60 Corvette
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 2,225
Likes: 44
From: Penticton B.C. Canada
60 Corvette
I am looking at a '60 Corvette that has been outside on and off [mostly on] for about 10 years. It has been out in the open, not under trees. What should I look for? nom 350. Not an issue. Frame areas, Birdcage, Windshield frame? Car does look good. Have pics.
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 2,225
Likes: 44
From: Penticton B.C. Canada
Good point Bill. We do get "weather" here. Rain, Snow and long hot summers. I'll look behind the kickpanels as you suggest. Is that body structual metal? Is behind kick panels a good indictor of the condition of the rest of the birdcage? Also wondering about c1 frame areas that one should look at.
Thanks, Frank.
Thanks, Frank.
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 248
Likes: 0
From: New Mexico
They don't have a birdcage to the extent of the later cars but do have a framework in that area. I think the Noland Adams book has some pictures and maybe a xray type drawing. I'd get that book as a minimum before making a deal. Assume the worst unless you can verify it is better than that.
The frames rust in the kickup and rear crossmember. A small hammer is your best friend. If they won't let you rap on it, run away or plan on a new frame.
The frames rust in the kickup and rear crossmember. A small hammer is your best friend. If they won't let you rap on it, run away or plan on a new frame.
Last edited by Bill J; Aug 17, 2005 at 12:46 PM.
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 4,389
Likes: 1,185
From: Lexington,NC,USA
C1 of Year Finalist (track prepared) 2019
Is the "birdcage" on the 60 made of aluminum or steel? I know that my 59 is aluminum and my wife's 62 is steel. On the C1's there is a metal reinforcing piece inside the rocker panel that was severely rusted on the 62. On the 59 this piece was aluminum. There is a small rectangular hole inside the door sill that will allow you the poke around inside the rocker panel area. If this piece is rusted out, it is impossible to replace without major surgery. Check the front end where there should be an aluminum spacer between the frame and the cross member. In the rear check the area where any any brackets are welded to the frame, also the rear crossmember which was originally rivited to the frame.
Charles
Charles
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 3,117
Likes: 19
From: Portlandia Oregon
Also check for nasty holes torched in the X member by bubba when he installed the bad azz home spun exhaust. They are a pain the repair. Rear crossmember is a common rust spot as well.
oWEN
oWEN
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 2,225
Likes: 44
From: Penticton B.C. Canada
Thanks fella's.
The 'kick-up' is a possible area on a c1 as well? I'll check that.
This is all very helpful. If you can think of anything else please feel free...
Frank.
The 'kick-up' is a possible area on a c1 as well? I'll check that.
This is all very helpful. If you can think of anything else please feel free...
Frank.
Racer
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 380
Likes: 1
From: Harveys Lake Pa
Windshield should be all chrome and stainless... You might have to repair the windshield posts, but that is a commom repair available by Corvette Central.
No birdcage in a C1... All the frame is visible from underneath. Look at "kick up" area and the two ends of the rear cross member from underneath..
Check for signs of mice living in the frame..... This can be a big frame problem due from their waste.
C1 restoration is all about engines, chrome, cosmetics and availability of parts that aren't available (not that many that can't be found)
Also, look for Bubba mods that would have to be reversed.
Good luck... I am about at the end of a 59 restoration (virtually the same car as a 60...only minor differences)
Jon
No birdcage in a C1... All the frame is visible from underneath. Look at "kick up" area and the two ends of the rear cross member from underneath..
Check for signs of mice living in the frame..... This can be a big frame problem due from their waste.
C1 restoration is all about engines, chrome, cosmetics and availability of parts that aren't available (not that many that can't be found)
Also, look for Bubba mods that would have to be reversed.
Good luck... I am about at the end of a 59 restoration (virtually the same car as a 60...only minor differences)
Jon
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Pro
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 596
Likes: 3
From: Felton Ca
Inspection
Inspect the wiring harness. Look for things that are missing. radio, clock, guages, is steering wheel correct and what about trim. Some times we miss the obvious. If you don't care about the numbers on car then don't check, motor -tranny- rearend. I have learned a lot since I purchased my 58. I am not an expert but I do know what parts cost and the labor involved. Greg