C3 Tech/Performance V8 Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine, Basic Tech and Maintenance for the C3 Corvette
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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 11:16 AM
  #1  
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Default First time Corvette owner

I just bought my first corvette. A 1969 model. A frame on restoration was done to it by the prior owner (in a fifteen year period). Can anyone give me some tips on maint. & common problems?
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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 11:18 AM
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big maintenance key, make sure you keep putting gas in it or it will run out, oh and drive it everyday or it will explode, gm built them to explode if they arent driven every day, I am dead serious
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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 11:27 AM
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Welcome to the forum!
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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 11:30 AM
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Most common problem is not having enough time to drive it.You must always have something to work on,or the car will feel neglected
Welcome to the insanity
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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 11:32 AM
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Congratulations, Mario. You picked a gret year for a C3. Just stick with this forum and you will hear all about the common problems - there are MANY - and get real solutions. This is an incredibly knowledgeable and helpful group.
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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 11:55 AM
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I bought mt 69 last spring. You just attack the problems as they arise. The hardest this is to see it sitting in the garage all winter and not being able to drive it. But when it warms up just drive it and smile.

Welcome to the best hobbie ever.
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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 12:07 PM
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Excellent year vette bud, What are the specs? Any pics?

And welcome to the forum!!

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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 12:40 PM
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welcome fellow newbie... Joining this forum is the best thing you could have done. All the old pro's are more than eager to help us newbies... It's the best thing I've done since buying my vette. And they are right again... you have to drive the car. I put 12,000 miles on my car last summer (5 months). I find out so much by just reading what others have posted. until 3 weeks ago I didn't know that the spare tire was locked.... That reminds me, I have to go see if the lock works. I'm putting over 1,ooo miles on my vette next week.

My only advice is; ask the question before you buy the part or attempt to fix the problem.

chuck
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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 12:55 PM
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Learn to enjoy working on it almost as much as driving it. It's a zen thing. And never expect to be "done" with it.

Congrats and welcome to the forum!
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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 12:59 PM
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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 01:26 PM
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Hiyas Tips? Get familiar with the Search function. Lots of great info on everything you can think of.
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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 01:31 PM
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Originally Posted by BlueL36
Hiyas Tips? Get familiar with the Search function. Lots of great info on everything you can think of.


Search function, now that's a hoot.

(Don't bother it doesn't work most of the time)
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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 01:56 PM
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Welcome to the forum. All I can say is expect the unexpected. Engineering considerations and practices in 1969 differ greatly from today.
You will be amazed at some of the things you will find. As long as you have good mechanical ability and good set of tools, you will be fine. Feel free to ask an questions as needed. There is more combined knowledge about corvettes on this forum and anywhere else in the world.
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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 06:23 PM
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Welcome to the forum. The best way to keep these cars running good is to drive them frequently. I never had any trouble with mine until it was stored for a couple of years. Hope you enjoy the car!
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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 07:47 PM
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Your pocket book will never be the same. Welcome
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Old Mar 10, 2005 | 09:03 PM
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Noob,

Welcome from another almost Newbie.

Keep an eye on leaks. Make sure you check all your fluids once a week. Make sure your rear bearings are in good condition. Start looking for rust now and work on each area one area at a time.

Get the car tuned. Once you have it tuned in...you will know.

Drive the car like you stole it.

Welcome to the largest bunch of Corvette fanatics in the virtual world.

Pete
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Old Mar 11, 2005 | 12:26 AM
  #17  
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I'm about as lost as you are, brother.

Very nice taste in automobiles, though.
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Old Mar 11, 2005 | 12:45 AM
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We need to see a photo of your '69. By the way, how did you find us? Welcome, and log-on daily!
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Old Mar 11, 2005 | 01:38 AM
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Welcome to the madness that is Corvette ownership. Two words: Drive it! It's pretty much a solid old 350 Chevy with some special bits. I have a '71 and drive it daily. Buy a bunch of books and read them several times. If you do your own work, you'll be much happier with the car. It could be a money pit otherwise. By the way, there is no cure for this disease.
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Old Mar 11, 2005 | 02:10 AM
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Welcome to the insanity!

If you hear a sucking sound, check your wallet first. You will probably find the issue there.

Good Luck w/your new toy!

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