🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Year:

1972

Engine Variant:

396 Turbo-Jet V8

Generation Code:

C3 (Third Generation)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

American Sports Car

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, collectors, and owners of the 1972 Chevrolet Corvette seeking comprehensive repair and maintenance information.

Key Competitors Era:

Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger, Plymouth Barracuda (in the broader pony/muscle car segment), and other high-performance personal luxury coupes.

Distinctive Design:

Iconic Stingray styling, removable T-tops, long hood, and powerful V8 engine options.

Performance Legacy:

Reputation for performance and handling, a hallmark of the Corvette nameplate.

📋 Manual Details

All Models Engines Trims Transmissions:

True

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1000+

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of the 396 Turbo-Jet V8 engine, including cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, lubrication system, and cooling system.

Fuel System:

Detailed information on the carburetor (likely Rochester Quadrajet or similar), fuel pump, fuel lines, and emissions control systems (where applicable for 1972 models).

Ignition System:

Distributor, ignition coils, spark plug wires, timing adjustments, and troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Rear axle, driveshaft, U-joints, half-shafts, and differential maintenance and repair.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, including springs, shocks, control arms, bushings, ball joints, and steering linkage.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, including disc brakes (standard on front), calipers, pads, rotors, brake lines, master cylinder, and power brake booster.

Steering:

Steering column, steering box (power steering or manual), tie rods, and power steering pump/hoses.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery, charging system, lighting, gauges, horn, and accessory circuits.

Body And Chassis:

Frame inspection, body panel removal/installation, weatherstripping, doors, hood, T-tops, seats, and interior trim.

Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning:

HVAC system components, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, and refrigerant handling (if equipped).

Manual Transmission:

Service and repair for Muncie 4-speed manual transmissions (M20, M21, M22 options), including clutch, shifter linkage, and gearbox components.

Automatic Transmission:

Service and repair for the Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 (THM350) automatic transmission, including fluid, filter changes, valve body, and torque converter.

Preventive Maintenance:

Detailed schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and flushes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections, and lubrication points.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major vehicle systems.

Overhaul Rebuild:

Comprehensive guides for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds.

Adjustment Calibration:

Procedures for carburetor adjustment, ignition timing, valve lash, and brake adjustments.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits.

Depth Of Coverage:

In-depth technical information suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Codes:

While OBD-I/II were not present, the manual would provide diagnostic flowcharts and symptom analysis.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.

Clearances Tolerances:

Essential internal engine and drivetrain clearances and tolerances for proper assembly.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable, allowing for quick information retrieval.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Digital Format:

N/A (Digital Download)

Digital Format:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Designation:

L36 (396 Turbo-Jet)

Engine Type:

V8, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Displacement:

396 cubic inches (6.5 liters)

Bore X Stroke:

4.125 in x 3.625 in (104.8 mm x 92.1 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 (typical for L36)

Horsepower Gross At Rpm:

325 hp @ 4800 rpm (L36)

Torque Gross At Rpm:

410 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (L36)

Carburetor:

Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel (model 7042203 for manual transmission, 7042202 for automatic transmission)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (as leaded gasoline was phased out, though 1972 was a transition year. The manual will specify requirements.)

Optional Engine 1:

LS5 (454 Turbo-Jet V8)

Optional Engine 2:

LT1 (350 V8)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

Muncie 4-Speed Manual (M20, M21, M22 variants)

Transmission Type Optional:

Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 (3-speed automatic)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate diaphragm spring (for manual)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90 or SAE 90)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron-III (or equivalent specified by GM)

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

175.1 inches (4448 mm)

Overall Width:

69.2 inches (1758 mm)

Overall Height:

47.9 inches (1217 mm)

Wheelbase:

98.0 inches (2489 mm)

Front Track:

57.1 inches (1450 mm)

Rear Track:

57.1 inches (1450 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,400 - 3,550 lbs (1542 - 1610 kg), depending on engine and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

N/A (Typically not specified for sports cars of this era)

Weight Distribution:

Generally front-engine, rear-wheel drive bias, designed for balanced handling.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

No standardized crash testing as performed today. Safety focused on structural integrity and driver protection within the context of its time.

Braking System:

Standard front disc brakes with power assist. Optional power steering for improved maneuverability.

Seat Belts:

Standard lap belts, with shoulder belts often optional or integrated into the seat design.

Frame Construction:

Body-on-frame construction providing significant structural strength.

Windshield:

Laminated safety glass.

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column (introduced in earlier generations, likely present).

💡 Technology Features

Radio Options:

AM/FM radio, AM/FM with 8-track tape player were common options.

Speakers:

Typically dual dash speakers, with optional rear speakers.

Cruise Control:

Optional Speed-Alert and Cruise Control System was available.

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense; focused on mechanical and basic electrical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era).

Tune Up Interval:

10,000 - 15,000 miles, including spark plug, points, and condenser replacement, and carburetor adjustment.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 24,000 - 36,000 miles (or as specified by manual).

Engine Oil Type Capacity:

API SF/CD or SG specification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended; capacity typically 5 US quarts (with filter).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio); capacity approx. 24 US quarts.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Suspension bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, weatherstripping degradation, vacuum hose deterioration, carburetor gasket leaks.

Engine Specific Concerns:

Oil leaks from front/rear main seals, potential valve guide wear, carburetor tuning sensitivity.

Electrical System Concerns:

Aging wiring insulation, corroded connections, ignition switch issues, gauge malfunctions.

Fiberglass Body Concerns:

Gelcoat cracks, stress cracks around panel edges, potential for previous accident damage repairs to be less than ideal.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Legacy:

Chevrolet's long-standing commitment to performance and innovation in the American automotive landscape.

C3 Generation Introduction:

The C3 Corvette, introduced in 1968, represented a significant styling departure with its iconic 'Mako Shark' design.

1972 Model Year Changes:

Notable for being the last year for chrome bumpers front and rear, the last year for the 396 V8 engine, and the last year for the 'SS'/'L' engine designation suffix. Also marked the removal of 'Corvette Stingray' script from front fender.

Production Years C3:

1968-1982

Production Volume 1972:

Approximately 20,000 units produced for the 1972 model year.

Manufacturing Location:

St. Louis, Missouri, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Reviews:

Consistently praised for performance and styling by contemporary automotive publications.

Collector Status:

Highly collectible classic sports car, particularly models with desirable engine and transmission combinations.