On the road again!

[Timothy B.]

After a month on jack stands, my 67 vert is rolling again! Thanks to all who helped with answers to my many posts. I am rolling on four new Pirelli P4000 tires, newly blasted and painted rally wheels, rebuilt/painted rear spring, refurbed instrument cluster that I can now actually see at night, smooth operating tach and speedo with newly lubed cables, trip odometer that works, and smooth steering with newly rebuilt steering column. All parts came from LIC and they fit just fine, including the repro/replacement lower column bearing and parts unique to an early 67 Vette.

I briefly drove around the block and am surprised at how much SMOOTHER the car rides with the new tires. I was expecting the opposite, but I guess the new and softer rubber can better take up the small bumps in the road. Once I have a chance I will report on the handling feel with the new tires, but my first impression is all positive!

With this work done, I can now confidently drive the car more than a few miles from my house for the first time in many years. I have addressed all the parts that I knew needed attention, but of course there is always the unexpected. I'll just toss in a spare set of points, and few tools, and I will be ready to go! The weatherman says it is supposed to be in the 20's here in Houston for the next few days, so I will actually have to leave the car in the garage like our neighbors to the north! :-)

[Duke W.]

Re: On the road again!

As tires wear and the compound hardens with heat cycles they begin to transmit a lot more high frequency harshness from the road texture. The increase isn't noticeable in day to day driving, but usually becomes apparent when fresh tires are installed.

Also, the 215/70ZR-15 Pirelli P4000 Super Touring was originally designed for Jaguar sedans, so in addition to good performance, it had to have decent harshness isolation. This is a plus on a vintage Corvette as they lack the ride isolation of modern cars.

Replacement of ancient, compressed rear spring link cushions will also dramatically reduce ride harshness transmitted through the rear suspension.

With fresh tires and new rear spring link cushions, these old C2 crocks actually don't ride that bad!

Duke

[Timothy B.]

Re: On the road again!

I did notice last night as I was sitting in my car in the dark garage admiring my work that the tach and speedo are nice and brightly lit, but the four side guages are less bright. Is that normal? I replaced all bulbs during the rebuild.