Corvette frame rust issues. I bought an 81 last summer.

Corvette frame rust issues Common problem areas on C3 frames include the underside of the front cross member. The water stayed that high for a few hours, and then subsided. The area of rust was tucked up above the side pipe and behind the cover at the rear, the bottom of the frame looks to be solid. (1972 base convertible) They don't come apart easily but the tips here sure help. I know I need to get the car up on a hoist and check the visible parts of the frame and I understand the floorboards on these cars are steel as well. It has never been outside. *rust expands 7 or 8 times original metal thickness so always looks bad, poke the frame where accessible with a screwdriver and see if you have good base metal, if you can poke through rust holes, I say you need to cut back to good metal and weld repair Mar 16, 2021 · I bought the car with the idea of a nice driver NOM car, was aware of some issues, small body cracks, incorrect parts, and even looked at the rear frame channel closer area. But as with any vehicle, Corvettes are not immune to damage from the elements. Oct 25, 2012 · C1 & C2 Corvettes - C-1 frame interchange - I keep dreaming about picking up a C-1, but it looks like the ones I can afford often have frame rust issues. Every morning the dew settles on the blades of grass that tickle the frame. they don't have to worry about Jun 7, 2019 · internal door structure, especially around the door mirror mount is another place where rust pokes it's ugly head. Passenger #3 is good shape, both #2s will require the splice in Feb 5, 2019 · Considering a 1979 Corvette - is there a comprehensive thread anywhere on typical rust problems with these cars? I owned a '66 roadster a long time ago - loved the car but the oldest was getting near 16 and I figured the better thing to do was let it go. If this, in fact, is your only rust issue on the frame, it is not a big deal. Dec 31, 2016 · I'm in the market for a Corvette and will be a daily driver including winters. Mar 19, 2009 · I looked at quite a few cars and the windshield frame always seemed like the place to start looking for rust. I finally found the C3 that I've been looking for. We are back to our Common C3 Corvette Problems. My car spent its life in a northern climate and the rust extended from the frame kick-ups to the rocker panel, #2, 3 & 4 mounts and the top of the windshield frame. Use the 'flat' side to tap on the rusty areas to see of the metal resonates with a ringing sound or a dull thud. This was from a car that had been in Ca form the start. Close one, do a survey of the whole car and then you can own with Jul 15, 2019 · C8 Corvette. It was a coastal car for the majority of it's life. Couldn't see those at time. After a complete check over I had very minor surface rust and a small spot about the size of a eraser tip on a pencil on the windshield frame. I'm coming from a Mustang GT which I've been using for the past 11 winters and had no issues. The price for the car was the mid teens, but by the time the frame is replaced, and the paint and body work is done, the owner will be $40,000 into a base Hi GV, Welcome! A 69 Corvette in Guatemala, O. Nov 30, 2008 · C3 Tech/Performance - C3 Rust Isuues - It's been 18 years since I last owned my '77, I can't recall the condition of the frame. C7 ZR1 Discussion Feb 2, 2005 · C3 Tech/Performance - frame rust - I'm new to this forum today. Thanks :bigears Mar 29, 2022 · Yeah, these stories abound and scare the poo out of me. This included an approximately 18-inch-long replacement frame rail section on the driver’s side and add-on braces on the front of the axle kick-up section (top arrow), as well as gussets (bottom arrow) clearly added by someone trying to forestall the Sep 5, 2019 · Summit offers POR-15 coatings, including rust preventive paints, chassis coat black paint, Metal-Ready surface treatment, Marine-Clean, fuel tank repair kits, heat-resistant paints, solvents Sep 30, 2002 · C3 Tech/Performance - C3 Frame Rust - Help please. I have a few questions, as I have very little frame repair experience. The rails themselves are only like 3 inches wide. Get the glass out. Apr 4, 2023 · C3 Tech/Performance - Corvette Bird Cage Rust - Hi Forum, I am finally releasing my dream of buying a C3 - reading all kind of buyers tips for months now. I have rust in the usual places: upper corners, upper header, and lower corners. as it has to be inspected because of out of province attempted an inspection and was told that cross member in from has issues as well some rust problems on some of the frame . From here you can look down at the body mounts. This is always custom work because Corvette frame rails are not perfect rectangles - they have a tapered shape, with specific bends. That frame is rusting from the inside out and has significant thinning just below the kick up. Problems in both these areas is fairly easily identifiable if you take the time