Two Tech Questions for Tech Experts
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 17
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From: Midland TX
Two Tech Questions for Tech Experts
Corvette Owner Wanna-Be here (still saving so I can pay cash). If these questions have been asked before, please excuse me (I tried looking way back in the list and didn't see anything). First question: I want a FRC (or Z06) because I like the bodystyle, but I suffer from a physical defect that sometimes makes it hard for me to operate a clutch. My question is IF I had a FRC, and IF I had a doner car available (same model year but with an automatic trans) would it be possible to convert the FRC to automatic? Has anyone seen this done? Any idea how difficult it would be (generally speaking - not every tiny detail) Is this something that could be done in a well-equiped home shop, or would it require professional intervention? Second question (should be easier): Can the factory installed Body Side Moldings (BSM) be removed without damaging the paint? Are there any holes under the moldings, or are they just glued on? I don't like the BSM's and they would be enough to keep me from buying an otherwise "perfect" car, but if they can be removed, then they're not a problem. Thank you in advance for any answers you might provide, and I hope I can soon be a "real" member of this excellent enthusiast group.
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 11,188
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From: Scarborough ME
Re: Two Tech Questions for Tech Experts (WhiteSatin)
Yes, I'm sure an FRC/Z06 could be converted to an automatic transmission given enough time and money. I'm not sure what would be involved but it could be done. BSMs are relatively easy to remove without damaging the paint. I believe people use fishing line between the BSM and the body to get the tape to separate and then clean up any remaining glue.
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 13,292
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From: Hockessin Delaware
Re: Two Tech Questions for Tech Experts (WhiteSatin)
I know the BSM's can be removed relatively easily, there are no holes or anything. Just some glue I think. I'm not so sure about the trans, but I don't see why it isn't possible. Someone here will know for sure. I tend to prefer the hardtop style myself, but I didn't want a Z, nor did I want a used HT, so I wound up with a coupe. Best of luck to you. :seeya
Pro
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 519
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From: Atlanta GA
Re: Two Tech Questions for Tech Experts (WhiteSatin)
I've been involved in a conversion of a '91 Mustang from an Auto to a Manual. From that experience, I can tell you that it's a PITA. The hardest thing was pulling the dash out to put the right pedal assembly in. The rest is fairly straightforward. Good luck with it and let us know what you decide on.
Welcome to the forum.
Dave
Welcome to the forum.
Dave
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 17
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From: Midland TX
Re: Two Tech Questions for Tech Experts (WhiteSatin)
Thanks for the prompt replies. I'm glad to hear the BSM's will not keep me out of a deal...still not sure about the tranny, though.
Team Owner
Joined: Feb 2000
Posts: 45,406
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From: Texas
CI 1-4-5-8-9-10 Vet
St. Jude Donor '03 thru '10, '17
Re: Two Tech Questions for Tech Experts (WhiteSatin)
As you can see, I love the FRC. But if I were in your shoes, I would buy an A4 coupe before I would modify an FRC to that degree. I think it would be very costly. Even the computer program would need to be changed.
Pro
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 553
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Re: Two Tech Questions for Tech Experts (WhiteSatin)
Some cars (I'm thinking of a Japanese model, but this may apply to domestic brands as well) have different mounting points for auto and manual trannys because of the larger size of the auto. Not to say that this couldn't be overcome, but I (personally) don't think it's worth the trouble, not to mention what this sort of conversion would do to your resell value.
Go with a coupe or a convertable; you'll thank yourself later.
Go with a coupe or a convertable; you'll thank yourself later.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 2,051
Likes: 1
From: Western North Carolina
Cruise-In III Veteran
Re: Two Tech Questions for Tech Experts (need-for-speed)
Another easier option would be to buy a convertible and get a hard top for it. Then you could have the best of both worlds! Best of luck in your future purchase.
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 5,529
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From: Austin Texas
Re: Two Tech Questions for Tech Experts (WhiteSatin)
The auto is not really strong enough to put up with the power (TQ) of the LS6 engine. Even in the LS1 engines, the computer backs down the throttle near peak TQ to keep the tourque levels from breaking parts in the auto tranies.
Since you are comitted to autos, why not avoid a big bunch of headaches and stick with the Coupe or Vert. The FRC was intended as a race-ready vehicle (as close as GM can get) from its inception.
Since you are comitted to autos, why not avoid a big bunch of headaches and stick with the Coupe or Vert. The FRC was intended as a race-ready vehicle (as close as GM can get) from its inception.
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 17
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From: Midland TX
Re: Two Tech Questions for Tech Experts (WhiteSatin)
Appreciate all the thoughtful replys. When I asked about the conversion, I figured it would probably be 1. to expensive 2. to much work 3. bad for the re-sale value of the car (although I do tend to hang on to cars, so that is not as critical). I do like the idea of adding a hard-top to a convertible. I have owned other 'verts with aftermarket hard-tops (MGB, 280SL Mercedes) and found them to be an excellent compromise. I was not aware that there were tops available for the C5, but thanks to "pridnjoy" I have already discovered that Smooth Line makes one, and there may be others. The only problem with a convertible is you pay a hefty premium in price, especially if you don't really care about going "topless". In the end, I will probably end up with a coupe, and be very happy to have it. Thanks again for all the responses.
