🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette C4

Year:

1986

Body Style:

Coupe / Convertible

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1986 Chevrolet Corvette C4 represented Chevrolet's entry into the modern sports car era, offering significant advancements over its predecessors. This manual positions itself as an essential tool for owners and independent repair facilities seeking to maintain and repair this iconic vehicle.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against sports cars like the Porsche 944, BMW 6 Series, and Datsun 300ZX. The C4 focused on performance, handling, and a more modern aesthetic compared to earlier Corvettes.

Key Features:

This manual provides in-depth, actionable repair information, empowering users to perform their own maintenance and repairs, thereby saving significant costs on dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

Page Count:

Not specified, but comprehensive ('A-Z')

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Lubrication System, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS), Chassis Electrical, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), Body and Frame, Interior Systems, Exterior Trim, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Troubleshooting Faults, Component Removal and Installation, Diagnostic Steps, Repair Procedures, Overhaul Procedures, Wiring Diagrams, Component Specifications, Torque Specifications, Adjustment Procedures

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive - covering all service and repair procedures from A-Z, including step-by-step instructions and pictures for ease of understanding and execution.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High Quality (printable)

Accessibility:

Accessible on PC, Mac, Tablets, and Mobile Phones with Adobe Reader

Delivery Method:

Instant Email Delivery

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

L98 (VIN G)

Engine Type:

5.7L (350 ci) V8 Tuned Port Injection (TPI)

Horsepower:

230 hp @ 4,000 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

330 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Tuned Port Injection (TPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular (87 Octane recommended)

ECU:

ECM (Engine Control Module)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic (700R4)

Type:

4-Speed Manual (Doug Nash '4+3')

Automatic Features:

Overdrive, Lock-up Torque Converter

Manual Features:

Includes an overdrive-affecting auxiliary transmission for improved fuel economy.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

176.5 inches

Width:

71.0 inches

Height:

46.4 inches

Wheelbase:

96.2 inches

Curb Weight:

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

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Not formally rated by modern standards (NHTSA/IIHS). Early C4s had basic safety features. 1986 saw the introduction of ABS.

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - standard on 1986 models, improved handling and stopping power.

Passive Safety:

Seat belts, crumple zones (front and rear), energy-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Original systems typically included AM/FM Radio with Cassette Player, optional CD Player. Digital dashboard display was a key feature.

Driver Assistance Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Connectivity Options:

No modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth or USB ports were available from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (or as recommended by manual).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on driving conditions).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for specific recommendations)

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Dexron-III/Mercon

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based (e.g., Dex-Cool not applicable for this era), 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Common Issues:

TPI sensor failures, fuel injector clogging, aging electrical components, wear on suspension bushings, potential C4 specific diagnostic port issues, interior material degradation.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Chevrolet has a long history of performance vehicles, with the Corvette nameplate being its flagship sports car since 1953.

Model Evolution:

The C4 generation (1984-1996) was a radical redesign, featuring a more aerodynamic body, independent rear suspension, and significant technological updates over the C3. The 1986 model year introduced the Tuned Port Injection engine across the board and standard ABS.

Production Years:

1984-1996

Manufacturing Location:

Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The C4 Corvette generation generally received positive reviews for its handling and performance advancements. Specific awards for the 1986 model are not widely documented in popular media, but it was a strong contender in its class.