I feel a need to document my story of purchasing a running, inspected, allegedly roadworthy 81 Vette.

Ahhh..the joys of buying a fixer-upper!  BTDT waaay too many times, but in the end, they're usually worth the trouble. A little time, patience, some elbow grease, and a couple barrels of gold coins, and it'll be done before ya know it!

Ok so I installed the new ignition lock and cover, put in the new door locks, found that this car apparently at one time did have the factory security system. (I assume since the door locks had a switch as part of the assembly.) Drove the car once in a while for about 3 weeks.

Hang in there! Once you get things straightened out you'll realize how much fun these cars are to drive! They were really ahead of their time compared to other cars of the period. As far as the transmission leaks, even if the car would have been in perfect shape, that still would have leaked due to age. It might be a good time to think about converting to an overdrive unit. Sometimes I wish I would have done that before I had my three speed rebuilt. But they are (somewhat) cheap to rebuild. I don't recall if 81 had the fiberglass rear spring, but if it doesn't, I would put one in (saves weight and helps handling. New gas shocks would be a must (I prefer Bilsteins). Get a plan and work through it. Be sure you redo the brake system (you'll either do this now or later). We've got the talented people on here to help you through the process. Once you get done you will love it like we love ours!

I'm only in York down the road from you if you need help rebuilding the trailing arms..I got all the tools to do the bearings and front bushings. Rich

Thanks All.

Bilsteins are pricey but well worth it! Ask anyone who has them. I even put them on my truck. Awesome difference! A lot of people like the KYBs, but if you're going to drive it, I would go Bilsteins. Make sure you have good tires. If unsure of age, CHANGE THEM. Blowouts are catastrophic on Vettes, and you can't tell by visual inspection. If YOU didn't put the tires on, I would change them. I like the Firestone Firehawk Indy 500 tires. Great handling, great in rain, good price!

Jeff, the car looks decent espically for the price paid.

I forgot to ask but what brand of bearings and seals did you get?? I highly recommend getting Timken brand..not hard to come by and cheaper if bought locally..auto zone or advance sells them..can look online as to which one carries them..they are still stamped made in usa..I will be heading your way alot over the next few months..mom is getting a knee replacement done and you are on my way..she lives in Unionville.. Rich

Jeff, I agree with what everyone above commented on. If you're really planning to get into this for the long haul, you're truly embarking on a such a fun and memorable journey. You're breathing life back into an American classic and when you're done, you'll be you're own #1 fan at shows, cruises, etc. Not to mention the compliments and interest you'll get from others along the way. Remember, There's nothing like suffering through a session with new four letter words, scraped knuckles, enexpected expenses for extra parts you didn't plan on replacing, a few cold ones with your buddies that came by to cheer you on and the ultimate satisfaction, when all is said and done, that you did it yourself, everthing looks shiny and new and it all works!! Yep, if you're like a lot of us here in C3VR land, nothing much better (well maybe a few things....)................ My project was 5 years in the making and it's been quite memorable. New engine, suspension mods, OD conversion, interior, exterior mods and paint. All I can say is take your time and don't rush each project. You're going to enjoy you coupe for years to come.............. BTW, my first dollar stent on my car was also a trip to the locksmith to get all locks and keys matching and working............. ENJOY THE RIDE!!!! Paul

|UPDATED|9/23/2011 3:57:25 AM (AZT)|/UPDATED|