Problems immediately apparent with "Project VetteFinders"
Brakes- Only the left front wheel seems to provide adequate braking. This MAY indicate the need for caliper replacement $300
Tires- Tires are the original (most likely) Goodyear STs. They are cracked and have about 3/32" of tread left. $350
Windshield frame- The worst issue to deal with on a C3. Hopefully we'll be able to let our friends at Vansteel handle this one for us.
Exhaust leak- The exhaust is rusty and has a leak that is easy to hear. The existing exhaust system is the 2-1-2 type. An aluminized system from the manifolds back (true dual exhaust), including mufflers can be purchased for $2xx
Engine compartment- Although the engine runs well, the engine compartment look terrible. It needs a full detail job. Less than $150. "While we're at it" we may as well put in an upgraded camshaft for more power. $200
Air Conditioning- The A/C system is there, but is not currently working. $300?
Stereo- Does not work $unknown
Horn- Does not work. Could be a wire, fuse, horns or all of the above.
Bonding strip on front end- The front end has pulled away from the metal support. The right front headlight hits the body when opening. $parts
Clock- Doesn't work. $60
Power locks- Don't work. $unknow at this point
Frame rust- The frame is rusty, but does not appear to be rusted so badly that it has been weakened anywhere. This will just take time and effort to clean up.
Suspension- Needs new shocks the whole way around and a new rear spring $500
Cosmetics:
Interior- Well, this is cosmetics. The seats are OK, but the car needs carpet. $250 or so.
Storage compartments- Cracked and rusted. $150 for the set.
Seam gaps- Another important thing to look for when buying a vette. If the gaps between the doors and body or hood and fenders is uneven, it may indicate a wrecked car. Ours seems to have a passenger door out of alignment.
Maintenance:
Oil change- $15. We ain't using synthetics!
Spark plugs and wires- $60
Rear end- Fluid $20
Adjustments:
Windows- Slightly out of alignment.
The good parts:
Engine- L-48 that will spin the tires from a stop. Runs strong and doesn't smoke. Performs well
Transmission-Shifts well and no leaks.
Drivetrain- No fluid leaks at all from the car
Paint- Accepatble for now
Interior Plastics- nothing needed immediately
Battery- new
Lights- all work. The headlights work, but are slow to rise. We'll probably replace the acutator seals.
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