Cost to restore a Corvette?

[Roy B.]

KEN

{The reproduction parts have caused the most headaches because none of them fit or work.}

That's the part I will never understand when I try to sell original parts finding few buyers. Most people will buy repro.? Yet they brag about how much their Corvette is worth . How many people buy a Corvette then later find out it was restored using repro parts and complain saying they were told it was a real original Corvette ?
It took me years to locate REAL original parts to replace worn or bad parts. It dint matter to me that they needed cleaning or rebuilding. I'm a nut when it comes to my Corvette but then I know it's a real one. Yes I know some times you have no choice at the time but then it's interesting and a treasure hunt and ex-sighting to find it. I suppose it's for a keeper only thing.

[ken evans]

Reproduction parts should be outlawed

I agree, it seems everything, and I mean EVERYTHING that I bought as reproduction parts were returned or resold until I finally learned my lesson - use only NOS! Small things like door lock clips - how can you make those wrong? - had tabs 0.060 too short and the locks wouldn't work. Now, here's a good one - the reproduction air intake I bought from my good buddy Jack for the FI system and cost $2200+ was not even close too fitting. Time for the 5# sledge! Or the repop exhaust system - clamps welded in wrong place. And the rear spring (Eaton) was closer to 400 #/in than the 200 required - try to install that sucker. And the repop rocker panels were thrown out with all the other repop junk. But then there are some small surprises - the interior carpet worked, the glass fit and the paint didn't peel off.

[Brett H.]

Re: Reproduction parts should be outlawed

Repop pieces are both good and bad. You use them in a pinch unless they are really accurate.

As far as restoration costs go. I charge a flat labor rate of $40k minimum, depending on body damage. The owner is responsible for all parts, materials and out of shop services.

I won't take on a job unless it's for NCRS or Gold quality expectations. I feel that my name and reputation will be associated with the car for a long time.
I just don't enjoy doing average work for a driver. I like the challenge. I prefer 53-55 also.

Gotta love it. This is my hobby.