I called USAA regarding my incident with the tree. They say they are gonna fix the Vette, though they havent seen it yet cuz its in my garage. Now, I do most of my own work on my cars. USAA will issue ME a check for the repair estimate, with which I will pay the repair shop. So I'm thinking, maybe I'll do alot of the rebuild myself...bumpers, trim, grills, headlites, etc...
MY QUESTION is how difficult is it to install a new front end clip, door to door piece? Is it bonded on (glued) or does it bolt into place?? I'm thinking I'd rather have them (or ME) install a whole new front end rather than piece the fiberglass together thru "repair"..Might actually be more cost effective, also. Had to head out of town right after the "incident" and JUST got back in, so I admit I really havent had time really get into the damage (PLUS it still makes me a little queasy to go into the garage and look at it!)

I was thinking on having the shop install the front end, maybe line up the hood, then ME do the rest of the assembly. I'd probably have plenty of insurance money to cover all the repairs, plus some (interior, etc.. if I do alot of the work?) I am in no real rush to get her back on the road before springtime anyway) Just dont have a clue if I should tackle the front clip, or just have the shop do it???

Thanks for any advice,

Rob

 

The front clip is bonded on not bolted. I have never done this but if you are good with fiberglass and bonding you can do it. If not and you want it nice and straight have a GOOD shop put the front end on.

 

Upon CLOSE inspection this morning, I think the drivers side fender and most of the "guts" under the front cowling are OK, atleast everything from the car center over (to the drivers side). Obviously the right headlite assembly, right fender, grill, and bumper supports, along with the front part of the splash guard, and the lower valence panel, etc need to be replaced. With the exception of the right hood hinge mount, the hood is fine. No radiator support damage, no steering damage, and even with the demolished right headlite assembly, the lites will still come on!!!

Can the fender be replaced separately, and how about the nose cowling, is it usually replaced as a WHOLE?

Thanks, Rob

 

Go over to Ecklers & look at the glass parts they offer. This will give you an idea of how the replacements are usually done. If you know a great fiberglass person, then just about anything can be done. I believe that the nose & fenders came as 3 pieces that were bonded together at the factory and that only after market sold the 1 piece front end.