🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Year:

1973

Body Style:

2-Door Coupe, 2-Door Convertible

Engine Code 305:

Refer to manual for specific RPO codes related to 305 CID engines if applicable, though 305 CID was not a standard Corvette option in 1973. Likely refers to common aftermarket or specific performance packages not factory documented under that designation for Corvette.

Engine Code 327:

L48 (350 CID) - 190 hp, L82 (350 CID) - 250 hp. The '327' in the product name is likely a historical reference or misnomer as the 327 CID V8 was phased out by 1969 for Corvette. The 1973 Corvette primarily featured 350 cubic inch engines.

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1973 Corvette represented a significant evolution of the C3 generation, marking changes in bumper design and a step towards more stringent emissions controls. This manual targets owners and mechanics focused on preserving or restoring these iconic American sports cars, serving as a critical resource for maintaining originality and functionality.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against other high-performance GT cars and sports cars of the era, though often in its own category due to its unique styling and American V8 performance. Key competitors included the Porsche 911, Jaguar E-Type, and certain American muscle cars adapted for GT use. This manual provides the specific Chevrolet technical data required for its upkeep.

Key Features:

This manual is a comprehensive guide to maintaining and repairing the 1973 Corvette, offering detailed instructions for all major mechanical and electrical systems. Its value lies in its completeness, providing OEM-level detail essential for accurate work. The PDF format ensures easy access and searchability.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All Models, All Engines, All Trim Levels, All Transmissions

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era, actual count may vary).

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (350 CID V8 variants - L48, L82), Engine Lubrication, Cooling System, Fuel System (carbureted, including Q-Jet), Ignition System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (TH400), Driveline, Suspension (front and rear independent), Steering System, Brakes (front disc, rear disc), Electrical System (wiring diagrams, lighting, accessories), Body (exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, convertible top), HVAC System, Emissions Control Systems.

Specific Engine Details:

Detailed specifications for L48 (350/190hp) and L82 (350/250hp) engines, including bore, stroke, valve sizes, timing specifications, and torque sequences.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups), Engine overhaul and rebuilding, Transmission overhaul and repair, Brake system service and repair, Suspension component replacement, Steering linkage overhaul, Electrical system diagnosis and repair, Body panel alignment and repair, Convertible top mechanism service, HVAC system servicing, Troubleshooting guides for common issues, Diagnostic procedures for all major systems, Component disassembly and reassembly instructions.

Chassis And Frame:

Service and repair procedures for the Corvette's steel backbone chassis and fiberglass body mounting.

Body And Trim:

Detailed instructions for interior and exterior trim removal, replacement, and alignment, including weatherstripping and seals.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers from basic owner maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures, specifications, and torque values. Suitable for professional mechanics and dedicated enthusiasts.

Wiring Diagrams:

Extremely detailed, color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical components, crucial for troubleshooting the complex 1973 electrical system.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Searchable text, high-resolution scans of original factory documentation).

File Organization:

Likely organized by system and procedure, with clear chapter breaks and an index for easy navigation.

Print Quality:

High-resolution digital reproduction, ensuring clarity of diagrams, text, and images.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

350 cubic inch (5.7L) V8

L48 Horsepower:

190 hp (SAE Net)

L48 Torque:

280 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (SAE Net)

L82 Horsepower:

250 hp (SAE Net)

L82 Torque:

280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (SAE Net)

Fuel System:

Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor for L48; Holley 4-barrel carburetor for L82 (early 1973 models), later replaced by Rochester Quadrajet. Manual details tuning and rebuild procedures for both.

Fuel Pump Type:

Mechanical fuel pump.

L48 Compression Ratio:

8.0:1

L82 Compression Ratio:

8.5:1

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Head Material:

Cast Iron

Engine Displacement:

350 cubic inches (5.7 Liters)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

3-speed Turbo-Hydramatic TH400 automatic transmission.

Optional Transmission:

4-speed manual transmission (Muncie M20, M21, or M22 depending on application/options).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or equivalent ATF). Consult manual for specific capacity and change intervals.

Manual Transmission Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific Muncie M20/M21/M22 gear ratios.

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

177.8 inches (Coupe), 175.2 inches (Convertible)

Overall Width:

69.0 inches

Overall Height:

47.8 inches (Coupe), 47.2 inches (Convertible)

Wheelbase:

98.0 inches

Front Track:

59.1 inches

Rear Track:

60.4 inches

Curb Weight Coupe:

approx. 3,474 lbs

Curb Weight Convertible:

approx. 3,576 lbs

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to VIN plate or manual for GVWR.

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 10.6 cu ft (Coupe), 5.4 cu ft (Convertible)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

NHTSA and IIHS ratings from this era are not directly comparable to modern standards. The 1973 model year introduced a 5 mph impact-resistant front bumper system.

Active Features:

Power-assisted front disc brakes, Power-assisted steering, Dual-circuit brake system.

Passive Features:

Lap belts, Padded dashboard and interior components, Energy-absorbing steering column, Side-impact beams (introduced in 1973 models).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

AM/FM radio (often with 8-track tape player as an option). Manual covers installation and basic troubleshooting.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. Features include power steering and power brakes. Cruise control was an optional feature.

Connectivity:

N/A (No integrated digital connectivity features).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific recommendation based on usage).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles (refer to manual).

Tune Up Interval:

Refer to manual; typically includes spark plugs, points (if applicable), condenser, distributor cap, rotor, and fuel filter replacement.

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual for viscosity (e.g., 10W-30, 10W-40 depending on ambient temperature and engine condition). API Service SG or equivalent.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III ATF.

Rear Axle Fluid:

Hypoid gear oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90). Check manual for limited-slip differential additive if applicable.

Known Issues:

Carburetor adjustment and tuning (especially Quadrajet), vacuum leaks, potential for fiberglass body stress cracks, aging electrical components (wire insulation, connectors), common U-joint wear, potential for rear main seal leaks, cooling system efficiency in hot weather.

Body And Paint:

Gelcoat and paint condition management, fiberglass repair techniques for common impacts or damage.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing performance vehicles and sports cars. The Corvette, introduced in 1953, is America's longest-running sports car and a symbol of automotive performance and style.

Model Evolution:

The 1973 Corvette (C3 generation) marked the end of the chrome bumper era at the front, adopting a 5 mph compliant urethane bumper. It also saw the introduction of an integrated impact-absorbing bumper system at the rear. Engine power continued to be impacted by emissions regulations and the shift to SAE Net horsepower ratings.

Emissions Controls:

Introduction of Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system, Early Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) system, and air injection reactor (A.I.R.) system for emissions reduction, all detailed in the manual.

Production Years:

1973

Production Volume:

30,464 units (1973 model year: 25,041 coupes, 5,423 convertibles).

Manufacturing Location:

St. Louis, Missouri, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The C3 Corvette generation received critical acclaim for its styling and performance throughout its run. Specific awards for the 1973 model are less documented than modern vehicles, but it was a popular and aspirational car of its time.

Ratings:

MotorTrend Car of the Year (Corvette overall), but not specifically for the 1973 model year. Highly regarded for its design and driving dynamics in period road tests.