Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops servicing the 1981 Chevrolet Corvette.
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, enabling cost savings on repairs and empowering owners to maintain their vehicle accurately.
Features:
Complete coverage, detailed diagrams, step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting, troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, professional quality.
Models Covered:
All 1981 Chevrolet Corvette models, including all engine, transmission, and trim variations.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 1000+ pages (estimated based on typical workshop manual depth).
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (327 L81), Fuel Injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/K-Jetronic variants), Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic THM700-R4, Manual 4-speed Doug Nash).
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front Disc, Rear Disc), Wheels, Tires, Frame.
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Gauges and Instruments, Power Accessories, Starting and Charging System, Engine Control System, Emission Control System.
Body Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Seats, Heater, Air Conditioning, Restraint System (Seat Belts).
Diagnostic:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code diagnosis, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Maintenance:
General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication, Fluid Checks and Changes, Filter Replacements, Tune-up Procedures.
Repair Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair and Rebuild, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair, Body Panel Repair.
Installation Adjustment:
Component Installation, Alignment Procedures, Electrical Component Installation and Testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive, professional-level detail including disassembly, assembly, torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures. Equivalent to factory service information.
Printability:
Full Printable (allows printing of individual sections or the entire manual).
Zoom:
Zoom IN/OUT enabled for detailed viewing of diagrams and text.
Binding:
Digital (PDF format, no physical binding).
Paper Type:
Not applicable (digital format).
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader and WinZip (or equivalent decompression software).
Operating Systems:
Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac operating systems.
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Engine Name:
327 V8 (L81)
Displacement:
327 cubic inches (5.4 Liters)
Configuration:
V8 (90-degree)
Bore X Stroke:
4.00 inches x 3.25 inches (101.6 mm x 82.5 mm)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic (later models might have K-Jetronic influences or updates, manual will clarify)
Horsepower Gross:
190 hp @ 4200 RPM (Gross - SAE J1349)
Torque Gross:
285 lb-ft @ 2000 RPM (Gross - SAE J1349)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Pump Pressure:
Refer to manual for specific pressure values for L-Jetronic system.
Transmission Type:
Automatic (THM700-R4)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual (Doug Nash '4+3' Overdrive)
Overdrive Gear:
Both transmissions feature overdrive for improved fuel economy.
Automatic Fluid:
Dexron II (or equivalent specified in manual).
Manual Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil (specific viscosity to be confirmed in manual).
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio, possibly with cassette player. Aftermarket options are common.
Features:
Limited by the era; focus is on mechanical and electrical systems rather than advanced driver aids.
Features:
No modern connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, USB).
System:
Early forms of electronic fuel injection (EFI) and ignition control are present, with detailed diagnostics in the manual.
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months, but consult manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual for specific intervals (e.g., 30,000-50,000 miles or as per vehicle usage).
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40), API service classification.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water). Refer to manual for specific type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for precise specification).
Common Problems:
Potential issues include vacuum leaks, aging electrical connectors, carburetor/fuel injection tuning, exhaust manifold leaks, and interior wear. Manual will detail specific troubleshooting.
Spark Plugs:
Refer to manual for correct part number and gap specification (e.g., AC Delco).
Ignition Wires:
Refer to manual for specifications and routing.
Chevrolet Performance:
Chevrolet has a long-standing history in performance vehicles, with the Corvette being its flagship sports car since 1953.
C3 Generation:
The C3 generation (1968-1982) is characterized by its iconic 'Coke bottle' styling. The 1981 model year saw refinements to aerodynamics and the introduction of new technologies.
Manufacturing Location:
Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA (Corvette Assembly Plant).
Production Span:
1968-1982 for the C3 generation.
