Getting Depressed
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Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 83
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From: Cumberland RI
Getting Depressed
Well, all I set out to replace was the T-Arms (big %#@! job). So far I've removed the shocks, T-arms assemblies, struts, strut bracket, spare tire housing, half shafts U-Joints, park brake system, 4 calipers, brake lines, front rotors, driver door panel, door handle, rear view mirror and park brake handle. All were worn, rotted or broken. Just take a look at this poor Differential Snubber Cushion:
Now I see that the driveshaft tranny seal is leaking. This car hasn't been driven for 3 years (although I've been starting it) because of the T-arms. My 3-year-old daughter thinks it's a myth. I've sunk $4500 into it after purchasing fo $13.5k. It really needs a frame off restore but I'm trying to get the family into our first home, which we are building.
I'm somewhat burnt out :(. Do I forge ahead and tackle the drive shaft seal and drive shaft U-joints or do I call it a day and start driving?
Now I see that the driveshaft tranny seal is leaking. This car hasn't been driven for 3 years (although I've been starting it) because of the T-arms. My 3-year-old daughter thinks it's a myth. I've sunk $4500 into it after purchasing fo $13.5k. It really needs a frame off restore but I'm trying to get the family into our first home, which we are building.
I'm somewhat burnt out :(. Do I forge ahead and tackle the drive shaft seal and drive shaft U-joints or do I call it a day and start driving?
Pro
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 726
Likes: 0
From: Petaluma CA
Re: Getting Depressed (vett70)
Is it getting cold there? If you are going to be driving, drive. If you are not...think it over for a while. The depression changes when the warm spring days arrive. Take a time out...
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 6,209
Likes: 33
From: Texas-out west
Re: Getting Depressed (Stevo81)
that driveshaft leak on trans is a simple fix while in car. Fix it, drive a little and then maybe take a break during the winter
Forgot to add, vette is like house, you always sink more money in it to make in more to your liking :D no matter how perfect either is to start, there is always better. :D
[Modified by LT1driver, 1:22 AM 11/4/2002]
Forgot to add, vette is like house, you always sink more money in it to make in more to your liking :D no matter how perfect either is to start, there is always better. :D
[Modified by LT1driver, 1:22 AM 11/4/2002]
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 2,103
Likes: 0
From: Tucson AZ
Re: Getting Depressed (LT1driver)
Drive it. I spent $12k on mine, then another $5k to make her road worth. She needs a full restoire if I go that way ($$ allowing) and there are a number of minor things that really should be done. This gives me a few years for home improvements, money for savings, etc while still getting to enjoy the car.
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 181
Likes: 0
From: Allen TX
Re: Getting Depressed (LT1driver)
I agree with LT1Driver, since the car is drivable, take it for a spin and enjoy. Cleaning the oil slop off the undercarriage from leaking seals is alot more palatable if you have a fresh memory of fun with the car. Overall, the outstanding issues of seals and u-joints aren't too bad $$$$wise. The worse part will be the inevitable "christening" of the garage floor (with tranny fluid) in your new home.
I am resto-modding my Dad's 1965 coupe. This car sat idle for ~24 years. Memories of a ride I took with him ~25 years ago (first time I exceeded 100mph), keeps me going and makes that nickel and diming that these cars seem to do, not so bad.
See ya,
John
I am resto-modding my Dad's 1965 coupe. This car sat idle for ~24 years. Memories of a ride I took with him ~25 years ago (first time I exceeded 100mph), keeps me going and makes that nickel and diming that these cars seem to do, not so bad.
See ya,
John
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 6,362
Likes: 7
From: Brazos TX
Cruise-In IV Veteran
Cruise-In V Veteran
Re: Getting Depressed (vett70)
Driving it will certainly reinvigorate you. It's a good way to pull you out of depression and get you thinking positively again. I say drive it and fix the seals and u-joints later (unless the u-joints are shot).
Safety Car
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 4,844
Likes: 0
From: Pearland TX
St. Jude Contributor
Re: Getting Depressed (vett70)
Ditto to all of the above....
The vette I bought was stored for 13 years, so you can guess all the headaches I was(am) going through. Find some time to enjoy it by taking it to the streets. It burns off the frustration. And a really good car cover can totally take your mind off of things as I am convinced it is not there when it is covered up.
Trust me... it works as you have to take the cover off, fold it up and then do whatever you want. With the car cover off I was out there toying with things all the time and finding things that really didn't need the attention I was putting to it. Granted.... I'll do those things down the road.
The vette I bought was stored for 13 years, so you can guess all the headaches I was(am) going through. Find some time to enjoy it by taking it to the streets. It burns off the frustration. And a really good car cover can totally take your mind off of things as I am convinced it is not there when it is covered up.
Trust me... it works as you have to take the cover off, fold it up and then do whatever you want. With the car cover off I was out there toying with things all the time and finding things that really didn't need the attention I was putting to it. Granted.... I'll do those things down the road.
