Here is something ( not mentioned ) that you might wish to do. ( it’s a good indicator of how badly the bird cage might have rotted, Take both T- Tops off, And push very ‘hard’ with the palm of your hand on the top corner of each A pillar whilst looking down the section that houses the door hinges. Look for any movement near the bottom section. If the birdcage is rotten. The bottom of the section holding the door hinges will move slightly, This indicates a birdcage rot. Best that this is done with two people. One pushing at the top of the pillar and the other one keeping a critical eye on the bottom of the pillar holding the door hinges ... just trying to help..
I have an 1980 corvette that i had for 39 years. I'm almost completed my restore. I really appreciate some of the tips and information on this particular model.
Yes sir I was going to buy a 1969 I was afraid of rotten frames and other things like numbers not matching I ended up buy a 2016 Z51 a very dependable and fast car but it's not as pretty as a 1969
Thank you! Any video that I want to educate someone on will be this type of format. There will be some other videos that we were going to just have fun with things. Thank you for subscribing!
I LOVE that silver green color scheme on this car. I'm just like you, i love to have the more rare and unique colors on a vehicle. This car is stunning.
Awesome info here Josh! I am in the market for a C-3 1973 coupe or a 80 pre computer C-3, and now I know what to look out for! Thanks a million for sharing this valuable information with us. Cheers from Motown.
I just got one of these, a 1980 model, last week, it’s going to require new paint and an engine rebuild, got a good price on it however because it’s a part of a trade deal.
Great information! Going to pick up a 1982 24/26 Two Tone and was not aware of the frame holes. A-Pillars look awesome, but now I know to look below as well.
perfect explanation. Today I bought one 81 to restore and I hope I don't find bad things lol because I didn't watch your video before. thanks for sharing
My 82 has never been drove in the rain.. she's all chromed, polished, still a cross fire but I did away with the box and ran two chrome dimes with different plumbing. Added chrome hoses to the headlight doors and vac.. louvers to the rear glass and tail lights, polished wheels and slots, cowl cover, mirror tops, 1/665 blue. Did you know that the 82 is the onlyC3 since 1972 to have the 1972 LT-1 engine? Detuned to pass CA emissions..
That's a ton of good info, a woman in our neighborhood has a red 1982 Corvette that she touts as very valuable because it's "crossfire injection" which I hear is or can be troublesome.. She hasn't given a value number but I would like to get it because that era looks so cool even if they're not great vehicles.
Thank you for posting a vehicle that allows for transparency . Buying a used vehicle is always a gamble and buying a classic/vintage vehicle is even more so. But here is the reality...Desireable classic cars will always sell regardless of blown engine or missing tranny. Buyers just need to know EXACTLY what is wrong with the car. The problem always in dealing with cars in the 'unknown'...but instead of hiding defects to make a sell ...try being honest and make a sell. Some people are in a position to replace the entire drive train and some are not. Point is for anyone selling a car private or dealer JUST BE UPFRONT about everything that you know about the vehicle you are selling and leave it there. Someone will buy it and then you'll also have made a friend because they know exactly what they are getting in to. From there you won't be receiving nasty phone calls or emails you'll get friendly updates on how they are rebuilding the vehicle. Blessings to all...Honesty just work best guys. Thanks again for your detailed video.
Agree. Several years ago I sold locally, my beloved 1968 Oldsmobile Toronado that I had owned for 13 years. I told the buyer EVERYTHING about it, including all its known defects. He bought it and I never heard from him again. Pays to be honest.
Hey! It's awesome to hear that you're going to buy one! unfortunately, there is no way to run a history report like you would with a modern vehicle. All Corvettes from 1980 on back were not plugged into the main database for vehicle history reports because they do not have a 17 digit VIN number. Most of these older cars get their history from word of mouth, or documentation of paperwork. you might be able to do a title search on one but you'll have to know somebody at a title office or a police officer who could show you who currently owns the car. It's best to just check the vehicle for potential signs of damage from the past
I am looking for the same year model and same color. What you think of that cross fire injection motor, is it as bad as they say? Or can something be done with it, minor replacement of "ecu" etc computer?
