Topic: Replacement Parts
in Forum: C3 Engines
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Lifetime MemberIndianapolis, IN - USA
Joined: 9/3/2006
Posts: 2429
Vette(s): Silver 1974 Convertible - L82 4 speed
Low miles (was only 8,900 when I bought it in March 2006) - Now 54K miles. Original owner bought it as an investment for son's college expenses.
2008 Jetstream Blue Convertible
I'm having a few things done to my car and "while we're there" considering replacing a few of the 38 year old parts. I want to keep a look of originality and just wondering if anyone has recommendations on a few things.
|UPDATED|4/18/2012 3:33:28 AM (AZT)|/UPDATED|
Specifically, wondering if standard AC Delco replacements available from part houses will fit the bill or if there are OEM manufacturers or aftermarket dealers out there that would look better and work as well in the long run. In particular, considering Water Pump, Fuel Pump and Plug Wires.
|UPDATED|4/18/2012 3:33:28 AM (AZT)|/UPDATED|
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The main issue with replacement parts is quality. A lot of stuff comes from China, & etc. and it's not always easy to tell that, until the part fails way sooner than it should. I went thru that with ball joints, I thought they were quality parts until after 3 months I took them out and the ball & socket were galled and pitted badly! I went and got Moog joints and they are in there for 4 years now and in perfect condition. I now try and get American made whenever possible.
Good luck,
Dave
Lifetime Member #116
Dave's '82 
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Duncanville, TX - USA
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Vette(s): #1-1974 L-48 4spd Cp Med Red Metallic/Black deluxe int w/AC/tilt/tele./p/w-p/b/
Am-Fm/map light National/Regional/Chapter NCRS "Top Flight"
#2-1985 Bright Red/Carmine Cp.L-98/auto
Member: NCRS, NCRS Texas, Corvette Legends of Texas
The water pump, fuel pump, and plug wires can be purchased from just about any parts house. As Dave says, tho...gotta watch for the country of origin. None of these parts can be easily seen anyway, so a small difference in cosmetics won't make any difference. I would suggest not going for the cheapest plug wires....best bet is to find some Delco wires and use them.
|UPDATED|4/18/2012 9:45:36 AM (AZT)|/UPDATED|
|UPDATED|4/18/2012 9:45:36 AM (AZT)|/UPDATED|
Joel Adams
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Frederick, MD - USA
Joined: 9/8/2003
Posts: 3398
Vette(s): 1969 convertible L71 427/435 4-speed black interior
I agree with what the others have said. Even if you find Delco parts, it doesn't necessarily mean it's all Delco. Many GM branded parts are rebuilt not by GM but by authorized subcontractors. That doesn't mean it's substandard by any means...they're required to meet quality standards specified by GM. Some aftermarket replacement parts are better than original GM...just make sure of country of origin as already said.
Say you find yourself an original Delco fuel pump...NOS or rebuilt. Depending on when it was made or rebuilt, the gaskets, rubber diaphragm or other soft parts may not be made to the latest standards and current gasoline blends can eat the parts up in short order.
It just seems that when your original parts wear out, the currently available replacement stuff doesn't last nearly as long.
Yea, the aftermarket outside rear view mirrors I got are junk. Anyone got a good source for rear view mirrors?
|UPDATED|4/19/2012 9:25:04 AM (AZT)|/UPDATED|
|UPDATED|4/19/2012 9:25:04 AM (AZT)|/UPDATED|
I would suggest lectric limited on the plug wires..they make their own stuff..they do original marked wires or just replacement ..either way it's a win..
Gary...try paragon for the mirors..
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Lifetime MemberBelvidere, IL - USA
Joined: 10/24/2004
Posts: 438
Vette(s): 1977 Black T-Top ZZ4 5Sp 16in Wheels
Check out Rightnowautoparts, a AcDelco warehouse. You can buy new or rebuilt, prices are right. Spark plug wires, Accel 900. Pricy, but with stand the heat.
in Forum: C3 Engines
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