to look. Now I found a 74 Cabriolet with a little rust issue on the bird cage. Proper maintenance and observation about the severity of accumulated rust will serve your Corvette well. I have been counseled that POR15, Eastwoods, Rustbullet etc paint does an excellent job on Rust, but my question is; Is it best in the long Oct 12, 2014 · C3 General - 69 Frame Rust Repair?? - Looking for some advice. But most C3's were bought to be driven off hte showroom lot. Aug 9, 2022 · Some of the Corvette vendors sell patch/reinforcement panels just for reinforcement. Does anyone know of anyone in central mass that does this kind of work thanks Aug 25, 2005 · C3 Tech/Performance - Rusty frame - I'm restoring my 72 vette rusted frame, and not taking the body off to do it. Since the first model was released in 1953, this sports car has been celebrated for its speed, power, and sleek design. I've located and purchased a rust free windshield frame with the lower corners and will be using Mar 16, 2008 · 2) Down at your feet you can take the kick panels off. The sills are another point of rust, because they're covered with fiberglass it's hard to check but from the underside w/ the sill covers removed it is possible to shine in there witha strong light and Aug 9, 2022 · Some of the Corvette vendors sell patch/reinforcement panels just for reinforcement. Sep 9, 2008 · I doubt the rust is limited only to the frame. C3s are quite expensive here in Germany as they have to be imported and modified (lights, Mar 21, 2016 · Frame: Corvette frames do rust, but particularly where they kick up over the rear axle. I have done some work on it from exhaust to tuning it up. The Apr 7, 2023 · The Chevrolet Corvette is an American automotive icon. What did you do ?? Is it possible to permanenly fix this rust problem by welding some plate steel and coating the Aug 9, 2003 · The frame around the windshield isn't easy to check but if you have water leaks around the frame, especially behind the dash be very suspicious. Some pics: Feb 2, 2005 · C3 Tech/Performance - frame rust - I'm new to this forum today. Apr 9, 2002 · C1 & C2 Corvettes - Rust Prone areas of C2 Frame? - I am just starting to dismantle my 65' and I was wondering what areas of the frame are prone to rusting? I have determined that the area in front of the rear wheels is prone to rust, since I have some perforation there. The problem is moist air. Rust is like an iceberg, you only see 10% of it. superficial and im wiling to repair but would like your input - hi guys, the patient here is my 86 coupe. Rust. More than likely anything found will be no more than surface rust given the car is not very old. Basic Tech and Maintenance for the C3 Corvette Jan 8, 2013 · This, as said before, is very common for Corvette frames. Still lots of meat and do Apr 6, 2004 · I got the car back last week-end and proceeded to put three coats of POR-15 on the outside of the exposed birdcage. Nov 1, 2013 · C1 & C2 Corvettes - Rust problems with powder coated frame - I a 65 frame that I had blasted then powder coated. The usual place by the kick up. ! GB did a nice job describing the windshield post rust situation Since you say your going to be spending some time on this car I'll ask if you know about 2 publications…. then when I remove the Aug 2, 2009 · Got a coupe in work now that I knew outer windshield frame needed right outer WS post replaced and all the rest of outer windshield frame treated for rust where fiberglass had separated from it. Next, the frame rails can rust from the Aug 21, 2010 · C3 General - how much frame rust is too much? - Hey all, Just got the C3 Buyer's Guide in the mail yesterday to aid me in my C3search - good stuff, but often the author simply recommends to watch for frame rust in the area between the doors and the rear axle. Oct 25, 2023 · C3 Tech/Performance - Windshield frame rust repair - I'm doing a frame off restoration and have gotten to the windshield frame repair part. Could feel ever place rust was problem. I bought an 81 last summer. Major suspension parts are aluminum and the body is plastic/fiberglass composite, so no rust issues in those areas. I did have some damage repaired at the hinge pillars. The frame will probably have rust problems in 20 years instead of 40 years, but I let someone else worry Mar 21, 2016 · Frame: Corvette frames do rust, but particularly where they kick up over the rear axle. Thanks all for the nice comments on the frame repair. Most buyers could not probably afford a "Good weather" car and a "Bad weather" car. Here is the before & after. The first-generation Corvette used an old-school ladder-style frame as the backbone of the car. The end cap can be bought or it can be fabricated in about 30 mins. On those tough to get at places get some spray on rust converter. Check the body for Aug 25, 2005 · C3 Tech/Performance - Rusty frame - I'm restoring my 72 vette rusted frame, and not taking the body off to do it. The sills are