🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Year:

1977

Engine Variant Specified:

350

Vin Digit 2:

Z

Vin Digit 3:

1

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops specializing in classic Corvettes.

Value Proposition:

Provides essential, often hard-to-find, technical data for maintaining and repairing the iconic 1977 Corvette, enabling cost-effective ownership and restoration.

Content Highlight:

Comprehensive coverage of all major systems, detailed diagrams, troubleshooting guides, and factory-recommended procedures.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

All Models, All Engines, All Trim Levels, All Transmission Types

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific edition, typically 800-1500 pages for a complete factory service manual

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, rebuilding, cylinder heads, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshaft, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, carburetor (e.g., Rochester Quadrajet, Edelbrock), fuel lines, fuel filter, emissions control systems (e.g., PCV, EGR).

Ignition System:

Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, spark plug wires, ignition timing adjustments, electronic ignition components (if applicable).

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, transmission assembly, disassembly, rebuilding, gear shift linkage, lubrication.

Transmission Automatic:

TH350 (Turbo Hydramatic 350) assembly, disassembly, rebuilding, hydraulic control systems, valve body, torque converter, cooler lines.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle assembly (P-Type), differential, half-shafts, CV joints.

Suspension:

Front suspension (independent, A-arms, ball joints, coil springs), rear suspension (independent, trailing arms, transverse leaf spring), shocks, sway bars, bushings.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering linkage, tie rods, steering gear box.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, brake calipers, brake pads, brake rotors, master cylinder, brake booster, brake lines, parking brake system.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, fuses, circuit breakers, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), horn, wipers, power windows, power seats.

HVAC:

Heating system, ventilation system, air conditioning system (compressor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant service).

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, interior trim, glass replacement, frame inspection and repair, weatherstripping.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and top-offs, brake inspections, tire rotations.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom analysis, component testing procedures for all major systems.

Component Rebuilding:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, carburetors, brake calipers, and other major components.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Engine torque specifications, bearing clearances, valve lash, ignition timing, wheel alignment specifications, etc.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical diagnostics and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, ensuring clear text and diagrams suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

L48 (Standard)

Engine Type:

Overhead Valve (OHV) V8

Displacement:

350 cubic inches (5.7 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

4.00 in x 3.48 in (101.6 mm x 88.4 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1 (L48)

Horsepower Net L48:

180 hp @ 4800 rpm

Torque Net L48:

270 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm

Optional Engine Code:

L82 (High Performance)

Horsepower Net L82:

210 hp @ 4800 rpm

Torque Net L82:

285 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Carburetor L48:

Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel

Carburetor L82:

Holley 4-barrel (typically)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

Turbo Hydramatic 350 (TH350) 3-speed automatic

Transmission Type Optional:

Borg-Warner T-10 4-speed manual (less common)

Automatic Features:

Column or floor shifter, P-R-N-D-SL selector positions.

Manual Features:

Floor mounted shifter, overdrive gear not typically present in T-10 for this year.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

98.0 inches (2489 mm)

Overall Length:

179.5 inches (4559 mm)

Overall Width:

69.0 inches (1753 mm)

Overall Height:

48.5 inches (1232 mm)

Front Track:

59.7 inches (1516 mm)

Rear Track:

60.4 inches (1534 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

3400 - 3600 lbs (1542 - 1633 kg), depending on options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4500 lbs (2041 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data Availability:

Limited specific crash test ratings for this era of vehicle are publicly available in modern formats.

Braking System:

Power assisted 4-wheel disc brakes.

Steering System:

Power steering standard, aiding maneuverability.

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts (front), lap belts (optional/rear).

Body Construction:

Unitized body/frame construction (Corvette pioneered this) with integrated safety cage elements.

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column designed to absorb impact energy.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM Radio, often with 8-track player or cassette tape adapter. Optional power antenna.

Gauges:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, oil pressure, water temperature, voltmeter. Warning lights for various systems.

Cruise Control:

Optional factory-installed cruise control system.

Tilt Telescopic Steering:

Standard feature for 1977, improving driver comfort and position.

Connectivity Features:

None by modern standards. Primary connectivity is for vehicle systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Tune Up Interval:

Recommended every 12,000 - 15,000 miles (spark plugs, points/condenser if applicable, timing adjustment).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Inspect fluid condition every 15,000 miles, change as needed or every 30,000 miles. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH or equivalent, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for ambient temperature recommendations).

Engine Oil Capacity:

5 quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron II (or equivalent GM specification)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

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

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, clutch components (manual), carburetor adjustments, vacuum leaks.

Electrical Gremlins:

Corrosion on connectors, failing grounds, aging wiring harnesses can lead to intermittent electrical issues.

Fiberglass Crazing:

Surface cracking in the fiberglass body, often cosmetic, but can indicate underlying structural issues if severe.

Frame Rust:

While generally robust, early C3 frames can be susceptible to rust in certain climates, particularly around suspension mounting points and the rear differential cradle.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Heritage:

Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of performance and innovation in American automotive manufacturing.

C3 Generation:

The 1977 Corvette is part of the third generation (C3) of Corvettes, produced from 1968 to 1982.

1977 Specifics:

Marked the first year the Corvette nameplate outsold the Mustang. Introduced a revised interior with a tilt-telescopic steering column and a new dashboard layout. Also saw the removal of the side-mounted exhaust system.

Production Location:

St. Louis, Missouri, USA

Production Volume 1977:

Approximately 49,213 units

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Collectible Status:

The 1977 Corvette is a highly sought-after classic, recognized for its iconic styling and performance capabilities for its era.

Performance Legacy:

Continues to be popular in vintage racing, car shows, and as a desirable collector car.