🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Model Generation:

C5

Applicable Years:

1997, 1998, 1999

Platform Code:

GM Y-body

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Performance sports car, representing Chevrolet's flagship performance model during its era.

Competitors:

Porsche 911, Ferrari 348/355, Dodge Viper, Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Supra, Mazda RX-7.

Key Features:

Rear-wheel drive, lightweight construction, advanced chassis design, powerful V8 engine, groundbreaking aerodynamic styling.

Value:

Essential tool for owners and technicians seeking accurate, dealership-level repair and maintenance information.

Authenticity:

Directly mirrors information used by authorized Chevrolet service centers.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All models and all repairs A-Z

Page Count:

Detailed page count not specified, but indicates comprehensive coverage.

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed book format, as it's for dealership technicians.

Format Detail:

Designed for professional use, providing detailed diagrams, illustrations, and step-by-step instructions.

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, engine control systems (ECM/PCM), torque converter clutch (TCC) operation, transmission (automatic and manual).

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, driveline (driveshaft, axles, differential), brakes (hydraulic, ABS, parking brake), wheels, tires.

Body And Electrical:

Body structure, exterior trim, interior trim, climate control, HVAC, lighting, wipers/washers, power accessories (windows, locks, seats), instrument panel, audio system, security system, airbags, diagnostic connector (OBD-II), wiring diagrams.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt inspections, spark plug replacement, general inspections.

Repair And Rebuild:

Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, power steering system service, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing, wiring harness continuity checks, diagnostic scan tool procedures.

Depth:

Vehicle-specific, technician-level detail. Includes specifications, tolerances, procedures, and diagnostic flowcharts for accurate repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Assumed Print)

Print Quality:

High-quality, professional dealership standard.

Binding Type:

Likely spiral-bound or perfect-bound for ease of use in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

Durable, high-grade paper suitable for workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V8, naturally aspirated

Engine Displacement:

5.7L (350 cu in)

Engine Code Ls1:

LS1

Valve Train:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Horsepower 1997 98:

345 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 1997 98:

350 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Horsepower 1999:

345 hp @ 5600 rpm (standard), 350 hp @ 5600 rpm (optional Z51)

Torque 1999:

350 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (standard), 355 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (optional Z51)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline

ECU:

PCM (Powertrain Control Module)

Emissions Control:

Catalytic converters, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation)

🔧 Transmission

Type 1997 98:

4-speed Automatic (4L60-E)

Type 1999:

6-speed Manual (Tremec T-56) standard on most models, 4-speed Automatic (4L60-E) optional.

Type:

4-speed Automatic (4L60-E) for manual transmission cars, 6-speed Manual (Tremec T-56) for automatic transmission cars.

Manual Transmission Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios detailed in the manual.

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronic control, torque converter clutch (TCC) for overdrive.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent specification)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Synchromesh fluid (e.g., Castrol TWS, Red Line D4 ATF for some applications, specific GM specification required).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.7 inches (4564 mm)

Width:

73.1 inches (1857 mm)

Height:

47.8 inches (1214 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.5 inches (2654 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

3,200 - 3,300 lbs (1450 - 1500 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Specific GVWR varies by model and options, detailed in manual.

Cargo Volume Rear Hatch:

13.5 cu ft (382 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-star (driver and passenger, for models equipped with airbags).

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models tested).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags (standard).

Rollover Protection:

Integrated roll bar behind seats (part of windshield frame structure).

Seatbelts:

3-point active-locking seat belts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Bose premium audio system.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional dual-zone automatic climate control (HVAC).

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Keyless Entry:

Optional keyless entry and remote start.

Diagnostic Interface:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first), with oil life monitoring system.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles depending on conditions).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 100,000 miles for original equipment (ACDelco).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30, meeting GM specification GM6094M (e.g., Mobil 1 5W-30 synthetic is often recommended).

Coolant Type:

GM P/N 12346290 (Orange or Pink Extended Life Coolant) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Clutch Wear:

Early models with manual transmission could experience clutch wear. Flywheel issues also reported.

Rear Main Seal:

Potential for rear main seal leaks, particularly on higher mileage vehicles.

Evaporation Purge Solenoid:

Faulty EVAP purge solenoid can lead to rough idle or Check Engine Light.

Power Steering Pump:

Occasional power steering pump leaks or noise.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

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

Generation Introduction:

The C5 generation was a complete redesign, introduced for the 1997 model year, marking a significant leap in performance and technology.

Key C5 Advancements:

Hydroformed frame rails, rear transaxle for better weight distribution, LS1 engine, significantly improved aerodynamics and interior.

Production Location:

Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA

Production Years C5:

1997-2004

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 1997 and 1998.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

Not awarded MotorTrend Car of the Year in these specific years, but highly regarded.

Performance Credentials:

Recognized for its sports car performance and handling capabilities within its price segment.