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Old Sep 15, 2010 | 01:20 PM
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I am about to buy a 1972 LT-1 t-top, from what I understand it is all original. Like any other use cars I buy I try to start some form of baseline on all the basic system: oil and hard parts. this sat for three years, I am sure the carb will need some work.

If it's the original will it affect the value of the vehicle if I was to replace with a modern carb. (holley)

The same with the starter and the water pump, items like this I would like to replace to prevent me getting stock at some ride because they are old or just decide they will fail. Thanks in advance
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Old Sep 15, 2010 | 02:19 PM
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My best advice is to keep the old parts. They can be rebuilt and reused. You can put new ones on just keep the old stuff.
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Old Sep 15, 2010 | 02:35 PM
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Originally Posted by garage-ghost
My best advice is to keep the old parts. They can be rebuilt and reused. You can put new ones on just keep the old stuff.
This is what I did with mine. Anything that was replaced just to improve car, the original part was kept.Thats great advice.
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Old Sep 15, 2010 | 02:46 PM
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LT-1s have their value in the original parts. Any original equipment you take off the LT-1 reduces its value.

My advice is not to replace the existing Holley if it is indeed original. Rebuild it.

No disrespect, but it seems to me anyone forking over LT-1 bucks would not be asking about replacing the original Holley.

Have you checked the numbers on the car you want? Any original documentation with the car to confirm it's an LT-1?


Last edited by Easy Mike; Sep 15, 2010 at 02:50 PM.
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Old Sep 15, 2010 | 04:44 PM
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Hi n2v,
I think it might be a very good idea to have someone who's knowledgble about LT-! cars inspect the car with you, when you get it, to see just what you have. They could then give you some advice on how to proceed.
LT-!s are quite wonderful cars! You should be in for some big fun!
Regards,
Alan
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Old Sep 15, 2010 | 06:41 PM
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Wow, starting out with a LT-1
Just as Alan advised, do take the time to learn as much as you can about the car and its systems before you go changing out parts.You will find a wealth of experience here on this forum and if I may suggest you consider joining the NCRS.Most parts can be rebuilt and you know that they will fit when you go to put them back on. As easymike said the real value is when all the correct parts are installed on the car, of course you can do any modifications you want, just keep the old parts around in case you wish to return it back later on. How about some details, what color is it ? How is the interior ? we here on the forum love to see pictures (hint, hint ...)

Regards
Roy
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Old Sep 15, 2010 | 10:20 PM
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The original parts/components are almost all capable of being rebuilt. And until there are some primary parts in those components that completely wear out, I would recommend that you continue to rebuild the original accessories/components as long as you can. Most 'wear' parts in those items (seals/gaskets/bearings/bushings/etc) are included in any rebuild kits; and there are kits available for almost any sub-assembly in the C3. Alternator, starter, starter solenoid, P/S pump, control valve, assist cylinder, carburetor, etc. etc. are all capable of being rebuilt for just a fraction of the cost for a rebuilt sub-assembly...let alone the cost of a 'new' sub-assembly.

If you don't mind getting your hands dirty, like to learn how things work, want to save money on your repairs, and want to keep the originality of the car, consider this strategy very seriously.
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Old Sep 16, 2010 | 09:26 AM
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Originally Posted by 7T1vette
...If you don't mind getting your hands dirty...
When was the last time you saw a dirty LT-1?

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Old Sep 16, 2010 | 10:51 AM
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Originally Posted by Easy Mike
When was the last time you saw a dirty LT-1?



Yesterday....You should see all the bugs on my windshield that couldn't get out of the way and died trying.
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Old Sep 16, 2010 | 10:55 AM
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Originally Posted by Easy Mike
Any original documentation with the car to confirm it's an LT-1?

1972 LT-1s can be confirmed with the serial number. Fifth digit will be a "L".
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Old Sep 16, 2010 | 03:17 PM
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Originally Posted by garage-ghost
1972 LT-1s can be confirmed with the serial number. Fifth digit will be a "L".
Yes....but that L in the VIN does not guarantee what will be found under the hood.

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Old Sep 16, 2010 | 05:04 PM
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Hi gg,
What is the last thing that goes through a bug's mind as he hit's your windshield?
Regards,
Alan

His butt!
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Old Sep 16, 2010 | 05:09 PM
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yes take some time to make sure you have what you think.. if you have a true LT-1 and mostly original parts and engine then you really want to preserve originality if you can in order to maintain resale-ability.

start off with the more common books that will help you find out what you have. you can always ask us also.

as always, you should do what you want and what you care about. but we can help you 'preserve your investment'.

good luck... and post some pics!
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Old Sep 16, 2010 | 06:12 PM
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Originally Posted by Easy Mike
Yes....but that L in the VIN does not guarantee what will be found under the hood.

Originally Posted by Easy Mike
Any original documentation with the car to confirm it's an LT-1?

Either does documentation....
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