Excellent video. This helped me understand what to look for. First Vette I looked at the drivers t top was crooked. Because of this video I knew what was happening and walked away 👏
Great information on the C3 and where to find rust I was hoping to find a 73 Convertible that is nice and sound and getting it shipped down here to Australia. Have you got any tips on where to find one and just wondering if you do inspections Cheers from Aus
Thank you very much! I actually may know where a 73 convertible is. Depending on what you were looking for and what your budget is. Yes, I also do inspections. I would be more than happy to look at a car for you. You can search my name on Facebook and connect with me there, and I would be happy to locate a car for you.
@@JoshGierke Hi Josh thanks for geting back looking for a nice honest car with no rust no accidents doesnt have to be a show piece but in generally pretty good condition I dont have facebook although my wife does if there is no other option Cheers
If you have your wife add me on Facebook, that would be the best way to communicate. I can send you pictures and info on cars that I find directly on there. I can easily find you one of those cars
I've got a few questions. How can I get ahold of you. I'm looking at a C3 for sale on the west coast but I'm in Boston. He has told me it needs and ECU unit some paint on the bumpers and a few other things. It is a dealer. I would like to get some info and your opinion. Thanks
The cars from 1980 on back do not have a 17-digit van which does not connect them to the main database for all vehicles. there used to be a website or two out there that still had information on these cars. There is no way to do like a Carfax check on an older car. You just have to simply look around and check for any kind of evidence of damage.
I have a beautiful 77 L4, eight four-speed for sale it’s not matching motors. I built this motor before about me but I’ve had the car for 47 years 44 years and it’s in it’s beautiful a lot of it has been redone 80% of it just needs like three things air condition fix it needs it could use a paint jobexhaust pipe it’s federal car has no smoke and it passes every year if you’re interested let me know
Sounds like you know your stuff. I had a 08 vette great car but I love the 80 to 82 vettes and I want to build a autocross car to drive and race. Can a c6 frame fit on a c3? Do you have any recommendations?
Actually, it gets around 21 mph lol. I haven't had the chance to take it on a long trip, but I bet it would get even better on that. Also, that engine is actually referred to as an L83
@@JoshGierke Thank you Josh, 21mpg is like amazing for a V8 that is 40 years old. Yes L83 sorry, I am trying to hunt down a nice L83 C3 Corvette here in the UK, no easy.
Good luck on your search! I will tell you that actually Corvettes get better gas mileage than this. I have seen 30 MPG out of my '87 c4 Corvette, and I have heard that people with a C5 Corvette have seen even higher than that.
Actually, insurance is pretty cheap depending on your plan. It all goes on a case-by-case basis, but I use national Corvette museum insurance. I am 33 years old, I have eight collector cars, and I pay $1,200 a year for full coverage on all of them combined.
I like your recommendations concerning where to look for rust problems and as always paint and body are a big deal because a proper paint job on fiberglass will run you bigger dollars than traditional all metal cars and trucks. Where we'll disagree and part ways for the later model C3s is in drivetrain originality. No doubt if you're looking at 1970 LT-1 or one of the many really desirable BBC options from the chrome bumper years original #s matching is worth more than replacement engines. I wouldn't say the say the same of the emissions cars from the mid-70s to the end of the run. I can't speak for everyone but I'd have ZERO interest in any Corvette with performance weaker than a modern Honda Civic so the first thing to go is the drivetrain. If someone has done this for you already and done it well I'd argue that car should fetch more money that all original #s matching, all else equal. Ultimately all C3s through the 1970s at least are the same basic car and all will accept the same drivetrain up-grading and honestly in a world where you can very simply order a crate SBC motors with 450-500+ HP from a bunch of different sellers, completely with warranties. Then there are the many LS swaps that leave me unable to imagine why anyone would even want the original emissions era SBC weaking if it's still there anyway. It's a Corvette it should "go" with the performance the name alone implies.
On a 1982 collectors edition I am looking to purchase it has 3 issues. Gas gage doesn't work. Oil pan at time leaks. Antenna doesn't go up. Are these expensive repairs? It's my first vette. Was in love with them since a child. I am 55 years old now. Haha. It's never to late they say. Thanks for your insights.
