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I have the impression that the frames on the '80-'82s were protected against rust more effectively than the frames on earlier C3s. Is this true? I am also guessing that fewer of the late C3s were driven in the winter because they cost more than the earlier cars and because Corvettes were gaining a higher status than they had before. Any opinions?
The old frame was made for many years while the 80-82 frame was made for 3 years..... making less of them around to get when your frame is toast. I don't thinkits because less people drove them in the winter. In fact since the price for them is higher, maybe more people drove them in the winter causing a higher demand on replacement frames and therefore increasing the price.:rolleyes:
I have heard nothing about better protection from rust on earlier frames...... even new frames don't have rust protection other than the paint. :yesnod:
well my 80 was from Hawaii, and aside from the fact that the previous owner sprayed a protetive coating all over the frame" their is very little if any rust. just a little surface rust. Now the same does not hold true for the birdcage or the kickpanels Body mount locations, those got all rusted up. :(
I don't think there's anything special on the frames or earlier C3's. They just don't have as many years on them. But if your frame is rusty, the 80-82 frames are easy to find and cheap. So that's good. :yesnod:
I want to thank everyone who answered my questions. It's unfortunate that the '80-'82 frames didn't receive better rust protection than their predecessors. DSKRALL
Basiacally, it consists of the A pillar, windshield frame, the rockers, the b-pillar (roof hoop)
To check for rust you have to look under the dash, a pillar can be checked by removing the kickpanels, for the rocker channel you need to remove the fiberglass on top of it or lift up the body.