Sorry to bug everyone. I'm a corvette newbie and currently looking at getting a C3. I like the 74 thru 77 that had the verticle back window and no chrome on the bumpers (my dad had a 75 stingray when I was 4, I loved that car). I was just wondering when I go looking for a car, what are some problem points I should keep an eye out for? I'm not looking for a numbers matching car cause I plan on putting a 350 ZZ4 crate engine in it with maybe a 700R4 tranny. I couldn't mess up a matching car like that. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks.

 

well, before you buy, make sure you check the electrical system...see that most everything works...a friend of mine has a 76 that i have worked on and he has steering column problems..and brake problems...

 

Pick out a car, take it to a mech. and put it on a rack. The really drastic problems, I have found, is with the suspention. Most people will put oil, water and gas in them and maybe a brakejob, then drive the $%#$ out of them.
Veery few people will tend to the undercarrage. The rear diff and suspention is critical. Major problems here can cost, A LOT. We all know its better when it's tight!

 

I just bought a 74, L48 350 and the car looked great from the outside and inside, but as soon as I put it on the lift, I discovered a host of problems. The u-joints had to be replaced and I need a new differential. I was very lucky though, the owner gave me $1,500 to fix the problems. If you have access to a lift..use it. You'll thank yourself later for it..

 

My lesson learned.....be cautious of buying an east coast car. Salt kills the frame.