Segment:
Luxury Sports Car / Grand Tourer
Key Competitors 1978:
Porsche 911, Jaguar E-Type (later models), Datsun 280Z, Ferrari Dino
Iconic Status:
Represents the pinnacle of American sports car engineering for its era, a desirable collector's item.
Body Style:
Stingray Coupe (distinctive monocoque chassis and fiberglass body)
Coverage Statement:
All Models, Engines, Trim, and Transmission Types for the 1978 Corvette
Estimated Page Count:
Over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, exhaust
Transmission Systems:
Manual (Muncie M20/M21) and Automatic (Turbo Hydramatic 400) transmissions, clutch, driveshaft, differential
Chassis Systems:
Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front disc, rear disc), wheels, tires
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, accessories, radio, power windows, power locks
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, decklid, glass, interior trim, seats, weatherstripping, HVAC system
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical component troubleshooting and repair
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification and correction
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures.
Transmission Type Std:
Turbo Hydramatic 400 (THM400) 3-speed Automatic
Transmission Type Opt:
Muncie M20/M21 4-speed Manual (RPO MM4 or M21)
Automatic Features:
Column or console shifter, torque converter lock-up (on some models)
Manual Features:
Close-ratio options available, heavy-duty clutch assembly
Crash Test Data:
Limited official NTHSA data available for this era; design prioritizes driver protection within contemporary standards.
Brakes:
Power-assisted front and rear disc brakes
Seatbelts:
3-point retractable front seatbelts
Interior Impact Protection:
Energy-absorbing steering column, padded interior surfaces
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months, per manual recommendations for the era.
Tune Up Interval:
Refer to manual for spark plug, distributor cap, and rotor replacement schedules.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SF or equivalent, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended by GM for this period (check manual for specific viscosity).
Coolant Type:
GM-spec green ethylene glycol coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II (or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil (SAE 90 or 75W-90)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Corrosion Areas:
Frame rust, especially around trailing arms and rear crossmember; fiberglass body cracks or stress fractures.
Engine Specific Issues:
Carburetor tuning challenges, potential for oil leaks (valve covers, oil pan), thermostat housing leaks.
Electrical Issues:
Degradation of wiring insulation, vacuum hose cracking, headlight actuator failures.
Interior Wear:
Cracking of dashboard, seat upholstery wear, deterioration of weatherstripping leading to leaks.
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet's long history of performance and innovation in American automotive manufacturing.
C3 Corvette Era:
Part of the third generation (C3) Corvette, known for its iconic 'Stingray' styling.
1978 Specifics:
Introduction of the 'Silver Anniversary' edition and the Indy 500 Pace Car replica, highly collectible variants.
Production Period:
1968-1982 for C3 generation; 1978 specific production year.
