I just got a 1987 convertible. First vette. Does not run but was told easy repairs. Not the case. Whoever worked on this vette last overtightened the rocker arms and bent the push rods. Obviously never tried to hand crank it. Then putting the intake on the cross thread every single bolt going into the lower. I bought a heli coil insert kit and watched a couple videos and everything worked out good. After I realized that some of the shavings might have got into the lower so I removed the valve covers and discovered the push rods. Bad buy. Still going to fix it tho. Anyone have any pointers or have had similar experiences?

 

Mikey, congrats on becoming a Vette owner and welcome to the forum! That Bubba guy must have owned the car before you.

Look, even those on here who have excellent cars and have a ton of experience still occasionally have problems and malfunctions. Don't let it get you down or sour you on the car. My suggestion is to consider each thing you fix, large or small, to be making the car just a bit better than when you bought it. Most of the time, once you fix something you won't have to worry about THAT problem again and you can focus on the next thing. In time, it will reward your efforts.

Sounds like you're not new to mechanical work, so get a FSM (Factory Service Manual), take your time, and enjoy the journey. No matter what problem you have, there is somebody on here who has been through it and can help.

We DO like to see pics of members' cars. Doesn't have to be show quality, we run the whole spectrum from beautiful to "work in progress". When you get time, post up a few for us to admire. Keep us posted on your progress.



PS - you might want to add your location to your profile. If you're not comfortable with an exact city, just your state or general area is fine. There may be other members close by who can give you advice and help.

 

Welcome to Corvette ownership, Id try to focus on one issue at a time. I def change ALL the fluids if you haven't done so already and check the date codes on the tires. Ive been in the hobby a long time and Im constantly dealing with the ravages of time and previous owners. Ive owned a 68 Corvette for 17 years and I still occasionally come across something hacked by a pervious owner. The Forum is the right place for advice.