Model Years Covered:
1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993
Vehicle Platform:
GM T-body (shared with Pontiac Fiero, Chevrolet Camaro/Firebird from earlier generations)
Engine Codes:
LT8 (2.8L V6), L44 (3.1L V6)
Vehicle Segment:
Sports Coupe, often marketed as an affordable performance option.
Key Competitors:
Ford Mustang, Pontiac Fiero, Toyota MR2, Honda CRX.
Design Philosophy:
Mid-engine, rear-wheel drive layout for balanced handling and sporty driving dynamics, aiming for European sports car feel.
Aerodynamics:
Sleek, aerodynamic styling with pop-up headlights.
Market Focus:
North America (USA, Canada)
Manual Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Page Count:
Estimated 500-700 pages (typical for comprehensive manuals of this era)
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans for clear text and diagrams. Searchable text functionality.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum/Disc), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instrumentation, Accessories, Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Fuses & Relays, Diagnostic Connectors (ALDL)
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, HVAC System, Body Control Modules (BCM) related functions
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks & Replacements, Belt Adjustments
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts based on symptoms, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) retrieval and interpretation via ALDL
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, Transmission overhaul, Brake system repair, Suspension component replacement, Electrical component repair/replacement
Component Rebuild:
Detailed steps for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and other major components.
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostics, including circuit testing, sensor analysis, and actuator testing.
Repair Complexity:
Covers all repair levels from minor adjustments to major component replacement and full vehicle teardowns.
Engine Name 1:
2.8L V6 (LG8/LT8)
Horsepower 1:
135-140 hp @ 4800-5200 rpm (varies by year and specific engine code)
Torque 1:
160-165 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm (varies by year and specific engine code)
Engine Name 2:
3.1L V6 (L44/3100)
Horsepower 2:
140 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque 2:
170 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
0 60 Mph Approx:
7.5-8.5 seconds (depending on engine and transmission)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
15.5 gallons
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic (THM-125C, later models may feature updated 4-speed autos)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic actuation
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
NHTSA Crash Test Rating:
Not rated by NHTSA for this specific period; era-appropriate safety standards applied.
Braking System:
Front Vented Disc, Rear Drum (optional rear discs on some later performance variants)
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional on some later models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point retractable front seatbelts, lap belts in rear.
Airbags:
Not standard. No driver or passenger airbags fitted.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Tune Up Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (spark plugs, distributor cap/rotor, plug wires).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 (5W-30 in colder climates).
Coolant Spec:
GM Dex-Cool or equivalent ethylene glycol coolant (50/50 mix).
Engine Common Problems:
Oil leaks from rear main seal, intake manifold gaskets, valve cover gaskets; ignition module failures; camshaft position sensor issues (later models).
Transmission Common Problems:
Torque converter shudder in automatics; clutch wear in manuals; bearing noise in manuals.
Electrical Common Problems:
Corrosion in wiring harnesses, failing power window motors, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, gauge cluster issues.
Chassis Common Problems:
Worn suspension bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends; brake caliper seizing; rust in common GM areas (wheel wells, rocker panels).
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet has a long history of offering accessible sports cars and performance-oriented vehicles.
Positioning In Lineup:
Positioned as Chevrolet's entry into the affordable, mid-engined sports car market, attempting to capture European sports car appeal.
Manufacturing Location:
Canada (GM Oshawa Car Assembly)
Production Run:
1985-1993
Key Changes Across Years:
Engine upgrades (2.8L to 3.1L), minor styling tweaks, interior updates, suspension refinements, introduction of optional ABS.
