🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Year:

1979

Trim:

427 (Implied High-Performance Engine)

Vin Structure:

1G1 (Chevrolet Division, Corvette), Year (9 for 1979), Assembly Plant (2 for St. Louis), Sequential Production Number.

Model Code:

C3 (Third Generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Iconic American sports car, representing performance and style of its era.

Competitors 1979:

Datsun 280ZX, Porsche 924, Jaguar XJ-S, BMW 3 Series.

Key Features Vehicle:

Removable T-top roof panels, rear-mounted spare tire, powerful V8 engine options, fiberglass body construction.

Key Features Manual:

Authoritative, factory-level repair and maintenance guidance, essential for preserving and restoring a classic Corvette.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Fuel System, Cooling System, Electrical System, Ignition System, Emissions Control, Body and Frame, Interior Components, HVAC, Chassis Lubrication, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting.

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Overhaul:

Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for all applicable engine variants.

Transmission Service:

Detailed instructions for manual and automatic transmission maintenance, repair, and overhaul.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting for all electrical systems including lighting, instruments, and accessories.

Brake System Repair:

Service procedures for disc brakes (front and rear), hydraulic systems, parking brake, and related components.

Suspension And Steering:

Diagnosis and repair of independent front suspension, rear trailing arm suspension, steering linkage, and power steering system.

Preventative Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid level checks, filter replacements, and component inspections.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic diagnostic trees and procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components across all vehicle systems.

Alignment Specifications:

Detailed alignment angles and procedures for ensuring proper handling and tire wear.

Torque Specifications:

Critical torque values for all fasteners to ensure proper assembly and prevent damage.

Emissions Control Servicing:

Procedures for maintaining and diagnosing the emissions control systems, including catalytic converter and EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) if equipped.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical troubleshooting and bodywork repairs.

Diagnostic Tools:

Covers the use of basic diagnostic tools and techniques common for the era, focusing on electrical testing and mechanical measurement.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

High-resolution PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick access to information.

Print Quality:

Printable at home or professional print shop.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V8, pushrod overhead valve (OHV)

Engine Displacement Cu In:

350 cu in (5.7L) - Standard C3 engine. The '427' designation likely refers to a performance variant, though the actual 427ci Big Block was not offered in 1979. High-performance 350ci engines were available.

Engine Displacement Liters:

5.7L (350 ci)

Engine Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Cast Iron

Horsepower Gross Std 350:

195 hp @ 4000 rpm (L48 standard 350)

Torque Gross Std 350:

285 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (L48 standard 350)

Horsepower Gross Optional 350:

225 hp @ 4000 rpm (L82 high-performance 350)

Torque Gross Optional 350:

285 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (L82 high-performance 350)

Fuel Delivery:

Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor (standard), optional Holley 4-barrel for L82.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition System:

Electronic Ignition (HEI - High Energy Ignition) distributor.

Engine Codes Offered:

L48 (220hp net, 350ci), L82 (225hp gross, 350ci, higher compression, performance camshaft, dual exhaust).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

4-speed Manual Transmission (Muncie SM465 or Saginaw) - availability varied by engine.

Transmission Type Opt:

3-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic Automatic Transmission (THM350 or THM400 depending on engine/driveline).

Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:

Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

185.8 inches

Width:

70.8 inches

Height:

47.8 inches

Wheelbase:

98.0 inches

Curb Weight Lbs:

~3,400 - 3,600 lbs (varies by options)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Lbs:

~4,500 lbs (estimated)

Seating Capacity:

2

Cargo Volume Cu Ft:

~12.7 cu ft (rear compartment)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

Safety standards and ratings were significantly different in 1979; modern comparisons are not directly applicable. Focus was on structural integrity and basic occupant protection.

Active Safety Features:

Power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, independent suspension for improved handling, front stabilizer bar.

Passive Safety Features:

Three-point seatbelts, padded interior surfaces, energy-absorbing steering column, side-impact protection built into the frame.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

AM/FM radio, optional 8-track tape player or CB radio. Basic analog instrumentation.

Driver Assistance Features:

None in the modern sense. Focus on mechanical feedback and driver engagement.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Miles:

Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 6 months (recommendation based on era and usage).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 24,000 to 30,000 miles or 24 months.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 24,000 to 30,000 miles or 24 months.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Every 30,000 miles (typical for HEI systems).

Drive Belt Inspection Interval:

Inspect annually; replace as needed due to cracking or wear.

Engine Oil Type:

API SF or SG rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check specific engine recommendation).

Engine Oil Capacity Qts:

5 quarts with filter (350ci).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron III ATF or specified power steering fluid.

Coolant Type:

50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and water.

Common Issues Body:

Fiberglass degradation (cracking, crazing), gel coat damage, window seal leaks, door fitment issues.

Common Issues Engine:

Carburetor tuning issues, intake manifold gasket leaks, distributor advance mechanism wear, potential for valve guide wear on high-mileage engines.

Common Issues Electrical:

Wire harness degradation, corrosion in connectors, headlight motor issues, fuel sender unit failures.

Common Issues Suspension:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings; potential for creaks and rattles from aging components.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Chevrolet's legacy of performance and innovation, established by the Corvette since 1953.

C3 Generation Period:

1968-1982

1979 Model Year Changes:

Revised interior with updated dashboard and console design, new Z51 heavy-duty suspension option, standard power steering, improved aerodynamics. The '427' designation in the manual title likely refers to the desire for high-performance engine details, as the actual 427ci Big Block was phased out before this generation, with high-performance 350s (like the L82) being the top engine options.

Production Volume 1979:

53,807 units (highest for C3 generation)

Manufacturing Location:

St. Louis, Missouri (until 1981), then Bowling Green, Kentucky.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards Era:

While specific awards for the 1979 model are scarce, the C3 Corvette generation as a whole is widely recognized as a significant icon of American automotive design and performance during its production run.

Iconic Status:

Consistently ranked among desirable classic sports cars.