1988 C4 Corvette Field Service Manual

The 1988 C4 Corvette Field Service Manual provides comprehensive technical information for servicing and maintaining the fourth-generation Corvette. This manual covers the 5.7L L98 V8 engine, 4+3 manual transmission or optional automatic transmission, Bosch ABS III anti-lock braking system, FX3 selective ride control, digital instrument cluster, and all mechanical, electrical, and body systems. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, and repair instructions.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Engine Systems 3. Transmission & Drivetrain 4. Suspension & Steering 5. Braking System 6. Electrical Systems 7. Body & Interior 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Diagnostic Procedures 10. Safety Precautions 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data for the 1988 C4 Corvette including dimensions, capacities, and performance figures.

Specification	Description
Engine	5.7L L98 V8 with Tuned Port Injection
Horsepower	245 hp @ 4000 rpm
Torque	340 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Transmission	4+3 manual or 4-speed automatic
Wheelbase	96.2 inches
Curb Weight	3245 lbs
Fuel Capacity	20 gallons
Brakes	4-wheel disc with Bosch ABS III
Suspension	Independent with FX3 selective ride control
Tire Size	P255/50VR16

Engine Systems

Detailed service procedures for the L98 5.7L V8 engine and related components.

Fuel System: Tuned Port Injection service and diagnostics
Ignition System: HEI distributor and electronic spark control
Cooling System: Radiator, thermostat, and coolant service
Exhaust System: Catalytic converter and exhaust manifold procedures
Engine Mechanical: Timing chain, camshaft, and valve train service

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before working on electrical systems. Use proper lifting equipment for engine removal.

Transmission & Drivetrain

Service procedures for manual and automatic transmissions, clutch, and differential.

4+3 Manual Transmission: Overdrive unit service and adjustment
Automatic Transmission: 700R4 maintenance and repair
Clutch System: Hydraulic clutch service and bleeding
Differential: Dana 44 rear differential service
Drive Axles: CV joint and half-shaft replacement

CAUTION! Transmission fluid may be hot after operation. Allow to cool before servicing.

Suspension & Steering

Front Suspension: SLA with transverse fiberglass leaf spring
Rear Suspension: Independent with transverse fiberglass leaf spring
FX3 Ride Control: Electronic selective ride and damping system
Steering: Power-assisted rack and pinion
Wheel Alignment: Camber, caster, and toe specifications
Shock Absorbers: FX3 electronic shock replacement procedure
Ball Joints: Inspection and replacement guidelines
Bushings: Control arm and sway bar bushing service

Braking System

Service procedures for the Bosch ABS III anti-lock braking system and conventional brake components.

ABS System: Bosch ABS III diagnostic procedures, wheel speed sensors, hydraulic modulator service.

Brake Components: Front and rear disc brake service, brake pad replacement, rotor machining specifications, brake fluid bleeding procedure, parking brake adjustment.

Electrical Systems

Wiring diagrams and service procedures for all electrical components.

Disconnect battery before performing electrical work
Use proper diagnostic equipment for ECM troubleshooting
Follow wiring diagrams for circuit diagnosis

Tip: Use factory service manual wiring diagrams for accurate circuit tracing.

Body & Interior

Service procedures for fiberglass body panels, doors, glass, and interior components.

Body Panels: Fiberglass repair and alignment procedures
Doors: Removal and installation of gull-wing doors
Glass: Windshield and rear glass replacement
Interior: Dashboard, seats, and trim panel service
Lighting: Headlight motor and lighting system repair
Weatherstripping: Door and window seal replacement
Paint: Factory paint codes and application procedures
Convertible Top: Manual top operation and service

WARNING! Use proper lifting points when jacking vehicle to avoid body damage.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals and service procedures.

Diagnostic Procedures

Use factory scan tools for ECM diagnostics. Follow trouble code procedures in service manual.

Safety Precautions

Always use jack stands when working under vehicle. Follow proper safety procedures for all repairs.

CAUTION! Fuel system operates under high pressure. Relieve pressure before servicing.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel pump, ignition, or security system	Check fuel pressure, spark, and VATS security system
ABS light on	Wheel sensor or hydraulic issue	Diagnose with ABS scanner, check wheel sensors
Transmission slipping	Fluid level or internal wear	Check fluid level and condition, pressure test
Electrical issues	Battery, alternator, or grounds	Test charging system, check ground connections
Ride control fault	FX3 system malfunction	Diagnose with selective ride control scanner

Reset: Disconnect battery to reset ECM if needed.

Service: Refer to GM service bulletins for specific technical updates