About to pull the C4 trigger
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 169
Likes: 15
From: Toledo Ohio
About to pull the C4 trigger
Its a 1985 75,000 miles, asking price $4500, owned by a little old man who only used it to drive to church. Garage kept. All 4 tires are good [ shocker ]
Has those 80s turbine rims that I want, no really. [ just need a "Spencer Gifts" satin Vette jacket to wear when I drive it.
]
Looks gold but someone said that's actually bronze, don't know?
besides its 2 month to early for good driving weather in NW Ohio, any thoughts or suggestion to check out before I hand over the cash?
Has those 80s turbine rims that I want, no really. [ just need a "Spencer Gifts" satin Vette jacket to wear when I drive it.
]Looks gold but someone said that's actually bronze, don't know?
besides its 2 month to early for good driving weather in NW Ohio, any thoughts or suggestion to check out before I hand over the cash?
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 2,778
Likes: 580
From: Langley BC
A C4 is like any used car, so watch for oil/ fluid leaks, take note of the condition of the fluids, take it for a test drive, make sure the engine runs well, transmission can go into all gears properly, etc...
As far as C4 specific stuff, check to make sure the headlights go up and down properly, power antenna goes up and down, pay special attention to the interior as those components are expensive so for each thing that is broken or worn you will be spending money If you want to fix the issue. When you close the door watch to see if the door panel shakes as broken door panels are very common on C4's. Also pay attention to the condition of the weather stripping as most C4's will need new weather stripping if it has not already been replaced. One other thing is check that the wheel bearings don't have too much play as that is a common C4 problem also.
There is probably a few other things but that's all I can remember right now, hope that helps.
As far as C4 specific stuff, check to make sure the headlights go up and down properly, power antenna goes up and down, pay special attention to the interior as those components are expensive so for each thing that is broken or worn you will be spending money If you want to fix the issue. When you close the door watch to see if the door panel shakes as broken door panels are very common on C4's. Also pay attention to the condition of the weather stripping as most C4's will need new weather stripping if it has not already been replaced. One other thing is check that the wheel bearings don't have too much play as that is a common C4 problem also.
There is probably a few other things but that's all I can remember right now, hope that helps.
Safety Car
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 4,427
Likes: 604
From: Minneapolis Mn
Add to the list: instrument cluster and paint. Instrument cluster can be repaired if not working but paint can be expensive to take care of.
One thing of note is early C4's (which include this one) have a different size and offset rim. There are options but few and far between.
If it's a manual trans, check the overdrive unit for proper operation.
Check the condition of the various bushings in the suspension. They are replaceable but takes some time.
Some people used the steering wheel to pull themselves out of the car. Check it out for play. It can be fixed in some cases or replace the column to repair it.
Look for frame or body repairs.
Check compression on the engine and condition of fluids.
If it all checks out, $4500 isn't bad for a decent condition 85. You undoubtedly will need some parts and repairs regardless but the better it is to start the better it will be for you.
As with any vehicle of this age, you want to be able to do some of the repairs yourself or you'll go bankrupt over the long run.
Good luck.
One thing of note is early C4's (which include this one) have a different size and offset rim. There are options but few and far between.
If it's a manual trans, check the overdrive unit for proper operation.
Check the condition of the various bushings in the suspension. They are replaceable but takes some time.
Some people used the steering wheel to pull themselves out of the car. Check it out for play. It can be fixed in some cases or replace the column to repair it.
Look for frame or body repairs.
Check compression on the engine and condition of fluids.
If it all checks out, $4500 isn't bad for a decent condition 85. You undoubtedly will need some parts and repairs regardless but the better it is to start the better it will be for you.
As with any vehicle of this age, you want to be able to do some of the repairs yourself or you'll go bankrupt over the long run.
Good luck.
Last edited by hcbph; Dec 31, 2016 at 06:13 AM.
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2016
Posts: 240
Likes: 51
From: Putnam County NY
Just a few more items from my 95 purchase:
- I second the weatherstripping comment. Needed to replace all of mine.
- Check the carpeting on the passenger side. If there's moisture or water on the carpet, weatherstripping or cowl drains clogged
This can cause interior odors if wet for long. - Listen closely when loading up the drive train. A clanking or clinking seems to be a common issue and means u-joints, teflon drive axle washers, or the like. I'm replacing all of those items now.
- Backup light switch. Mine was bad, didn't realize until I installed new backup camera. This is in a tough location and you need to raise it on a lift to replace.
Pro
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 732
Likes: 72
From: the confused state CT
I know you say the tires are good but what year were they made? There are a lot of old but good looking tires out there, they're not safe and ride like crap. The same with belts and hoses, brake hoses. Sounds like a good price but still plan on bringing the maintenance items up to date.
Gary
Gary
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2000
Posts: 21,751
Likes: 166
From: PA
2022 C4 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2021 C4 of the Year - Unmodified Finalist
C4 of Year Finalist (stock) 2019
St. Jude Donor '08
I know you say the tires are good but what year were they made? There are a lot of old but good looking tires out there, they're not safe and ride like crap. The same with belts and hoses, brake hoses. Sounds like a good price but still plan on bringing the maintenance items up to date.
Gary
Gary
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 2,075
Likes: 109
From: Longmont Co
I know you say the tires are good but what year were they made? There are a lot of old but good looking tires out there, they're not safe and ride like crap. The same with belts and hoses, brake hoses. Sounds like a good price but still plan on bringing the maintenance items up to date.
