1953 Corvette Being Built Video

[Kenn S.]

This may be one of those things everyone knows about but me, and if so, apologies.

However, this was interesting. The first Corvettes built were built by hand, and this video shows the team doing just that, starting with molds and laying out fiberglass mat and building from there. If you're repairing Corvette bodies into the mid-1970's or so (pre-SMC), this is how the factory got it done. But it's even more interesting from the historical perspective. 20 minutes, but interesting. No sound...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oxyy8_K03w0

I came across it while researching some things for one of my cars. A fun find.

[Ed S.]

Re: 1953 Corvette Being Built Video

Really interesting. I hope this movie is archived in the Corvette Museum. I bet the guys at OSHA and the EPA are having heart attacks watching this!

[Kenn S.]

Re: 1953 Corvette Being Built Video

Agreed, and agreed. At least the guy de-burring the edge of the 'glass sheet (about 18 minutes in?) was using a breather. Even then they didn't want fiberglass bits in their lungs. Good on 'em.

But the guy painting the car with no protection...wow. I'm sure the paint then wasn't outright poisonous like urethane, but still couldn't have been healthy... Painting fiberglass resin without gloves? Men were men, I think. Me, nitrile.

I found the teamwork interesting. I don't think they were posing for some video. They were building the real thing. I've visited Bowling Green once, many years ago, and I was struck by the sense of pride and team the line feels. Started with these guys, I would think. Hat's off to you, gentlemen.