78 🏁indy pace car owner operator. Always cracks me up when someone keeps saying they are not fast. 😆🏁hahaha Bet you wont come out and ride shotgun when I drive on a trip.😮
Ive been wanting a c3 ever since i could talk
I had a ‘72 bigblock for eighteen years!
3 spd th400
Torque monster ;)
Fun car
Here is something ( not mentioned ) that you might wish to do. ( it’s a good indicator of how badly the bird cage might have rotted, Take both T- Tops off, And push very ‘hard’ with the palm of your hand on the top corner of each A pillar whilst looking down the section that houses the door hinges. Look for any movement near the bottom section. If the birdcage is rotten. The bottom of the section holding the door hinges will move slightly,
This indicates a birdcage rot. Best that this is done with two people. One pushing at the top of the pillar and the other one keeping a critical eye on the bottom of the pillar holding the door hinges ... just trying to help..
Corvette c3 - a masterpiece of art on 4 wheels!!
I have an 1980 corvette that i had for 39 years. I'm almost completed my restore. I really appreciate some of the tips and information on this particular model.
I love these cars ! I know they weren’t fast but they were the best looking vettes ! 80-82
Very fast..
Hey, anything over 110 mph takes a lot of power, plenty fast for someone like me.
Uh.....'55 Chevy's aren't fast either.....UNTIL you drop in a Big Block!!! So what's stopping you?? ;-)
Yes sir I was going to buy a 1969 I was afraid of rotten frames and other things like numbers not matching I ended up buy a 2016 Z51 a very dependable and fast car but it's not as pretty as a 1969
@@phillipgarrow2297 The 1969 vette has the 427... So you kinda missed the fastest c3
I subscribed just because you were very informative and straight to the point.
Thank you! Any video that I want to educate someone on will be this type of format. There will be some other videos that we were going to just have fun with things. Thank you for subscribing!
I had a 1980 Vette, Mid night blue metallic. What a beautiful car and color...I missed my vette.
awesome Corvette 🌟
the for Sale Corvette s
usually have 2nd hand engine
work that is not Original..
this violates the collector
concept for more value
5 STARS!!!! I just bought a rough shape 76 yesterday for $200 bucks. This is a ton of great info...thank you!!!!
Please tell me where?😭
For $200 it must not be much
$200? That's where I would have left it too.
I have the silver blue color on my 82. It turns heads everywhere I go.
I LOVE that silver green color scheme on this car. I'm just like you, i love to have the more rare and unique colors on a vehicle. This car is stunning.
Just bought a white and red C3…88,000 miles…my father designed it while he was alive…😉
Awesome info here Josh! I am in the market for a C-3 1973 coupe or a 80 pre computer C-3, and now I know what to look out for! Thanks a million for sharing this valuable information with us. Cheers from Motown.
Look for a 1982 the last year for C3. There was NOT 1983 Vette.
Thanks for the information, I am going to look at and hopefully pickup a 1981 C3 this weekend.
I just got one of these, a 1980 model, last week, it’s going to require new paint and an engine rebuild, got a good price on it however because it’s a part of a trade deal.
Great information! Going to pick up a 1982 24/26 Two Tone and was not aware of the frame holes. A-Pillars look awesome, but now I know to look below as well.
The real problem is birdcage and frame rot. Not explored very deeply on this nice late C3.
Great video.. I had an 81 about 30 years ago. It stayed in shop. Driving in Manhattan i would drop my Y pipe all the time. Lol.
Have one i restored. The best style ever made.
100% agree sexiest curves on a car! Attention ecerywhere i go in mine
Mine is a matching number L-82 restoration project I’m getting ready for.
I purchased a 74 stingray two months ago no rust in mint shape but needs bac bumper and front thin it will b in show room condition
Looking into buying a 1978 up here in Canada. Thanks for your tips.
