🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Year:

1982

Engine Option:

396 (Note: The 1982 Corvette did not officially offer a 396ci engine. This manual likely covers this engine configuration as a popular aftermarket or modified option, or there may be a misunderstanding in the product title. The standard engines were the 350ci L83 Crossfire Injection and the base 350ci.)

Chassis Code:

C3

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1982 Corvette, the final year of the C3 generation, represented a significant evolution with the introduction of the Crossfire Injection system. It was positioned as America's premier sports car, offering a blend of performance and style.

Competitors:

Competed with European sports cars like Porsche 928, Jaguar XJS, and high-performance American muscle cars of the era.

C3 Evolution:

The 1982 model year was the end of an era for the C3, featuring advanced (for its time) fuel injection and improved aerodynamics, while retaining the iconic C3 silhouette.

Collectibility:

The 1982 model is highly sought after by collectors, particularly the Collector's Edition with its unique bronze paint and reverse windshield.

Value:

This manual is invaluable for owners seeking to maintain, repair, or restore their 1982 Corvette, providing the authoritative technical guidance necessary to preserve its performance and originality.

📋 Manual Details

All Models:

True

All Engines:

True (assumed for aftermarket 396, and standard 350ci)

All Trims:

True

All Transmission Types:

True

Estimated Pages:

High (typical workshop manuals for this era are comprehensive, often 800-1500+ pages)

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for efficient information retrieval.

Printability:

Generally printable for field use.

Quality:

High resolution for clear diagrams and text (typical for professional PDFs).

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed procedures for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of engine components, including block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, cylinder heads, camshaft, valves, and timing system.

Engine Fuel System:

Comprehensive coverage of the Crossfire Injection system (L83 engine) and carbureted systems (if applicable for aftermarket 396), including fuel pumps, injectors, regulators, lines, and diagnostics.

Engine Ignition System:

Details on spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor, ignition control module, and timing adjustments.

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan clutch, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and coolant specifications.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, oil pressure, and recommended oil types.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and emissions control components.

Transmission Manual:

Overhaul, repair, and adjustment procedures for manual transmissions (e.g., Saginaw Muncie 4-speed, Richmond Gear 5-speed). Includes clutch system.

Transmission Automatic:

Overhaul, repair, and adjustment procedures for automatic transmissions (e.g., Turbo Hydra-Matic 350/400). Includes torque converter, cooler lines, and fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle assembly, differential, and half-shafts.

Suspension Front:

Independent front suspension, control arms, ball joints, coil springs, shock absorbers, steering knuckle, and bushings.

Suspension Rear:

Independent rear suspension, trailing arms, transverse leaf spring, shock absorbers, and bushings.

Steering System:

Power steering pump, steering gear, tie rods, steering column, and steering wheel.

Brake System Front:

Disc brakes, calipers, rotors, brake pads, hoses, and master cylinder.

Brake System Rear:

Disc brakes, calipers, rotors, brake pads, parking brake mechanism, and hoses.

Electrical System Overview:

Wiring diagrams, component locations, fuse box layout, and relay functions.

Charging System:

Alternator, voltage regulator, and battery.

Starting System:

Starter motor, solenoid, and ignition switch.

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lighting, and bulb specifications.

Instrumentation:

Gauges, warning lights, speedometer, tachometer, and related sensors.

HVAC System:

Air conditioning, heater core, blower motor, climate controls, and refrigerant handling.

Body Exterior:

Doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, fenders, glass, trim, and weatherstripping.

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, carpeting, door panels, headliner, and trim.

Chassis And Frame:

Frame construction, body mounting, and structural components.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, tune-ups, lubrication points, and tire rotation.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based problem solving for common and complex issues.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing or repairing any major component or system.

Overhaul Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic values, and alignments.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

Body Repair:

Panel replacement, rust repair guidance, glass replacement, and interior trim installation.

