🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Year:

1981

Engine Options:

305 cu in (5.0L) V8, 327 cu in (5.4L) V8 (rare, primarily for export/special applications)

Engine Code 305:

LG4 (California emissions), L81 (Federal emissions)

Vcc Code:

CC83

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1981 Corvette represented a significant year for the C3 generation, focusing on efficiency and emissions compliance while maintaining its sports car image. This manual is essential for owners and technicians maintaining or restoring these iconic vehicles.

Competitors:

Ferrari 308, Porsche 924/944, Datsun 280ZX, Jaguar XJ-S. The Corvette offered American muscle and performance in a stylish package, often at a more accessible price point.

Vehicle Highlights:

Introduction of the Z51 performance package, aerodynamic improvements, refined interior, and adherence to stricter emissions standards.

Value Proposition:

This comprehensive workshop manual is the definitive guide for anyone working on a 1981 Corvette, providing the detailed information needed for accurate diagnosis, repair, and maintenance, ensuring the longevity and performance of this classic.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All 1981 Chevrolet Corvette Models (305ci and 327ci engines)

Secondary Coverage:

All Trim Levels, All Transmission Variants (Automatic and Manual)

Estimated Pages:

~1000-1200 pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Authorized Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control systems, manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, drive axle, half-shafts, universal joints.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear independent), steering system (power steering), brakes (front disc, rear disc, parking brake), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, ignition system, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, radio, HVAC controls, warning indicators, wiring diagrams, fuse and relay identification, diagnostic connectors.

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, hood, T-tops, glass, seals, bumpers, seat belts, body hardware, collision repair procedures, paint and finish information.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake, power steering, transmission, differential), spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, tune-ups, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for engine performance, starting problems, electrical faults, braking issues, steering irregularities, HVAC malfunctions, body panel fitment.

Repair:

Engine overhaul, carburetor rebuild/adjustment, transmission removal and rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, steering system overhaul, electrical component testing and replacement, body panel repair and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Explains diagnostic trouble codes (if applicable for the era), circuit testing methods, component testing procedures, proper use of diagnostic tools.

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers from routine maintenance and minor repairs to major overhauls and component rebuilds. Includes detailed exploded views, torque specifications, and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text (OCR processed for optimal usability)

Resolution:

High-resolution scans, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Layout:

Reproduces original factory layout, including all tables, illustrations, and schematics.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code L81:

5.7L (350 ci) V8 (Federal Emissions) - Naturally Aspirated

Engine Code Lg4:

5.0L (305 ci) V8 (California Emissions) - Naturally Aspirated

Engine Code 327:

5.4L (327 ci) V8 - Primarily for export/special application, less common for US domestic models.

Horsepower L81:

200 hp @ 4000 rpm

Torque L81:

285 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm

Horsepower Lg4:

190 hp @ 4200 rpm

Torque Lg4:

260 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm

Carburetor:

Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel (4MV) carburetor for both L81 and LG4 engines.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Material:

Cast Iron

Capacity Quarts:

22.5 quarts (with heater)

Oil Capacity Quarts:

5 quarts (with filter)

Type:

High Energy Ignition (HEI) with Electronic Spark Control (ESC) on California models.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

3-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 automatic transmission

Type:

4-speed manual transmission (M20 - wide ratio, M21 - close ratio, less common)

Automatic Shift Points:

Electronically controlled shift points for improved fuel economy and emissions on some models.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Gear Oil (SAE 80W-90)

Automatic Transmission Capacity Quarts:

Approx. 10 quarts (total fill)

📐 Dimensions

Length Inches:

185.8

Width Inches:

72.8

Height Inches:

47.9

Wheelbase Inches:

98.0

Curb Weight Lbs Automatic:

3533

Curb Weight Lbs Manual:

3475

Cargo Volume Cu Ft:

10.6

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3 Stars (NHTSA testing in the 1980s was different from today's standards)

Brakes:

Power-assisted front and rear disc brakes, ventilated front discs.

Steering:

Power-assisted recirculating ball steering.

Restraints:

Three-point active-retracting seat belts, optional leather seat trim.

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis and body structure for driver protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player, optional power antenna, optional graphic equalizer.

Instrumentation:

Analog gauges including speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, coolant temperature, voltmeter, and fuel level. Warning lights for brake system, oil pressure, battery, seat belts, and high beam.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No modern connectivity features; analog systems only)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Miles:

3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era)

Tune Up Interval Miles:

30,000 miles (spark plugs, ignition components)

Coolant Flush Interval Miles:

24,000 miles or 2 years

Engine Oil Type:

API SF, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific climate recommendations)

Coolant Type:

Permanent type antifreeze (ethylene glycol base), 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 (Glycol-based)

Common Problems:

Carburetor tuning and adjustment, vacuum leaks, aging electrical components (wiring harnesses, ignition module), climate control system issues, door lock actuators, exhaust system rust, T-top seal leaks.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

AC Delco PF2 or equivalent (verify with specific engine)

Air Filter Part Number Example:

AC Delco A1171C or equivalent (verify with specific engine)

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage Summary:

Chevrolet has a long history of performance and innovation, with the Corvette being its flagship sports car since 1953, embodying American automotive passion and engineering.

C3 Generation Evolution:

The 1981 model year marked the final year of the C3 'Mako Shark' generation, which ran from 1968 to 1982. This iteration saw significant updates to meet emissions standards, including the move to smaller displacement engines and improved fuel efficiency systems.

Manufacturing Location:

Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA

Total Production 1981:

40,604 units

Changes:

Introduction of Z51 performance handling package, revised suspension tuning, optional rear stabilizer bar, heavier-duty components for California models, optional aluminum wheels.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Car Of The Year Context:

While the 1981 model didn't win a specific 'Car of the Year' award, the C3 generation generally received acclaim for its styling and performance during its long production run.

Classic Car Valuation Context:

Highly collectible, particularly models with desirable options like the Z51 package or manual transmissions. Values are influenced by condition, mileage, originality, and specific engine/option combinations.