Wanted: specific Corvette buying tips

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May 12, 2005 | 08:16 AM

AirTrafficController

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Pro

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Wanted: specific Corvette buying tips

I plan on buying a '70 or '71 Corvette, probably this August @ Carlisle, if not sooner. What I'm looking for is specifictips on things to look for (good and bad) on a Corvette.

Thanks - Mark

May 12, 2005 | 08:45 AM

Melting Slicks

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From: TEXASTEXASTEXASTEXAS TEXASTEXASTEXASTEXAS

St. Jude Contributor

There's a good list at www.corvettefaq.com . Main thing to look for is rust in the windsheild supports and in the trailing arm pockets.

JB

May 12, 2005 | 05:19 PM

AirTrafficController

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Thanks JB. I will keep an eye out for those two areas. That's a nice Corvette you have

May 12, 2005 | 09:22 PM

CGGorman

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From: Smile, it's just the internet.

I'd suspect you'll see the highest prices in country at Carlisle, though I've never been there.

After frame rot, paint and interior are the most expensive to repair. Glass is relatively cheap, as are most engine parts...except correct chrome valve covers and similar. Overheating is always a concern, so make sure the radiator is in good shape and that all the shrouding and seals (to prevent air bypassing the rad) are in place. Weatherstripping is a little expensive, too.

May 12, 2005 | 09:38 PM

1980 454

Racer

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From: WAY SOUTH OF HEAVEN inebriated

also check the number 2 body mounts these pockets inbehind the lower kick panel get alot of rust damage and over all this is probably a key feature to look for .removing the body to do the rocker channels can get very pricy . all it takes is a screwdriver and that there screwdriver just might save you thousands of dollars even though the rest looks good this would be a good reason to pass for this cowboy.

May 12, 2005 | 09:44 PM

gq82

Safety Car

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From: AnyTown NJ

St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15

Quote:

Originally Posted by CGGorman

I'd suspect you'll see the highest prices in country at Carlisle, though I've never been there.

IMHO, Carlisle is a good place to shop for a vette.....you will see the good, the bad, and the ugly. You might want to enlist the help of a forum member (a lot of us go to Carlisle every year) or join a local Corvette club. In any event if your prepared, know what to look for and go early you might be coming home in a vette.

Good Luck!!

May 12, 2005 | 09:50 PM

early shark

Melting Slicks

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From: Nevada City California

AirTrafficController:

Corvettes @ Carlisle is a great place to shop for "early shark" cars. I have owned 3 '70's, 2 '71's & 2 '72's, all coupes.

I'm going to take a different approach and tell you about some minor differences in the 3 years that may be helpful in making your selection. 1970 interiors are brighter, especially blue, green & saddle. 1971 interiors blue, green are dark. 1970 engines are either 10:25 to 1 or 11:00 to 1 compression ratio, so fuel needs to be premium. 1971 engines are either 8:50 to 1 or 9:00 to 1 compression ratio, so fuel quality isn't as big an issue. 1970 LS-5 has monster torque at 500 ft lbs, when you stick your foot into it! 1971 LT-1 engine is a balanced engine with great road manners without the finickyness of super high compression woes.