Thanx and Greetz from Germany! 👍🏼
I own a 1979 Corvette and i‘m still proud of it… 😎
perfect explanation. Today I bought one 81 to restore and I hope I don't find bad things lol because I didn't watch your video before. thanks for sharing
My 82 has never been drove in the rain.. she's all chromed, polished, still a cross fire but I did away with the box and ran two chrome dimes with different plumbing. Added chrome hoses to the headlight doors and vac.. louvers to the rear glass and tail lights, polished wheels and slots, cowl cover, mirror tops, 1/665 blue.
Did you know that the 82 is the onlyC3 since 1972 to have the 1972 LT-1 engine?
Detuned to pass CA emissions..
That's a ton of good info, a woman in our neighborhood has a red 1982 Corvette that she touts as very valuable because it's "crossfire injection" which I hear
is or can be troublesome.. She hasn't given a value number but I would like to get it because that era looks so cool even if they're not great vehicles.
If you're still in the market. My uncle is trying to sell an 82 with 34k miles. Always garaged and covered, never seen a flake of snow or salt.
How much
Thank you for posting a vehicle that allows for transparency . Buying a used vehicle is always a gamble and buying a classic/vintage vehicle is even more so.
But here is the reality...Desireable classic cars will always sell regardless of blown engine or missing tranny. Buyers just need to know EXACTLY what is wrong with the car.
The problem always in dealing with cars in the 'unknown'...but instead of hiding defects to make a sell ...try being honest and make a sell. Some people are in a position to
replace the entire drive train and some are not. Point is for anyone selling a car private or dealer JUST BE UPFRONT about everything that you know about the vehicle you are
selling and leave it there. Someone will buy it and then you'll also have made a friend because they know exactly what they are getting in to. From there you won't be receiving
nasty phone calls or emails you'll get friendly updates on how they are rebuilding the vehicle. Blessings to all...Honesty just work best guys.
Thanks again for your detailed video.
Agree. Several years ago I sold locally, my beloved 1968 Oldsmobile Toronado that I had owned for 13 years. I told the buyer EVERYTHING about it, including all its known defects. He bought it and I never heard from him again. Pays to be honest.
Thank you for pointing this out. Really good info
Great video! Thank you so much. Where is the 1977 number on the engine. I have looked and looked.
verrryyyyy informative ! that's nice to have some good info all around this car for future purchase ! thx
Possibly the best video for C3 rust checking. Ty
Sweet car...That color is mint! (Pun intended)
Lol thank you. Yes, I love the color. It's taking me a long time to find one in this color.
Great info and I love Zip Corvette too
I’m so excited for this car
If only every used car video for all makes and models was as as straight to the point and understandable as this video is.
Great video! Excellent tips! Thx for the info.
Great vid. Very informative!!
Oh it's a 1982 and a dark gray color. It sits very nicely.
Very good review
Can you tell me a bit more about the engine and the gearbox?
Wich one is to avoid en wich one are the most reliable ?
They're all pretty reliable and none are "to avoid"
I have a dumb question, can you spray foam inside those holes and fill up the whole frame rail to prevent water and snow inside of it
Appreciate sharing your knowledge mate…awesome!
Good video 👍🏻 very informative. Thanks
I've been wanting a C3 since Chris Tucker picked up Detective Lee from the airport in Rush Hour
Excellent video thanks for posting.
Great video
Bird cage rust, main thing... frame 2nd, interior 3rdly, everything else is gravy..
@josh Hi josh, I'm trying to buy one and was wondering if you could give me some tips on running a history report on it?
Hey! It's awesome to hear that you're going to buy one! unfortunately, there is no way to run a history report like you would with a modern vehicle. All Corvettes from 1980 on back were not plugged into the main database for vehicle history reports because they do not have a 17 digit VIN number. Most of these older cars get their history from word of mouth, or documentation of paperwork. you might be able to do a title search on one but you'll have to know somebody at a title office or a police officer who could show you who currently owns the car. It's best to just check the vehicle for potential signs of damage from the past
Very informative.
I am looking for the same year model and same color. What you think of that cross fire injection motor, is it as bad as they say? Or can something be done with it, minor replacement of "ecu" etc computer?
Great vid!!! Thanks for info!!!
Outstanding color.
Thank you. Very helpful. I am creating a plan to buy a 1980. I will be in touch.
I have an 81 with sidepipes and chrome rims and it still turns heads every time I drive it.
Ayo the car in ya pfp is badass :)!
@@суккуб03 haha thanks that’s my other toy.
I had an 81' 4 speed with chrome true spoke rims... for a minute. Wish I still had it.
I Love the silver Edition!
What is the color code for the Corvette in the opening photo?
Great advice. Thank you.
Great video!
Josh you have a link to sid corvette that you mentioned you pick up your parts?
Zip-corvette.com
Very helpful information.
Thanku!
Best body style.
Well done.
Thanks! Great video! 👍
I have 79 with a 383stroker in her. Thing is badass. Shame I have to sell it.
How much??
@@KeelanxHacks 27k. I have alot into it that i know i can not recover.motor has about 1.500 miles on it
Great info! Thanks for the posting.
if my car has rot how do i get rid of it
There are a ton of factors involved with that. It all depends where the rot is, how much you want to spend, and how severe the damage is
Excellent video. This helped me understand what to look for. First Vette I looked at the drivers t top was crooked. Because of this video I knew what was happening and walked away 👏
Love the videos man.
Any tips on getting the t tops to fit properly? On the 78 I bought they don't fit perfectly.
Excellent info
Good tips
Great information on the C3 and where to find rust I was hoping to find a 73 Convertible that is nice and sound and getting it shipped down here to Australia. Have you got any tips on where to find one and just wondering if you do inspections Cheers from Aus
Thank you very much! I actually may know where a 73 convertible is. Depending on what you were looking for and what your budget is. Yes, I also do inspections. I would be more than happy to look at a car for you. You can search my name on Facebook and connect with me there, and I would be happy to locate a car for you.
@@JoshGierke Hi Josh thanks for geting back looking for a nice honest car with no rust no accidents doesnt have to be a show piece but in generally pretty good condition I dont have facebook although my wife does if there is no other option Cheers
If you have your wife add me on Facebook, that would be the best way to communicate. I can send you pictures and info on cars that I find directly on there. I can easily find you one of those cars
is the tag that is rivet in the driver door panel painted or bare metal? i have an 1980 that has white paint on it.
I've got a few questions. How can I get ahold of you. I'm looking at a C3 for sale on the west coast but I'm in Boston. He has told me it needs and ECU unit some paint on the bumpers and a few other things. It is a dealer. I would like to get some info and your opinion.
Thanks
Hey! Sorry it took me so long to get back to you. The best thing to do is add me on Facebook. Just search my name
Hi Josh I heard a lot of stories about the crossfire injection, is it bad as I heard? Thank you
Great tips Thanks
is it better to buy an auto or stick c3?
How easy is it to pull the carpet back and get those kick panels off?
How do you run a VIN number check on these c3 since they don't have 17 digits?
The cars from 1980 on back do not have a 17-digit van which does not connect them to the main database for all vehicles. there used to be a website or two out there that still had information on these cars. There is no way to do like a Carfax check on an older car. You just have to simply look around and check for any kind of evidence of damage.
I have a beautiful 77 L4, eight four-speed for sale it’s not matching motors. I built this motor before about me but I’ve had the car for 47 years 44 years and it’s in it’s beautiful a lot of it has been redone 80% of it just needs like three things air condition fix it needs it could use a paint jobexhaust pipe it’s federal car has no smoke and it passes every year if you’re interested let me know
Noticed you have a cowl cover. How do you like it, and did you install it with screws? Thanks.
Sounds like you know your stuff. I had a 08 vette great car but I love the 80 to 82 vettes and I want to build a autocross car to drive and race. Can a c6 frame fit on a c3? Do you have any recommendations?
Hey, not sure if it will fit, but good luck if you try
I used to want a 2006-2012 manual Cayman or Cayman S as my someday car. But now? I want a c3.
Is the 74 a good choice
Well done buddy! Good video.
I have started my series on my channel on 1975 Stingray Restoration. Just on how to fix it and etc :)
Thank you! I'll have to check yours out
@@JoshGierke thank you. Well done with your project. Looks very good!
