1979 Convertible??????
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 617
Likes: 14
From: Loudon, TN
1979 Convertible??????
Ran across what the guy says is a 1979 convertible. Only able to view one picture taken from the front. Looks like a late front cap and it is definately a convertible. Seeing as how 75 was the last year for convertibles is this a mistake on his part on the year or is it possibly an aftermarket custom job? How would this affect the structural rigidity if it is custom work? Maybe someone put a late front cap on a 74 or75?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 7,720
Likes: 12
From: Chattanooga TN
They appear from time to time. Much of the structure of a C3 is in the frame, so convertible conversions are not too flimsey.
I have a 71 convertible tail clip that is basically just a tub I tried to give away when I moved. I couldn't bear to cut it up so I moved it and it is sitting in the side yard. If anyone is interested in it......
I have a 71 convertible tail clip that is basically just a tub I tried to give away when I moved. I couldn't bear to cut it up so I moved it and it is sitting in the side yard. If anyone is interested in it......
Advanced
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 91
Likes: 0
From: Mason Ohio
1979 Convertible??????
Originally Posted by markdtn
They appear from time to time. Much of the structure of a C3 is in the frame, so convertible conversions are not too flimsey.
I have a 71 convertible tail clip that is basically just a tub I tried to give away when I moved. I couldn't bear to cut it up so I moved it and it is sitting in the side yard. If anyone is interested in it......
I have a 71 convertible tail clip that is basically just a tub I tried to give away when I moved. I couldn't bear to cut it up so I moved it and it is sitting in the side yard. If anyone is interested in it......
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 3,030
Likes: 17
From: White Pine / Dandridge TN
Originally Posted by TonySinclair
There's someone here with a very nice conversion...(FrankenVette?). '81 I believe...
Thanks for the compliment. Yes I have a 1980 vert and love it. There are two ways to make a late model vert. One is to take an original vert and put late model body panels on it. The other is to take a late model vette and cut it into a vert. So your friend with the 79 is not mistaken... just not a factory option.
As for integrity, it does shake a lot. I hope to add a roll bar in the future which should help. Maybe a shock tower brace as well. I'll take a little shake as a trade off to the open air.
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 617
Likes: 14
From: Loudon, TN
I'm going to go look at it on Sunday, might possibly buy it if the actual condition matches his description. If it was an aftermarket conversion what are the chances of obtaining parts if something breaks? I'm looking at an 82 CE but I'm a bit wary because of the one year model parts availability problems. Am I looking at the same thing with this 79? I'd really like a convertible but not if something breaks and I have to spend a bunch of money to have a part custom made.
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 3,030
Likes: 17
From: White Pine / Dandridge TN
Originally Posted by George Dickel
I'm going to go look at it on Sunday, might possibly buy it if the actual condition matches his description. If it was an aftermarket conversion what are the chances of obtaining parts if something breaks? I'm looking at an 82 CE but I'm a bit wary because of the one year model parts availability problems. Am I looking at the same thing with this 79? I'd really like a convertible but not if something breaks and I have to spend a bunch of money to have a part custom made.
You really need to understand how the conversion was made... factory or aftermarket panels. My rear clip is an aftermarket part but I'm not aware of anyone who still makes this. If I had to replace, I could probably make an original clip from a 74 or 75 fit. Most likely everthing is oem. Not something I'm to worried about.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 1,227
Likes: 0
From: Atlanta Ga
there are still companies that make the conversion pieces. ACI, Vancours, and couple others. The biggest advantage of using the custom pieces it prevents you from having to relocate/exchange the gas tank. Ill post some pics of mine soon.
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 4,876
Likes: 1
From: Jersey Shore Exit 98
Originally Posted by Frankenvette
You really need to understand how the conversion was made... factory or aftermarket panels. My rear clip is an aftermarket part but I'm not aware of anyone who still makes this. If I had to replace, I could probably make an original clip from a 74 or 75 fit. Most likely everthing is oem. Not something I'm to worried about.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 1,227
Likes: 0
From: Atlanta Ga
Originally Posted by Jims79
Jim I like your vert also, do you or anyone know who makes or create verts from stock vette's. Would love to chg my 79 into a BB vert.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 3,030
Likes: 17
From: White Pine / Dandridge TN
Originally Posted by Jims79
Jim I like your vert also, do you or anyone know who makes or create verts from stock vette's. Would love to chg my 79 into a BB vert.
I think most any competent vette resto shop can perform the conversion. Or in the case of Justforfun a good body shop. Corvette Paramedics is located near Cherry Hill, NJ in think. I've been there once about 2 years ago. I have heard good things about them but they are on the $$$ side.
Last edited by Frankenvette; Jan 13, 2006 at 10:49 AM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 3,030
Likes: 17
From: White Pine / Dandridge TN
Originally Posted by JustForFun
there are still companies that make the conversion pieces. ACI, Vancours, and couple others. The biggest advantage of using the custom pieces it prevents you from having to relocate/exchange the gas tank. Ill post some pics of mine soon.
I did not know anyone still makes these parts. Good to know
Look forward to seeing some pics.
