Help w/ 66 Vette Convert

[Top_Notch]

Help...

I just aquired a 66 Corvette Convertible with a 327/350 (non matching #'s) 4 speed. Car has sat for last 25 years minimum, but is still in rough shape. Owner says it ran when put away (in a dry garage, thankfully) 25 years ago.

I know it needs a carb rebuild, gas tank, brakes (badly), new top, interior, etc...

Where do I start? Right now, it's wedged (still!) in the garage sideways, where it has been the last 25 years.

[Alex Gilmour]

Re: Help w/ 66 Vette Convert

First, I would start with a change of ALL fluids, including oil, gearbox, rearend, cooling.

Next, I would drain the fuel tank and thoroughly flush all the fuel lines w/ carb cleaner, and replacing the rubber line back at the fuel tank.

Then, remove the spark plugs and squirt some marvel mystery oil into the cylinders. Leave the plugs out and rotate the engine over by hand. Next, remove the distibutor and, using a preoil shaft, use a hand drill to spin the oil pump up and get oil up into the engine.

Replace the plugs, plug wires, points, etc. prior to firing the engine.

Before going on the road, I would flush the brake lines, replace the calipers w/stainless sleeved calipers, replace the soft rubber brake lines, and bleed the system.

Replace all hoses (heater, radiator, etc.)

Clean/Flush/Rebuild the carb.

This should be enough to get you started and get the car mobile agin so you can move it around enough to tackle other jobs.

HTH, Alex

'66 A/C Coupe

[bob g]

Re: Help w/ 66 Vette Convert

Don't forget the tires and master cylinder. Also, save all your old belts, hoses, hose clamps, spark plugs, etc. They may be originals!

[Jack H.]

Re: Help w/ 66 Vette Convert

Excellent advice from all below. Now, my two cents....

Once you've got 'baby' running without changing ANYTHING, join NCRS (if you haven't already), find your nearest judging meet (Chapter or Regional), enroll and take 'er AS IS to find out what you've got and what you haven't got! It's the best bargain in all of Corvettedom on expert labor by hourly rate....