Hi guys.  I just bought an '81 Vette and when I looked under the hood I noticed that it didn't have an air pump on it.  The pollution pipes are still there on the exhaust but they're just capped at the top of the main pipe on both sides.  I wasn't sure if the pump also provided vacuum?  I ask this because the headlights won't go up and I was wondering if that may be tied in with that.  I'm guessing maybe not because I did see a vacuum canister in the fender well.  I have NO experience with the Vette' headlight system but I do know that they run on vacuum.  When I hit the little button under the dash they did want to go up.  Now I can't get them back down.  Can someone tell me where to start as far as vacuum issues are concerned?  Is there a vacuum line diagram that I can access online or maybe here at this site?  Any help would be appreciated.  Thanks in advance, George

You don't need the air pump for vac.  Sounds like a couple of different issues with the headlights.  Most likely your switch if they will go up with the override but not the switch.  If they will not go down it could be bad relays.   You can release them by reaching under and tugging on the hinged rod that is in the center of each once it breaks over they will drop on their own.  There are diagrams and I am sure someone will post one or PM it to you. 71Shark2008-03-09 20:47:27

Start here CORVETTE 101 .

tux gave you the best troubleshooting guide anywhere plus it's free. better than any manual around.

Been running without mine for months now.  No troubles.  (I don't have to pass emmissions inspection anymore---over 25 years old in VA.)

If they TRY to open with the manual valve, it sounds like not enough vacuum to raise or lower them.  The most common problem is old, leaky hoses.  It might be a good investment to buy a hose replacement kit first, then spray all over the system with starter fluid to test for leaks.

I'm betting that will solve your problem.

Larry