Page 7 of 384

vi
In 1984, the fourth generation of America's favorite
sports car anticipated the future with a sleek look and
advanced technology that provided superior handling
and performance. Windshield angle was the sheerest of
any domestic vehicle, cornering ability the tightest of
any production car. In short, the 1984 redesign enhanced
the Corvette's reputation as a leader in the world sports
car market.
After 44 years of production, Corvette only got better.
The fifth
-generation Corvette arrived in 1997, featuring
a completely restyled body and a new, all
-aluminum,
5.7 Liter, 345
-horsepower LS1 V8 engine.The structure of the fifth
-generation redesign is
the stiffest ever developed in 44 years of Corvette
production, resulting in unparalleled ride quality and
outstanding handling. Also unique to the new Corvette
is a rear
-mounted transmission.
Available as a Coupe for 1997, the new Corvette
offered such standard features as extended
-mobility
tires, a Bose audio system, and a new, latch-operated
roof designed for easy removal.
With many design cues inspired by the classic models
of the 1960s, the new fifth-generation Corvette is
an impressive combination of sleek styling and
world
-class sports car performance. For 1998, in
addition to the Coupe, a convertible was reintroduced.
The fifth-generation Corvette rollout was completed in
1999 with the introduction of the hardtop model.
For 2001, all hardtop models became the higher
performance Z06. The Z06 model featured the
performance enhanced LS6 engine, specific suspension
components and exterior/interior differentiation.
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2-41
Selective Real Time Damping (Option)
You may have a ride control system on your vehicle
called Selective Real Time Damping. The system
provides the following performance benefits:
Reduced Impact Harshness
Improved Road Isolation
Improved High
-Speed Stability
Improved Handling Response
This knob is located on the center console. Turn it to
select the suspension of your choice.TOUR: Use for normal city and highway driving.
This setting provides a smooth, soft ride.
SPORT: Use where road conditions or personal
preference demand more control. This setting provides
more ªfeel,º or response to the road conditions.
PERF (Performance): Use for performance driving.
This setting provides a tight, firm ride and precise
response to road conditions.
You can select a setting at any time. Based on road
conditions, steering wheel angle and your vehicle speed,
the system automatically adjusts to provide the best
ride and handling. Select a new setting whenever driving
conditions change.
There are three Driver Information Center (DIC)
messages that are displayed when a malfunction
occurs with the Selective Real Time Damping system.
Refer to ªDIC Warnings and Messagesº in the Index.
Horn
To sound the horn, press either horn symbol on the
steering wheel.
Page 325 of 384

6-53 Tire Chains
CAUTION:
Don't use tire chains. There's not enough clearance.
Tire chains used on a vehicle without the proper
amount of clearance can cause damage to the
brakes, suspension or other vehicle parts. The area
damaged by the tire chains could cause you to lose
control of your vehicle and you or others may be
injured in a crash.
Use another type of traction device only if its
manufacturer recommends it for use on your
vehicle and tire size combination and road
conditions. Follow that manufacturer's
instructions. To help avoid damage to your
vehicle, drive slowly, readjust or remove the
device if it's contacting your vehicle, and don't
spin your wheels.
If you do find traction devices that will fit,
install them on the rear tires.
Lifting Your Corvette
CAUTION:
Lifting a vehicle can cause an injury. The vehicle
can slip off the jack and roll over you or other
people. You and they could be badly injured.
Find a level place to lift your vehicle. To help
prevent the vehicle from moving:
1. Set the parking brake firmly.
2. Put an automatic transmission shift lever in
PARK (P), or shift a manual transmission to
FIRST (1) or REVERSE (R).
3. Turn off the engine.
To be even more certain the vehicle won't
move, you can put blocks in front of and
behind the wheels.
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7-17
Part C: Periodic
Maintenance Inspections
Listed in this part are inspections and services which
should be performed at least twice a year (for instance,
each spring and fall). You should let your dealer's
service department or other qualified service center
do these jobs. Make sure any necessary repairs are
completed at once.
Proper procedures to perform these services may be
found in a service manual. See ªService and Owner
Publicationsº in the Index.
Steering and Suspension Inspection
Inspect the front and rear suspension and steering
system for damaged, loose or missing parts, signs of
wear or lack of lubrication. Inspect the power steering
lines and hoses for proper hook
-up, binding, leaks,
cracks, chafing, etc.
Tire and Wheel Inspection
Inspect the tires for uneven wear or damage. If there is
irregular or premature wear, check the wheel alignment.
Inspect for damaged wheels.
Exhaust System Inspection
Inspect the complete exhaust system. Inspect the body
near the exhaust system. Look for broken, damaged,
missing or out
-of-position parts as well as open seams,
holes, loose connections or other conditions which
could cause a heat build
-up in the floor pan or could let
exhaust fumes into the vehicle. See ªEngine Exhaustº
in the Index.
Fuel System Inspection
Inspect the complete fuel system for damage or leaks.
Page 384 of 384

8-12
SERVICE PUBLICATIONS ORDERING INFORMATION
Service Manuals
Service Manuals have the diagnosis and repair
information on engines, transmission, axle, suspension,
brakes, electrical, steering, body, etc.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $120.00
Service Bulletins
Service Bulletins give technical service information
needed to knowledgeably service General Motors cars
and trucks. Each bulletin contains instructions to assist
in the diagnosis and service of your vehicle.
Owner's Information
Owner publications are written specifically for owners
and intended to provide basic operational information
about the vehicle. The owner's manual will include the
Maintenance Schedule for all models.
In
-Portfolio: Includes a Portfolio, Owner's Manual and
Warranty Booklet.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $60.00
Without Portfolio: Owner's Manual only.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $20.00
Current and Past Model Order Forms
Service Publications are available for current and
past model GM vehicles. To request an order form,
please specify year and model name of the vehicle.
ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-551-4123 ± Monday-Friday 8:00 AM ± 6:00 PM Eastern TimeVisit Helm, Inc. on the World Wide Web at: www.helminc.com For Credit Card Orders Only (VISA-MasterCard-Discover)
Helm, Incorporated P.O. Box 07130 Detroit, MI 48207
Prices are subject to change without notice and without Note to Canadian Customers: All listed prices are quoted in U.S. funds.
incurring obligation. Allow ample time for delivery. Canadian residents are to make checks payable in U.S. funds.