1972 LT1 shielding

[Ron S.]

I would like to know exactly what is required for the ignition and spark plug shielding. I know kits are available, but how can I find out exactly how to install all the pieces and what pieces are required on a 1972? Thanks Ron

[Edward J.]

Re: 1972 LT1 shielding

Ron, the kits you purchase at the most corvette vendors looks great, but is not like the factory pieces, there are differences, for one the chrome plating is just to good. along with other differences. but if your not planning on having the car judged, its fine. the original pieces do show up on e/bay time to time, but your generally looking at pieces that are 35-40 yrs old. and will cost you 3 times what you'll pay for a reproduction parts.

[Terry M.]

[Jack H.]

Re: 1972 LT1 shielding

As Terry said, the radio option section of your copy of the AIM is where the shielding components are called out for installation. Study the drawings and then have at it.

TIP: when assembling the various shield components do NOT final torque the fasteners until all are in their correct 'final' rest position. There's some interactions between where this one bolts up vs. that one. Get them 'loosely' aligned and THEN execute the final torque-down...

[Ron S.]

Re: 1972 LT1 shielding

Ed, Terry & Jack, Forgive me but I don't have a 72 AIM. I did order a 1972 judging manual and it's on it's way. How do I get an AIM, call the help desk? Thanks Ron

[Edward J.]

Re: 1972 LT1 shielding

Ron,Most of the corvette vendors do have AIM,s. They run about 20-30 bucks. Also there maybe a newer up and coming judging guide a fifth edition. maybe Jack or Terry knows.

[Terry M.]

Re: 1972 LT1 shielding

We are working on a new 1970-72 TIM&JG, but I haven't a clue as to a completion date; we have just begun. The current manual will suffice for now.

Ron you can order a 1972 AIM from the NCRS store in Cincinnati -- the same place you ordered your TIM&JG. To my knowledge the NCRS store has the best price, and you will be surprised at how useful the AIM will be.

While you are building your reference library, if your 1972 is a keeper, you might also consider a copy of the 1972 Chassis Service Manual (CSM) and the 1972 Overhaul Manual. While neither will help with the current task, the CSM will identify the procedures for on-car adjustments and removal of components. The Overhaul Manual covers the on-bench repair of major components -- trans, alternator, carb, differential and engine overhaul among others. To some extent the usefulness of these manuals will depend on your current mechanical skills or your desires for future skills. Even if you farm out your mechanical work they can help you learn the complexities of the task at hand and they may allow you to more effectively communicate with those doing your mechanical work.

[Ron S.]

Re: 1972 LT1 shielding

Guy's, You have all been very helpful and I will order manuals tommorrow. Thanks Again Ron

[Jack H.]

Re: 1972 LT1 shielding

The judging guide tells you what novice judges are taught to look for on restored cars. The AIM says what GM designers told the factory assy workers on how to build the car.

Most of us have BOTH books to support the restoration/preservation effort. But, there are a handful who get confused (forest for the trees issue) when it comes to reading engineering drawings vs. looking at 'live' pictures.

A third resource to consider for your support library is the M.F. Dobbins Corvette Fact Book. It's a compendium of mostly B&W pictures of a LOT of the car's parts and assembled components. It's also sold by NCRS at the merchandise center when you go to get that AIM...