie rod ends; steering box leaks; potential for idler arm wear.

Brake System:

Seized caliper pistons, worn brake pads/rotors, parking brake adjustment.

📚 Vehicle History

Corvette Legacy:

The Corvette has been America's premier sports car since its inception in 1953, synonymous with performance, style, and innovation.

C2 Sting Ray:

The 1963-1967 C2 generation, known as the 'Sting Ray,' was a radical departure from the C1, featuring independent rear suspension and a groundbreaking design penned by Larry Shinoda under Bill Mitchell.

Production Volume 1966:

Approximately 27,700 Corvettes produced for the 1966 model year.

Key Changes 1966:

Introduction of the 427 Big Block engine (manual focuses on the 396, the precursor), minor styling tweaks, and increased interior comfort features.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Classic Car Status:

Consistently ranked as one of the most desirable and iconic American classic cars. Highly collectible.

Collector Value Index:

High, particularly for Big Block and L79 equipped models.

Restoration Standards:

Many Corvettes of this era are subject to judging at concourse d'elegance events, requiring adherence to factory specifications.