New L81 Owner

garycr14 · 04-23-04, 02:17 AM

Well I found an opportunity to buy another Vette, found an 81 that was garaged for the last 5 years, an declared none op to the DMV. It's a 4 speed, seems to pull hard through the gears, motor strong, idles a bit rough at startup, choke not working properly, paint and interior a bit rough. Definately a fixer, but worth rescueing. I am looking for thoughts on what are the best, and cheapest ways to go to restore the car. Needs new carpets, seats, seat belts, steering wheel, and other items. Where have you guys found to be the best places to look for parts. I could go new or used if in good condition depending upon the item. Is it worth it to change the carburetor, upgrade the stock coil. Basicly I am looking for some expert advice on what I should do to improve the performance and appearance of the car. It is totally stock with exception of the radio, which is not working at this time.

mikejpss · 04-23-04, 06:55 AM

One year ago I bought a run-down 81 that screamed at me to fix her up. Brought her home on a trailer and now she'll take me anywhere, and in class I might add. Even my bride is proud of her.
Mine was a total makeover, but frame on. I found that for what parts they have in stock, Willcox Corvette Parts , out of Atlanta I think, has the absolute best prices on their stuff. One example- they beat others by over $100 on new seat covers mounted to new foam. Great people to talk to and very helpful. Email me for a phone number, website, etc.
As for the mechanical, my local parts house helped me with most items. You will be surprised as to how many parts are "interchangable" . Mention Corvette and most will add 20%, but a water pump is a water pump, just dont mention the Corvette name.
Good luck in ur resto, I for one will be glad to help you locating needed parts if you'll email me. Mike J.

phxraptor · 04-23-04, 08:00 AM

Congrats ! Your gonna love it.

GerryLP · 04-23-04, 11:32 AM

A 4-speed? Man get in touch with Rare81. He can tell you alot of the stuff related to his car.

bill81vette · 04-23-04, 02:14 PM

welcome to CAC sounds like your 81 just needs a little TLC...good luck and enjoy it!!!
BILL

garycr14 · 04-23-04, 05:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mikejpss

One year ago I bought a run-down 81 that screamed at me to fix her up. Brought her home on a trailer and now she'll take me anywhere, and in class I might add. Even my bride is proud of her.
Mine was a total makeover, but frame on. I found that for what parts they have in stock, Willcox Corvette Parts , out of Atlanta I think, has the absolute best prices on their stuff. One example- they beat others by over $100 on new seat covers mounted to new foam. Great people to talk to and very helpful. Email me for a phone number, website, etc.
As for the mechanical, my local parts house helped me with most items. You will be surprised as to how many parts are "interchangable" . Mention Corvette and most will add 20%, but a water pump is a water pump, just dont mention the Corvette name.
Good luck in ur resto, I for one will be glad to help you locating needed parts if you'll email me. Mike J.

Thanks Mike, just the kind of input I knew I would find here. I am going to make a list of everything I think I will need for the restore, and I'll let you know how it's going, and what help I might need. Good advice about the parts, I've kind of gotten use to paying extra on my other Vette, the 90's LT1 is pretty much an island into itself, not many if any options. I wounder if there is a book out there somewhere that discusses the interchangeable parts?