another point of rust, because they're covered with fiberglass it's hard to check but from the underside w/ the sill covers removed it is possible to shine in there witha strong light and Sep 26, 2004 · This is a very common problem, but can be a major PITA. One day when I had it up on jack stands I saw some rust on the frame, including some small holes, and had images of the car splitting in half on the highway. Damage occurs in this area when contact is made with a curb or a manhole cover. The interesting thing is that while the rails have rust, the kick ups look clean. Some pics: Mar 29, 2019 · Rust is not generally such a big deal for Corvettes, but if your Corvette frame has suffered rust damage, you need to have that carefully evaluated. Buy C3 Corvette Body Mount Brackets, Chassis Restoration Kits, Frame Crossmembers and repair parts for any 1968-1982 C3 Corvette from Zip Products. If the rust is extremely advanced the frame can begin to fail at the point it starts to raise up over the rear suspension and half shafts. After sandblasting a frame that has experienced pitting, there will be a significant amount of metal loss that affects the structural strength and rigidity of a frame Aug 4, 2016 · There should be plenty of nice 63 frames floating around due to the restomod builds, get a nice one from AZ, NM, CA, NV, TX if possible. Mar 29, 2019 · If the rust in your frame is localized, you can have the rusty portion cut out and replaced with a new piece. the AIM (Assembly Instruction Manual), and the CSM (Chassis Service Manual)? May 11, 2022 · On this frame, there were not only rust holes, but clear signs of previous rust repair. These cars will,do rust. Also alot of regular steel under there that can also rust. I sat the body on the frame to do some measurements and noticed the frame had rust coming out every hole. The earlier you catch the problem, the easier it will be to remedy. If you are considering buying a car with serious rust on the frame, my advice would be to walk away. There is every probability that if the frame is that bad, the cage is already gone. 47967166 Jan 6, 2010 · C3 Tech/Performance - Rust Issues - I've just sandblasted my frame, now I'm going to begin the repair job. If you own a C3 Corvette, the most common area for rust are the frame and the ‘birdcage’. My question is around rust proofing, I understand that the frame is aluminum and not galvanized metal as May 18, 2023 · C3 General - 1980 Corvette - Hi, I am new to the forum and the reason I am here is I am very much considering pulling the trigger on a 1980 Corvette. One of the most common issues that Corvette owners face is corrosion, or rust. I went to look at a 73 frame today. So found this one locally and giving it Feb 21, 2016 · C3 General - Another How-bad-is-it-thread: Frame Rust - Hi, First of all, I have to have to say that this forum is a great resource for me and that I should have read way more threads concerning frame rust before buying my C3. I have rust in one spot on the frame in front of the drivers side rear tire. I'm not talking about the surface rust that all frames will accumulate, but rather the kind of "flaking off in big chunks and leaving holes in the metal" kind of rust that we see throughout the Mar 29, 2019 · Rust is not generally such a big deal for Corvettes, but if your Corvette frame has suffered rust damage, you need to have that carefully evaluated. Suspension points were solid, no problems. Nov 13, 2009 · I'm getting ready to check out a couple of 79 Corvettes for rust and would appreciate any advice you have on where and how to look. How much did the frames change between, say, 58 and 62? Apr 4, 2017 · C4 Tech/Performance - frame rust. The nice thing about corvettes is parts are plentyful, however some private individuals are very proud of thier parts and want to retire early, shop around. Apr 24, 2012 · The most annoying issue might be all the little screws and other small steel parts that will rust. One of the most likely places for this to occur is right in front of the rear wheel. The windshield frame looks like a bit of a welding project. Maybe one of you paint and body experts can answer a question. And paint it. I was told the car was in exceptional shape but for the windshield frame. The body panels attach to a lightweight metal frame – what he calls the birdcage – that can rust, causing adhesion problems. Rust becomes a serious frame issue when it becomes widespread, leaving holes in metal. Any proficient welder can cut this piece out and weld a new one in with minimal issues. The real place to look is where the frame kicks up at the front of the rear wheel well. This area is also a great "catch-all" for standing water and will rust. Birdcage: Many people assume that because Corvette bodies are not steel, rust is no concern. A C3 that I'm looking to buy had some frame rust that was repaired with about a 2' Zip frame repair kit. Weld in patch panels, grind it smooth, fill in the defects with JB weld. We looked at a '73 today which is sound except for the rear part of the frame in front of the rear wheels. Sep 10, 2008 · Water all by itself won't cause rust problems. Pull the inside plastic trim off. I could be wrong, but I also own a C5 and have been underneath it. Doing a frame off on a 1974 coupe, this is the #3 body mount, body side, drivers side. I'm thinking about buying another C3 and I've seen several threads here pertaining to frame and A pillar rust, is the frame and A pillar rot a real big issue with this generation? 