New owner
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 166
Likes: 0
From: Byhalia MS
New owner
I'm new to the forum and have a couple of questions. I just bought a 1974 L82 4 spd, convertible, 107K original(?) miles. The VIN and suffix CLR are on the pad on the motor. Those are the only numbers I've matched so far. The first question is, what other numbers are important to match? The second questions has to do with opinions on value. In good condition, runs strong, shifts smooth, could use paint, Original color Corvette orange with saddle interior, both are on the data plate correctly. brakes, shocks and front end stuff are new. Needs a soft top. Body is in good condition, no cracks, etc. Lights operate smoothly, all the gauges except clock work. I paid $10.5. Did I get taken? Opinions.
Thanks for your time.
Thanks for your time.
Drifting
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 1,532
Likes: 4
From: Fairview Heights Illinois, near Saint Louis MO, STL C3 Shark
The engine block casting number, date codes, on back flange of engine on Drivers side. Then the partial VIN and suffix stamped on the front passenger side just above the fuel pump. The transmission will have a date code, casting number and I think I heard some will also have a partial VIN stamped on them as well. Locations for this depend on the transmission. Mine isn't numbers matching, so thats about all I know. Im sure others on this forum will have more answers for you. Welcome to Corvette Forum!! 
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 3,255
Likes: 0
From: Manalapan FL
Originally Posted by Al Mc
I paid $10.5. Did I get taken? Opinions.
Welcome to the non-chrome vert club...we're very exclusive!
D. Ocean
Miami, FLA
Drifting
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 1,634
Likes: 4
From: Northern NJ
St. Jude Donor '04 & '05
Welcome to the insanity! 
$10.5K isn't bad if you don't find any major surprises and the frame/birdcage is good. However if you are like most of us, this is just the beginning!
Good luck w/the new toy!
$10.5K isn't bad if you don't find any major surprises and the frame/birdcage is good. However if you are like most of us, this is just the beginning!
Good luck w/the new toy!
Advanced
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 56
Likes: 0
From: Maryland
Congrats. Looks like you got a good deal. Before you repaint the car you should try to detail what you have. Clean it with a clay bar, polish, and wax. I even pulled the "Stingray" script off and cleaned the area with compound. Folks love a great looking car with original paint. The stone chips and other imperfections are easily overlooked.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 3,025
Likes: 12
From: Pleasant Grove AL
Originally Posted by Al Mc
I'm new to the forum and have a couple of questions. I just bought a 1974 L82 4 spd, convertible, 107K original(?) miles. The VIN and suffix CLR are on the pad on the motor. Those are the only numbers I've matched so far. The first question is, what other numbers are important to match? The second questions has to do with opinions on value. In good condition, runs strong, shifts smooth, could use paint, Original color Corvette orange with saddle interior, both are on the data plate correctly. brakes, shocks and front end stuff are new. Needs a soft top. Body is in good condition, no cracks, etc. Lights operate smoothly, all the gauges except clock work. I paid $10.5. Did I get taken? Opinions.
Thanks for your time.
Thanks for your time.
Personally, I think you got a deal. When I was looking for a 4 speed rubber bumper vert, I didn't see anything near that cheap. You don't have to spend $10K on a paint job unless you are trying to make a show car out of it. The only thing that would be a real negative would be rust. If the frame and windshield frame are sound, you should smell like the proverbial rose.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 166
Likes: 0
From: Byhalia MS
New Owner
Just wanted to say thanks to everyone who responded. I think its unanimous that I got a good deal. A little further review did reveal that the radiator support is rusted pretty badly. Is this a difficult fix? At the risk of asking the "stupid question", what exactly is the "birdcage" that I should look for rust?
How can I get any available original documentation such as build sheet, etc.
Thanks Al
How can I get any available original documentation such as build sheet, etc.
Thanks Al
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Drifting
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,763
Likes: 0
From: Fayetteville NC
That was a good price for a convertible. I couldn't find one that cheap when I was looking. Don't go removing any trim around the windshield and you won't see any rust. Drive it and enjoy the upcoming nice weather.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 8,351
Likes: 75
From: Tampa Bay FL
One of the first books I picked up along with a Service and Overhaul manual for the '69 was an NCRS book. It gives LOTS of info on date codes of parts and will help you to determine what is original and what has changed since it sold new. Good reading material too.
Welcome to the forum. Y'all are in the right place. Enjoy!
Welcome to the forum. Y'all are in the right place. Enjoy!
