Crate vs. rebuild
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 465
Likes: 18
From: NorthEast
Crate vs. rebuild
I have given some consideration on a crate engine for my 78. I know that if it's not a #'s matching car that it can lose value when I go to sell. My question is, how much of a devalue is a non #'s matching car? If the car is a solid runner and the interior/exterior are tight will the crate motor still bring it down considerably? If I go the crate route then I would offer the original motor in the sale. Would that help to maintain some value?
Trying to weigh in all the facts before I make a decision. Thanks.
Trying to weigh in all the facts before I make a decision. Thanks.
Racer
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 251
Likes: 1
From: Edwardsville IL
I would pull the engine and go with a crate. You will get more power, better reliability, and it will be more enjoyable to drive. It might devalue it a little if the original engine is out of the car, but if you still have it it shouldn't be that much.
Pro
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 526
Likes: 1
From: Maine
This is my first reply so try to be nice.
I just bought a number matching 74 Convertible after looking for a long time. When I was young and stupid I bought a non matching number 70 T-Top with a 454 I never even looked to see if it was correct (Hey it said 454 on the hood) I took a bath on that deal.
This time I ran at the first hint that the motor had been swapped. I did see a car that the guy had the correct motor in his garage, I for one didn’t want the hassle of having a second motor under foot. I also didn’t want to take his word that the motor was fine either. So unless you plan on putting the matching motor back in before you go to sell the car, you will lose a lot unless you find a kid (Like I was) that has no clue. Just my 2 cents.
I just bought a number matching 74 Convertible after looking for a long time. When I was young and stupid I bought a non matching number 70 T-Top with a 454 I never even looked to see if it was correct (Hey it said 454 on the hood) I took a bath on that deal.
This time I ran at the first hint that the motor had been swapped. I did see a car that the guy had the correct motor in his garage, I for one didn’t want the hassle of having a second motor under foot. I also didn’t want to take his word that the motor was fine either. So unless you plan on putting the matching motor back in before you go to sell the car, you will lose a lot unless you find a kid (Like I was) that has no clue. Just my 2 cents.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 3,189
Likes: 111
From: Tolland CT
This is my first reply so try to be nice.
I just bought a number matching 74 Convertible after looking for a long time. When I was young and stupid I bought a non matching number 70 T-Top with a 454 I never even looked to see if it was correct (Hey it said 454 on the hood) I took a bath on that deal.
This time I ran at the first hint that the motor had been swapped. I did see a car that the guy had the correct motor in his garage, I for one didn’t want the hassle of having a second motor under foot. I also didn’t want to take his word that the motor was fine either. So unless you plan on putting the matching motor back in before you go to sell the car, you will lose a lot unless you find a kid (Like I was) that has no clue. Just my 2 cents.
I just bought a number matching 74 Convertible after looking for a long time. When I was young and stupid I bought a non matching number 70 T-Top with a 454 I never even looked to see if it was correct (Hey it said 454 on the hood) I took a bath on that deal.
This time I ran at the first hint that the motor had been swapped. I did see a car that the guy had the correct motor in his garage, I for one didn’t want the hassle of having a second motor under foot. I also didn’t want to take his word that the motor was fine either. So unless you plan on putting the matching motor back in before you go to sell the car, you will lose a lot unless you find a kid (Like I was) that has no clue. Just my 2 cents.
Pro
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 668
Likes: 21
I don't think you will loose money as your 78 is not really a collector , but than again give them 20 more years and who knows. I would do a GM crate motor. It's fast easy and has a guarante. Store the original engine or at least the block. I would not hasitate to buy a vette if the origianl engine came with it. When I was younger and my back didn't hurt I would of told you to rebuild the engine. Funny how things change sometimes. Believe me I have done both to my cars. I have a 73 454 car, that one will stay origial, my 79 well anything goes.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 1,093
Likes: 2
From: long beach California
The guys doing ls swaps on their late 70s c3 are not gonna loose money. People want a more reliable, stronger, better fuel efficient engine while still getting that classic c3 body. You will be fine I agree keep the original engine. I plan to eventually do an ls3 t56 6speed conversion to my stock 1979 l48 auto 3speed. I will not be loosing any money if I ever go to sell it. There were 54,000 79s made all gutless with Max HP option set at 220flywheel horses. No one wants a gutless corvette. I love my car but honestly from now to the next 10years any thing past a 73 just isn't gonna matter too much numbers matching. Mostly because after 73 they are less classic icons, muscle, chrome, and big blocks and more high priced over emissioned cars. just my $0.02
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 465
Likes: 18
From: NorthEast
I have read that my car tops out in value at 20k and change, and that's top step.
Question, are all 78's considered Silver anniversary vettes? Because it's a SA would that help keep it's value, even if it weren't #'s matching.
I like some of the different perspectives I have already read, it's good to see how others may approach this.
And I do agree when I see a vette I think raw street power, but unfortunately emissions crushed that. Either way I go, I will definitely have more hp and torque.
Question, are all 78's considered Silver anniversary vettes? Because it's a SA would that help keep it's value, even if it weren't #'s matching.
I like some of the different perspectives I have already read, it's good to see how others may approach this.
And I do agree when I see a vette I think raw street power, but unfortunately emissions crushed that. Either way I go, I will definitely have more hp and torque.
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 3,453
Likes: 67
From: Midland Ontario
NCM Sinkhole Donor
Jedi,
I think for your particular model year the benchmark for high dollar resales would be an ultra low mileage L82 Pace Car. Even at that, in today's economy, I wouldn't imagine them getting much more that $20,000 - maybe $25,000 on the high end if it's something the buyer just has to have.......and then it's more than likely a glorified paper weight, since there's no way it's gonna be driven - so why bother IMO.
You did mention before that you figured you could go crate for around $2500 all in. That gets you your 300 ponies, and more importantly gets you on the road. This might actually be the best of both worlds, since you would have the original motor to rebuild over the next decade(for instance) back to factory specs. Heck get your son involved(if you have one) and make a real bonding experience out of it. Just my thoughts, either way I'm sure you'll find a suitable outcome for your needs. All the best.
Brian
I think for your particular model year the benchmark for high dollar resales would be an ultra low mileage L82 Pace Car. Even at that, in today's economy, I wouldn't imagine them getting much more that $20,000 - maybe $25,000 on the high end if it's something the buyer just has to have.......and then it's more than likely a glorified paper weight, since there's no way it's gonna be driven - so why bother IMO.
You did mention before that you figured you could go crate for around $2500 all in. That gets you your 300 ponies, and more importantly gets you on the road. This might actually be the best of both worlds, since you would have the original motor to rebuild over the next decade(for instance) back to factory specs. Heck get your son involved(if you have one) and make a real bonding experience out of it. Just my thoughts, either way I'm sure you'll find a suitable outcome for your needs. All the best.
Brian
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 465
Likes: 18
From: NorthEast
Jedi,
I think for your particular model year the benchmark for high dollar resales would be an ultra low mileage L82 Pace Car. Even at that, in today's economy, I wouldn't imagine them getting much more that $20,000 - maybe $25,000 on the high end if it's something the buyer just has to have.......and then it's more than likely a glorified paper weight, since there's no way it's gonna be driven - so why bother IMO.
You did mention before that you figured you could go crate for around $2500 all in. That gets you your 300 ponies, and more importantly gets you on the road. This might actually be the best of both worlds, since you would have the original motor to rebuild over the next decade(for instance) back to factory specs. Heck get your son involved(if you have one) and make a real bonding experience out of it. Just my thoughts, either way I'm sure you'll find a suitable outcome for your needs. All the best.
Brian
I think for your particular model year the benchmark for high dollar resales would be an ultra low mileage L82 Pace Car. Even at that, in today's economy, I wouldn't imagine them getting much more that $20,000 - maybe $25,000 on the high end if it's something the buyer just has to have.......and then it's more than likely a glorified paper weight, since there's no way it's gonna be driven - so why bother IMO.
You did mention before that you figured you could go crate for around $2500 all in. That gets you your 300 ponies, and more importantly gets you on the road. This might actually be the best of both worlds, since you would have the original motor to rebuild over the next decade(for instance) back to factory specs. Heck get your son involved(if you have one) and make a real bonding experience out of it. Just my thoughts, either way I'm sure you'll find a suitable outcome for your needs. All the best.
Brian
A lot of good ideas so far, I appreciate it guys. Anybody else please feel free to offer in. Thanks
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 5,116
Likes: 5
From: Livonia MI
Whatever you decide, crate or build up, it's always nice doing a second engine. Best thing being minimal downtime, and back on the road in a few days or so. Storing an extra engine doesn't have to be much a hassle either. Mount it on a rolling engine cradle without a carb or dizzy. Put some wood on it, and makes a nice rolling storage shelf.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 465
Likes: 18
From: NorthEast
Whatever you decide, crate or build up, it's always nice doing a second engine. Best thing being minimal downtime, and back on the road in a few days or so. Storing an extra engine doesn't have to be much a hassle either. Mount it on a rolling engine cradle without a carb or dizzy. Put some wood on it, and makes a nice rolling storage shelf.
Thanks man. Again, I apologize for my inability to speak mechanics, but what's a dizzy?
The two motor theory does have some strong advantages.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 2,071
Likes: 147
From: S Nevada
I had my original engine rebuilt. It was still cheaper than a crate engine and used high quality forged parts. Plus it was a blue printed assembly, meaning more attention to tolerances. And it still has the original block nestled in the cradle. Maybe not everyone else's way, but it's what made sense to me.
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 8,872
Likes: 3,548
From: Fernandina Beach FL
2023 Restomod of the Year finalist
2020 C3 of the Year Winner - Modified
just my .02 worth....
I see this all the time- struggling to keep it original and worry about it's future value...
Let's be real- I hope you bought the car to have FUN!!!
Do what you want w/ it!!!!
If you figure your time is free and the money spent on the car -maintenance-parts from China- insurance-etc
It really turns out to be a LOUSY investment- probably do better sticking your money in an account making less than 1% interest.
Richard
I see this all the time- struggling to keep it original and worry about it's future value...
Let's be real- I hope you bought the car to have FUN!!!
Do what you want w/ it!!!!
If you figure your time is free and the money spent on the car -maintenance-parts from China- insurance-etc
It really turns out to be a LOUSY investment- probably do better sticking your money in an account making less than 1% interest.
Richard
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 465
Likes: 18
From: NorthEast
just my .02 worth....
I see this all the time- struggling to keep it original and worry about it's future value...
Let's be real- I hope you bought the car to have FUN!!!
Do what you want w/ it!!!!
If you figure your time is free and the money spent on the car -maintenance-parts from China- insurance-etc
It really turns out to be a LOUSY investment- probably do better sticking your money in an account making less than 1% interest.
Richard
I see this all the time- struggling to keep it original and worry about it's future value...
Let's be real- I hope you bought the car to have FUN!!!
Do what you want w/ it!!!!
If you figure your time is free and the money spent on the car -maintenance-parts from China- insurance-etc
It really turns out to be a LOUSY investment- probably do better sticking your money in an account making less than 1% interest.
Richard
Ultimately it's my car to do what I want with and in my head I know what my car will look like when it's done. Thanks for your insight because you are right we need to enjoy the cars.
Pro
Joined: Feb 2000
Posts: 741
Likes: 46
From: Hebron IN
Original engine in a 73 and older would be nice.
I personally wouldn't buy a 74+ if it had the original engine in stock form (unless it was next to free to justify a crate replacement). If I bought a car with a nice crate engine and the owner included the original engine, I'd send the original pathetic turd to the junk yard just so it wouldn't be taking up space in the garage.
An L82 might be worth building into something halfway decent. I wouldn't put a dime into an L48.
74 to 82 was a dark time in history and those engines are an embarrassment. There are stock motorcycles today cranking out more HP!
Odds are that for every numbers matching nerd, you'll find 10 people who will pay more for a soft-bumper that won't get its *** handed to it by a base model weenie-van or SUV.
I personally wouldn't buy a 74+ if it had the original engine in stock form (unless it was next to free to justify a crate replacement). If I bought a car with a nice crate engine and the owner included the original engine, I'd send the original pathetic turd to the junk yard just so it wouldn't be taking up space in the garage.
An L82 might be worth building into something halfway decent. I wouldn't put a dime into an L48.
74 to 82 was a dark time in history and those engines are an embarrassment. There are stock motorcycles today cranking out more HP!
Odds are that for every numbers matching nerd, you'll find 10 people who will pay more for a soft-bumper that won't get its *** handed to it by a base model weenie-van or SUV.
Burning Brakes
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 1,201
Likes: 2
From: Frederick Md
Difficult to give you and answer BUT I'll tell you this NOBODY is going to pay a premium for an original engine in a late C3 unless the car is mint and with low miles..they are just not collectible...
I own 6 Corvettes 5 have their original engines.. the 6th is my 72 convertible that I purchased new BUT blew the engine in 1976 or so..and I replaced that engine with what I call the Correct WRONG engine...(A 327 350 out of a wrecked 67 ) ..Bottom line for me as far as I am concerned I added value to the car ... Its much more fun to drive! and while you sure can tell the engine (327) is not s not even the correct generation (350) I still could care less... smiles per mile still wins
Bob G.
I own 6 Corvettes 5 have their original engines.. the 6th is my 72 convertible that I purchased new BUT blew the engine in 1976 or so..and I replaced that engine with what I call the Correct WRONG engine...(A 327 350 out of a wrecked 67 ) ..Bottom line for me as far as I am concerned I added value to the car ... Its much more fun to drive! and while you sure can tell the engine (327) is not s not even the correct generation (350) I still could care less... smiles per mile still wins
Bob G.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 465
Likes: 18
From: NorthEast
Difficult to give you and answer BUT I'll tell you this NOBODY is going to pay a premium for an original engine in a late C3 unless the car is mint and with low miles..they are just not collectible...
I own 6 Corvettes 5 have their original engines.. the 6th is my 72 convertible that I purchased new BUT blew the engine in 1976 or so..and I replaced that engine with what I call the Correct WRONG engine...(A 327 350 out of a wrecked 67 ) ..Bottom line for me as far as I am concerned I added value to the car ... Its much more fun to drive! and while you sure can tell the engine (327) is not s not even the correct generation (350) I still could care less... smiles per mile still wins
Bob G.
I own 6 Corvettes 5 have their original engines.. the 6th is my 72 convertible that I purchased new BUT blew the engine in 1976 or so..and I replaced that engine with what I call the Correct WRONG engine...(A 327 350 out of a wrecked 67 ) ..Bottom line for me as far as I am concerned I added value to the car ... Its much more fun to drive! and while you sure can tell the engine (327) is not s not even the correct generation (350) I still could care less... smiles per mile still wins
Bob G.