What gas mileage do you get on your L82 Crossfire C3 please?
Actually, it gets around 21 mph lol. I haven't had the chance to take it on a long trip, but I bet it would get even better on that. Also, that engine is actually referred to as an L83
@@JoshGierke Thank you Josh, 21mpg is like amazing for a V8 that is 40 years old. Yes L83 sorry, I am trying to hunt down a nice L83 C3 Corvette here in the UK, no easy.
Good luck on your search! I will tell you that actually Corvettes get better gas mileage than this. I have seen 30 MPG out of my '87 c4 Corvette, and I have heard that people with a C5 Corvette have seen even higher than that.
@@JoshGierke Thanks, I really want a C3 and ideally 80-82 as I heard they made quite a lot of weight reducing in the later years.
Do u ever give out estimates of what a c3 world be worth, if ur provided pics?
Pictures are one thing, but it is easier to do it in person. You can actually go through the car
Is insurance high on C3s?
Actually, insurance is pretty cheap depending on your plan. It all goes on a case-by-case basis, but I use national Corvette museum insurance. I am 33 years old, I have eight collector cars, and I pay $1,200 a year for full coverage on all of them combined.
@@JoshGierke I've heard that insurance is pretty low through a collector's plan, though I'd be using the car as a daily driver if I were to get it.
Not at all. Classic car insurance is inexpensive. I insure my 1978 Silver Anniversary with Condon Skelly and it’s less than $300 a year
Great video thanks man
Thanks for the info 👍
What is the name of the online parts supplier you mentioned? I couldn’t find it. Thanks
I believe you are looking for Custom Image Corvettes
Sorry, I commented on the wrong video lol. You are looking for Zip Corvette
Thank you Josh
I like your recommendations concerning where to look for rust problems and as always paint and body are a big deal because a proper paint job on fiberglass will run you bigger dollars than traditional all metal cars and trucks. Where we'll disagree and part ways for the later model C3s is in drivetrain originality. No doubt if you're looking at 1970 LT-1 or one of the many really desirable BBC options from the chrome bumper years original #s matching is worth more than replacement engines. I wouldn't say the say the same of the emissions cars from the mid-70s to the end of the run. I can't speak for everyone but I'd have ZERO interest in any Corvette with performance weaker than a modern Honda Civic so the first thing to go is the drivetrain. If someone has done this for you already and done it well I'd argue that car should fetch more money that all original #s matching, all else equal. Ultimately all C3s through the 1970s at least are the same basic car and all will accept the same drivetrain up-grading and honestly in a world where you can very simply order a crate SBC motors with 450-500+ HP from a bunch of different sellers, completely with warranties. Then there are the many LS swaps that leave me unable to imagine why anyone would even want the original emissions era SBC weaking if it's still there anyway. It's a Corvette it should "go" with the performance the name alone implies.
sp true with that rot , seen one sheer right in half right there ,
Great video! Thanks man!
Hi, Is a stock very clean 1982 collectors edition worth purchasing?
It all depends on the price in the miles
Any Vette is worth buying, watch the price, they carry..
On a 1982 collectors edition I am looking to purchase it has 3 issues.
Gas gage doesn't work.
Oil pan at time leaks.
Antenna doesn't go up.
Are these expensive repairs?
It's my first vette.
Was in love with them since a child.
I am 55 years old now. Haha.
It's never to late they say.
Thanks for your insights.
Buy it....
Did you buy it?? Intruiged as to costs as I’m looking to buy one myself
Not saying. But drivers headlight door. Is wider than passenger side.
Why do you think they would do that?
I think I used to own the white 81
The 76' C3 I am looking at has a 3 speed trans. Thoughts?
RARE. Are you sure it is factory?
@@paulmoss7940 not rare at all. all auto c3's before 1982 are three speeds
It is a good transmission
Turbo-Hydromatic 350, one of G.M.'s best to date.
Zip is the best!!!
Thank you!
78 🏁indy pace car owner operator. Always cracks me up when someone keeps saying they are not fast. 😆🏁hahaha Bet you wont come out and ride shotgun when I drive on a trip.😮