Thoughts
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 742
Likes: 2
From: Cincinnati Ohio
Thoughts
I was contacted from a friend who is an insurance adjuster. When he runs into the older vettes he always contacts us. He just called us last week about a 1958 corvette dual quad, numbers match, all parts their, no hit body, and solid frame. The guy started a frame off restoration, but now is divorced and selling the car. The car is in pieces. I can get this car really cheap. Are their any specific areas or parts to check for. I'm not a c1 guy yet i know alot, but right now have a (C2 and C3). What are specific things to look for. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Safety Car
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 4,606
Likes: 210
From: Nevada City Ca.
2015 C1 of Year
I was contacted from a friend who is an insurance adjuster. When he runs into the older vettes he always contacts us. He just called us last week about a 1958 corvette dual quad, numbers match, all parts their, no hit body, and solid frame. The guy started a frame off restoration, but now is divorced and selling the car. The car is in pieces. I can get this car really cheap. Are their any specific areas or parts to check for. I'm not a c1 guy yet i know alot, but right now have a (C2 and C3). What are specific things to look for. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Pro
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 596
Likes: 3
From: Felton Ca
Everything
Since it's apart you have the luxury of checking everthing. Frame is key check for damage, rust etc. If your a numbers guy it is a great time to check them all. Wiring is key but again if it's apart replace it. Sounds like you will need to complete a parts inventory as well. These cars are pretty basic but you can a bundle on parts. Greg
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 3,347
Likes: 763
From: Mint Hill North Carolina
2024 C2 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2023 C2 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2022 C2 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
I understand what vettebuyer5869 is saying, so I think it is more technically correct for model years '53 to mid 1960 to ask "do the numbers align with a reasonable assembly scenario"? Value clearly is placed on an engine block that is stamped with the correct configuration and assembly date, casting date and block casting numbers that align with the VIN and a frame stamp that reflects the correct VIN. The only numbers that you can't match are a VIN number to the same stamped on the block because they didn't start stamping VIN's on blocks until mid 1960 model year. So, to me the more numbers that "align" the higher the value. (assuming that the numbers on the stamp pad are original). My two cents.
Sounds like a great find!
Sounds like a great find!
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 7,356
Likes: 870
From: Norcal CA
2018 C1 of Year Finalist
You might want to call a local corvette club and ask someone to check it out for you.
Also, check the area under the dash for rust. Make sure all of the chrome is there. I know 58's had a lot of chrome compared to the other years. You might want to make an inventory and check to see what is missing.
Also, check the area under the dash for rust. Make sure all of the chrome is there. I know 58's had a lot of chrome compared to the other years. You might want to make an inventory and check to see what is missing.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 2,865
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From: Maryland
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 3,078
Likes: 101
From: Riverhead New York
Price is easy decision if you really are getting it on an insiders deal. If there is any discrepancy on the VIN. be careful and diligent with your research. In their day these cars were very easy to play games with. Al W.
