Putting a deposit down on this c3, any pointers?
Thread Starter
2nd Gear
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Putting a deposit down on this c3, any pointers?
Well, I have been looking for a 74 in my price range for a few months, I think I finally found one.
http://www.uscorvettes.com/cardetail.php?listcar=62
If anyone has any info or tips...Im fairly mechanically inclined and have owned classic cars before, just my first Vette.
http://www.uscorvettes.com/cardetail.php?listcar=62
If anyone has any info or tips...Im fairly mechanically inclined and have owned classic cars before, just my first Vette.
Racer
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 419
Likes: 3
From: San Jose California
There are a lot of posts/threads in relation to the Michael Montreiff gentleman. A lot of opinions on this guy are very negative. I personally wouldn't buy a car from this gentleman, based on a lot of people stating that they were buying cars on Ebay and was not properly represented.
Last edited by BackN70; Jun 9, 2007 at 02:27 PM.
Racer
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 419
Likes: 3
From: San Jose California
If you're really inclined to put a deposit down on this car, the things to look for would be:
1.Rust! Check the birdcage and frame areas to see if there are any signs of rust.
2.Bodywork. Check to see if there are any signs of glass work or replacement fiberglass. Some replacement front ends are one piece as opposed to a 4-piece. Bonding strips should be evident on a 4 piece.
3.Matching #'s (if that is an issue to you).
1.Rust! Check the birdcage and frame areas to see if there are any signs of rust.
2.Bodywork. Check to see if there are any signs of glass work or replacement fiberglass. Some replacement front ends are one piece as opposed to a 4-piece. Bonding strips should be evident on a 4 piece.
3.Matching #'s (if that is an issue to you).
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37,637
Likes: 3,118
From: Crossville TN
There are a lot of "subtle" items in his write-up, like... "A/C might need a recharge". Translation: A/C system doesn't work! If it only needed a recharge, he would have done it so he could claim the system worked and charge you more on the sticker price. Also, like.... "radio system could use a new pair of speakers". Translation: Radio doesn't work and/or speakers are shot. Changing speakers in a C3 is not fun and if you have it done will cost you $300+; if radio and speakers are needed $500+. Repair of A/C system at least $1000. Just those two items...plus the fact that the car is overpriced by about 30-40% would cause me to 1) look elsewhere; or 2) offer him $8000 and see what his counter-offer would be. You shouldn't pay over $10 for that car in any event [and that's if you can do the repair work and you really want it bad!].
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 1,164
Likes: 1
From: Port Clinton Ohio
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13
I agree. Looks towed out quite a bit. Also, find out if he has the original air cleaner and valve covers. Take a close look at the frame and birdcage before you buy it. Other than that, looks nice.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 6,400
Likes: 1,226
From: Tampa Florida
Research and read as much as you can.
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show....php?t=1726716
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show...chael+montrief
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show....php?t=1726716
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show...chael+montrief
Last edited by 71 Green 454; Jun 9, 2007 at 04:13 PM.
Safety Car
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 4,809
Likes: 237
From: Utah
There are a lot of "subtle" items in his write-up, like... "A/C might need a recharge". Translation: A/C system doesn't work! If it only needed a recharge, he would have done it so he could claim the system worked and charge you more on the sticker price. Also, like.... "radio system could use a new pair of speakers". Translation: Radio doesn't work and/or speakers are shot. Changing speakers in a C3 is not fun and if you have it done will cost you $300+; if radio and speakers are needed $500+. Repair of A/C system at least $1000. Just those two items...plus the fact that the car is overpriced by about 30-40% would cause me to 1) look elsewhere; or 2) offer him $8000 and see what his counter-offer would be. You shouldn't pay over $10 for that car in any event [and that's if you can do the repair work and you really want it bad!].
based on the sellers reputation, it's too risky, I would walk from this one.
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Racer
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 389
Likes: 1
From: Sarasota Florida
I would read very carefully any info on this guy, there is no replacement for getting references from previous customers, and they don't sound very promising. These vettes are abundant and not hard to find in good shape at a good price. One of the worse things you can do is fall in love with a car before you know all the facts clearly. That fever is easy to get, and can cost you dearly most of the time. IMHO
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 2,486
Likes: 71
From: Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
Run!!!!
1. The vehicle that you are purchasing is being sold "AS-IS" or on a "with all faults" basis.
2. The entire risk as to the quality and performance of the vehicle is within the control of the purchaser.
3. Should the vehicle purchased by you prove to be defective following this purchase, you, as opposed to the seller, assumes the entire cost of all necessary servicing and repair.