Gary
Gary
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Drifting
Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 1,275
Likes: 165
From: Utah
Check the power steering fluid, if grey, silver, sparkles etc.
also if the car is hard to turn when cold, and gets better when warmed up.
Early years had some issues with the rack and pinion, no fluid cooler.
Mine really started to become an issue at about 100k.
Solution is a new power steering pump and a rebuilt rack.
So far it seems that only turnone does it right, cost was like 600 after to and from shipping.
Just something to watch out for.
I would also expect to flush all of the fluids including brakes.
also if the car is hard to turn when cold, and gets better when warmed up.
Early years had some issues with the rack and pinion, no fluid cooler.
Mine really started to become an issue at about 100k.
Solution is a new power steering pump and a rebuilt rack.
So far it seems that only turnone does it right, cost was like 600 after to and from shipping.
Just something to watch out for.
I would also expect to flush all of the fluids including brakes.
Last edited by Gibbles; Dec 31, 2016 at 01:19 PM.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 169
Likes: 15
From: Toledo Ohio
Team Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 28,431
Likes: 3,284
From: Hartford WI
Its a 1985 75,000 miles, asking price $4500, owned by a little old man who only used it to drive to church. Garage kept. All 4 tires are good [ shocker ]
besides its 2 month to early for good driving weather in NW Ohio, any thoughts or suggestion to check out before I hand over the cash?
besides its 2 month to early for good driving weather in NW Ohio, any thoughts or suggestion to check out before I hand over the cash?
Figure on how much it would take to dump all the fluids. I'd check them for newness. If it is brand new, I'd be leery since the first thing that comes to mind is "what are you trying to hide?". Figure that if it is ok, dump all fluids from the rear end to the radiator. Injectors are probably good for trashcan throwing games. Hoses I wouldn't trust. Belt? See above.
Have you checked compression and done a leakdown test? If not, have a mechanic do those. I'd send the trans fluid off for testing or drop the pan.
In short, look for something that is too new. Few people change stuff when the car is being sold unless they are trying to hide something.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 169
Likes: 15
From: Toledo Ohio
Quote:
Originally Posted by hcbph
One thing of note is early C4's (which include this one) have a different size and offset rim. There are options but few and far between.
Course besides rims, were you talking about tires?
I see the factory 255 50 16 there is only 1 brand in that size for street tires. BFG gforce.
Is there another tires size folks goto with more brand options?
Originally Posted by hcbph
One thing of note is early C4's (which include this one) have a different size and offset rim. There are options but few and far between.
I see the factory 255 50 16 there is only 1 brand in that size for street tires. BFG gforce.
Is there another tires size folks goto with more brand options?
Race Director
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 14,934
Likes: 3,341
From: NYC NY
Lots of good advice all I'll add is let the engine run while you're checking it out before you test drive it. This way the cooling fans will come on and the fluids will warm up. Then take it for a good ride not around the block. You can see how the car tracks, how the brakes feel, try all the options like the A/C, rear defroster, the power windows and locks watch the dash display and gauges, be observant. A thorough road test may expose negatives that will give you room to further negotiate. Don't forget it's a 30+ year old car so it's going to have needs. Good luck and yes post pictures.
Safety Car
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 4,426
Likes: 229
From: Pennsylvania
I appologize for the troll (
) and have since deleted it. I guess you really are interested in this car and it's a real car. By your original comments though, it sounded to me to be someone just "fishing" or "trolling" here with no real car being involved. Good luck in your venture.
But do keep in mind that $4500.00 isn't that much money for a Corvette, so don't expect perfection by any means.
) and have since deleted it. I guess you really are interested in this car and it's a real car. By your original comments though, it sounded to me to be someone just "fishing" or "trolling" here with no real car being involved. Good luck in your venture. But do keep in mind that $4500.00 isn't that much money for a Corvette, so don't expect perfection by any means.
Last edited by FOURSPEEDVETTE; Jan 1, 2017 at 12:23 PM.
Racer
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 451
Likes: 14
From: Okehampton Devon
I know you say the tires are good but what year were they made? There are a lot of old but good looking tires out there, they're not safe and ride like crap. The same with belts and hoses, brake hoses. Sounds like a good price but still plan on bringing the maintenance items up to date.
Gary
Gary
Mine were 12yrs old, and the inused spare was original to the car in 1993!! My buddy runs a tyre depot and recommends no older than 7yrs.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 169
Likes: 15
From: Toledo Ohio
still 2 more days before I get to see it in person, but already shopping for stuff to buy 
Being a 85 there is no Vats right?
What kind of security or alarm is desired amongst yall in C4 land???
1 way, 2 way alarm???
Only 1 hitch, I do not want remote start. Which had killed plans to have one installed local. They only sell the full options $500 ones "installed" [ why? my Jeep came with remote start, after the 5th time of starting it when I had no intention of starting it, I removed to key fobs and hide them, as it has a factory alarm ]
Being a 85 there is no Vats right?
What kind of security or alarm is desired amongst yall in C4 land???
1 way, 2 way alarm???
Only 1 hitch, I do not want remote start. Which had killed plans to have one installed local. They only sell the full options $500 ones "installed" [ why? my Jeep came with remote start, after the 5th time of starting it when I had no intention of starting it, I removed to key fobs and hide them, as it has a factory alarm ]