Topic: Post Inspection
in Forum: C3 Engines, Driveline and Handling
I have the new BFG Radial T/A tires on the car. I did keep the old tires since they do look like the original ones that came on the car. While it was up on the lift, I had them change the oil, transmission fluid and anti-freeze. They all appeared to be in good shape. The under carrage looks to be in great shape except for a little rust here and there.
We did however notice that the front drivers side calliper was leaking and I did notice a pull to the right when braking. Not sure if the calliper went bad or if maybe the seals have gone bad. Anyway, where can I get a new stainless steel calliper?
Next we noticed the shocks are still original. Is there a good place to get shocks for this car?
The spark plugs look to be original as well. This is going to be fun since they are hidden away under the exhaust mainfold. I have new plugs, rotor and distributor cap. I need to get the plug wires next then I can tune it up. What is the best way to get to the plugs and wires since the wires are encased?
I sprayed some carburator cleaner while I was cleaning the engine bay. It seems have helped alot on the missing it was doing. I think the tune up will eliminate that.
I am going to replace the exhaust since the catalytic coverter has a run hole and the donut gasket is leaking. I was thinking about going with true dual exhaust and removing the cat since my area does not have emissions testing. What is the best sounding mufflers for this car. Should I stay with the new factory ones that were put on not too long ago?
I think once I get this list done as well repacking the wheel bearings, she should be in nice mechanical shape.
Here are a few pictures of it all cleaned up.
Picture #1 Picture #2 Picture #3 Picture #4 Picture #5
(Modified large images to URL links - Norsky)
There are many places to get the shocks. With a stock suspension most parts stores could carry good ones. The many Corvette suppliers all have them.
Stainless Steel sleeved calipers can be purchases for a tidy sum from those same suppliers, or go to AutoZone and get lifetime warranty ones for $61 for the front and $58 for the back. These are not o-ring systems, but are like the OEM with the Stainless sleeves.
Lift the car and remove the front tires. The front plugs on each side are now easy to reach through the wheel wells. The back ones are easier from underneath the car. The plug wires run through the motor mount brace, and are a bear to change. If you lube the wires with silicone lube, they can be fished through without taking the mounts loose, but larger boots require moving the mounts or rerouting.
The exhaust is jsut what you like. Try to meet some other folks in your area and listen to their cars to help make a decision. Go to the members locator and enter you zip code to find people close by.
Nice looking ride Greg!
I think a set of Hooker sidepipes or '69 style sidepipes would look awesome on your vette. But this is just my .02 cents. Good luck with your ride!
Sarge

Last night I went out to take off the front drivers side calliper and had no problem with that. I then proceeded to change out the spark plugs, Well I got 6 of the 8 changed but that darn sheild on the drivers side wouldn't come off. The front wing nut seems to be frozen on and the wings twisted together. While I was under the car, I noticed the passenger side tire was wet. I took it off and that calliper is leaking in the same spot as the other one. They are both leaking at the lower piston area. I think it must be from the car sitting all these years, something must have rotted or deteriorated like the seals. Anyway, I ordered 2 callipers at $100 a pop from the local NAPA dealer. I should have them in a day or two so I can put them on this weekend. I'll have to check the back ones but it seems the master cylinder fluid level for the rear is not going down at all. But better to be safe than sorry.
Go to your local GM dealer and get Heat Riser Lubricant. Soak the sheild bolts with that. It is the best rust eater/penetrant anywhere. 8 or 9 bucks a can and worth every cent. Makes PB look like water.
You may also want to take a close look at the back of the master cylinder. If there is any sign of leakage where it bolts on, you will need to replace or rebuild that as well. The same contaminates that caused leakage in the front calipers will also affect the master cylinder and rear calipers. Also take a close look at the brake hoses. Much better to do it now that have a failure on the road.

I can't add to all of the great advice the other fellas have given you. I do want to tell you that I think you have a great lookin ride. I think this car was lucky to have found you as well.
With your nurturing, and this cars history, you are well on your way to a nice car that is destined to appreciate in value. SWEET!
