1988 Chevy Nova Service Manual

The 1988 Chevy Nova is a compact front-wheel drive vehicle featuring a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission, MacPherson strut front suspension, and rack-and-pinion steering. This service manual covers maintenance procedures, specifications, troubleshooting, and repair instructions for all major systems including engine, transmission, brakes, electrical, and suspension components.

Vehicle Specifications

Complete technical specifications for the 1988 Chevy Nova including dimensions, capacities, and performance data.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

1. Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
2. Oil Filter: Replace with every oil change
3. Air Filter: Every 15,000 miles
4. Spark Plugs: Every 30,000 miles
5. Timing Belt: Every 60,000 miles
6. Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
7. Brake Fluid: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
8. Transmission Fluid: Every 30,000 miles

WARNING! Always use manufacturer-recommended fluids and follow proper safety procedures when working on your vehicle.

Engine Service

Detailed procedures for engine maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting.

1. Oil Change Procedure: Drain plug location, capacity (3.7 quarts with filter)
2. Spark Plug Replacement: Gap specification (0.039-0.043 inches)
3. Valve Adjustment: Cold engine procedure
4. Timing Belt Replacement: Alignment marks and tension specifications
5. Compression Testing: Normal range (142-171 psi)

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool before performing maintenance. Use jack stands when working under vehicle.

Transmission Service

• Manual Transmission: Fluid capacity 2.1 quarts (75W-90 GL-4)
• Automatic Transmission: Fluid capacity 5.8 quarts (Dexron II)
• Shift Linkage: Adjustment procedures
• Clutch: Pedal free play adjustment (0.4-0.8 inches)
• Differential: Front differential service

Brake System

Complete brake system service including disc brakes front, drum brakes rear.

Front Brakes: Disc diameter 9.0 inches, pad replacement procedure

Rear Brakes: Drum diameter 7.9 inches, shoe replacement

Brake Fluid: DOT 3 specification, bleeding procedure

Parking Brake: Cable adjustment, travel 6-9 clicks

Electrical System

Battery: 12V 45Ah, maintenance procedures

1. Alternator: Output 55 amps, testing procedures
2. Starter: Removal and installation
3. Fuse Box: Location and amperage ratings
4. Lighting: Headlight adjustment, bulb replacement
5. Wiring Diagrams: Complete electrical schematics

Tip: Disconnect battery negative terminal before performing electrical work.

Suspension & Steering

Front suspension: MacPherson struts with coil springs

1. Strut Replacement: Removal and installation procedure
2. Ball Joints: Inspection and replacement
3. Tie Rod Ends: Replacement and alignment
4. Wheel Bearings: Adjustment and replacement
5. Steering Gear: Rack-and-pinion service

WARNING! Always perform wheel alignment after suspension work. Use torque wrench for all fasteners.

Cooling System

Radiator capacity: 5.8 quarts including reservoir

Thermostat: Opening temperature 180°F

Cooling Fan: Electric fan operation and testing

Water Pump: Replacement procedure

Fuel System

Fuel Pump: Electric in-tank type, pressure 35-40 psi

Fuel Filter: Replacement interval 30,000 miles

Carburetor: Adjustment procedures and specifications

Fuel Injectors: Cleaning and flow testing

Troubleshooting Guide

Diagnostic Codes: OBD-I connector location and code retrieval

Technical Support: Chevrolet dealership service departments