Hey guys,

I've got my brake system figured out, but just need time before I fix it, so I'm looking at other systems that need fixing so I can learn before I jump in. While I was down doing the brakes I got to take a good look at the rear components of my car. Let me tell you, I was sickened. The 30+ years of wear really can get to ya. Everything needs to be replaced. I started looking at trailin arms and what not and saw how expensive it was to replace everything that is inside of them. That's when I started thinking about some of the pieces that may or may not be replaced. The Support and Spindle look to be the expensive pieces of the puzzle and I was wanting to know if I can have them repaired or machined or something? I haven't taken them off to look at them, just was wondering. What needs to be replaced, with out a doubt? I know bearing and seals, but what else? I was trying to look at Mid America's picture and it looked like there were like 4 different seals for inside and outside. Hopefully VB&P will have this stuff. That's where I plan on getting all my stuff. Sales Tax sucks, but maybe I can save on Shipping since I live 40 minutes away. I also plan on going with the Offset Trailing Arms. I want to put my Z06 rims on the 75 and get a set of the Motorsport(sp?) rims for the 02. I don't want to put spacers on if I can help it. Will the Offsets allow this idea? What else may I need to do to fit those rims and tires in there?

I'm really trying to learn as much as possible right now, while I have the chance. I've learned a lot about my brakes from the other 2 or 3 threads and really appreciate the advice and information I've received on this board.

Thanks

Josh

 

Josh - I just did this job on my 76 and did all the work myself. I replace all the bushings (TA and strut rod) and put in new bearings and seals. I also pulled all driveshafts and replaced the U-joints. The parking brake was completely missing so put this in as well. I also bead blasted and painted everything. Setting the bearing end play requires some special tools (bearing setup tool, dial gauge with magnetic base) a press and a surface grinder is a definite plus. Installing the TA bushing also requires a tool to compress it before flaring the steel pin. I have access to a machine shop and was able to make all the needed tools so I didn't have the expense of buying them. GTR1999 has posted several excellent writeups of what is involved in this process. Take a look at these before you decide whether to do the rebuild yourself or farm it out. I was glad to have had the experience of doing it, but if I had to buy all the tools and I only had one Corvette, it probably would have been worth the money to send them out for a professional rebuild.

 

Thanks for the info. I have access to most of the tools needed. My company has a few of the heavy duty presses and what not that I can use. I'll have to buy the bearing tools, but may farm that part out. I will search for those write-ups and read them thanks.

Josh

 

Josh,
If I lived 40 minutes from VBandP, I would not hesitate to take them over there.

 

Would they do the work for me? I'm really looking at taking it all apart, cleaning and painting the good pieces and replacing the work pieces. I've been talking to Gary and trying to learn as much as possible. That would be one of the reasons I wouldn't take it to someone, it b/c I really want to learn about this car. When I talk to Pattie about placing my huge order, then hopefully she can tell me what they do and do not carry or can and can not do. Thanks for the tip. That may very well be an option.

Josh

 

Yes they can do the work for you. The stuff on the TA that will need to be replaced (maybe) is TA Bushing(1), Bearings (2), Seals (2) and e-brake parts. Reuseable parts - TA itself, Bearing Carrier, caliper mount bracket, spindle. Now, that said, the bearings may NOT need replacing, check them before disassembly, how many miles on this thing? you could get away with new seals only. Almost as much work, but no setup time or expence for new machined spacers. I did mine with help from Gary for the machine work and they dialed in just fine.

 

Josh,
I just PM'd you. Call me and I'll answer all your questions on this job and anything else on the car.

Gary

 

i am just down the road from you and i have done the brake thing on my 75 and 71 in the past. i have my z the way i want it now so i am now on my second restoration of my 75. i will be doing the trailing arms on it as they are shot. i am also having van-steel do my new rear gears. i used vette brakes in the past and the parts have been great. i did a caliper exchange, brake booster, and master exchange with them. i also used the spring and sway bar kits. i have a friend that has the tools for the rebuild of the trailing ams. i am sure he would help us both out. pm me for more info or if you need anything.

 

Thanks guys,

SIXFOOTER:
I have no clue how many miles are on them. The odometer stopped at 25800(or so). So, I will replace everything and have a clean start.
GTR1999:
I Pm'd you back. Will do when the time comes. Around 2months when I get the money for all of the parts. I plan on doing the Front/Rear Suspensions, New Diff, Half Shafts, Driveshaft, and all new U-Joints as well. I'll try and do the entire rear as a whole if possible. VB&P was very reassuring as to the way we will tackle the pricing and purchase of these parts.
2000FRCZ19:
That sounds great man. Right now my car is up here at work with no Calipers in the Rear. The whole brake system (minus MC and BB) are shot. I am in the midst of replacing them. I need to clean my Ti exhaust and sell it on here, so I can raise some funds. Not easy being in College and only making 25k a year to save money for parts with a Z06 in the stable.

Thanks guys , This forum is awesome and very helpful.

Josh

 

i know how the money thing can be, it just takes time. let me know if you want to try to have my friend help with the rear trailing arm rebuild. he has done many in the past and has the tools.

 

I'll PM ya when I get close. Hopefully in 2months I should have all my Bulldogs puppies sold. Should have some financial problems solved then.

Josh

 

Since you are down in Florida check out Van Steel's trailing arm rebuild services also. I exchanged a ratty pair of trailing arm assemblies for their rebuilt units and you can't tell them from new.



Rick B.