? what defines early and late models?

[Joseph J. Wisniewski]

I have just purchased my first Corvette a 1977 L-48. She needs some work mainly interior work. I keep seeing in catologs early and late. ie; 77E or 77L, Mine was made in July 1977 it's number is 42,000 something. I have read that they only made about 49,000 something that year so i would guess that i have a late model but i just want to make sure before i start ordering parts.
Thanks ,
Joe

[Ed Jennings]

Re: ? what defines early and late models?

Joe, since your car was built so late in the prodction cycle, it is reasonable to assume that in most cases it will require "late" parts. However, as a rule, an individual car may possess both late and early parts, depending on what the part is. This is due to running design changes that occur during the model year. The same car may have an early design widget and a late design whatchet.

[Mike McCagh (14)]

Re: ? what defines early and late models?

Buy judging manual before parts. mike

[Joseph J. Wisniewski]

Thanks for the info

Thanks Ed,
I will make sure i order part from someone who offers return just in case but i'll order the late parts when i am offered a choice.

Mike,

I would agree but i am not looking to restore to show quality. the numbers don't match and it would take a lot of $$$$$ to get there. This is going to be a daily driver. I will get it to look nice but i want to have fun and not worry about ruining a show car. Maybe my next one will be a show car???? One day i hope!
Thanks to both of you
Joe