Topic: 1972 corvette
in Forum: C3 General Discussion
Already a Member?
Click Here to Login
Not yet a Member?
Click Here to Register for Free!
need help buying a corvette a 1972 dont know what to look for some one said to look at the frame for rust where do you look and any help would out there on that kenny
SPONSOR AD:: (Our Sponsors help support C3VR)
This subject could take days but some of the basics are the condition of the frame rails, cross members, body mounts, windshield frame/bird cage, trailing arms and mounts, core support, and front suspension. Problems with any of these are costly and time consuming. You would also like to find a no hit body as paint and body work done right can easily exceed ten thousand dollars. If you care about the numbers matching the three basics are VIN, engine, tranny, and rear differential. As far as numbers go it really depends if you are looking for a driver or an investment. The latter requires a lot of knowledge and a keen eye. I"m sure the experts will add to the list.
Good Luck,
Scott
Lifetime MemberModerator
Duncanville, TX - USA
Joined: 11/8/2003
Posts: 20229
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
Kenny, there is a great Corvette shop over yonder in Ft. Worth you could get to check out the car, if you'd like. These guys are about as honest as they come, and know Vettes inside and out. I'm sure they'd be more than happy to check it out for ya, and give you an honest evaluation. Contact Chuck or Dave Anderson at Automotive Performance Unlimited, 7341B W. Vickery...817-763-8115 
Just tell em a fellow NCRS guy recommended them.
Just tell em a fellow NCRS guy recommended them.
Joel Adams
C3VR Lifetime Member #56 
My Link 
(click for Texas-sized view!) NCRS
"Money can't buy happiness -- but somehow it's more comforting to cry in a CORVETTE than in a Kia"
That was mean Dave.
Brian - NCM Lifetime Member
73 coupe L48, Flat-top pistons, Performer RPM Heads, Crane Cam and roller rockers, Holley 650 vac sec. Performer intake,
3.55 gear BTO 200-4R trans,
Leather seats, Seatbelt Plus 3point seatbelts, Pioneer CD player
Magnaflow Exhuast System
Dewitt radiator and dual electric fans
Borgeson Steering box
Lifetime MemberIrving, TX - USA
Joined: 8/21/2004
Posts: 4273
Vette(s): #1 -1969 Corvette Coupe Riverside Gold, black interior,MN,A/C,350/350,PS,PB,window cranks.
#2 -2000 C5, black/black, 6 sp, Bose system & lots of buttons.
No, THAT WAS FUNNY, Dave! 
greypoupon69 2007-07-10 13:16:49
The Anderson Bros really do have a good reputation......I live in Texas too. 
�����
My Link 
MICK - C3VR Lifetime Member #113
Lifetime MemberIndianapolis, IN - USA
Joined: 9/3/2006
Posts: 2431
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
When I was looking for my 74, I used a book by Richard Prince that I thought gave really good advice for a novice like me. I got a copy from the local library for free. You can easily get a copy on e-bay, or elsewhere on line.
Corvette Magazine recently had an article (September 2007 edition) on what to look for when buying a C3 also.
Is there a car that you've already got identified, or are you on the search? I still like to go searching for cars on the internet. I love it.
I wanted a Corvette my whole life, but I never dreamed of all the wonderful people I would meet because of it!
2014216132127r.jpg)
There's been much written here about this subject. Do a search and you will find a ton of info. Here's a partial list:
1. Check for matching numbers (if that's important to you). Numbers matching means the VIN is the same on the car, engine, frame, and transmission.
2. Check for rust. Look at the frame underneath. Is the metal in good shape (surface rust is ok, flaking, pitting is not). The best way to check is put the car up on a lift.
3. Look at the rear body mounts (visible by looking in the rear wheel-wells. Are they and the frame connection rusted?
4. The condition of the birdcage is just as important. You can remove some trim around the windsield (inside the car) to check the condition of the metal underneath. Also remove the kick panels to check the condition of the lower birdcage metal as well as the body mounts in that location.
5. Obviously, how does the car run, shift, etc.
6. Look at everything in the interior that needs to be fixed/replaced. Then go to one of the parts vendors and see what it will cost to replace all of that stuff. It's a real eye opener.
7. Check out the radiator support (metal that surrounds the radiator. They are known for rusting and are around $400.00 to replace.
This is right off the top of my head, when I think of more, I'll add it to the list. You will always miss a bunch of stuff with the first one you buy. Absolutely take Joel's suggestion and use the local Corvette shop guys to go over the car for you. It's money well spent and you will also learn a lot (even if you end up passing on this car). Good luck and let us know how it goes! 
in Forum: C3 General Discussion
SPONSOR AD: (Our Sponsors help support C3VR)