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Need help. 1968 corvette #’s matching big block car 54k garage kept in Pennsylvania with 5 year exception on dirt floor garage. It was my wife’s brothers car he is now passed. Wife drove car in her teens her brother was her dad. Super close relationship. I don’t have any pictures. But typically what deteriorates on these. The last time I saw it the side pipes had a lot of oxidation near the front of them. I think my wife should have this car ( I to get it for her). but I also don’t want a money pit. My concern is the oxidation on the side pipes is a sign of other deterioration or structural rust. Any advice on cars kept in similar locations what rust issues popped up?
Thank you for your time.
I would check the "bird cage" metal frame around the windshield and dash area. that's the most difficult area to fix rust.. Other areas will most likely need repair. Anything rubber- hoses, suspension bushings, weather stripping. electrical stuff.. wiring will probably have dry rotted insulation. Does the car run? You don't want a money pit, but the age of the car will almost guarantee you will spend a lot of $$$ to get it fixed up. I bought a 68 convert that had good paint, good interior, good engine, good trans, but I spent over $35k to fix electrical problems, suspension and misc trim issues. You have been on the forum a while, so you have seen many of the problems. Good luck with the car.
2020 Corvette of the Year Finalist (performance mods)
2019 C3 of Year Winner (performance mods)
2016 C3 of Year Finalist
If it it the factory style side pipes with the chrome cover. I wouldnt worry about oxidation too much. They are a cast metal and the chrome seperates and they flake and look crappy pretty often.
Look up the 10 things to know in the sticky section. scroll down until you find the part where the original post was quoted. it shows where to look for rust
as others have said check the forums for the "things to look before buying a C3" thread. your best bet is to post what area your from and see if any other members are close by and can help you evaluate it in person.