2013 427
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Joined: Mar 2013
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From: Tucson
2013 427
Are all 2013 Vettes a 427? I'm been doing some online searches for 2012 or 2013 C6 and all the 2013s seem to be 427.
I remember reading about issues with the 427 (rings maybe?) and wondering if it is safe for non-DIY guy to buy a 427.
I remember reading about issues with the 427 (rings maybe?) and wondering if it is safe for non-DIY guy to buy a 427.
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Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 687
Likes: 145
From: Tucson
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 687
Likes: 145
From: Tucson
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A Chevy dealer will not fix the problem unless you can find one that will install aftermarket/reworked heads. Having them replace the heads with factory GM LS7 heads might postpone, but will not fix the head issue since the issue is the factory LS7 heads. I was quoted $3500 by a reputable speed shop near me. If you do the install yourself, you can get that down to around $2K.
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A Chevy dealer will not fix the problem unless you can find one that will install aftermarket/reworked heads. Having them replace the heads with factory GM LS7 heads might postpone, but will not fix the head issue since the issue is the factory LS7 heads. I was quoted $3500 by a reputable speed shop near me. If you do the install yourself, you can get that down to around $2K.
All trim levels of Corvette were available in 2013: ZR1, Z06, 427 Convertible, Grand Sport, and Base.
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It's also worth noting that the heads are not a 100% affected issue. There's thousands and thousands of LS7s with no issues. One of the multiple suppliers had issues. GM's data (for what that's worth) said 1% affected.
So it boilds down to your risk appetite. If you're gonna be driving it daily, I'd probably want heads. If it's a garage queen that does 1 to 2k miles a year... I'd lean towards just monitoring it and if it stars making noise due to the valve stems being loose I'd do it.
So it boilds down to your risk appetite. If you're gonna be driving it daily, I'd probably want heads. If it's a garage queen that does 1 to 2k miles a year... I'd lean towards just monitoring it and if it stars making noise due to the valve stems being loose I'd do it.
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LS7 problems,
The first is that the valve seats where not concentric to the valve guides on some heads (sub contractor problem) and GM when caught, would replace the heads.
The second one is guide/valve wear to the sodium filled valves that would cause the valve heads to snap off, and drop down into the cylinder to take the motor out.
So solution is to have the heads pulled, and the sodium valves replaced with SS valves that are much stronger instead.
The first is that the valve seats where not concentric to the valve guides on some heads (sub contractor problem) and GM when caught, would replace the heads.
The second one is guide/valve wear to the sodium filled valves that would cause the valve heads to snap off, and drop down into the cylinder to take the motor out.
So solution is to have the heads pulled, and the sodium valves replaced with SS valves that are much stronger instead.
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2021
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From: Austin TX
2013 Production Numbers
Drifting
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LS7 problems,
The first is that the valve seats where not concentric to the valve guides on some heads (sub contractor problem) and GM when caught, would replace the heads.
The second one is guide/valve wear to the sodium filled valves that would cause the valve heads to snap off, and drop down into the cylinder to take the motor out.
So solution is to have the heads pulled, and the sodium valves replaced with SS valves that are much stronger instead.
The first is that the valve seats where not concentric to the valve guides on some heads (sub contractor problem) and GM when caught, would replace the heads.
The second one is guide/valve wear to the sodium filled valves that would cause the valve heads to snap off, and drop down into the cylinder to take the motor out.
So solution is to have the heads pulled, and the sodium valves replaced with SS valves that are much stronger instead.
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Joe and his crew are top notch. Had them work on my vette several times and when I was there I saw vettes with license plates from all over the country, there is a reason for that. Check them out CPR Cordes Performance Racing. Joe Cordes is the owner, great guy to deal with. He is also a forum sponsor.
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From: Las Vegas Nevada
No, they are quite rare. Obviously, you search methods need much improvement.
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All 2013 Corvettes had 60th Anniversary badges, and all seven variants were available with Z25 Design Package (interior) and Z30 Graphics (stripe).
2013 Production Numbers
2013 Production Numbers
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From: Mesa Az
Joe and his crew are top notch. Had them work on my vette several times and when I was there I saw vettes with license plates from all over the country, there is a reason for that. Check them out CPR Cordes Performance Racing. Joe Cordes is the owner, great guy to deal with.He is also a forum sponsor.
OP I would be happy to discuss with you how we address the valve drop issue with perfect success for over 10 years now.
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Cordes Performance Racing aka "CPR"
Owner of AZ's premier LSX/LTX motorsports shop
http://cordesperformanceracing.com/
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joe@cordesperformanceracing.com
480-359-5914
Cordes Performance Racing aka "CPR"
Owner of AZ's premier LSX/LTX motorsports shop
http://cordesperformanceracing.com/
www.facebook.com/cordesperformanceracing.com
joe@cordesperformanceracing.com
480-359-5914