1988 Corvette Field Service Manual

The 1988 Corvette Field Service Manual is a comprehensive guide for servicing and maintaining the 1988 Chevrolet Corvette. This manual covers all major systems including the 5.7L L98 V8 engine, 4-speed automatic or 4+3 manual transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, fuel injection, and body components. Below are key sections for maintenance procedures, specifications, troubleshooting, and repair instructions.

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data for the 1988 Chevrolet Corvette including engine, transmission, and chassis specifications.

Engine Service

Detailed procedures for servicing the 5.7L L98 V8 engine including tune-up specifications and component replacement.

1. Spark Plug Replacement: Gap 0.045 inches, torque 11 ft-lbs
2. Oil Change: 5 quarts of 10W-30, filter AC PF-1218
3. Cooling System: 13.25 quarts capacity, 50/50 coolant mix
4. Timing: Base timing 6° BTDC, no vacuum advance
5. Fuel Pressure: 9-13 psi at idle, 34-38 psi with vacuum disconnected

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before servicing electrical components. Use jack stands when working under vehicle.

Transmission Systems

Service procedures for both 4-speed automatic and 4+3 manual transmission systems.

1. Automatic Transmission: Check fluid with engine running in park
2. Manual Transmission: Use Dexron II automatic transmission fluid
3. Shift Linkage: Adjust for proper gear engagement
4. Clutch System: Hydraulic clutch requires periodic bleeding
5. Overdrive Unit: Electronic control module diagnostics

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

Suspension & Steering

• Front Suspension: Independent with transverse leaf spring
• Rear Suspension: Independent 5-link design
• Steering Type: Power-assisted rack and pinion
• Alignment Specs: Camber -0.5°, Caster +7.0°, Toe-in 0.10°
• Shock Absorbers: Bilstein gas-charged standard
• Wheel Bearings: Front and rear require periodic adjustment
• Tire Pressure: 30 psi front, 35 psi rear
• Steering Fluid: Use Dexron II automatic transmission fluid

Brake Systems

Service procedures for the 4-wheel disc brake system with anti-lock brakes.

Brake Specifications: Front rotor thickness 1.240 inches minimum, Rear rotor thickness 1.020 inches minimum. Pad replacement when lining less than 1/8 inch.

ABS Diagnostics: Use special tool J-35864 for system testing. Brake fluid DOT 3, replace every 2 years. Bleed sequence: RR, LR, RF, LF.

Electrical Systems

Wiring diagrams and service procedures for all electrical components.

1. Battery: 12V 60Ah, located behind driver seat
2. Alternator: 100 amp output, test at 2000 rpm
3. Starter: Direct drive 1.4 kW motor
4. Fuse Box: Located in passenger footwell
5. Lighting: Headlight motor adjustment procedures

Tip: Always disconnect battery ground cable first when servicing electrical systems.

Fuel System

Tuned Port Injection (TPI) system service and diagnostics.

1. Fuel Pump: In-tank electric, 15 gpm flow rate
2. Injectors: Bosch design, 22 lb/hr flow rate
3. Pressure Regulator: Maintains 9-13 psi system pressure
4. Filter Replacement: Every 30,000 miles
5. Throttle Body: 48mm diameter, clean every 15,000 miles
6. ECM Diagnostics: Use ALDL connector for trouble codes
7. Air Flow Sensor: Bosch vane-type, adjustable
8. Coolant Temperature Sensor: Critical for cold start enrichment

WARNING! Relieve fuel pressure before servicing fuel system components.

Body & Interior

Fiberglass body repair and interior component service.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Every 3,000 miles: Oil and filter change. Every 7,500 miles: Rotate tires, check brakes. Every 15,000 miles: Replace air filter, fuel filter. Every 30,000 miles: Change transmission fluid, coolant flush.

CAUTION! Follow recommended intervals to maintain warranty coverage.

Troubleshooting Guide

Diagnostic Codes: Ground ALDL connector terminal B to read flash codes.

Technical Support: Contact Chevrolet dealer service department for complex issues.