Market Position:
The 1982 Corvette represented a pivotal moment, marking the introduction of the cross-fire injection system and serving as the final year for the C3 generation, making it a significant collector's item.
Competitors:
Primarily competed against other American performance cars of the era, such as the Ford Mustang, Pontiac Firebird, and various muscle cars from Dodge and AMC, though the Corvette maintained a distinct luxury sports car positioning.
Key Features:
Introduction of the Cross-Fire Injection (CFI) system, unique Z51 performance package, removable T-tops, iconic Stingray styling.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition systems.
Transmission:
Service and repair for automatic and manual transmissions, including fluid changes and component overhaul.
Brakes:
Disc brake systems, hydraulic components, parking brake, bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, steering linkage.
Chassis:
Frame inspection, body mounting, exhaust system, driveline.
Bodywork:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, linkage, and troubleshooting.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant flow, and leak diagnosis.
Fuel System:
Cross-Fire Injection system components, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter replacement, diagnostic procedures for CFI.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, pipes, catalytic converter, mufflers, and mounting hardware.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostics:
System-specific diagnostic routines and specifications.
Alignment:
Front and rear wheel alignment specifications and procedures.
Engine Rebuild:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, measurement, and reassembly procedures.
Transmission Rebuild:
Detailed steps for overhauling the THM700-R4 transmission, including valve body, clutch pack, and torque converter servicing.
Electrical Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, testing circuits, and component replacement.
Body Repair:
Procedures for removing and installing body panels, doors, hood, and related trim.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Detail Level:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, timing procedures, and diagnostic charts.
Specifications:
Includes detailed specifications for engine clearances, bearing tolerances, piston ring gaps, valve lash, timing marks, and more.
Diagnostic Tools:
References to required tools and equipment for specific diagnostic and repair procedures.
Engine 305 Ci:
305 cubic inch (5.0L) V8. Identified by engine code LG4 or L81. Standard for most models in 1982.
Engine 327 Ci:
327 cubic inch (5.4L) V8. While commonly associated with Corvettes, the 327 was phased out before 1982. The '327' in the manual title likely refers to earlier models or a broad coverage manual. For 1982, the primary engine options were 305 CI. If a 327 is present in a 1982, it's likely a transplant or a misunderstanding in the product title.
Horsepower 305 Ci:
Approximately 180-190 hp (depending on specific calibration and package).
Torque 305 Ci:
Approximately 240-250 lb-ft.
Fuel Injection:
Cross-Fire Injection (CFI) - a throttle-body injection system.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (HEI or similar distributor-based system).
Transmission Type:
Automatic Transmission (THM700-R4)
Transmission Type:
Manual Transmission (4-speed Muncie SM465 was an option for earlier C3s, but for '82, the automatic was dominant, and specific manual availability needs confirmation from the manual's precise coverage).
Automatic Features:
THM700-R4 is a 4-speed automatic with overdrive.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent specification, check manual for exact type).
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approximately 11-12 quarts (check manual for precise capacity).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (check manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions).
Transmission Service:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-3 years for fluid and filter change.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (varies by plug type).
Engine Oil:
10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for precise viscosity and API service classification).
Coolant:
Conventional ethylene glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent).
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 75W-90 or 80W-90 hypoid gear oil (check manual).
Known Issues:
Carburetor or CFI system tuning issues, exhaust manifold leaks, aging suspension bushings, electrical gremlins due to age, potential carburetor heat soak issues.
Common Repairs:
Replacement of fuel injectors, EGR valve issues, vacuum hose degradation, brake component wear, dashboard light failures.
Brand Heritage:
Chevrolet has a long history of performance vehicles, with the Corvette being its flagship sports car since 1953, embodying American automotive performance and style.
C3 Generation:
The 1982 Corvette is the final model year of the C3 ('Mako Shark') generation, which ran from 1968 to 1982. It saw continuous updates and refinements throughout its lifespan.
Production Years:
1968-1982 (C3 Generation)
Production Location:
Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA.
Sales 1982:
Approximately 25,400 units produced for the 1982 model year.