Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Corvette owners seeking to maintain or repair their C4 models.
Value Proposition:
Offers significant cost savings by enabling owners to perform repairs themselves, access to professional-level technical information previously only available to dealerships.
Ease Of Use:
Step-by-step instructions with accompanying pictures for clarity, making complex procedures more manageable.
Accessibility:
Downloadable for instant access, usable on multiple devices (PC, Mac, tablet, smartphone) with free Adobe Reader.
Completeness:
Covers all aspects of service and repair from A-Z for the entire C4 generation.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, engine management (ECM/PCM).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (4L60/4L60-E), manual transmission (700R4, NVG T5, ZF S6-40), clutch, driveshaft, rear axle, half-shafts, universal joints.
Brakes Suspension Steering:
Brake system (ABS, components, bleeding), suspension (front and rear, control arms, springs, shock absorbers, bushings), steering system (power steering, steering rack, linkages).
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, climate control, audio systems, body control modules (BCM).
Body Chassis:
Body construction, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, chassis components, frame.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement, brake pad replacement.
Repair Rebuild:
Engine overhaul and rebuild, transmission service and repair, differential service, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, starter/alternator replacement, fuel pump replacement.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), systematic troubleshooting guides for various systems, electrical diagnostics, fuel system diagnosis, engine performance issues.
Installation Adjustment:
Component installation (e.g., sensors, actuators), alignment procedures, suspension adjustments, clutch adjustment.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive from basic user maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.
Engine Code Early:
L98 (350 ci / 5.7L V8 with Tuned Port Injection - TPI)
Engine Code Later:
LT1 (350 ci / 5.7L V8 with Sequential Fuel Injection - SFI)
Engine Code Late Performance:
LT4 (350 ci / 5.7L V8 - higher performance version of LT1)
L98 Horsepower Approx:
230-245 hp
L98 Torque Approx:
330-350 lb-ft
Lt1 Horsepower Approx:
300-330 hp
Lt1 Torque Approx:
330-340 lb-ft
Lt4 Horsepower Approx:
330 hp
Lt4 Torque Approx:
340 lb-ft
Fuel Injection Early:
Tuned Port Injection (TPI)
Fuel Injection Later:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (premium recommended)
Transmission 1984 1986:
4-speed automatic (4+3 manual transmission became standard in 1984, but automatic was an option)
Transmission 1984 Optional:
4-speed automatic (700R4/4L60)
Transmission 1989 Onwards:
4-speed automatic (4L60/4L60-E)
Transmission 1984 1988:
4+3 Manual Transmission (Doug Nash designed, with overdrive on gears 2, 3, and 4)
Transmission 1989 1996:
6-speed manual (ZF S6-40, standard on Z07/Z25 options, optional on others)
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
Dexron-III/Mercon Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual 4Plus3:
GM Synchromesh Transmission Fluid or equivalent (check manual for specific part number)
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual Zf:
ZF S6-40 Specific Transmission Fluid (often Dexron-III compatible but check manual)
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette stereos, some with CD players in later years. Bose sound systems available on many models.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models throughout the generation.
Electronic Climate Control:
Available on many models, offering automatic temperature control.
Onboard Diagnostics:
OBD-I for early models, OBD-II for 1996 models, allowing for electronic code reading.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult specific year manual for precise intervals.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Auto:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on severe or normal service. Consult manual.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Varies by plug type. Platinum/Iridium plugs can last 60,000-100,000 miles. Original ACDelco recommendations should be checked.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check specific year for exact viscosity, API Service classification is important).
Coolant Spec:
GM P/N 12346290 or equivalent; typically a green ethylene glycol-based coolant. 50/50 mix with distilled water. Check manual for specific type.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Common C4 Issues:
Plastic intake manifold cracks (LT1), opti-spark distributor failure (LT1/LT4), electronic suspension issues (FX3), aging rubber bushings, C-beam cracking (rare but possible), fuel injector failures (TPI).
Chevrolet Performance Legacy:
Chevrolet's iconic sports car, continuing the legacy of performance and design.
C4 Design Philosophy:
Radical redesign from the C3, introducing a more modern, aerodynamic, and performance-oriented chassis and body style.
Key C4 Milestones:
Introduction of L98 (1985), ABS (1986), LT1 engine (1992), Z07 package (1993), LT4 engine (1996), convertible reintroduced (1986).
Production Period:
1983-1996
Manufacturing Location:
Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA