🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Year:

1974

Chassis Code:

C3

Body Style:

Coupe

Engine Identifier:

454 V8

Vin Engine Code:

T

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The definitive guide for enthusiasts and professionals working on the iconic 1974 Chevrolet Corvette with the potent 454 big-block engine.

Comparison:

This workshop manual provides a level of detail and accuracy typically found in OEM factory service manuals, crucial for preserving the integrity and performance of a classic Corvette.

Features:

Covers all mechanical and electrical systems, detailed repair procedures, exploded views, troubleshooting guides, and specifications.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types for 1974 Corvette

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 800-1200 (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Content Source:

Likely compiled from original GM factory service information and bulletins.

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (454 CID V8), Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Clutch, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles

Chassis:

Frame, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Disc/Drum), Wheels, Tires

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Lighting, Gauges, Switches, Fuses, Relays, Radio

Body And Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Targa Top, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Glass, Bumpers

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Tune-Ups

Repair:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Troubleshooting and Repair, Body Panel Repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting for Engine, Electrical, and Mechanical Systems

Body Repair:

Panel alignment, rust repair, replacement of trim and emblems, bumper installation/adjustment.

Interior Trim:

Removal and installation of door panels, dashboard components, seat upholstery, and carpeting.

Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic adjustments and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and chassis component overhauls.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic charts and procedures for engine performance issues, electrical faults, and mechanical noises.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Searchable PDF, Printable Pages, High-Resolution Scans of Original Manual Content

Searchability:

Full text search capability within the PDF

Quality:

High-Quality Digital Reproduction

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Description:

Big-Block V8, 454 cubic inches (7.4 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

4.25 in x 4.00 in (108 mm x 101.6 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1 (Federal/California)

Horsepower Gross:

270 HP @ 4000 RPM (Federal); 265 HP @ 4000 RPM (California)

Torque Gross:

385 lb-ft @ 3400 RPM (Federal); 370 lb-ft @ 3400 RPM (California)

Carburetion:

Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular Gasoline (87 octane minimum)

Fuel Pump:

Mechanical

Cylinder Heads:

Cast Iron

Valvetrain:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 16 Valves, Hydraulic Lifters

Ignition System:

Point-type ignition system, external coil

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Crankshaft:

Forged Steel

🔧 Transmission

Type:

3-speed Turbo Hydramatic 400 (THM400) automatic transmission

Type:

4-speed Manual Transmission (Muncie M21 or M22 optional, availability varied)

Automatic Features:

Torque converter, hydraulic control

Manual Features:

Heavy-duty clutch, synchromesh gears

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.4 inches (4506 mm)

Width:

69.0 inches (1753 mm)

Height:

49.7 inches (1262 mm)

Wheelbase:

98.0 inches (2489 mm)

Front Track:

59.1 inches (1501 mm)

Rear Track:

59.3 inches (1506 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,500 - 3,800 lbs (1588 - 1724 kg), depending on options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4,500 lbs (2041 kg)

Seating Capacity:

2

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Testing:

As a classic vehicle from this era, formal crash test ratings (like modern NHTSA) were not standardized. The C3 Corvette featured a robust frame and body structure for its time.

Brakes:

Power-assisted, Four-wheel disc brakes (standard for '74)

Steering:

Power steering (standard)

Seat Belts:

Three-point shoulder belts and lap belts

Windshield:

Laminated safety glass

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM radio, often with an 8-track tape player as an option.

Features:

None in the modern sense. The focus was on driver control and performance.

Features:

N/A (No external connectivity options)

HVAC:

Air conditioning (optional), heater, and ventilation system.

Windows:

Power windows (optional)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months (recommendation based on driving conditions; consult manual for specifics)

Tune Up:

As needed, typically every 12,000-15,000 miles for ignition components (plugs, points, condenser)

Transmission Fluid:

Check every oil change, change fluid and filter every 20,000 - 30,000 miles

Engine Oil:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature, typically API SF or SG rated for the era)

Coolant:

50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and clean water

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 Heavy Duty Hydraulic Brake Fluid

Gear Oil Rear Axle:

GL-5 Hypoid Gear Lubricant (e.g., SAE 90)

Engine Carburetion:

Rochester Quadrajet carburetor tuning and vacuum leaks can cause drivability issues.

Ignition:

Wear and tear on points, condenser, and ignition coil can lead to misfires and starting problems.

Chassis Suspension:

Wear in bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends, leading to steering looseness and uneven tire wear.

Electrical:

Corrosion in wiring harnesses, failure of vacuum-operated headlight doors, and aging switchgear are common.

Oil Filter Example:

AC-Delco PF2 (typical for Chevrolet V8 engines of this era)

Spark Plug Example:

AC-Delco R45TS (typical for 454 V8)

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Chevrolet Corvette, America's Sports Car, introduced in 1953. Known for performance, style, and innovation.

C3 Generation:

The C3 generation (1968-1982) is characterized by its distinctive 'Coke bottle' styling and aerodynamic design. The 1974 model year marked significant changes, including the elimination of chrome bumpers in favor of urethane, and the discontinuation of the convertible body style in favor of the coupe.

Emissions Controls:

1974 saw increased emphasis on emissions controls, impacting engine tuning and performance compared to earlier models.

Production Volume:

Approximately 37,500 Corvettes produced in 1974, with a significant portion being the 454 models.

Manufacturing Location:

St. Louis, Missouri, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Classic Car Status:

Highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, recognized as a classic American sports car. Frequently featured in automotive magazines and events.

Performance Reviews:

Contemporary reviews praised the 454's torque and straight-line acceleration, though handling and braking were considered good but not class-leading compared to some European rivals.