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show...trict+attorney
http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/story?se...cal&id=3637323
1. The vehicle that you are purchasing is being sold "AS-IS" or on a "with all faults" basis.
2. The entire risk as to the quality and performance of the vehicle is within the control of the purchaser.
3. Should the vehicle purchased by you prove to be defective following this purchase, you, as opposed to the seller, assumes the entire cost of all necessary servicing and repair.
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show...trict+attorney
http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/story?se...cal&id=3637323
Last edited by RobRace10; Jun 9, 2007 at 04:33 PM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 8,807
Likes: 1,947
From: LONG ISLAND
2025 C3 ('68-'73) of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2023 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
There are a lot of "subtle" items in his write-up, like... "A/C might need a recharge". Translation: A/C system doesn't work! If it only needed a recharge, he would have done it so he could claim the system worked and charge you more on the sticker price. Also, like.... "radio system could use a new pair of speakers". Translation: Radio doesn't work and/or speakers are shot. Changing speakers in a C3 is not fun and if you have it done will cost you $300+; if radio and speakers are needed $500+. Repair of A/C system at least $1000. Just those two items...plus the fact that the car is overpriced by about 30-40% would cause me to 1) look elsewhere; or 2) offer him $8000 and see what his counter-offer would be. You shouldn't pay over $10 for that car in any event [and that's if you can do the repair work and you really want it bad!].
I COULDNT AGREE MORE, YOU TOOK ALLTHE WORDS OUT OF MY MOUTH. I COULDNT HAVE SAID IT BETTER/ CLEARER MYSELF !!
AND.........THIS GUY REALLY IS A TURD PERIOD !!!
Pro
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 526
Likes: 1
From: Millington TN
Get in whatever it is that you drive now and go the other way really really fast!! I was looking at the same guy before I found my car, I did some research, and I honestly don't think I ever read a good thing about him.
-CR
-CR
Burning Brakes
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 1,139
Likes: 0
From: Salina Kansas
Measure the middle of each side fender flare to the ground to see if you have any side to side frame droop.
Definitely drive the thing around some corners and at speed on the highway and listen/feel for any vibrations.
Also, do the basic check for oil leaks at the rear main under the car and you will find out if the motor was really rebuilt or rebuilt recently.
Also, I also think you have some rearend problems due to the rear wheel camber being off so much and likely it isn't an alignment issue or it would have been aligned. Look to see if the stock camber adjusters are adjusted all the way (or even purposefully bent to make them shorter). Probably nothing has been done to the rear end since the car was new and you could run into quite a bit of money on that alone.
And again, check for rust 1. under the car in the back corners where the frame kicks up just in front of the back tires. 2. on the frame and the body mounts behind the rear wheel (#4 mount), 3. inside the frame pocket where the trailing arms go into the frame.
Definitely drive the thing around some corners and at speed on the highway and listen/feel for any vibrations.
Also, do the basic check for oil leaks at the rear main under the car and you will find out if the motor was really rebuilt or rebuilt recently.
Also, I also think you have some rearend problems due to the rear wheel camber being off so much and likely it isn't an alignment issue or it would have been aligned. Look to see if the stock camber adjusters are adjusted all the way (or even purposefully bent to make them shorter). Probably nothing has been done to the rear end since the car was new and you could run into quite a bit of money on that alone.
And again, check for rust 1. under the car in the back corners where the frame kicks up just in front of the back tires. 2. on the frame and the body mounts behind the rear wheel (#4 mount), 3. inside the frame pocket where the trailing arms go into the frame.
Last edited by CorvetteDave01; Jun 9, 2007 at 06:30 PM.
Safety Car
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 3,518
Likes: 37
Could consider posting a Wanted to Buy ad on this group and see if someone has a nice car for what you want to spend. People here know the cars and you may be able to get a very nice car with some honesty behind it.
Drifting
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 1,526
Likes: 2
From: Oak Ridge NC
Don't buy any C3 without first inspecting it or if you are not experienced, get someone who is.....there will allways be dishonest sellers...but an informed buyer can make out regardless of the seller. Check the links previously posted and learn about C3's.
Good luck.
Good luck.
Safety Car
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 4,176
Likes: 7
From: Jennings LA
Racer
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 473
Likes: 6
From: New Port Richey FL
I wouldn't worry about the speakers (easy fix) or the a/c (most systems will need something)... that right rear wheel looks like its about to fall off! Sure is pretty though... paint looks good in the photos.. but then again, so does mine! Based on what everyone is saying about this guy... doesn't sound like a bargain...
Race Director
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 18,398
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From: If the world didnt suck, we would all fall off. Troy,Ohio.
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St. Jude Donor '04-'05-'06-'07-'08