how hard is it to remove the front cap? and how do i do it. do i chissle the front area around the cowl. i need to remove the cap to repair some rust. it looks like my 72 might turn into a full frame off the way things are going
thanks.

 

Front cap??? I'm sorry but I don't understand.
Later,
Sly

 

It's not particularly difficult to remove Corvette fiberglass; putting it back correctly is the trick. My advice is to order one or two (or more) of the many Corvette fiberglass/body repair reference works. All the aftermarket providers carry them. The Glas-Ra and Eckler's books are pretty good. Lots of how-to's in either of these books.

 

I'm not sure what type of rust situation you are talking about, but it might be easier just to lift the body in one piece.

If you are talking about repairing the birdcage (the metal frame that holds the body panels together) then I don't know what would be easier. I have no experience with that.

From what I have seen on this forum and my own Corvette after starting a frame off restoration, the area of frame behind the doors and immediately in front rear wheels is almost always the worst in terms of rust. If you are having issues on the front part of your frame, then I'm willing to bet that the rear of the frame definately needs help too.

I'm not sure what your plans with the car are, but if you plan on keeping it for any length of time it might be worth the effort to lift the body and do a comprehensive frame restoration. It is a lot of work, but a restoration isn't something that requires a lot of mechanical skill. Before I started my restoration project the only work I did on my car was change the alternator. With patience and a lot of help from the forum, I have been able to get a lot done on my car to date. I hope to have my project done in 2 more months.

Good luck on whatever you decide to do.