🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ferrari

Model:

308 GT4

Production Years:

1973-1980

Chassis Codes:

308 GT4 (also known as Dino 308 GT4)

Vin Decoder Information:

Manual provides guidance on VIN interpretation specific to the 308 GT4 series.

👋 Introduction

Historical Context:

The Ferrari 308 GT4, designed by Bertone and initially badged as a Dino, was Ferrari's first V8 mid-engined production car and a significant departure from its V12 lineage. It was intended to be more accessible and practical than its predecessors.

Contemporary Competitors:

Lamborghini Urraco, Maserati Merak, Porsche 911.

Design:

Bertone's striking angular design, mid-engined V8 layout, 2+2 seating configuration.

Performance Focus:

A more usable and road-oriented Ferrari compared to the exotic V12 models of the era.

Diy Advantage:

Empowers owners and independent mechanics to perform maintenance and repairs, saving on dealership labor costs and ensuring proper care of this classic Italian supercar.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Comprehensive mechanical and electrical repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting for the Ferrari 308 GT4.

Secondary Focus:

Bodywork, interior, and specific component diagnostics.

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by edition, but typically a comprehensive service manual for this era would be 500+ pages.

Type:

Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English (primary), potentially with supplementary Italian diagrams or terminology.

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for the V8 powerplant. Includes cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system, lubrication, and cooling.

Fuel System:

Carburetor systems (Weber 40 DCNF), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, and fuel injection systems (if applicable to specific models/years).

Ignition System:

Ignition coil, distributor, spark plugs, high-tension leads, and electronic ignition components.

Transmission:

Manual transaxle system, clutch assembly, gearbox overhaul, differential, and gear shift mechanisms.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, including wishbones, coil springs, shock absorbers, anti-roll bars, and bushings. Wheel alignment procedures.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, brake calipers, brake pads, brake discs, master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake mechanism, and hydraulic lines.

Steering:

Steering rack, steering column, tie rods, steering universal joints, and power steering system (if equipped).

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, starter motor, generator/alternator, battery, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), charging system, and accessory electrical components.

Bodywork:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, hood and trunk latches, bumpers, and trim.

Heating And Cooling:

Air conditioning system components, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, and HVAC controls.

Interior:

Seat removal and repair, dashboard components, instrumentation, and interior trim panels.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, and lubrication.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems across all major systems, including symptom-based diagnosis.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for the repair and replacement of all major components and sub-assemblies.

Rebuilds:

Detailed procedures for complete engine, transmission, and carburetor rebuilds.

Adjustments:

Specific procedures for adjusting carburetor idle mixture, ignition timing, valve clearances, and clutch engagement.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and detailed assembly instructions.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text within the PDF allows for quick access to specific topics.

Print Suitability:

Designed for easy printing of individual pages or sections for use in a workshop environment.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Ferrari Dino V8

Displacement:

2989 cc (2.9 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

81 mm x 73 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.2:1 (typical)

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 2 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

Approx. 255 hp @ 7500 rpm (EU version), 240 hp (US version)

Torque:

Approx. 285 Nm (210 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm

Carburetors:

4 x Weber 40 DCNF dual-choke carburetors

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transaxle

Type:

None

Layout:

Mid-mounted V8 engine with rear-wheel drive and integrated transaxle (transmission and differential).

Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil type and viscosity (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90). Capacity typically around 3.5 liters.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4445 mm (175 in)

Width:

Approx. 1720 mm (67.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1110 mm (43.7 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2540 mm (100 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1530 kg (3373 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Information:

No specific official crash test ratings are available for vehicles of this era in the modern sense. However, structural integrity and safety features are detailed within the manual.

Braking System:

Four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated front, solid rear) with hydraulic actuation.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Period-correct AM/FM radio, often with a cassette player. Manual covers wiring and basic repair of these systems.

ABS:

Not generally equipped with Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) in early models. Later models might have had optional ABS, which the manual would cover if applicable.

Diagnostic Ports:

No OBD-II or similar standardized diagnostic ports. Diagnostics rely on mechanical expertise and specific Ferrari diagnostic tools of the era, detailed in the manual.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact specification.

Tune Up Interval:

Recommended at intervals specified in the manual, often involving spark plugs, distributor points (if applicable), and carburetor adjustments.

Engine Oil:

Refer to manual for specific API service classification and viscosity grade (e.g., 20W-50 or 10W-40, typically a high-quality mineral or synthetic oil).

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Capacity approximately 12-14 liters. Specific mix ratio (50/50) is crucial.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Regular flushing and replacement recommended.

Clutch Fluid:

Typically the same as brake fluid (DOT 3 or DOT 4).

Carburetor Tuning:

Carburetors (Weber 40 DCNF) can be sensitive and require precise synchronization and jetting for optimal performance.

Electrical Gremlins:

As with many cars of this era, aging wiring harnesses and connections can lead to intermittent electrical issues.

Cooling System:

Radiator and cooling fan efficiency can be critical; maintenance of hoses and coolant is vital.

Rust And Corrosion:

Vulnerable areas for rust include sills, floor pans, and suspension mounting points. Thorough inspection is recommended.

📚 Vehicle History

Ferrari Legacy:

Ferrari's long history of producing high-performance sports cars, known for racing pedigree and exquisite engineering.

Introduction Of V8:

The 308 GT4 marked a pivotal moment for Ferrari, introducing their first V8 engine in a production road car, initially under the 'Dino' sub-brand to differentiate it from the larger V12 models.

Design Studio:

Styled by Marcello Gandini at Bertone, the GT4's sharp, wedge-shaped design was a departure from previous Pininfarina-styled Ferraris.

Production Numbers:

Approximately 2,826 units were produced between 1973 and 1980.

Manufacturing Location:

Maranello, Italy

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Critical Reception:

While not a consistent recipient of 'awards' in the modern sense, the 308 GT4 was recognized for its pioneering V8 engine and distinct styling by many automotive journalists and enthusiasts.

Enthusiast Following:

Highly regarded by Ferrari collectors and enthusiasts for its historical significance and driving experience.