Depth:

Comprehensive (factory-level detail for repair, overhaul, and diagnostics)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Standard Engine:

350 cu in (5.7L) L83 V8 (Crossfire Injection)

Aftermarket Engine Mentioned:

396 cu in (6.5L) V8 (Likely aftermarket or modified)

Horsepower L83:

200 hp @ 4,200 rpm

Torque L83:

285 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm

Estimated Horsepower 396:

Highly variable, typically 300-400+ hp depending on configuration.

Estimated Torque 396:

Highly variable, typically 350-450+ lb-ft depending on configuration.

Injection System:

Bosch L-Jetronic based Crossfire Fuel Injection (on L83)

Carburetion 396:

Likely a 4-barrel carburetor (e.g., Holley, Edelbrock) for aftermarket 396 applications.

Bore Stroke L83:

4.00 in x 3.48 in

Bore Stroke 396:

4.094 in x 3.76 in

Compression Ratio L83:

8.2:1

Compression Ratio 396:

Variable, commonly 9.0:1 to 10.5:1 for performance builds.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-speed Manual (optional)

Standard Transmission Name:

BorgWarner T-4 (sometimes referred to as a Muncie variant)

Optional Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic

Optional Transmission Name:

Turbo Hydra-Matic 700R4 (introduced in some 1982 models for export, standard on some later models but often associated with 1983+)

Optional Transmission Name Alternative:

Turbo Hydra-Matic 350

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic clutch actuation (standard on manual transmission models)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GM Synchromesh Transmission Fluid or equivalent

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron-III Automatic Transmission Fluid (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.2 inches

Width:

70.5 inches

Height:

47.1 inches

Wheelbase:

98.0 inches

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,200 - 3,400 lbs (depending on options)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not typically specified for sports cars in this era, but generally around 4,000 lbs.

Cargo Volume:

Limited, primarily rear storage compartment and small front compartment.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

NHTSA testing standards were different in 1982; specific frontal/side impact ratings are not directly comparable to modern standards.

Braking System:

Power-assisted 4-wheel disc brakes

Steering:

Power steering

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced windshield frame and T-tops (if equipped)

Lighting:

Halogen headlights, standard safety lighting features.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player, optional premium sound systems.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges for speed, RPM, oil pressure, coolant temperature, voltmeter. Warning lights for critical systems.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors (common options).

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Primarily analog systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era, though synthetic oils could extend this).

Tune Up Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (includes spark plugs, distributor cap, rotor, timing adjustment).

Transmission Fluid Change Auto:

Every 24,000 miles or 24 months.

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Every 48,000 miles or 48 months.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/CD, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact specification based on climate).

Engine Oil Capacity L83:

5 quarts with filter

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Crossfire Injection Issues:

Can be sensitive to vacuum leaks, sensor failures (e.g., TPS, MAP), and injector clogging. Requires precise adjustment.

Chassis Corrosion:

Corvette frames and body components can be susceptible to rust, particularly in salt-belt regions.

Rear Leaf Spring:

The fiberglass rear monoleaf spring can fatigue or break over time, affecting rear suspension geometry and ride height.

Interior Wear:

Dashboard cracks, seat wear, and deteriorating plastic trim are common due to age and sun exposure.

Vacuum Lines:

Degradation of vacuum hoses can lead to performance issues, especially with the Crossfire system.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Sports Car:

Chevrolet's long-standing commitment to producing American performance and sports cars.

C3 Generation:

The C3 Corvette ran from 1968-1982, undergoing significant styling and mechanical changes throughout its lifespan. The 1982 marked the end of this iconic generation.

1982 Significance:

Introduction of the Crossfire Injection system as standard on the L83 350 engine, a major step towards modern fuel management. Also marked the introduction of the Collector's Edition.

Production Years:

1968-1982 (for C3 generation)

Production Location:

Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA

1982 Production Units:

25,240 units

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car Of The Year Consideration:

While not winning major 'Car of the Year' awards in the modern sense, the Corvette consistently maintained its status as a benchmark American sports car.

Industry Impact:

The 1982 model's introduction of fuel injection was a significant step towards modern automotive technology, influencing future Corvette generations and other manufacturers.