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Corvette consistent problems or defects

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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 10:06 AM
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Default Corvette consistent problems or defects

After reading repeated threads over the years I have decided to start a small project. I'm starting to compile a list of the areas on all Corvettes that are trouble or should be checked before buying. So if you guy's and girls could share your pictures and or stories to help me start my project it would greatly appreciated! The compilation will continue until I build enough information to possibly publish an article or small booklet.It can be anything from rotted frame rails to faulty wiper blades, any problems at all. Even the obvious problems to some of you. Please include the year, color, options if available on the vehicle that your trouble refers to.
TIA WB

Could use a cool title for the article as well!

Last edited by Don Rickles; Oct 26, 2007 at 03:38 PM.
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 10:30 AM
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"Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks" are very common on the L98 engine (also, on the LT1). It appears as a tiny oil leak running down the drivers side of the block and down along the side of the transmission bellhousing.

I bought an "89" and a "91" Vette and both had an Intake Manifold gasket leak.


"Water Leaks" are very common if the Original Windshield has ever been replaced.


"Electronic Climate Control Module" on "89" and earlier Vettes causes the Diverter door to be stuck in the open position causing no heat.

Last edited by GKK; Oct 23, 2007 at 10:44 AM.
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 10:33 AM
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Any year C4

Spongy brake syndrome.

Some C4s seem to stop on a dime, others can have every part in the book thrown at them and still have problems.
Ive talked to guys who bought theirs brand new and they were like that right off the lot.
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 10:34 AM
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Originally Posted by GKK
Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks are very common on the L98 engine (also, on the LT1). It appears as a tiny oil drip underneath the drain plug or near the transmission bellhousing.

I bought an "89" and a "91" Vette and both had an Intake Manifold gasket leak.
Thank you that's exactly what I'm looking for!
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 10:35 AM
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Originally Posted by cuisinartvette
Any year C4

Spongy brake syndrome.

Some C4s seem to stop on a dime, others can have every part in the book thrown at them and still have problems.
Ive talked to guys who bought theirs brand new and they were like that right off the lot.
Another perfect response, figured I could count on you C4 guys!
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 10:47 AM
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Looks like I may have a title from the C1/C2 guy's

The Cronic Corvette
What do you think?
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 11:12 AM
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1993 Coupe


Seems like I've heard these 2 from lots and lots of owners...


Pop-up headlight bushing wear...motors keep running after lights go down...GM used a hardened gel to make them spin but that eventually gives in. Gel Bushing area can be replaced with physical ones from a repair kit....$10 repair parts

(just bought my repair kit so I have yet to open up the motors)

PKE doesn't work correctly----shoot it or go aftermarket

Last edited by Gl!tch; Oct 23, 2007 at 11:16 AM.
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 11:16 AM
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Originally Posted by Floyd Bolton
1993 Coupe

Pop-up headlight bushing wear...motors keep running after lights go down...$10 repair parts

PKE doesn't work correctly----shoot it
Thats great,
please excuse my ignorance, PKE stands for?
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 11:18 AM
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#1 Targa roof begins to not fit so well
#2 water leaks both sides by windshield
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 11:34 AM
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Originally Posted by aquablue96
#1 Targa roof begins to not fit so well
#2 water leaks both sides by windshield
Thank you,
Are these complimenting problems?
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 11:37 AM
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10 Corvettes never any repair problems other than maintenance issues.
All were bought used, most were daily drivers.

The only things I didn't like were the anti-theft devices. Those were on the C4 only.

Water leaks duh!
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 11:58 AM
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Originally Posted by redwing76
10 Corvettes never any repair problems other than maintenance issues.
All were bought used, most were daily drivers.

The only things I didn't like were the anti-theft devices. Those were on the C4 only.

Water leaks duh!
Wow, now that's good to hear!
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 12:17 PM
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Rear wheel bearings
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 12:40 PM
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Originally Posted by War Bonnet
Looks like I may have a title from the C1/C2 guy's

The Cronic Corvette
What do you think?
I think if you are going to use it you should spell it correctly, it is "chronic" not cronic.
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 12:57 PM
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Originally Posted by toptechx6
I think if you are going to use it you should spell it correctly, it is "chronic" not cronic.
Sorry for the typo , but a suggestion was made to stay away from a negative title to one a little more positive like "What to Expect When Buying a 40 year Old Car" for example.
Perhaps you can proff read my article? My spelling, along with my computer skills do need improvement In other words I haven't figured out how to use the spell check.
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 01:09 PM
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LT1/4 Opti-Spark. My '96 with 75k on it is on Opti number...hmm, lets see, 1...2...3...4...5...6, yep, 6. 6 in three years and 3500mi. That doesn't count the one the previous owner put in @ 55k. All work was done under warranty. Horrible design. When it works it works great but... At some point everyone has to replace it along with the water pump.
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 01:13 PM
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Originally Posted by War Bonnet
Sorry for the typo , but a suggestion was made to stay away from a negative title to one a little more positive like "What to Expect When Buying a 40 year Old Car" for example.
Perhaps you can proff read my article? My spelling, along with my computer skills do need improvement In other words I haven't figured out how to use the spell check.
How about "Dummy's Guide to Buying a Used Corvette"?
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 01:16 PM
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And of course the 4+3 Doug Nash transmission problems.

Hugh
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 02:09 PM
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I've owned a '85 and currently own a '93. I haven't had any major problems with either (except the usual oil leaks noted in this thread and on the '93, PKE not working right). In '89, '90, and possibly '91, the C4 had the crappy Multec injectors. Good luck with your project.
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Old Oct 23, 2007 | 02:42 PM
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PKE stands for "Passive Keyless Entry".
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