Hey guys,

I am going to take a look at a 1969 coupe, with a 350, auto, this weekend. i just wanted to know what to look for. what are the major/minor issues with this car. i want to make sure the wife doesn't kick me out for buying a lemon. Thanks guys.

 

This link will walk you through what to look for:
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c3-g...-corvette.html

I have a '69 but don't know of any issues particular to the '69 other than the usual stuff to look for with C3's.

 

Do you know what "numbers matching" means?

Do you know where to look for rust?

Are you at all familiar with the market?

Didn't give us much to go on.

 

Does it run or is it a project car?

Will the owner allow you to take it to your mechanic for an inspection?

Do you know any other Corvette owners in your area? One of them may be willing to inspect it for a dinner or other barter.

I wouldn't rush into the purchase without a good understanding of the condition under the car. I bought my first Vette last month and had a friend that crawled under the car and checked for major issues. The car was stored in a barn but not inspected, therefore couldn't take it for a good test ride, just down the street and back. I lucked out, as it only needed a master brake cylinder and a new front brake lin.

Also, look through one of the Vette parts suppliers and check out the prices of the major items.

One example: http://www.ecklerscorvette.com/

Good luck and post what you found and a picture or two!

Bob

 

GOOD LUCK, but by your statements you shouldn't be looking at a car if you don't know what to look for. Find someone competent to go with you, then you can thank me later!!!!!!! Have fun..................

 

Here's my general laundry list for new buyers.
Here's a few things to look for:
Check for rust in the frame and kick-ups (in front of rear tire, part of frame that goes over the rear suspension) & bird cage. Surface rust is ok. When you lightly tap it with a hammer it should have a metallic ping. If bad rust it will sound more like a dull thud.
The kick-ups are the frame area in front of the rear tires where the frame goes up and over the rear suspension.
The bird cage is the steel frame around the passenger compartment. Look for rust along the windshield pillars, viewed from outside the car. Also pull the kick panels (down on the sides by your feet) inside the car to see what the body mounts look like and if there's just surface rust or serious rot, if the owner will permit you to.
If you can get it up on a lift and let the wheels hang so you can check the front & rear wheel bearings. Grab the 12 & 6 o'clock positions on the tires and pull back and forth to see if there's any movement. Front bearings are an easy replacement, but the rear is much more involved and costly to repair.
Check engine for visible oil leaks around the valve covers & oil pan.
Just a few things to look for when you check it out.
The radiator support is another rust prone area to check. Replacements run around 300-350 and are a PITA to remove & replace.
Check headlight operation (and wiper door up to 1972) and that they open fairly quickly. Vacuum system issues are common.
Ask to see all repair & maintenance receipts.
Remember, ALWAYS buy the best car you can afford.
Good Luck, Glenn

http://www.corvetteforum.net/c3/juliet/rearsusp.htm

http://www.vansteel.com/index.cfm?fu...home&pageID=11

 

Not too hard to find a 41 year old "lemon" or even a 4 year old one for that matter. Unless you either a) enjoy working on cars yourself or b) have a lot of extra money hidden away from the wife, or both, I would not get into this hobby. The cost of parts is one thing, paying somebody else to do the work can get expensive real fast.

 

Knowledge is power.