Restoring 86 vette
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Aug 2004
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Restoring 86 vette
I have a 86 corvette, Is it worth it to restore it with factory parts, exe carpet,weatherstripping door panels and trim? Everything is so expensive. I don't have alot of money to spend on my vette but if
it is worth it I would spend the money...
it is worth it I would spend the money...
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 2,132
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From: domesticmisfits.net c4guru.com
the real question is, is it worth it to you??? if it is then yes by all means,those that you can afford anyhow. if not then do whatever, part it sell it for example. for me i am still workin on where my father left off. little by little, hey i'm working with a small paycheck here!!! 
good luck to you 
Team Owner
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 34,873
Likes: 487
From: Lacey WA RVN 68-69
NCM Sinkhole Donor
Actually, NCRS has added C4's up through the 1989 model year for their judging activities. Work started back in 2002 to create the judging manuals for shows.
While a original 86 may not bring a commanding price, it would be a fun, but expensive project. It may be difficult to find "original" parts for some things as the GM parts may no longer be available and the aftermarket has not begun to make reproduction parts.
Concentrate on making it a good dependable car and nice looking. Corvette parts and accessories can be expensive but with careful searching and getting tips and help, you can cut costs dramatically.
While a original 86 may not bring a commanding price, it would be a fun, but expensive project. It may be difficult to find "original" parts for some things as the GM parts may no longer be available and the aftermarket has not begun to make reproduction parts.
Concentrate on making it a good dependable car and nice looking. Corvette parts and accessories can be expensive but with careful searching and getting tips and help, you can cut costs dramatically.
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 8,175
Likes: 237
From: Philadelphia Burbs
Cruise-In V Veteran
St. Jude Donor '06
Originally Posted by c4cruiser
It may be difficult to find "original" parts for some things as the GM parts may no longer be available and the aftermarket has not begun to make reproduction parts.
Kind of in-between situation - try getting the correct tires, for example! I will vouch, however that it's a lot of fun, though challenging. C4s are unusual and very interesting to most NCRS members.
My experience? See sig...
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 2,384
Likes: 124
From: Reno/Sparks Nevada
I'm getting ready to replace all my interior parts with new ones. Cluster bezel, radio, console, seat covers, door panels, carpet, visors, trim. I don't want to know how much money I have in the car now. It's only worth it to me because I just love to drive it, own it, and have it look like it's near new. Already 176K miles and going strong.
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 12,518
Likes: 19
You almost never get a return on your investment. I cannot afford a new or nearly new vette. I budget a certain amount every year to spiffy up my 87. I have had it for 14 years and plan to keep it for a while. I have no problem dropping 2k into an interior that I will enjoy. I do all my own work so I can stretch the budget further than the average guy. Most prices involved with vette parts seem somewhat fair to me. For some reason c-4 interior prices are way high. For what it is worth, I am very happy with my vinyl seat covers. I am also happy with my carpet that does not have the mass back. Many ways to cut the cost down. The beauty of this forum is all the tips and tricks that can help with both cost of parts and tech tips.
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Instructor
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 188
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From: Oxnard CA
St. Jude Donor '05
Originally Posted by MrRenoman
I'm getting ready to replace all my interior parts with new ones. Cluster bezel, radio, console, seat covers, door panels, carpet, visors, trim. I don't want to know how much money I have in the car now. It's only worth it to me because I just love to drive it, own it, and have it look like it's near new.....
I am restoring my baby because I want her to look the best during next years shows and for ME!!!. When I found her the interior needed a little bit of work e.g. ALL plastic dash and console pieces along with the leather grip on the E-brake.
I am putting ALL of my receipts in her folder, however I refuse to add them up. I do not expect to make every penny back; IF I ever decide to sell her my goal is to have her look as
as the day she was born. 
Just my $.02
Bob
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 6,715
Likes: 2
From: Santa Teresa New Mexico
Originally Posted by takovr
I have a 86 corvette, Is it worth it to restore it with factory parts, exe carpet,weatherstripping door panels and trim? Everything is so expensive. I don't have alot of money to spend on my vette but if
it is worth it I would spend the money...
it is worth it I would spend the money...
Save your money and move up to a newer car.
Race Director
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 14,146
Likes: 936
From: Fremont Ca
2022 C4 of the Year Finalist - Modified
I just replaced the window regs,door panels,everything in my doors,even new screws.Everything but the door and glass.It only cost me.................$2000.00.And thats only the doors.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 935
Likes: 2
From: Beverly, NJ
When I bought my 86, almost all the interior trim was cracked pretty badly. Also, it was pretty must stock. I used some money I made from going TDY to the middle east, and some tax return money. It takes lots and lots of dollars. I have spent much already, and am wanting more. It is addictive, I tell ya. Now I need a new pair of AFR heads, super ram, and a big cam, D44 rear, gears, and converter and then I will be pretty happy. But I just can't afford it right now. As far as the interior trim, I just looked around for people parting out theirs, and if the trim was in real good condition, I picked it up cheap, and repainted it. I just redid the rear deck trim last week. I bought all the trim used and repainted it. Now it looks nice.
