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Chevrolet Corvette L98
The Chevy Corvette is one of the most iconic cars to ever be released to the general public. The Corvette has a long history dating back to 1953. One particular model became really popular though, which was the Corvette L98. This version of the Corvette was produced from 1985 to 1991.
The L98 was powered by a 5.7L V8 engine. The car produced 230 horsepower and 330 foot pounds of torque. The vehicle came with two options for a transmission: a four speed automatic or a six speed manual. The car was able to go from 0 to 60 in under 6 seconds and had a tuned port fuel delivery system.
What really separated the L98 from its predecessors was its advanced suspension system. The L98 had a four wheel independent suspension system run through the use of fiberglass leaf springs. This leaf spring design allowed the driver to enact quick cornering and advanced steering methods making it a true driver’s car.
The L98 also came with lots of customizable options at the point of sale. Choices like leather seats, a full Bose surround sound system, and a digital dashboard display made the L98 an attractive option for those looking for a true sports car experience.
Although the L98 was a work of art, it did not come without its problems. Lots of car owners reported issues such as electrical and heating issues which became costly to repair. Despite these design flaws the L98 is still a highly sought after sports car that has many enthusiasts looking for versions kept in good condition. Many enthusiasts keep L98 collections full of well maintained L98’s.
The Chevrolet Corvette L98 is a true American sports car. The L98 is an ode to Chevrolet and their commitment to producing high quality cars with performance and style. The L98’s advanced suspension, powerful engine, and luxurious features make it a desirable sports car even today.
Chevrolet Corvette L98 Specifications
The Chevrolet Corvette L98 was a variant of the C4 Corvette. The car was produced from 1985 to 1991. Here are some specifications of the Chevrolet Corvette L98.
- Engine: 5.7-liter (350 cubic inch) V8 engine
- Horsepower: 230 hp @ 4,000 rpm
- Torque: 330 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm
- Compression ratio: 9.5:1
- Fuel delivery: Tuned Port Injection (TPI)
- Transmission: 4-speed automatic or 6-speed manual
- Top speed: estimated at 150 mph
- 0-60 mph acceleration: around 6 seconds
- Suspension: Independent front and rear suspension
- Brakes: Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS
- Wheelbase: 96.2 inches
- Length: 176.5 inches
- Width: 71 inches
- Height: 46.7 inches
- Curb weight: 3,289 pounds
The specifications written out above are for the L98 engine that was placed in the C4 Corvette. The C4 models vary from year to year and these specifications might vary with the different years. As well specifications will change depending on the condition of the engine like mileage and maintenance upkeep.
Some other specifications of the L98 are important to note. For example, the L98 can come with a manual trans or an automatic trans. The vehicle can come with a different engine code as well.
A twin turbo option is offered for the L98 engine too.
L98 Fuel Injection System
The L98 has multi port fuel injection which means each cylinder gets its own fuel injector. This fuel injection system was used by General motors from the 1980's to the 1990's in three different types of car models: The Chevy Corvette, The Chevy Camaro, and the Pontiac Firebird. This method of fuel injection differed from previous methods such as carbureted engines.
The L98 fuel injectors operated off electricity and the Mass Airflow Sensor. The fuel injectors are screwed into the cylinder heads. The injectors adjust their output by measuring the input of air which is tracked by the mass air flow sensor.
The L98 also used a throttle body injector to deliver fuel directly into the engine’s intake manifold. One of the key features of L98’s fuel injection was its ability to adjust the amount of fuel it dumped into the engine based on engine block load.
For example, the amount of fuel delivered to the engine was increased or decreased based on driving conditions such as acceleration, deceleration, or engine idle. This was a huge improvement for engine performance and fuel efficiency.
The fuel injection for a L98 also includes a multitude of different sensors to ensure proper engine operation. These sensors include oxygen sensors, coolant sensors, temperature sensors, throttle position sensors, and fuel pressure regulators.
The L98 engine fuel injection fourth generation system was considered a huge improvement over the previous carbureted system. In terms of power, reliability, and fuel efficiency, and catalytic converter operation, it could not be beat for its time in history.
However more advanced systems are available today and have since been replaced by more modern electronic fuel injection systems.
Common Problems
There are a number of common problems on your Corvette that sports a L98 engine. The first common issue is an intake manifold leak. The intake manifold on the L98 is specifically designed for tuned port fuel injection and it has a tendency to leak. This can cause a rough idle performance.
The second major issue the L98’s experience is oil leaks. Anywhere this engine can leak oil it does. For example, it's common to have leaks from the valve cover, oil pan, and rear main seal. The rear main seal is difficult and costly to repair. Standard equipment should not leak and the Chevrolet Camaro did not experience such leaking issues.
The L98 also loves to overheat especially during high performance applications such as extreme acceleration. There are many reasons the L98 can overheat. Some reasons being a faulty thermostat, a clogged radiator, or a bad cooling fan.
In high mileage engines the cam shaft wear happens at an unusually high rate. The camshaft is a crucial part to the engine and a bad cam can lead to issues such as rough idle, reduced performance, engine noise, and decreased ride comfort.
About The Author
Christopher Sparks
Christopher Sparks has been servicing vehicles since 2012. After completing the automotive studies program at Camden County College, he was awarded an Associates's Degree in Applied Science. His first job was a lube-tech at Jiffy Lube, and is currently an independent B-Technician servicing vehicles for the United States Postal Service. Christopher is ASE certified and loves rebuilding engines.
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