Market Segment:
American performance sports car
Key Competitors:
Dodge Viper, Ford Mustang SVT Cobra, Porsche 911 (earlier generations)
Unique Selling Points:
Exceptional handling for its era, powerful V8 engine, removable transparent roof panel
Usefulness:
Essential for owners and independent repair shops performing accurate diagnostics and repairs, maintains vehicle value and performance
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine performance diagnostics
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (4L60-E) service, repair, and overhaul; manual transmission (ZF S6-40) service, repair, and overhaul; clutch system
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, rear axle assembly, CV joints
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shocks, springs, control arms, sway bars, alignment procedures
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, component replacement
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering wheel, linkage
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, seats, convertible top (if applicable), HVAC system
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-I) for 1996, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting charts, specific component testing
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt and hose inspection/replacement
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical system troubleshooting and repair
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures
Engine Type:
V8, OHV, 16-valve
Engine Code:
LT4 (for Grand Sport and Collector's Edition), LT1 (for standard Coupe and Convertible)
Displacement:
5.7 Liters (350 cu in)
Horsepower Lt1:
300 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque Lt1:
335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower Lt4:
330 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque Lt4:
335 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Central Sequential Fuel Injection (CSFI) / Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)
Coolant Type:
Dex-Cool Extended Life Coolant (Orange) or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (4L60-E)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual (ZF S6-40)
Automatic Features:
Electronic control, overdrive
Manual Features:
Close-ratio gear set
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GM Synchromesh Transmission Fluid or equivalent (check specific manual for exact spec)
NHTSA Driver Side Frontal Impact:
Not rated directly, but generally considered safe for its era. Manual will detail safety systems.
NHTSA Passenger Side Frontal Impact:
Not rated directly, but generally considered safe for its era. Manual will detail safety systems.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard (Bosch ABS III)
Traction Control:
Standard (ASR - Automatic Slip Regulation)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point active front seat belts with pretensioners
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced windshield frame and integrated roll-bar behind seats (convertible)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact schedule)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic, consult manual for manual transmission service
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles with conventional coolant, or as per Dex-Cool schedule if used.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter change
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron-III ATF
Common Complaints 1996:
Minor electrical gremlins, aging rubber components (hoses, seals), potential for opti-spark distributor issues (though often resolved by '96), exhaust manifold leaks
Manual Diagnostic Focus:
The manual provides detailed troubleshooting for electrical systems, fuel delivery, ignition, and cooling to address these common concerns.
Brand Focus:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing iconic American vehicles, including sports cars.
Generation:
Fourth Generation (C4), 1984-1996
Key Changes 1996:
Introduction of OBD-II system (though 1996 was a transition year and used a modified OBD-I), LT4 engine in Grand Sport and Collector's Edition, ZR-1 production ceased.
Production Years:
1984-1996
Manufacturing Location:
Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA
