First, I hope everyone is having a happy and safe 4th! And thanks to all who have commented on my intro thread and other posts, the newly found community has been a big help as I move towards my first Vette. I plan to go see this car and before I do, I'd love to get some feedback. But first let me state, yes it will be inspected before I make an offer if that's the direction this goes. It's not a numbers matching car by any means. I specifically want a relatively recent restored car and even lean toward some modern upgrades (like the Tremec 5 speed and updated suspension this one has and more...)

Here's the recap of the car and pics... Have at it and thanks in advance. Anything obvious, not so obvious? (oh and if you want to offer any alternative by all means go ahead, it can't hurt).

1968 Corvette Convertible ! This vehicle received a frame off restoration in 2014 ! Powered by a 327 Cubic inch bored .20 over, Internals are a Comp Cam XR270HR-10 Roller Cam with Roller Rockers as well ! Motor is from 1968 and stamped to match the Vin but not original. Full VBS Performance Suspension, Includes Front and Rear Composite Mono Springs. Front A Frames, Bilstein Gas Shocks, Drilled and slotted rotors, Entire cabin is lined with double foil insulation, A/c System has been converted to a modern day system with all new equipment, The transmission has been converted to a Tremec 5 Speed. Everything on this car works as it should right down to the center console lights that illuminate for Brake, Turn signals, Reverse lights and Seat belt warning, Heck even the buzzer under the hood lets you know that the key is in the ignition. This vehicle drives absolutely great at all speeds and cranks up every time with no issues.

 

From the pics, it looks like a beauty. Who did the resto? Can you talk to the person/s who actually worked on the car? Any “before” and “during” photos?

What prep was done to the body before paint? Any evidence of damage? What products were used in the paint process (primers, topcoats, clear, etc)?

Casting numbers/date codes on block, heads, intake/water pump? Date codes on carb, starter, alternator, clutch hub? What kind of clutch? What model of Tremec (e.g. TKO-600)?

What was done to the differential? Gear ratio? Trailing arms/bearings? Who did that work?

Read up on how to inspect the birdcage. This is critical. Assuming the seller is asking a fortune for it, be sure you are able to pull the kick panels and access covers and look at the #2 and #3 mount areas very carefully. Also pull the windshield interior trim and carefully inspect for any signs of rust.

I would take a blunt pick hammer and tap the length of the frame on the bottom and sides where there is any evidence of rust. A solid frame will produce a sharp sound, a soft frame will be muted. These are boxed frames so sandblasting will only clean up the outside. An internally rusted frame is a ticking time bomb. The 68’s also don’t have the additional gussets like the 69s and later so are more prone to sagging. Look at the door gaps by the handles with no one in the car and with two adults sitting to see if they close down any. You can also jack the frame just under the door and see how much they expand.

Missing a bolt on the left hood hinge.

 

It is a beautiful car. The thing that I like the most is that he stamped the Vin numbers on the engine block and admitted it upfront. That implies a certain amount of honesty. Because if the guys dishonest this gorgeous thing could still be a total POS underneath. But I don’t think that is the case. I think this is going to be 50+.

 

thanks! I appreciate you taking the time… that’s a pretty good list

 

Here are a few things I spotted that aren't stock: radio, A/C unit, front and rear composite springs, and air cleaner. If these are acceptable replacements, it looks like a fine car.

 

I'll be interested in seeing your feedback, I've talked to that guy before and he seems like a pretty straight shooter.

 

thanks jodfit, ya I got the same feeling. Still the car will stand on its merits. But hopeful!

 

Thanks 67:72; appreciate that

 

And the update is…. I spoke with Kerry @ Jamison’s at length today. He actually knew the car and is going to inspect it on Friday. I’m going down to see / drive it on Monday. If there are no surprises with the inspection, I think my search is over. Wish me luck!

 

Very nice restoration and honest listing. Lot of pigs with lipstick out there and this doesn't appear to be one of them. Good luck on Monday.

 

Wow. What else can be said. Wow. What an absolute beauty.
I have a feeling you won't be getting much sleep this weekend.
I hope the inspection goes good.

After searching a long time for my Sea Ray 280, I finally found one that had every option I was looking for (twins, gen, trailer, etc). Finally found one needing some mechanical work in my budget. On the sea trials, I brought my most-boat-knowledged-mechanic buddy and told him, "Please find a reason I should not buy this boat." I knew I could not be impartial on my own. Because it was a large investment, he knew I was serious and combed through everything with even greater detail than a hired surveyor would have.

When we search for these special toys for so long, it is hard to separate the emotion. Just keep your head clear and remember, you found this one. If it is not right, you will find another.

Good luck.

 

Thanks, and thanks for sharing... ya it's nearly perfect. I only say nearly because I was narrowing things down to a '69, red was my second fav color, and lacks side pipes, which would be on my preferred. Part of me says wait for the exact match, the other part says... don't repeat your regret from 38 years ago (not getting a vet then). In the end I think I really will be happy with the car. I'll know when I drive it

 

Thanks MrD, the added piece of mind with Kerry (Jamison's custom corvette) doing the inspection is a huge bonus. Really thankful he could get to it tomorrow so I'll have nothing holding me back on Monday! I can see why so many folks said it was the only place to go in SC. I can't say enough about him... he's doing this Friday night AT the dealers garage. I owe him

 

I think it presents well, appears to be an early '68. The suspension upgrades are a nice addition which will improve driving experience, but not sure if absolute originality is a priority for you. I have to say I've had 4-5 '69s and to be honest I prefer the '68's. I rather the quick rev 327 over the 350, the interior is much cleaner without the passenger floppy map pocket, key in the dash and 4 brake lights. It's seems every event I attend there are multiple '69s, and '68s appear to be a rarity which is a plus.

I would not hesitate to look at this one further from what I see.

 

Thanks Corey, I appreciate that feedback. ya, I'm not concerned with originality, I actually set out to find a restored / modified. Specifically looking for improvements in the suspension, so this definitely fits the bill. I may join you in the '68 fan / owner club

 

Hogwash. The '68 is not rare and more desirable when compared to the '69-72. The 68 unfortunately has several items/parts that are '68 only, and which are not interchangeable with the later chrome bumper years, so good luck finding replacement parts. Fortunately, this one looks well sorted, so that's great.

Moreover, the '68 got terrible press reviews when it was released, which prompted Chevrolet to make a bunch of changes for the '69 MY, and continued on through the 70,71,72 years (aside from the lower HP rating in the 71 and 72 - an unwelcome change). As for 327 vs 350 quicker rev capability, that's as simple as a lightened flywheel if you want it to rev faster (at the cost of some street manners) and on top of that, you get an extra 20 ft lbs of torque in the 350. The 350 has a lot more potential, and is better/more streetable than a 327 stock for stock because it doesnt need to rev as high to make the same power - I think you're in the minority here if you think the 68 is better because it has a 327 (basically a de-stroked 350). Post '68, Chevrolet never when back to the 327 for the C3, so that's saying something about the SBC 350.

Would I turn away a 68 L88 if it were given to me? That's a rare '68. There's a reason why you always hear the old adage 'never buy the first production year of a new model', and the '68 Corvette is no exception. This is a beautiful Vette though, for sure. Just a gorgeous color combination, and a seemingly nice restoration.

 

I wish you luck in the search, it's a great color combo, but I'm biased.

 

Thanks ZL1; I do try and separate fact vs opinion on all and benefit from both. Everyone's opinion is valid, because it's there's. Regardless, as I think I mentioned earlier, I did set out looking for a '69 for the reason's you mentioned (not first model yr); because all things being equal, I agree it's a good rule of thumb. But then I found this 1.5hrs away from me... I'm banking on the restore and updated parts on the most critical things (engine, drivetrain, suspension etc...) making it a bit easier to maintain parts wise.

 

I don't see any fault in that reasoning. If it runs/drives/brakes as good as it looks, you're in for a treat.

 

I don't believe I mentioned rare, but they are less common than '69's. The '70 MY of course wins that title. The '69 MY is the least rare of the chrome bumper cars as they had the highest production number built. The '68 one year parts are only an issue if one is seeking a Top Flight cert and need to locate parts. To say parts are not interchangeable with '68s are are incorrect, 69-72 parts will fit but not factory correct. To be honest I have had zero issues finding parts, they are often available just not in the sheer numbers of other years.

Reviews were bad, but if you look many of the tests were pre-production cars which added to the issues. The '69's were not night and day difference, the LARGE majority of the changes were cosmetic trim pieces, interior changes, not structural. One of the most problematic C3's I've had was a '69. Besides, in the 55yers since built, most owners have improved on these cars since so really not an issue at the end of the day.

327 vs 350 is a personal preference, you are entitled to your opinion and I am mine. A 454 has more protentional than a 427, but I'd also take the 427 over it, your opinion may differ. To each his own.

I do agree with this philosophy on new cars, but cars built 55years ago I will disagree. Most issues of said cars are often alleviated throughout ownership.