🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Year:

1974

Engine Variants:

350 cubic inch V8, 396 cubic inch V8 (Note: 396 was typically a big-block used in earlier Corvettes, but the manual specifies it, suggesting it may cover specific early-production 1974 models or variants with this nomenclature.)

Body Style:

C3 Convertible, C3 Coupe

Chassis Code:

C3 (Third Generation)

Engine Codes:

Likely L48 (350ci/165hp) and L82 (350ci/250hp) for 1974. The mention of '396' is unusual for standard 1974 production and might refer to a specific VIN range or a nomenclature artifact in the manual's title.

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1974 Corvette represented a transition year in the C3 generation, offering iconic American sports car styling with V8 power. This manual targets owners and mechanics focused on preserving and maintaining these classic vehicles.

Competitors:

Competed against other American performance cars like the Ford Mustang and higher-performance variants of the Camaro. Internationally, it competed with European sports cars, though often at a different price point and performance bracket.

Vehicle Features:

Distinctive 'shark' body styling, removable T-tops (coupe) or convertible top, powerful V8 engines, independent suspension, and a focus on grand touring rather than outright track performance.

Value Proposition:

This workshop manual is essential for anyone performing maintenance or repairs on a 1974 Corvette. It provides detailed, accurate procedures and specifications often missing in less comprehensive guides, ensuring correct servicing and longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All Models, All Engines, All Trim Levels, All Transmissions (as indicated, though '396' engine coverage for '74 is to be confirmed by the manual's content)

Pages:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual of this era)

Type:

Workshop Repair and Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (disassembly, assembly, inspection, overhaul), fuel system (carburetor, fuel pump, lines), ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system, engine control systems.

Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (3-speed Muncie, 4-speed Muncie M20/M21), automatic transmission (Turbo Hydra-Matic 350, TH400), clutch system, driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle assembly (positraction options).

Chassis:

Suspension (front independent, rear independent - transverse leaf spring), steering (power steering system, steering column), brakes (front disc, rear disc, power assist, parking brake), wheels, tires.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrumentation, ignition switch, starter motor, alternator, battery, fuses, relays, power windows, power door locks (if equipped), radio, antenna, horns.

Body And Interior:

Body construction, interior trim, seats, dashboard, door panels, convertible top mechanism, weatherstripping, glass, bumpers, exterior trim, paint specifications (likely general guidelines).

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, tune-ups, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, battery maintenance, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common problems (engine no-start, overheating, poor performance, electrical faults, brake issues), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major systems. Includes torque specifications, alignment procedures, and specifications for critical measurements.

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic procedures for engine performance, emissions, electrical circuits, and mechanical systems. Includes specific tests and measurements.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic owner maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, suspension and brake rebuilds, and complex electrical system repairs. Suitable for professional mechanics and dedicated DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text, allowing for quick location of specific topics and keywords.

Print Quality:

Dependent on the source scan quality, but typically designed for legibility and clarity of diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

350 cubic inch (5.7L) V8

Engine 1 Variants:

L48 (standard, 165 hp net) and L82 (optional, 250 hp net). Note: Horsepower ratings changed significantly due to the adoption of net ratings and emission controls.

Engine 2:

396 cubic inch (6.5L) V8 (Mentioned in product title, likely a special case or early production VIN reference for 1974, or a common misnomer for other big blocks in that era. Standard big blocks for C3 were typically 454ci.)

Horsepower L48:

165 hp @ 4000 rpm (net)

Torque L48:

255 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (net)

Horsepower L82:

250 hp @ 5200 rpm (net)

Torque L82:

280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (net)

Carburetion:

Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor (standard L48), Holley 780 cfm 4-barrel carburetor (L82).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (required from 1975 onwards, but 1974 models were designed for it as low-lead fuels became standard).

Ignition:

Breakerless Electronic Ignition (Delco-Remy High Energy Ignition system was optional/standard on higher trims or later years, likely standard on L82 in '74).

Cooling:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with fan and shroud.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

3-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 automatic transmission (most common)

Transmission Type Manual:

4-speed manual transmission (Muncie M20 or M21, less common in '74)

Automatic Features:

Three forward gears, column or console shifter, vacuum modulator for shift control.

Manual Features:

Close-ratio gear sets available, typically with Hurst shifter.

Automatic Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent for the era like Dexron II)

Manual Fluid:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 90)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.8 inches

Width:

69.2 inches

Height:

48.0 inches (Coupe)

Wheelbase:

98.0 inches

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 4.5 - 5.0 inches

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,400 - 3,600 lbs (depending on options and body style)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4,200 lbs

Cargo Volume:

Limited rear cargo area, plus cockpit storage.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

No formal NHTSA ratings for this era. Safety features were evolving; design focused on passive safety within the era's standards.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, vacuum-assisted power brake booster.

Steering:

Power steering standard on most models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point retractable front seat belts. Lap belts for passengers.

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis and body structure for impact absorption. Integrated roll bar behind seats (coupe).

Steering Column:

Energy-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM radio, often with an 8-track player option. Antenna typically mounted on the passenger side front fender or windshield pillar.

Cruise Control:

Optional on some models.

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense; basic analog systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Use high-quality conventional oil.

Filter Replacement:

Replace oil filter with every oil change.

Tune Up:

Spark plugs, points (if applicable, though electronic ignition was becoming standard), distributor cap, rotor, and timing adjustment as needed, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles.

Transmission Service:

Fluid and filter change for automatic transmissions every 20,000-30,000 miles. Clutch fluid check and adjustment for manuals as needed.

Engine Oil:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. (Check manual for exact specification; thicker oils like 20W-50 may have been common for high-performance V8s in this era).

Coolant:

50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Carburetion:

Rochester Quadrajet carburetors can develop issues with power piston seals and float levels, requiring rebuilding. Vacuum leaks are common.

Chassis:

Fiberglass body panels can crack or craze. Suspension bushings can degrade over time, leading to poor handling. Vacuum-operated headlights can malfunction.

Electrical:

Wiring harnesses can become brittle and cause intermittent electrical faults. Headlight vacuum actuators are a common failure point.

Engine:

Valve stem seals can wear, causing oil consumption. Overheating can occur if cooling system is not maintained.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Chevrolet has a long history of performance vehicles, with the Corvette being its flagship sports car since 1953. Known for V8 power and American muscle.

C3 Generation:

The C3 generation (1968-1982) is characterized by its distinctive 'Coke bottle' styling and aerodynamic wedge shape. 1974 marked a transition with the introduction of the new rear bumper and integrated impact absorbers, and the phasing out of the large-block 454 engine.

Production Year:

1974

Production Volume:

Approximately 37,537 Corvettes produced in 1974.

Manufacturing Location:

St. Louis, Missouri, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

While specific awards for the 1974 model are hard to pinpoint, the Corvette consistently received accolades for its styling and performance throughout the C3 generation. It was a highly desirable sports car of its era.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports and similar publications of the era often reviewed Corvettes, highlighting their performance but also noting reliability issues common to complex performance cars of the time.