Positioning:
The 1998 Corvette C5 marked a significant evolution for the iconic American sports car, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology.
Competitors:
Competed against established European sports cars like the Porsche 911, as well as performance variants of domestic and Japanese coupes.
Design Philosophy:
The C5 introduced the 'Corvette Platinum' philosophy, focusing on a rigid chassis, improved aerodynamics, and a driver-centric cockpit.
Innovations:
Notable for its rear-mounted transaxle for better weight distribution and its hydroformed steel frame for increased stiffness.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, overhaul, and repair of the LS1 engine, including fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, and exhaust systems.
Transmission:
Comprehensive coverage for the 4-speed automatic (4L60-E) and 6-speed manual (MG5/M6) transmissions, including operation, diagnostics, and overhaul.
Drivetrain:
In-depth information on the rear-mounted transaxle, torque tube, driveshaft, and clutch system.
Suspension:
Detailed explanations of the transverse leaf spring and independent suspension system, including component replacement and alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Complete service information for the anti-lock braking system (ABS), including hydraulic components, sensors, and diagnostic procedures.
Steering:
Service and repair for the power steering system and steering column components.
Electrical:
Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including wiring diagrams, component testing, lighting, instrumentation, and power distribution.
Body:
Information on body panel alignment, door mechanisms, convertible top operation (if applicable), and interior trim.
HVAC:
Service and troubleshooting for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, including refrigerant handling.
Chassis:
Frame and underbody component identification and service.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug service, and belt replacement.
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic routines for all major systems, including troubleshooting flowcharts and symptom analysis.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for virtually all vehicle systems.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including disassembly, inspection, and reassembly.
Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, presented in a clear, logical format.
Specifications Data:
Tightening torques, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, and diagnostic trouble code (DTC) definitions.
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, equivalent to what dealership technicians use.
Digital Quality:
High-resolution, searchable PDF (if digital format is assumed or specified as an option). Original print quality is paramount.
Print Resolution:
Professional grade, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and photographs.
Binding:
Durable, lay-flat binding suitable for workshop use.
Paper Quality:
Heavy-duty, glossy paper stock to withstand shop environment and repeated use.
Configuration:
5.7L (350 cu in) V8, Overhead Valve (OHV), 90-degree V-angle
Horsepower:
345 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
350 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Bore X Stroke:
3.90 in x 3.62 in (99 mm x 92 mm)
Compression Ratio:
10.1:1
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (91 octane recommended)
Oil Capacity:
5.5 U.S. quarts (5.2 Liters) with filter
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for variations)
Coolant Capacity:
10.3 U.S. quarts (9.7 Liters)
Type:
4-speed Automatic (4L60-E)
Type:
6-speed Manual (MG5/M6)
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, includes overdrive and torque converter clutch.
Manual Features:
Rear transaxle design with integrated clutch assembly.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (GM Part #12378515 or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GM Synchromesh Friction Modified (GM Part #12345349 or equivalent)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (as per available historical data for similar vehicles/era)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (as per available historical data for similar vehicles/era)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point active-locking seat belts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Optional Bose premium sound system with CD player, AM/FM stereo, and cassette.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Climate Control:
Optional dual-zone automatic climate control
Onstar:
Not available in 1998 models.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Consult manual for severe conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 36 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (typically use AC Delco Platinum plugs).
Coolant Flush:
Every 5 years or 50,000 miles.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 (GM Part #12378388 or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III (GM Part #12378515 or equivalent)
Differential Fluid:
GM Hypoid Gear Lubricant API GL-5 (80W-90) (GM Part #1052786 or equivalent)
Common Wear Items:
Front suspension transverse leaf spring bushings, clutch master cylinder, fuel pump (especially early C5s).
Common Performance Issues:
Sticky ignition key cylinder (tilt column issue), potential for oil leaks around valve covers and oil cooler lines.
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet has a long history of producing performance vehicles, with the Corvette being its flagship sports car since 1953.
C4 To C5 Transition:
The C5 generation was a complete redesign from the C4, featuring a new chassis, drivetrain layout, and significantly improved performance and refinement.
Assembly Location:
Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA