Corvette C2 1964 Owner's Manual

www.carburetor-manual.com
Would you like some Free Manuals?
http://carburetor-manual.com/free-shop-manual-club-t-13.html
Also visit http://freeshopmanual.com for more Free Manuals
Also Visit my website for 7 FREE Download Manuals starting
with this one.
"The ABC's of Carburetion"
Click Here Now
file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Tim/Desktop/carburetor-manual-welcome/index.htm[4/25/2009 11:42:20 AM]
CONTENTS
Operating Instructions
Page
5
Instruments and Controls
12
NIaintenance and Lubrication
26
:M ainte nance and Lubrication Schedule
35
Minor Trouble Shooting
40
Specifications
44
Index
48
AU information contained. in this booklet ill the lalest product
informalion available at the lime oj printing. The right
Is reserved to make changes ot any time without nalice.
11 11111111 11 111111111111 1111 111 11 111111 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 1111 111 11 11 1111 11 11 11 11 11 11 111 11111 111 11 11 111111 1111"''' '''' '' '''''' '' ''''''"'''"''''''"'''''',,,,,,,,, ,,,,,,, ,,,,,,
STING RAY
CONVERTIBLE
CORVETTE
STING RAY
SPORT COUPE
A WORD FROM CHEVROLET.
This Owners Guide contains im portant information regarding the operation and
maintenance of your Corvette.
In order to obtain maximum enjoyment and usage from your car, we suggest that you
fam iliarize yourself with the contents of this booklet a nd follow the recommendations
outlined .
Your Chevrolet dealer has the trained personnel and specialized equipment to properly
service yo ur Corvette. Have him inspect your car and perform any maintenance or
adjustment required,
We wou ld like to take this opportuni ty to thank you for choosing a Chevrolet product
- and assure you of our continuing interest in your motoring pleasure and satisfaction.
CHEVROLET MOTOR DIVISION
GENERAL
MOTORS
CORPORATION
DETROIT
2,
MICHIGAN
The First
1000 Miles
During your first thousand miles of driving, you can, by
observing a few simple precautions. contribute greatly to a
longer life for your Corvette and add much to its future performance and economy of operation.
It is recommended that your speed during these first one thousand miles be confined to a
maximum of 60 mph. However, do not drive for extended periods at anyone constant
speed, either fast or slow. During this period, avoid full throttle starts and quick, abrupt
stops. The first few hundred miles of driving are especially important to proper brake
operation. Gentle braking during this period will allow proper conditioning of the brake
linings and result in longer brake life and better brake performance.
It is always best to drive at a reasonable speed until the engine has warmed up. Be par-
ticularly careful to maintain the proper oil level in the engine. Check the oil level
frequently and, if it becomes necessary to add oil, follow closely the recommendations as to
quality and viscosity found in this booklet. Use of the proper engine oil is of great importance to insure maximum performance and economy.
Operating
Instructions
Starting the Engine
IGNITION
SWITCH
•
The five-position ignition switch allows full control of
the electrical systems of your Corvette. To start engine
turn the switch to START and release as soon as the
engine starts. The swi tch wi ll r eturn to the ON position
and all electrical circuits will be ready for use. Use OFF,
LOCK and ACC positions to stop the engine. The ACC
position will anow you to use all accessories without
en ergizing the ignition system.
NOTE, /(ey cannot be ,emoved from the ignition .....itch
accidentally leaving IWifeh OFF but IlOl ladeed.
position and the switch may be moved between
/(fl'
111(" b. nollllOVed .11';f;;;.#fi';;'..;;a.;:"i;h~'i4i;C't:;o:N:'
Place the transmission selector lever in neutral or park position and, on manual
transmission equipped models, push the clutch pedal down while starting engine.
Depress the accelerator pedal to the floor and fu ll y release. Turn the ignition switch
STARTING
to START and hold until the engine starts.
During temperatures of 0° F, and below, and when the engine is hot, the accelerator
PROCEDURES
pedal should be held part way down while starting.
Start a "flooded" engine by holding accelerator pedal to the floor while o'anking engine.
CAUTION: Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas produced by the engine of any ca?'. It is odorless
so you cannot detect its presence. B e safe. Never Sial"t or run YOW" C01"Velte in a closed garage or
park with the windows closed and engine operating.
Driving with the Powerg lide Transmission
The optional Powerglide is a completely automatic
transmission wh ich replaces the standard clutch and
transmission. After starting the engine with the seIce-
tor !ever in "N" (Neutral) or "P" (Park) position,
merely select the range desired and depress the accelerator. The transmission will do the rest.
P-PARK
Use only when car is stopped.
R-REVERSE
For backing car- from stop.
N-NEUTRAL
For standing-brakes applied.
D - DRIVE
For all forward driving -step hard
on accelerator for extra acceleralion below 45 mph.
L-LOW
For hard pulling at low speeds and
climbing or descending sleep
grades. Shift to L only below
40 mph.
~ I _,
Car parked
Sand, snow,
mud and
steep grades
~
POWERGLIDE DRIVING CAUTIONS
•
Do not accelerate engine in L, D, or R with the
brakes engaged. This can cause damage by overheating transmission.
•
Do not hold car on an upgrade by accelerating
engine. Use brakes.
I
Normal
driving
range
•
Do not use Low position except for hard pulls at
low speed or down-hill braking at speeds below
40 MPH.
•
Do not shift inw Reverse or Park before coming
to a complete stop .
• Always engage parking brake when parked.
J
IDriving with the Manual Transmission-s
Both Corvette manual transmissions are controlled
slowing down, shift into the next lower gear before
by the shift lever located on top of the Hoor tunnel.
the engine "lugs" or labors.
Do not "ride" the dutch. Depress the pedal only
You will find the shift pattern for your transmission
pictured on a plate just behind the shift lever. Durwhen actually shifting the transmission and then
ing acceleration, always shift into the next higher
clear to the Hoar. Use your brakes rather than the
gear before the engine begins to oVeISeeed; and ,;h_e_n~__cl_u_tch
_ pedal to hold your Corvette on a hill.
The Corvette three-speed manual transmission is designed to provide high performance under ordinary
driving conditions as well as during high speed operation. Gear ratios were selected to keep the engine
operating in its high output range as consistently as
possible and permit upshifting and downshifting
between second and third speed at high speeds.
THREE-SPEED •
TRANSMISSION
The optional fouf speed manual transmISSIOn provides four forward speeds. The closely spaced ratios
make it possible for you to accelerate with a minimum loss of engine rpm at the shift points. You will
enjoy the performance and feel of a direct connected
engine. Since all forward speeds afe synchronized
the transmission can be used to assist in deceleration
by downshifting in the third-second-first sequence.
4
•
FOUR-SPEED
TRANSMISSION
Downshifting with
Manual Transmission
If you wish to shift from one gear to the one immediately lower in ratio, avoid dangerously overspeeding the engine by downshifting as follows:
I. Watch the Tachometer-If your tach is orange-
zoned at 5000 to 5300 rpm, you may downshift to
the next lower gear when it indicates 4000 to 4100
rpm. If your tach is red-zoned at 6300 to 6500
rpm, you may downshift to the next lower gear at
4700 to 4900 rpm.
2. Double-clutching reduces strain on engines and
transmissions. The usual method of doubleclutching is:
Let up on the throttle, disengage the clutch, shift
into neutral, and engage the clutch. Almost simultaneously, speed up the engine, disengage the
clutch, shift into the next lower gear and reengage the clutch while depressing the throttle.
With practice, this procedure becomes almost
second nature.
Driving with Positraction
The positraction rear axle will give you constant
driving force on both rear wheels, especially helpful
in the winter and during other slippery driving conditions which might stop a conventionally equipped
vehicle. During turns, the positraction axle applies
the major driving force to the inside rear wheel thus
improving stability and cornering. Normal light
throttle application will supply maximum traction.
When starting with one rear wheel on an excessively
slippery surface, slight application of the parking
brake may be necessary momentarily to gain maximum traction.
Driving with
Metallic Brake Linings
If your Corvette is equipped with optional metallic
brake linings, you will find that somewhat more than
normal pedal pressure will be required to stop the car
until you have made several stops to warm up the
linings.
Pushing and Towing Tips
PUSHING CAR TO START
TOWING A DISABLED CAR
Should it ever become necessary to start the engine by
pushing the car (towing to start is not recommended
as car being towed may accelerate into tow car), pro-
If your Corvette must be towed, the following precautions must be observed:
ceed as follows :
Turn off all electrical loads such as radio, heater
and, if possible, lights until the engine starts.
MANUAL TRANSMISSION - T urn ignition sw itch
to "on." Place shift lever in high (3rd on 3-speed
transmissions, 4th on four-speed) and depress clutch.
When car reaches 25-30 miles per hour, slowly release clutch to start engine.
POWERGLlDE TRANSMISSION - Turn ignition
switch to "on" and place selector lever in "N ." When
car reaches a speed of 25-30 mph, place the selector
lever in <fL." When engine starts, place selector
lever in uD."
USE OF TIRE CHAINS •
AND SNOW TIRES
10
MANUAL TRANSMISSION -Release parking brake
and place shift lever in neutral.
POWERGLIDE TRANSMISSION - Release parking
brake and place selector lever in "N." DO NOT
TOW IN EXCESS OF 30 MPH. II the transmission
is inoperative, or not operating properly, the propeller shaft must be disconnected or car must be
towed with rear wheels off the ground.
TOWING WITH REAR WHEELS RAISED-When a
vehicle is being towed on its front wheels, the steering wheel should be secured to maintain a straight
forward position.
Do not use tire chains on the rear wheels of your Corvette. Clearance between
tire and wheelhouse is insufficient to permit operation with chains insta!led.
Many [ire manufacturers market tires for the Corvette which have specialized
tread designs for mud and snow use.
CLUTCH AND STEERING ADJUSTMENTS-Your Chevrolet deal!!! '?I.n make these 'adjustments for YQu:
• A linkage adjustment to reduce clutch pedal travel to permit .fast release and more rapid gear shifting;
• An adjustment to move the steering wheel forward or rearward; _ A linkage IIdjustment to permit
"faster" steering response.
TRAILERS and their EFFECT on CAR OPERATION
The Corve tte is designed primaril y (or passenger
conveya nce. H owever, it is well known that many
owners do pull trailers and have experienced very
sa tisfacLOry service.
When a trailer is attached to a car, the car becomes
not only a load-carryi ng veh icle, but a load-pulli ng
vehicle. The demands of this type of operation are
very differe nt from those (or whi ch th e automobile
is primaril y des igned and may present problems, such
as spring and tire loading, brak ing, cooling, lighting,
an d steering. However, careful dri ving practices wi ll
bet ter satisfy the requirements of trailer hauling.
If in the opinion of the manufacturer a part or component of a motor vehicle has been adversely affected
by misuse of the vehicle with trailer loads, such part
or component will not be covered by the manufacturers warranty.
The size o f and equipment for trailers, including
such items as hitches and safety ch a ins, brakes, ligllls,
pO\ver-weight ratios and over-all le ngth, are generally
su bject to safety regulations in all sta tes, and i t is th e
responsibility o f the user to make certa in that he is
in full compliance with th e regulations of th e states
in wh ich he plans to ope ra te with a tra iler a nd of
the Interstate Commerce Commission, if appli ca ble,
before doing so. Further, when opera ting a car with
a tra iler attached, the dri ve r must r ea li ze th a t the
performance, steering ch ara cteristics, and brakin g
distance of his car have been a ltered , a nd tha t he
mll st exercise greater ca ution to sa fely handle hi s
car and trailer.
INSTRUMENTS
AND CONTROLS
TACHOMETER
The tachometer indicates
the speed of the engine
in revolutions per minute.
Two different tachometers are used in the Corvette, depending upon the
engine option installed
in the vehicle.
Corvette 250 hp and 300 hp engines are equipped
with a tachometer which has a orange zone from
5000 to 5300 rpm (indicating valve float area) , and
a red zone from 5300 to 5500 (indicating maximum
permitted rpm) .
The tachometer supplied with the Corvette 365 hp
engine has an orange zone at 6300 to 6500. Don't
permit the pointer to enter the red zone beyond
6500 rpm.
SPEEDOMETER
..
AND
ODOMETER
The speedometer, indicating the forward speed of
your Corvette in miles per hour, is calibrated to a
maximum of 160. The odometer registers total accumul ated vehicle mileage and is useful in keeping
track of lubrication and maintenance intervals.
TRIP
ODOMETER
The trip odometer may be reset to zero by means of
the knurled knob extending beneath the instrument
cluster to the right of the steering column. This instrument may be used to record trip mileages as well
as during sports car rallies.
The ammeter shows the rate at which the battery is
being charged or discharged. The Delcotron charging system is equipped 'with a regulator wh ich controls the charge according to battery requirements.
When the Delcotron generator is supplying more
than the current demand, the ammeter will show the
charging rate while a discharge will be shown if the
current demand is more than the Delcotron output.
With the battery fully charged, the charging rate will
be 1m-\', thus giving an indication of battery condition.
OIL PRESSURE
...
GAUGE
The oil pressure gauge indicates the pressure at which
oil is being delivered to the various parts of the en·
gine requiring lubrication. Pressures registered by the
AMMETER
•
gauge may vary according to outside air temperatures
or weight of oil being used. Oil pressure of a cold engine being operated at a given speed will be somewhat
higher than when the engine is at normal operating
temperature at the same speed. Prolonged high speed
operation on a hot day at the given speed will result
in somewhat lower oil pressure readings. Readings
of 30 to 40 psi may be considered normal during
moderate road speeds of 35 to 40 mph with the engine at proper operating temperature. Gauge readings which are consisten tly high or low under these
conCIitions may indicate lubrication system and / or
engine malfunctions.
..
FUEL
GAUGE
The electrically o perated fuel ga uge will indicate
the amoun t of fuel in the lan k when the ig nition
switch is turned on. When the ignition sw itch is
turned off, the needle wi ll not necessaril y return to
the em pty mark.
..
TEMPERATURE
GAUGE
Showing engine coolant temperature, gauge readings
will vary with air temperature and operating conditions. Hard driving or prolonged idling in very hot
wea ther may produce above normal readings. The
ignition switch must be on [or accurate readings.
..
CLOCK
Resetting the dock provides automatic regulatio n
providing there is an error, either fast or slow, of at
least 3 minu tes. No regulation will be introduced if
the clock is reset for an error of less than 3 minutes.
When resetting, pull out the small knob and turn
in the direction in which yo u wish to set the handsclockwise if the clock is slow, counterclockwise if
the clock is fast. Do not move the hands past the correct tim e. Your clock should be cleaned and oiled
periodically.
The courtesy lights beneath the ou ter
ends of the dash p anel, as well as the
Sport Coupe dome light and the ConCOURTESY vertible rear compartment light, will
LIGHTS come on when either door is opened.
They may also be lighted by turning
the headlight switch fully counterclockwise past the slight resistance.
WINDSHIELD
WIPER
AND WASHER
..
The electric windshield wipers may be operated
anytime the ignition switch is "on" by turning the
\-vindshield wiper knob clockwise; to the first detent
for slow speed and all the way for high speed operation. 'The button located in the center of the wiper
control knob operates the wi ndshield washer. Pressing this button will cause a quantity of fluid to be
CIGARETTE
LIGHTER
•
squirted on each side of the windshield and, at the
same time, will automatica ll y start the windshield
wipers. The wipers must be turned off manually.
Keep the water con tainer, beneath the left front
fender, filled at all times. Add windshield washer
solvent or equ iva lent to the jar to aid in cutting
road film and grease. This solvent is recommended
for lise at all times except when the temperature falls
below freezi ng. During periods when temperawres of
freez ing or below can be expected, use wi ndshield
washer ant i-freeze in the washer ja r and prewarm the
windshield with the
heater defrosters before
using the washer. Fill
the washer jar onl), %
full in win ter to all ow
for expa nsion if the tem perature should fall low
enough to freeze the
solution.
The lighter. located on the instrument panel so as to
be accessible to both driver and passenger, should be
pushed "in" to operate. After it has become heated
and ready for use, it will snap out.
LIGHT SWITCH AND
HEADLIGHT MOTOR SWITCH
The retractable dual headlights contribute much to
the long, low appearance 01 your Corvette and also
serve to protect the headlights when not in use. Two
switches are necessary for headlight operation.
•
Pull the light switch knob out to its first stop to
operate the parking lights, tail lights and instru·
ment panel lights, fully "out" to substitute head·
lights lor parking lights. Regulate the intensity
01 the instrument panel lights by rotating the
knob; turn fully counterclockwise past the
"detent" position to turn on the interior lights.
•
Move the headlight motor switch toward you to
rotate the head lamp assemblies into the open
position. The headlamps may be lelt in the open
position even WiLh the lights turned off. To close
the assemblies move the switch away from you.
•
A flashing red "LIGHTS" indicator on the in·
strument panel, gives warning whenever the
headlights are turned on but not fully opened.
OPERATING HEADLIGHTS MANUALLY
Each headlamp assembly may be opened manuaJly,
if necessary, as follows:
•
Raise the hood and, reaching under the body
panel, turn the wheel disc on the headlamp door
motor in the direction you wish the door to move.
Continue until the door is fully open or closed .
•
See your Chevrolet Dealer as sOOn as possible.
HEADLIGHT
BEAM
SWITCH
i\fove the lever on the steeri ng column up or down
to indicate a right or a left turn. The amber front
parking light, the red stop lights and the proper
green indicator light in the instrument cluster will
flash to indicate the d irection of the turn. The lever
wi ll normally return to neutral; but in th e event of
a wide gradual turn this may not happen and you
may need to turn off th e signal manually.
•
The headlight high beam switch, located at the left
side of the toeboard. is used for selection of either
high or low headlight beams. The red high beam indicator light in the instrument panel will remind you
when the "brights" are bei ng used. Remember to
" dim" the lights when approaching oncoming traffic
and when overtaking other vehicles.
•
TURN
SIGNAL
LIGHTING SYSTEM TROUBLE CHECKS
•
Headlamps which Hickel' on and off rapidly indicate an overload condition which shou ld be corrected
immediately by your Authorized Chevrolet Dealer.
•
If, wh en signaling a turn, the indicator light comes on but does not Hash in one direction, check for a
burned out front turn signal bulb or stoplamp bulb on that side.
•
If the indicator lights come on and stay on when signaling a turn in either direction and no clicking is
heard, replace the flasher. A three-bulb Aasher must be used.
•
If the Hasher clicks but the dash indicator light does not operate, replace the indicator bulb.
HOOD
RELEASE
•
The brakes usually adjust themselves as necessary.
The optional heavy duty metallic brakes adjust on
forward stops, others adjust on reverse stops. Should
brake pedal travel become excessive, drive the vehicle
back ward and forward several times applying the
brakes to stop. Pedal travel should return to normal
after several stops.
To apply the parking brake, pull straight out on the
T-shaped handle. To release, turn the handle slightly
and push in. The red "BRAKE" warning light in
the instrument cluster will remain on when the brake
is applied and the ignition key is on.
POWER BRAKES-Optional power brakes make use
of engine vacuum to help you bring your car to a
stop with much less braking effort than needed with
regular brakes. Should the engine stall. a vacuum
reserve supplies three power assisted stops, after
which additional foot pressure will be needed for
brake response.
Pull the hood release handle out to release the hood
lock and then raise the hood manually until it locks
in the open position. With the hood in this position,
insert a bolt through the hood prop hole and secure
with a nut to prevent the hood from being accidentally released. Before closing, remove the safety nut
and bolt and lift up on the hood panel to unlock the
support mechanism. then lower and close firmly.
•
BRAKES
POWER STEERING-Optional power steering supplies about 80% of the effort needed to turn the
front wheels while the engine is running. Should
the engine stop or the power steering cease functioning the regular steering mechanism will allow you
to safely guide your Corvette.
HEATER AND DEFROSTER
Two knobs allow full control of your Corvette Heater.
AIR·PULL-DEF-This control supplies outside air to the Heater when
pulled out to the "detent" position and diverts the air-flow to the
defroster duct when pulled fully out. This knob must be pulled out
to "detent" or further before operating the healer.
FAN-TEMP-PULL-Heater output air temperature is regulated as this
knob is pulled out. Maximum heat is obtained in the fully out position. Rotate the knob to obtain low, medium or high fan speed.
HEATER OPERATING TIPS
• Always brush snow from the air inlet in front of the windshield before operating the heater.
elf less than maximum heat is desired, operate
FA~
on low or medium speed and regulate the air temperature by mov-
ing the FAN·TEMP·PULL knob partially in.
• Operate the heater for several minutes before turning on the defroster. This will clear the system of moisture and help
prevent windshield fogging.
air from the vent grille in the cowl.
VENTILATION
DURING
•
WARM WEATHER
• Air vents in each side panel, operated by vent knobs
on either side of the steering column, admit outside
• Pull AIR·PULL-DEF knob lO detent or fully open,
to admit outside air through the heater.
• Additional ventilation is available on sport coupe
models by means of luggage compartment exhaust
fan. To operate the fan, pull the knob located next
to the left air vent control. This fan will not operate when the heater fan is being used.
COOL IN-HOT PULL-Vary this knob as required to
regulate the air temperature. Fully out provides
maximum output temperature.
DEF-Pull knob fully out for maximum defrosting.
AIR
..
COOLING
CONDITIONER
OPERATION
HEATING
AIR-PULL-FAN-Pull this knob fully out and rotate
the knob to obtain low, medium or high fan speed.
AIR COND-PULL- Keep this knob fully in.
AIR-PULL-FAN-Push knob fully in for re-circulation
of inside air. Vary knob setting to provide a mixture of outside and recirculated air. Rotate the
knob to obtain medium or high fan speed.
AIR COND-PULL-Pull this knob fully out.
COOL IN-HOT PULL- Keep this knob fully in for
maximum cooling. Output air temperature may be
regulated by pulling the knob as desired.
DEF-Keep this knob fully in.
AIR CONDITIONER OPERATING TIPS
During the first few minutes of operation open a window
to Jet out hot air, then close the window.
Rotate the three dash outlets to direct cooled air. Close
center outlet by rotating the deflector all the way.
Close the side outlets by means of the knobs below and
several inches inboard of the outlets.
Rotate covers, located about six inches inboard of the shut
off knobs, to provide additional cooled ai.r for your feet.
For maximum cooling under extreme heat conditions, push
AIR-PULL-FAN knob fully in.
For cooling under moderate temperatures, pull AIR·PULL·
FAN knob out to detent.
For cooling under mild temperatures pull AIR·PULL·FAN
knob fully out.
RUN T!iE SYSTEM FOR FIVE MINUTES EVERY WEEK TO LUBR.JCATE SSALS AND MOVING PARTS.
The optional 'fully ttansis'toriz~,d
standaTd AM reception
clear
broadcasts. FM stations nla y pe
mpes from. th,e ,endil)g station, .dc~p'~*dlil)J~.~I!l<'l'!;'~l1li,l
power of the station and the
fringe areas where FM signals are weak, it may be
possible to manually retune the radio to mair,ltain
peak reception. lf nOt, retune to <I Closer or
FlY! sta(ion or switch to 'AJVI operation: .
• AM-FM SELECTION-To select AM or FM reception, move the slide bar, located to the left of the
dial, up and down until the letters "AM" or "FT\1"
are fully exposed.
• PUSH BUTTON TUNING-To preset these push
buttons: Turn on the radio, set the AM-FM selector
bar to the desired band, pull the push button straight
out as far as it wi ll go, tune in the desired station
manually, and then push the button all the way in.
Set each push button in the same manner.
• MANUAL TUNING- The left hand control knob
serves as the "on-off" switch and volume control.
Turn the wing knob at the base of this control to
adjust for tone quality. T he right hand control knob
is the manual station selector.
• ANTENNA-Maximum FM reception is obtained
wi th the antenna extended to.. 30 inches (approximately two antenna sections) . For best AM reception
the ante nna should be fully extended.
• CONELRAD-T he two triangular sym bols a t 640
and 1240 on the AM dial only, indicate the Conelrad
freq uencies which will be used in the event of a
national emergency.
SEAT ADjUSTMENTThe seat adjus ter control
handle is located at the
right front corner of the
seat. Turn the handle
clockwise to free the seat.
After adjusting the seat, release the handle to lock
seat into place.
SEAT BELTS-Fasten the seat belts by pushing the
metal catch into the buckle until it "snaps" into
place. Tighten the belt until comfortably snug by
pulling on the end extending from the buckle.
Loosen the belt by turning the entire buckle out·
ward. Lift up the buckle lever to unlatch and release
the belt. Keep the belts clean with a cleaner or deter·
gent recommended for nylon. Never bleach or redye
seat belts.
DOORS
AND
LOCKS
Both doors of your Corvette may be locked and un·
locked from the outside by means of the ignition key.
Record the serial number located on the "knock·out"
plug in your key, then destroy the plug. Using this
number, key makers can make you a new key.
Lock and unlock the doors from inside your Corvette
by turning the upper reflector clockwise to lock and
counterclockwise to unlock. (This reflector, together
with its companion below, also acts to warn oncoming traffic when your door is opened.)
Open the doors from outside by means of the push
bu tton type door handles and from inside by pulling
rearward on the ball type handle.
Crank type handles allow the side windows and the
vent windows to be operated. Operating switches for
the optional power windows are located at the rear
of the floor tunnel trim plate.
•
REAR
COMPARTMENT
Lock and unlock the glove box door with the ignition key. Press and release button to open the door.
When open, the door provides a convenient table
for cups or glasses. A cutout portion in the glove box
hood forms a convenient assist handle.
Tilt the seatbacks forward to reach the ample
luggage space_ In the convertible style Corvette the folding top is also carried in this
area, but it may be completely and easily removed if desired. In addition, a removable
cover on the floor of the luggage compartment
provides hidden stowage for small articles,
tools, and the auto jack and handle-
REMOVAL OF THE FOLDING TOP
•
Use a pencil to outline the folding top mounting plates so that
they may be reinstalled in exactly the same location. Then
remove the two mounting bolts
from each side shown in the
illustration to the left.
•
Carefully remove the folding
top from the caL
•
Use the penciled outlines to
locate the mounting plates in
exactly the same position when
replacing the top.
Operation of the Corvette Tops
•
HARD
TOP
To raise the top: The rear compartment lid
unlocking handle is located beneath the center of the lid. Pull it toward you to unlock
and raise the lid.
FOLDING
TOP
•
Swing the folding top out. Hook the front
latches to the windshield header, but leave
them loose. Then close the compartment lid.
•
Snap the rear bow retainers into place in the lid receptacles.
•
Lock the windshield header latches.
•
To lower the top: Unlock the header latches, release the rear
bow by means of the retainer release levers and fold it fonvard.
Open the rcar compartment lid, and after unl atching the header
latches, fold the top into the rear compartment and close the lid.
The optional hard top may be quickly and easily installed:
• Lower the folding top and close the compartment lid.
• Carefully set the hard top into position on the body,
• Install the two mounting tab attaching bolts.
• Fasten the latches at the header.
When hard top is removed, reinstall the top attaching bolts
and seals (stored in glove box) into the rear deck holes and
tighten nuts. Cover and store the top in ·a clean dry place.
when not in use.
25
MAtNTE,N,ANCE]'
AND
,
LUBRICATION
Your Corvette is capable of providing you with
many years of enjoyable, dependable service.
However, much of its future beauty and performance capabilities rest with you as its owner.
The following pages will guide you in properly
caring for the beauty and mechanical maintenance needs of your Corvette. Remember, no
one knows the Corvette as well as your Chevrolet Dealer. Regular visits to him will keep your
car looking and running its best.
Washing Your Corvette ______________
"Magic Mirror" acrylic lacquer provides your Corvette with a finish of maximum beauty which is unsurpassed in depth of color, gloss retention and
durability. The best way to preserve this finish is
to keep it clean. Frequent washing is normally the
only requirement to maintain maximum beauty.
vVash the car with cold or lukewarm water only and
never in the direct rays of the sun or when the
painted surfaces are hot. Never use strong soap or
chemical detergents. Any cleaning agent should be
flushed from the surface promptly and not allowed
to dry. Avoid wiping dirt from dry painted surfaces
because this may scratch the surface.
POLISHING
AND
WAXING
Even though the acrylic finish of your Corvette is more dura ble
than conve ntional finishes. und er certain conditions yo u may wish
to polish or wax your car to provide extra protection. Calcium
chloride and other salts, road oil and tar, tree sap . chemicals from
factory chimneys and other similar foreign matter may cause damage to any known automobile finish if allowed to remain in contact with the paint film for an excessive length of time. Prom pt
washing may not always thoroughl y r emove these depos its especially in areas where exposure conditions are more severe. Your
Chevrolet Dealer offers many approved polishes. waxes and tar and
road oil removers which will provide maximum protection.
It is recommended that after being thoroughly cleaned with wa rm
METAL
WHITEWALL
TIRES
water, bright metal parts be give n a coating of wax and rubbed
a high polish. This should be repeated as often as necessary.
Never scour bright metal parts.
to
Soap, warm water and a stiff brush will remove normal road dirt
from white sidewall tires. Severe curb scrapes may be removed with
a fine grade of steel woo l. Don't use gasoline, kerosene or sim ilar
o il products which might d iscolor tires.
NOTE: When purchasing ony polish, cleaner or tar and road oil remover for use on your CorveHs; make
sure thot the instructions specifically state that the contents can be used solely on acrylic finishes.
27
Cleaning the Inside of Your Corvette _ _ _ _ _ _ _-!
Keep the in te rior of your Corve tte in top shape by cleaning it a t
regul ar freq ue nt intervals. Dirt or stains which are allowed to
remain may become ground in or set so that they are nearly impossible to remove.
Loose dust and dirt on seats, trim an d floor can be r emoved with
a whisk broom or vacu um cleaner. A damp cloth may be used to
wipe up any dirt wh ich ca nnot be so removed . Leather Clea ner
may also be used.
Care of Your Corvette Top _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _-I
FOLDING
TOP
Wash your Corvette fol din g top frequently
with neutral type soap suds, lukewarm waler
and a soft bristle brush. and rinse with generous qu antities of clear water to remove all
traces of soa p.
If add itiona l cleaning is req uired, a mild
foaming cleanser can be used. R inse the entire top with water and appl y the cleaner to
an area of abollt two square feet. Scrub with
a soft bristle brush addi ng water sparingly
u nti l th e cleanser foams to a soapy consist-
ency. Re mo ve the foam with a sponge or
cloth . Re peat the procedure on the same area
and scrub un til clean. Don't let th e cleanser
ru n d ow n onto the body fini sh since this may
cause streaking. Clean the entire top in this
manner and then rin se the top generously to
remove all traces of cleanser.
Don't keep the top folded for ex tended periods of time if it is damp or water soaked.
Allow it to dry out in a raised position as
soon as possible.
HARD
TOP
The optional hard top has the same durable
same manner as the rest of the interior.
acrylic lacquer finish as the other painted sur-
When the tOP is not in use, it should be stored
inside in a clean, dry place. 1£ it is to be stored
[or a long period of time keep it well covered to
avoid a build up of dust and dirt on the painted
surface or headlining.
[aces of your Corvette and may be cleaned, pol.
ished and waxed as previously outlined.
CARE
The interior headlining may be cleaned in the
Keep the large plastic rear windows in the Corvette folding
LOp and removable hard top in good condition as follows:
PLASTIC
•
Remove surface dust with a soft cotton cloth moistened
with water and wipe cross-wise of the window.
•
\'V ith a very dirty window, wash us ing cold or lukewarm
water and a mild neutral soap. Then rinse wi th clear
water and dry with a slightly moistened clean soft cloth.
•
Add a final IUSl ~r to the window by using a plastic
window cleaner as directed on the container.
•
Do not use alcohol or volatile agents.
•
Do not use a scraper to remove snow. ice or frost from
the rear window. In an emergency use warm water.
WINDOW
CARE
29
Fuel System Requirements
The high performance V-8 engine in your Corvette is designed to
operate efficiently on premium type gasolines. See page 43 for
octane requirements. Use of regular grade gasolines in higher
performance engines may result in potentially dangerous engine
detonation.
In some areas, grades of gasolines may be encountered which result
in severe detonation. Should this occur consult an authorized Chevrolet Dealer so that adjustments can be made to eliminate this detonation or reduce it to a safe level.
In all cases excessive engine detonation, or knocking, should be
avoided in order to prevent possible engine damage.
Oil System Requirements
Lowest Anticipated
Tempefohue
Recommended Singhl
Viscosity Oil
Recommended MultiViltIcosltyOil
32 0 F.
SAE 20 or 20W
SAE 10W-30
0 0 F.
SAE lOW
SAE IOW-30
Below 0 0 F.
SAE 5W
SAE 5W-20
SAE 30 or IOW-30 is recommended when most o[
the driving is at high speeds and/or at temperatures
above gO °F. For continued reliability and perform-
FUEL
FILLER
CAP
Lift tip the Corvette emblem on the
rear deck to reach the fuel filler cap.
II the cap is lost be sure to replace it
with a vented cap.
ance from your Corvette engine, it is recommended
that you use an oil which, according to the label on
the can, is (I) intended for service MS and (2) passes
car makers' tests or meets General
Motors Standard GM 4745-M.
Follow the accompanying vicosity
and change interval recommendations and check the oil level (with
engine hot) on the dipstick regularly. Keep oil level between the
FULL and ADD marks, by adding
oil when level is at or below ADD mark. It is not
necessary to keep the level at the FULL mark. DO
NOT OVERFILL.
Cooling System Care
Your Ch evrolet engin e cooling system is equipped
with a 180 0 thermostat and is designed to operate on
permanent type (eth yle ne glycol) anti·freeze. Non·
Permanent type coolants are not recommended since
they are not satisfactory for year around use and may
not effectively inhibit corrosion of the engine cool·
ing sys tem when used with the quality of water
found in some areas.
If th e anti·freeze was installed at the factory or if it
meets the requirements of General Motors Standard
GIVe 1899-1'v1 whi ch contains adequate corrosion protection, i t may be left in the cooling sys tem for 24
months or 24,000 miles, which ever occurs first.
C heck th e coolant level r egularly and ad d water or
permanent anti-freeze as required to maintain supply
tank h alf fulL Concentration of coolan t should be
to 0 0 F. or below to insure sufficient corrosion
protection.
Drain a nd Rush cool ing system every 24 months.
Fill with mixture o f perm anent type anti-fr eeze (G1\1
1899-1\'[ or equ ivalent) a nd wa ter to provide proper
co ncentratio n of coolant.
Each Call have your C hevrol et d ealer inspect the
cooling sys tem to insure that all co nnections are
leakproof and that th e anti-freeze content will provide adequate protection in cold weather.
NOTE: Your Corvette has on aluminum radiator and supply tank. Therefore, when adding anti-freeze, rust
inhibitors or cleaners, make ceria in that they are sale lor use with aluminum radiators.
JI
Check the front of the radiator core occasionally for
insects and leaves. Flush them out from the back
side of the radiator using a water hose and city water
pressure.
RADIATOR CAP
The Corvette cooling system is equipped with a 13
lb. pressure cap. To remove the cap, carefully turn
~ turn to allow excess system pressure to escape,
then turn the cap all the way off. If the engine is
overheated, wait for several minutes before removing
the radiator cap.
DRAINING AND FILLING THE COOLING SYSTEM
I. Open the drain cock at the bottom of the
radiator.
2. Remove the drain plug located on each side of
the engine block just above the oil pan and be·
hind the spark plug wire shields.
3. Replace the engine drain plugs and close the
radiator drain cock before refilling the radiator.
4. To refill, add coolant until supply tank remains
one-half full. Then start engine and add coolant
as necessary to maintain normal one-half-full level
in supply tank. Recheck when cool and fill to
normal level.
Tire Care
To enjoy maximum service from your tires, keep
them inflated to the pressures recommended on
page 46.
Regular Corvette tires should not be used for extreme vehicle operation. Special purpose tires are
available, if needed, from major tire manufacturers.
Rotate tires as shown every
6000 miles to distribute wear
. over all five tires. This will
help you to obtain maximum service from your tires.
The Corvette jack is located benea th the removable
panel in the rear compartment just behind the
driver's seat. A strong spring over the jack and
ja cking ·wrench prevents them from bouncing or
rattling.
CORVETTE JACK
STOWAGE
SPARE TIRE STOWAGE
E.&1~1I,lI;II
Your Corvette spare tire is located so as to utilize
otherwise wasted space but is easily accessible, in th e
event th at you need it. Unlock the spare tire com·
partn:tent with your ignition key. Then:
• Using the jacking wrench, loosen the spare tire
tTay bolt until resistance is felt.
• Insert the end of the jacking wrench into the
bracket in the spare tire tray. Lift up on the wrench
to take the weight off of the bolt and move the bolt
to the right and out of its slot in the tray.
• Lower the tray and tire to the ground and
remove the jacking wrench .
• Remove the spare tire by pulling it straight back
(rom the car.
• Replace the tire by reversing the above procedure.
AUTO JACK PLACEMENT
CHANGING
YOUR
CORVETTE'S
WHEELS
1. Remove the hub cap by prying off with
the finger provided on the end of the
jacking wrench.
2. Using the jacking wrench, loosen the
wheel nuts about one half turn .
3. Set the parking brake and block diagonally opposite wheel.
With Powerglide transmission place selector lever in PARK position.
With manual transmission place the
shift lever in:
FIRST when jacking front wheels.
REVERSE when jacking back wheels.
4. Position the jack under the car as shown
in the illustration above. Be sure that
the load rest of the jack contacts the
frame as shown.
5. Raise car using the jack until the tire
clears the ground.
6. Remove the wheel nuts and wheel, place
spare wheel on studs and replace all
wheel nuts. Tighten moderately.
7. Lower car until the tire just touches
ground, then tighten nuts fully.
8. Lower the car fully, replace hub caps
and res-tow tire. jack and handle.
Using the mallet supplied with vehicle knock off locking nut and remove wheel. Left wheel
nuts are removed in a counterclockwise direction. Right wheel nuts are removed in
a clockwise direction.
Recommended Schedule for Periodic
Maintenance and Lubrication
The time or mileage intervals on the following pages
are intended as a guide for establishing regular maintenance and lubrication periods for your Corvette.
Sustained heavy duty or high speed operations or
operation under adverse conditions may necessitate
more frequent servicing. To determine specific recommendations for conditions under which you use
your car, consult your Authorized Chevrolet Dealer.
ENGINE OIL
BATTERY
CRANKCASE VENTILATION
Check the fluid level in each cell of the battery
regularly and keep filled with distilled water to the
bottom of the split ring in the vent tube of each
cell. DO NOT OVERFILL.
Check at every oil change,
more often during dusty
driving conditions. If
dirty or plugged, clear
with suitable drill. Twist
drill by hand to remove
any sludge or carbon formation.
Clean and oil the battery terminals and oil the felt
washer at each regular engine oil change.
Check the state of charge regularly, especially in
freezing weather when an undercharged battery may
freeze and break.
Engine oil should be changed at 60 day or 6,000 mile
intervals. whichever occurs first. U ndef prolonged
dusty driving conditions it may be necessary to
change the engine oil more often.
FAN BELT
FUEL FILTER
Every 6,000 miles inspect fan belt for wear, fra ying,
cracking and tension. Belt should be retightened
only when it deflects more than Y2" with moderate
thumb pressure applied midway between pulleys.
In-Line Filter- Replace the
entire fil ter every 12,000
miles. To replace: Remove inlet fitting and
loosen fil ter bracket, then
turn entire filter to remove. 0 hserve the direction of fuel flow when installing the new filter.
AIR CLEANER
Every 12,000 miles (more often under dusty or other
adverse driving conditions) remove the polyurethane
element from its support screen and clean in suitable
solvent such as Kerosen e. Squeeze out all solvent,
then soak in engine oil and squeeze out. Remove
excess oil by then squeezing the element in a clean
dry cloth.
Carburetor Type Filter- R emove the fuel line and
inlet fitting at the carburetor to replace the filter
only if carburetor Hooding occurs. Do nor att,cm pt to
clean the fil ter. This filter is used on the 250 hp
engine only.
OIL FILTER
BRAKES
The oil filter shoul d be changed at 6,000 miles or
6 month in tervals, whichever occurs first. During prolonged dusty driving conditions the filter should be
changed more often.
Master Cylinder - Every
6,000 miles - Check fluid
level and maintain IA"
below filler opening with
GM Hydraulic Brake Fluid,
Super No. 11.
DISTRIBUTOR
Change cam lubricator end for end at 12,000 mile
intervals-Replace at 24,000 mile intervals.
Lining- Inspect brake linings periodically. Frequency
o[ inspection ,viII depend on traffic, terrain and the
driving habits of the driver.
Parking Brake Cables and Linkage - Every 6,000
miles-Apply lubricant specified in Note I, page 39.
STEERING GEAR
Every 36,000 miles-Check lubricant level as follows:
l. Remove the forward and the outboard cover attaching screws.
2. Inject steering gear lubricant into the forward
cover attaching screw hole until lubricant begins
to come out of the outboard screw hole.
3. Replace both screws.
POWER STEERING PUMP
Check fluid level in pump reservoir every 6,000 miles
or 6 months. Fill as required with Automatic Transmission fluid "Type A" with AQ-ATF-A mark. Oil
should be at operating temperature and wheels in
straight ahead position when checking or filling
operation is performed to ensure against overfilling.
FRONT SUSPENSION
Every 6,000 miles or 6
months, lubrica te 4 fittings (2 fittings on each
side), with lubrica nt
specified in Note I, page
39.
I
STEERING LINKAGE
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months-lubricate fittings
shown below with lubricant specified in Note I,
page 39.
Manual-Fitting at each tie rod end and at relay
rod (5 fittings) .
Power-Fitting at each tie rod end and at power
steering valve adapter and cylinder (6 fittings) .
38
TRANSMISSION
3-Speed and 4-Speed-Every 6,000 miles-Check at
operating temperature and fill as necessary to level
of filler plug hole with lubricant specified in Note 2,
page 39.
Powerglide-Every 6,000 miles-Check fluid level on
dipstick with engine idling, selector lever in neutral
"N" position, parking brake set and transmission at
operating temperature. Add Automa tic Transmission
fluid "Type A" bearing the mark AQ-ATF, followed
by a number and suffix letter "A" to "full" mark on
dipstick. DO NOT OVERFILL.
Lubricate shift linkage with lubricant specified in
Note I , page 39.
WHEEL BEARINGS
Every 36,000 miles-Clean and repack front and rear
bearings with a high melting point wheel bearing
lubricant.
REAR AXLE
Every 6,000 miles-Check and keep filled to level of
filler plug hole with lubricant specified in Note 2,
page 39.
With Positrac-tion, use only the special Positraction
Rear Axle Lubricant available from your Chevrolet
Dealer.
CLUTCH CROSS SHAFT
Periodic lu brication of the clutdl cross-shaft is not
required. At 36,000 miles or sooner, if necessary,
remove plug, install lubrication fitting and lubricate
with lubricant specified in NOTE I Page 39.
ENGINE TUNE-UP
Every 12,000 miles have engine tune-up operations
performed for maximum engine performance.
HEADLAMP REPLACEMENT
Replace individual headlamps as follows:
Open headlamp doors and remove cover panel, disengage spring from retaining ring, then remove
two retaining ring attaching screws per lamp indicated below. Don·t dist",·b th e large head adjusting
screws. Pull lamp fanltard and unpl ug the electrical
connector. Plug in the new lamp and reverse the
removal procedure to install .
BODY LUBRICATION POINTS
L ubricate the following items when possible.
Hood Latch Mechanism and Hinges-Apply light engine oil to pivot points. Don't oil lock pins or catch
plates.
Rear Compartment Lid Release and Hinges-Apply
light engine oil.
Side Door Hinge Pins-Apply light engine oil.
Door Lock Rotor and Striker Plate-Apply light eng ine oil or stainless stick lubricant.
Lock Cylinders-Lubricate with powdered graphite.
Window Regulators and Controls and Door Lock
Remote Link-Apply light engine oil.
HEADLAMP AIMING
Improperly aimed h eadlamps can be dangerous.
Periodic headlamp checks for proper aiming and
adjustment are strongly recommended. Your Chevrolet Dealer is well equipped to provide such service.
NOTE 1: Lubrica te with water resistant EP chassis
lubricant.
Gas Tank Filler Cap Hinge- Apply light engine oil.
Wecdherstrips and Rubber Bumpers-Coat ligh tly
with a rubber lubricant such as Chevrolet Spray-aSqueak (G. M. Part No. 987883) .
NOTE 2: Lubricate with SAE 80 or SAE 80-90
Multi-purpose Gear Lubricant meeting
requirements of U. S. Ordnance Spec.
M1L-L-2 105B.
MINOR TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE
IfYDUrn~
performing in the
following manner:
~
£
~
E~reinseqUen"
shown for possible causes.
.....
c
~
1
"ll
~
E
]
I
6
l
15
42
14
and
36
0;
41
42
0;
~
30
CAR WILL :\OT START:
Engine Will Turn Over
Engine \,Vil l Not Turn Over
CAR WILL START- BUT:
Only Af(er Repeated Tries
Stalls in a Few Seconds
Stalls When HOT
Idles Roughl y
Engine Overheats
No Oil Pressure I ndicated
Ammeter Poin ts to "Zero"
or Negacive Side
"'See Your AuthOrized Chevrolet Dealer
"'"
~
'"
~ "8 ~ "-"
~
0:
See Page Number
u
0
·z
.~
u
0
~
~
u
eQj
':~
I!
"'0
j
~
~
~ ~
35
43
and
42
!
Ui
'"
0
.8.8
~
0;
0
~
J
~j
"'''' 8 6l
42
42
42
~~
'"j
~
~~
~
~~
o.s
8i £
~~
~~
'i3
i:!
~
:e§
s:E ~~
~
~
c: . ~
~ 'i
f-
!j
~
32
31
36
~~
~~
~ f-f-
31
and
~~
~~
~~
32
MINOR TROUBLE
SHOOTING PROCEDURES
T h e chart on th e previous page, and the inform ation on
the pages whi ch fo llow, conta ins information designed to
aid the average driver to d iscover, and possibly correc t,
conditions resu lting in m in or mechanica l difficulti es in his
car. The chart, des igned to point out poss ible so luti ons to
severa l of the most cQ,m mon automotive malfunctions and
point out a log ica l checking sequence, will lead step by
step to the most likely causes and corrective procedures.
H, after making the checks and ad justments suggested, the
source of the trouble has not been found and corrected,
it is strongly recommended tha t an Authorized Chevrolet
Dealer inspect the vehicle and make whatever re pairs or
ad justments are necessary.
FUEL SYSTEM AND ENGINE
If the ignition switch will cause the engi ne to "turn over"
or "crank" but the car will not star t, check Steps A through
D below.
a TE:
(A)
,l Continuol "flooding" of the carburetor is ev;de
by 0 carburefor wet with fuel or blade exhaust smoke
perform the operation suggested in paragraph D only
T he first and most obvious, and one of the most
frequ en tly overlooked, i tems to check when you have
difficulty in starting your car is the amount of fu el in the
tank. Make it a habit to check the FUEL GAUGE reg-
ularly and most especially at a time when the engine
_
"turn over" but will not start.
(B) If the fue l tank is not empty, you may check fur.=c
to see whether the fuel is reaching the carburetor. Disc:o&r
neet the fuel line at the carburetor. Place a jar or c:r
u nder the open line a nd brieRy "crank" the ~~e ...
means of th e starter. ]( fu el spurts from the fiuiog.
may assume that the FUEL LINES are clear and the FeIl..
PUMP is operating properly. If n o fuel leaves the :me.
either the fuel lin es, fuel pump or the in-line filter art' 1fault. See your Authorized Chevrolet Dealer.
(C) Before recollnecting th e fu el line to me carbu..~
remove the FUEL FILTER fro m the carburetor inlet ux!
check its condition. !{ it appea rs to be clean, replace i~ a=.
reco nn ect the fue l line. If the filter appears to be p1!:s--;rt!
clean it as well as possible by scraping out the foreigt!~.
rial and clea ning in a so lvent. Then reinstall the filter ~==
a new one as soon as possible.
(D) If the fuel seems to be reaching the carburetor properly, the problem may be: an EMPTY CA.RBL""RETO::"
BO'VL caused by a "stuck shut" carburetor; a ROODE:>
CA RBUR ETOR caused by a "stuck open" condition 2r.C.
evidenced by gasoline flowing down the outside 0: :.2
carburetor; or a stuck CHOKE valve. Remove the U:cleaner from the carburetor. Check that the choke ~~
moves freely and is not stuck. (Don't mistake no~ sp~~
tension for a stuck valve.) Tap the side of the carb~..lX
sharply several times with a light tool such as a sc::::-ewdriver handle or pliers. R eplace the air cleaner and a~?,­
to start the engine in the normal manner.
(E)
If the car will start but stalls when hot or has a rough
idle , you can sus pect a faulty I DLE ADJUSTMENT, a
malfunctioning AUTOMATIC CHOKE or an ex tremely
dirty and blocked AIR CLEANER ELEMENT. Clean
your air cleaner element if necessary.
If the above Fuel System checks and the checks suggested
under the Electrica l System fo llowi ng do not correct the
malfun ction, it is recommended that you turTI to your
Authorized Chevrolet Dealer for further checks, adjustments or repairs.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
If, when the ignition key is turned to "Start," the engine
will not turn over, you have good reason to suspect electrical trouble.
(F) ' Vhen there is no response at all to attempts to start
the ca r, check the obv ious-you r AUTOMATIC TRANS·
MISSIO N SELECTOR LEVER must be in Ne utral or
Park position before the engine can be started. T urnin g
the IGN ITION SvVITCH rapidly back and forth several
times will sometimes correct a poor intern al switch contac t.
(G) The BATTE R Y may be discharged. If so, lights will
be dim and the horn will h ave a p oor tone if it will blow at
all. Usua ll y a garage recharge wi ll be necessary to return the
battery to operation. Occasionall y, however, a p ush start
and long drive will recharge the battery.
POOR BATTERY CONNECTIONS may be suspec ted if
the car has operated properly a short time befor e and now
not eve n the horn will operate. Check both ends of both
battery cables. If the connections are corroded, a car may
sometimes be restored to opera tion by removing all cable
ends, scraping all contacting surfaces clean with a pen
knife, and reassembling. If the cables are broken, they
must be replaced. T he power supply should now be restored
unless the battery is dead.
(H) If, however, the lights and horn work properly bu t
the starter will still not turn over, check the STARTER
connections. A "click" from the starter solenoid indicates
that the wiri ng to the starter is properly installed. If the
wiring seems to be clean and tightly installed, the trouble
is probably in the starter itself and should be referred to
your Authorized Chevrolet Dealer.
When the engine will " turn over" b ut will not start, [he
foll owing items may be checked along with the Fuel System
Checks listed previously.
(I) With a clean dry cloth wipe the ceramic portions of
the spark plugs dry. In particularly damp or rainy weather
dampness may be the cause of no t start ing, especially when
the engine is cold.
0) Check the cables at the top of th e distributor and coil
as well as each spark plug ca ble for tightn ess.
(K) If the car will stilI not start. check for spark at the
spark plugs in the foll owing manner:
Pull o ne of the spark plug wires off its spark pl ug. Insert a
short piece of bare wire (such as a bobby pin) between th e
rubber cup at the end of the
spark plug wire and the
tubular metal connector inside of it. If the spark plug
wire is we t or oily, wipe it
dry . Wrap a dry handker·
chief or facial tissue, folded
several thicknesses, around
the wire at least three inches
back from the end and grasp
the wire at this point. Hold
the bare wire about Yi inch
Checking Spork
from the bare tip of th e
spark plug fro m whidl you removed the wire or from any
part of the engine. When the engin e is "turned over" a
spa rk should jump across the y.;, inch space, indicating
ample current supply. If no spa rk jumps, the d ifficulty is
probably caused by a defective ignition part and should be
corrected by you r Authorized Chevrolet Dealer.
COOUNG SYSTEM
'When the car will run but evidences serious overheating on
the temperature gauge in the instrumen t panel, there are
several items which may be checked.
(L) Engine overheating wjll occur when the OIL LEVEL
falls dangerously low. Check the oil level as a matter of
course.
(M)
Low WATER LEVEL will, of course, cause engi ne
overheating. Determine the cause of the low wa ter level
and have it corrected if necessary.
(N) Check the RADIATOR CORE. Clean it if it is
plugged with bugs, leaves or other forei gn material.
(0) Condition of the FAN BELT is very important, not
only for engin e cooling but also for proper generator
opera tion. Check the condition of the belt. Replace it
if it is worn or frayed. Loosen the genera tor bol ts and
move the generator toward the engine to remove and
replace the belt. Tighten the bel t, whether new or old,
by loosening the generator bolts, prying with a bar
on the generator until the belt is tensioned properly,
then retighten the generator bolts. Proper belt tension is
such that, when pressed hard at a point midway between
the gen erator and fa n pulleys, the belt will deflec t about
~4 inch.
(P) Another cause of engine overheating may be an
inoperative COOLING SYSTEM THERMOSTAT. II
the thermostat should fail in
the closed position, it will
not permit water to circulate
through the system. In such
an emergency the thermostat
may be removed but should
be replaced with a properly
functioning thermosta t as
soon as possible.
Thermostot Instal/ot;on
43
TECHNICAL DATA AND SPECIFICATIONS
Serial and Unit Numbers- Stamped on identificat ion
plate located on instrument panel brace under glove
box.
Engine
Name
Cyls.
Corvette
Corvette
Corvette
V·8
V·8
V·8
'I. 3·speed
Bore
X
Stroke
4' x 3~'
4. . x J~1; .
4" x 31;4 ~
Compo
Ratio
10.5
10.5
11.1
2. 4·speed regular
Fuel
Disp.
(Cu. In.)
Induction
Exhaust
327
327
327
4 Bbl.
H.B.4 Bbl.
Holley 4 Bbl.
Dual
3. 4·speed close ratio
Dual
Dual
Height
Loaded-Folding Top Up .
Loaded-Hard Top
Loaded-Sport Coupe
Front
Horsepower
Ufters
Trans.
Octane
ReQ'menl
350 @ 2800 RPM
360 @ 3200 RPM
360 @ 4000 RPM
250 @ 4400 RPM
300 @ 5000 RPM
365 @ 6300 RPM
Hyd.
Hyd.
Mech.
1·2·4
1·2·4
1·3
99·101
99·101
100·102
ENGINES
98"
175.3"
69.6"
49.8"
.. 49.3"
49.8"
Tread
Rear
Gross
Torque
4. Powergl ide
CHASSIS DIMENSIONS
Wheel base
Length (Overall)
Width (Overall)
ENGINE IDENTIFICATION - Stamped on righ t
front engine boss next to water pump.
56.3"
57.00"
Firing Order 1·8·4·3·6·5·7·2
AMA Horsepower-51.2
Distributor:
Dwell
Point Gap
.016" used- .O 19" new
Breaker Arm Tension
19·23 oz.
Spark Plugs
AC 45 or AC 46-City Driving Only
AC44 (Orig. Equip.) -Town and Country Driving
AC C43 COM-Heavy duty and h igh output
AC C42·l COM-Extended and extreme high output
Plug Gap
.035"
TRANSMISSIONS
Engine Timing and Idle Speeds:
250 H.P. Engine
4° BUDC @500' rpm
300 H.P. Engine
8° BUDC @ 500' rpm
365 H.P. Engine (Solid Lifter
Camshaft Engine)
10° BUDC @ 700 rpm
·475 rpm for Powerglide
disconnected and
Exhaust
2.58:1
1.48: I
1:1
2.58:1
Reverse
NOTE. The abo¥. ~nf1S mu" be III!lde with lhe vacuum Ii""
Valve Specifications:
SOLID LIFTERS:
Intake
Three Speed
RATIOS:
First Speed Forward
Second Speed Forward
Third Speed Forward
~.
.030" Clearance
.030" Clearance
HYDRAULIC LIFTERS:
With engine idling. back off adjusting screw until
tappet begins to click lightly; then tum screw down
one full turn at both intake and exhaust.
CARBURETORS:
250 H.P. Engine-Carter WCFB 4.Barrel Downdraft
with Integral Automatic Choke.
300 H.P. Engine-Carter A.F.B. 4·Barrel Downdraft
carburetor with Integral Automatic Choke.
365 H.P. Engine-Holley special 4-Barrel Downdraft
carburetor with integral au tomatic choke.
Four Speed
RATIOS:
First Speed Forward
Second Speed Forward
T hird Speed Forward
Fourth Speed Forward
Reverse
Regular
2.56:1
1.91:1
1.48:1
1:1
2.64:1
Close
Ratio
2.2: I
1.64:1
1.28:1
1:1
2.27:1
Powerglide
RATIOS:
Maximum Torque Converter
Maximum Overall
Low
Reverse
2.20:1
3.70:1
3.70 to 1.76: 1
3.70 to 1.76: 1
REAR AXLE
RATIOS:
Three speed
Four speed (Regular)
(Optional)
3.36:1
3.36:1
3.08:1
45
Four speed (Close Ratio)
Powerglide
3.70:1
3.36:1
Positraction (Available with all
Transmissions)
3.36:1
(Available with 4-speed
Transmissions only)
3.08:1
(Available with 4-speed
Close Ratio
Transmission only)
3.55:1,
3.70:1,
4.11:1,
4.56:1.
STEERING
Steering Gear Ratio
Overall Ratio
(with Fast Steering Adjustment)
16.0:1
20.2:1
17.6: I
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Caster
.
Front
Camber
{
Toe In (Total)
Pos. 1%0 ±
Pas. %' ±
Rear
. Neg.
{Camber .
.
.
.
Toe In (Per Wheel")
y.o
y.'
%6"
to
y.0
±
%6"
y.o
(y'to
JAG'"
"Each wheel must be adjusted independently.
TIRES
Size
6.70 x 15-4 ply rating-tubeless
Pressures
Cold"
Hot"
Front and Rear
24
29
• After car has been parked for 3 hours or mOTe or
driven less than one mile.
·· Pressures can rise as much as 7 pounds above cold
figures, depending on loads carried, length of
driving and car speed prior to check.
CAPACITIES
Fuel Tank
Crankcase refill
250 and 300 h.p. engines
Without filter
With filter
365 h.p_ engines
Without filter
With filter
Cooling System
Without heater
With heater
Transmissions
Three speed
Four speed
Powerglide
Rear Axle
20 gallons
4 quarts
5 quarts
5 quarts
6 quarts
18 quarts
19 quarts
2 pints
2Y. pints
9 quarts
3.7 pints
Candle Power
HeadJamp-Outer-high .
Outer-low.
Inner-high .
37\\ (watts»)
50 (Watts)
311l (Watts)
Number
5%"
Sealed Beam
Circuit
Ampere Rating
Headlamp. Headlamp Beam}
. .. ... 15amp.
Indicator. and Parking light.
Circuit Breaker
or Fuse
Circuit Breaker
Headlamp Door Motors . .
40 amp.
Circuit Breaker
40 amp.
Circuit Breaker
Headlamp Beam Indicator . ..
1445
Power Window Motors . .
Parking and Directional Signal . 4·32
1157
Parking Brake Alarm & Gas Gauge .. 3AG/ AGe 10 amp.
Fuse
Tail and Stop-Directional Signal 4·32
1157
Heater ..
3AG/ AGe 10 amp.
Fuse
Ignition Switch.
1445
Radio .
3AG/AGe 7 amp.
Fuse
license Plate lamp.
1155
Back-up lamp .
Instrument Panel .
Electric Clock ..
Courtesy or Dome lamp ...
32
1156
Instrument, Radio and Clock Ughts . 3AG/ AGe 4 amp.
Fuse
Tail and Back-up lamps . .
3AG/AGe 10 amp.
Fuse
Fuse
1816
Stop. license and Courtesy or
Dome lamp ..
SAE 20 amp.
1816
Air Conditioning .. .
3AG/ AGC 20 amp.
Fuse
90
High Blower Speed
3AG/ AGe 30 amp.
Fuse (In line)
Radio Dial..
1816
Cigarette lighter . .
1445
Parking Brake Alarm lamp ..
257
Headlamp Motor Warn ing .. ..
257
Directional Signal Indicators .
1816
Fuse Panel- All fu ses except the air conditioning
blowe r in-li ne fu se are in
lhe [usc pan el loca ted on
t he {-ire wall just above th e
head la mp bea m switch.
INDEX
Page
Air Conditioning .
Ammeter
Automatic Transm ission
Battery Care
Brakes
Bright Metal Care .
Changing Wheels
Cleaning-Exterior
Interior
C lock
Cililch Adjustments .
Cooling System Care
Courtesy Lights .
Defroster
Doors
Folding Top Care
Operation
Removal
Fuel Gauge
Fuel Requirements
G love Box
Page
Page
29
Installation
.25
. 17
Headlight Operation
.20
Heater
High Beam Switch
.... 18
Hood Release .
19
Ignition Switch .
6
.... 33
Jack Stowage .
Lighter
16
. .. 17
Light Switch
Lighting System Trouble Checks . 18
Locks
. . ... 23
Maintenance and Lubrication . . 35-40
Manual Transmission
.8-9
Meta lli c Brake Linings
9
13
Odometer
Oil Pressure Gauge .
. .. 14
Oil Requirements
.... 30
Parking Brakes
19
Plastic \oVindow Care .
.. 29
Polishing Your Corvette .
. 27
Hard Top Care .
.21
14
7
.. 34
. 19
.... 27
. 34
. 26-27
.28
. 15
.... 11
. . 31-32
... 15
20
... 23
.... 28
... 25
... 24
... 15
. 30
.24
Positraction Rear Axle .
Power Brakes
Power Steering .
Powerglide Transmission
19
. 19
7
Specificat ions
. 10
.22
24
.23
.33
. 44-47
Speedometer
Starting
13
6
Pushing Tips .
Radio
Rear Compartmen t
Seat Adjustment
Spare Tire Stowage
Steering Adjustments
Tachometer
Temperature Gauge
T hermostac
Tire Care
Tire Chains
Towing Tips .
Trailer Towing
Trip Odometer .
T rouble Shooting Guide
Turn Signal
Ventilati on
Washing Your Corvette
Waxing Your Corvette
Whitewall Tire Cleaning
Windshield Washer . .
Windshield Wiper
II
. 13
. 15
. 32
.32
10
. . 10
II
. 13
.41·43
. 18
20
.26
.26
.27
16
16
OPERATING RECORD
DATE
MILEAGE
GASOLINE
OIL
REPAIRS
DATE
MILEAGE
1
GASOLINE
REPAIRS
OIL
s
s
s
1-----1- -- - - 1 - - - -1--1- - - - - - - - - - 1-----1 - - -- - 1- - - - - - -- - - - - - - 1-----1- - -- -1- - - -1- -1----11- --1----- 1-----1- - - - -1- - - - - - - - - 1---1- - ---1----1- - -- - 1-----1- ----1-- - -1---1---1---1------
1----1----1---1-- - - - - - - - - -
1-----1-----1---
- - --
1-----1--- - 1 - - - - - -1 - - - -
1----1,- - -1- -
---------
---
1------1--------1---- - - - - - - - - - - - - ~--I-----I----I---I----I---I----- - -1 - - +- - -- +-- - - 1 - - - - - - - 1-----1-----1----1---1- - -1- -,1 - - - 1 - - - --1 - - - - 1 - - - - -- - - - 1 - -- -1- - -1--1----1--1- - - 1 -
1----1-- - -1---1-- - - - - - - - - - 1-----1-----1----1---1----1-- - - I 1-----1----1--- 1 - - - - - - - 1 - - - 1 - - - -- 1----1---1--- 1 - - -I 1-----1-----1----1- - - - - - - ~--I-----I--I--+---I-- - - I 1-----1-----1-- - -1 - - - - - - 1-----1-----1-- - -1---1---1- - - I1-----1 - - - - - 1 - ---1- - - -- - - 1-----1-----1- - - -1---1- --- - - - -- 1 1----1----1--- -1-- - - - -- - - - - 1-----1-----1-- -1---1--- - - - - - I 1-----1-- -- 1-- -1---I--I----I-----l 1-----1-----1-- -,---1----1-- - - I1-----1-----1----1--1----11---1- - - - ~--I-----I----I--+-- - - - - - 1 1-----1---- -1- - - -1- - 1- ---11 - --1-----
~--I-----I--- I --+--
- - - - - 1-
CHEVROLET OWNER PROTECTION PLAN
The Chevrolet Motor Division considers it a most important obligation to offer each owner a recommended maintenance service guide which will relieve
him of any anxiety and insure that his vehicle is
regularly inspected and maintained .
Your Chevrolet dealer has presented you with a
Chevrolet Owner Protection Plan Booklet. The recommended Maintenance and Lubrication Service
items in this Plan Booklet have been worked out by
Chevrolet service personnel and cover items which are
the owner's responsibility to have checked, inspected,
adjusted and lubricated at recommended time or
mileage intervals.
If the services afe carried out at the prescribed time
or mileage intervals, wear and owner expense will be
kept to a minimum. Additional services may become
necessary as mileage accrues; however, the regular
visit that you make to your Chevrolet dealer in following this Plan will point out desirable services as
they become necessary.