🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Year:

1974

Engine Code Identifier:

305

Chassis Code:

C3

Vin Decoder Primary Digits:

1Z87

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners, mechanics, and restorers of the 1974 Chevrolet Corvette.

Value Proposition:

Provides essential, authoritative information for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the 1974 Corvette.

Manual Quality Standard:

Aims to match or exceed original manufacturer service manual quality and completeness.

Comprehensive Coverage:

Covers all mechanical, electrical, and body systems specific to the 1974 model year.

Diagnostic Focus:

Emphasis on troubleshooting and fault finding for efficient repairs.

Original Information:

Based on factory-issued service documentation for accuracy.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

All specified engines for 1974 Corvette.

Transmission Coverage:

All transmission types offered in 1974.

Trim Level Coverage:

All trim levels and body styles.

Estimated Page Count:

High (Likely 1000+ pages for a comprehensive workshop manual of this era).

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carburetor tuning and diagnosis), ignition system (points, coil, distributor), emissions control systems (if applicable for 1974).

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission overhaul and adjustment, automatic transmission overhaul and diagnosis (e.g., TH350, TH400).

Drivetrain Systems:

Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle assembly, limited-slip differential (if equipped).

Suspension Steering Systems:

Front and rear suspension components (springs, shocks, control arms, bushings), steering linkage, power steering system diagnosis and repair.

Brake Systems:

Front and rear brake service (disc brakes), hydraulic system, parking brake.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, ignition switch, gauges, wiring diagrams, fuse panel, circuit protection.

Fuel And Exhaust Systems:

Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump, exhaust manifolds, mufflers, catalytic converter (if applicable).

Body And Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, convertible top mechanism (if applicable).

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points, belt inspection and adjustment.

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, steering gear repair, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement.

Troubleshooting Guidelines:

Diagnostic charts for common symptoms, step-by-step troubleshooting for electrical and mechanical issues, emission control system diagnostics.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Engine component clearances, torque specifications, valve adjustments, ignition timing settings.

Depth:

Comprehensive diagnostic and repair procedures suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using basic diagnostic tools and understanding test readings.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution PDF, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick access to information.

Printability:

Designed for clear printing of all pages, including detailed diagrams.

Binding:

Not applicable for PDF download; typically a comb or perfect binding for physical manuals.

Paper Type:

Not applicable for PDF download; physical manuals often use durable, matte paper.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Chevrolet Small-Block V8

Displacement Cid:

350

Engine Code 305:

While the product name mentions '305', the standard Corvette engine for 1974 was the 350. The '305' may refer to a specific engine variant or an internal product naming convention. The manual is expected to cover the primary 350ci engines.

Bore X Stroke:

4.00 in x 3.48 in (101.6 mm x 88.4 mm) for 350ci

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1 (for base 350ci), 7.8:1 (for L48 350ci)

Horsepower Gross Std Net:

195 hp (SAE Gross) for base 350ci; 250 hp (SAE Gross) for L48 350ci.

Torque Gross Std Net:

280 lb-ft (SAE Gross) for base 350ci; 350 lb-ft (SAE Gross) for L48 350ci.

Carburetor Type:

Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel (1974 standard for most Corvette models).

Fuel Delivery:

Mechanical fuel pump.

Ignition System:

Points-type distributor, single coil.

350Ci Base:

LM1 (often denoted as standard 350)

350Ci L48:

L48 (high performance 350ci)

454Ci Ls4:

LS4 (optional 454ci Big-Block V8 for 1974, manual likely covers this too)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed manual (Muncie SM465 or M20/M21 variations)

Optional Transmission:

3-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic (TH350 or TH400 depending on engine pairing)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Torque converter, hydraulic control.

Manual Transmission Features:

Clutch operation, gear selection linkage.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent, originally Dexron II)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

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

📐 Dimensions

Length:

182.1 inches (4625 mm)

Width:

70.8 inches (1798 mm)

Height:

47.8 inches (1214 mm)

Wheelbase:

98.0 inches (2489 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,300 - 3,700 lbs (1497 - 1678 kg), depending on engine and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 4,200 lbs (1905 kg).

Cargo Volume Rear:

Limited, primarily behind seats.

Cargo Volume Front:

Trunk space available.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Era-specific safety standards; formal crash test ratings (like NHTSA) were less comprehensive and standardized compared to modern vehicles.

Braking System:

Four-wheel disc brakes.

Steering System:

Recirculating ball steering, optional power steering.

Seat Belts:

Lap and shoulder belts.

Construction:

Body-on-frame construction, fiberglass body panels.

Headlights:

Pop-up headlights for improved aerodynamics and protection.

💡 Technology Features

Radio Options:

AM/FM radio, optional AM/FM stereo with 8-track tape player.

Speakers:

Typically two or four speakers.

Cruise Control:

Optional on most models.

Air Conditioning:

Optional factory or dealer-installed system.

Original Connectivity:

Primarily analog systems, no digital connectivity features.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Tune Up Interval:

Every 12,000 miles or 12 months (includes spark plugs, points, condenser, cap, rotor, filters).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 24,000 miles or 24 months for automatic; typically inspected and changed as needed for manual.

Engine Oil Capacity:

5 quarts (4.7 L) with filter change (for 350ci).

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 10W-30 or SAE 10W-40 (depending on ambient temperature), check manual for specific recommendations.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant (e.g., 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Carburetor Problems:

Rochester Quadrajet can be prone to vacuum leaks, sticking linkages, and accelerator pump wear, affecting fuel mixture and performance.

Electrical Gremlins:

Aging wiring harnesses, connectors, and switches can lead to intermittent electrical faults.

Fiberglass Body Issues:

Cracking around stress points, delamination, and osmotic blistering (blisters).

Suspension Wear:

Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common wear items, affecting steering and ride quality.

Exhaust System Corrosion:

Rust and corrosion of exhaust components, especially in certain climates.

Cooling System Leaks:

Radiator, hoses, and water pump can develop leaks over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Legacy:

Chevrolet, founded in 1911, has a long history of performance and mainstream automotive production.

Corvette C3 Era:

The C3 generation (1968-1982) is known for its distinctive 'Coke bottle' styling. 1974 marked a transition year with initial steps towards emissions compliance and a slight decrease in performance ratings compared to earlier years.

1974 Specifics:

Introduction of steel-belted radial tires as standard, elimination of chrome bumpers for a more integrated urethane bumper system (front), heavier chassis components for emissions control equipment support.

Production Years:

1968-1982 (C3 Generation)

1974 Production Numbers:

Approximately 37,500 units produced for the 1974 model year.

Manufacturing Location:

St. Louis, Missouri, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Corvette Brand Recognition:

Consistently recognized as an iconic American sports car, a symbol of performance and style.

1974 Model Significance:

Represents a critical point in the C3's evolution, dealing with increasing emissions regulations and societal safety concerns, while still offering V8 power.