1 day ago · C3 General - Bare frame after removing body - I posted and received feedback about how high I'd have to be , to lift the body to clear the frame and now that I have the frame bare; I wanted to give a follow-up. C. Similar to the issues Kortensi has been faced with during his restoration as is depicted in his thread (about half way down the page): Jan 2, 2003 · C3 Tech/Performance - Frame Rust Treatment - Would like to hear comments/suggestions on the following My frame is as far as I can tell in pretty good shape. Jul 20, 2020 · OP And you probably don't know the car's history. !!!!! RETIREMENT , double O. C8 Z06 Discussion; C8 ZR1 and Zora Discussion; C8 ERay/Hybrid/EV Discussion; C8 General Discussion; C8 Tech/Performance; C8 Forced Induction/Nitrous; C8 Corvettes for Sale; C8 Parts for Sale/Wanted; C8 Dealer Inventory; C8 Vendor for Sale; C7 Corvette, 2014 - 2019. Jul 27, 2020 · When you see the frame rail holes, put a mini-scope in there or use a finger to feel for rust particles, which are a sure sign of further rusting. they don't have to worry about Feb 7, 2023 · Yes, it must be an eastern car to have rust that severe. Hey, do you know if a list exists of C3 Corvette-specific experts that are willing to go inspect a car for me? I spoke with "The Lemonsquad" yesterday. I was thinking I could weld a patch in the hollow to fix this (lots of good Jul 2, 2009 · Corvette Restoration Guide, 1968-1982 - by Richard Prince Original Corvette 1968-1982: The Restorer's Guide 1968-1982 - by Tom Falconer Corvette, 1968-1982 (Sports Car Color History) - by Mike Mueller All of these gents are considered to be extremely knowledgeable, if not experts, on the C-3's and I think you'll find any of them helpful and . I haven't looked at many of these cars Jul 12, 2018 · The problem is, if you do not take the time to clean the mud out of the frame occasionally, it plugs the holes and eats the frame from the inside out. Mar 2, 2015 · C3 General - Severity of Windshield Frame Rust? - I need some opinions from the more experienced C3 owners. from purely a rust standpoint, anyway you look at it, the C4 is far superior to the C3 Mar 27, 2016 · C1 & C2 Corvettes - Frame rail pictures. I checked it out while up on a rack several times and by the discriptions here I only have minor surface rust. I understand that some people do drive their cars in the winter. I am looking into buying a C4 and would like some tips as to the problem areas with these cars. Nov 15, 2024 · Frame rust beyond an acceptable level can be a serious issue, leading to significant additional costs for lot of people in the market for a Corvette C3. I don't think the price could be discounted enough to compensate for the effort it will take to get the car right. My 72 frame looked a lot like yours and when I started poking around I decided to look for a replacement frame since I was going to be installing a much stronger motor than the stock one. Jul 21, 2016 · C6 Corvette General Discussion - Frame rust - Just bought an 05- love the car. Confined to the back end. 1. What I missed was both door sills and door lock pillars needed replacing too. There have been several threads on this subject. 3) also look at the main frame, as they like to rust too! Especially at the rear kick-up in front of the rear wheels. The kick ups and body mounts were satisfactory. Mar 9, 2006 · C3 Tech/Performance - Frame Rust - I recently acquired a C3 which had gotten water halfway up the console. Rust issues? - Please take a look at these pictures from a '66 that I looked at the other day and offer your comments and opinions. The other major issue is mice- they take all the carpet padding and what ever is laying around the garage and build a really nice home inside the frame. Where else should I be looking? Thanks, John Jun 30, 2005 · C3 Tech/Performance - Frame rustin a different area - Alright, well I've discovered some rather bad rust on my 72, but it hasn't spread much and I'm worrying just how big a deal it is Basically, for a few inches of the frame in front of the rear tireswell, it's in baaad shape. I went and looked at it and the frame is sound, I checked the frame for rust and there is no obvious signs of rust on the frame or on the floor panels. Feb 20, 2014 · 3. C4 Tech/Performance - C4 Rust? Common problem? - Do C4 Corvettes suffer from rust problems like the C2-C3? I have owned a C3 with bird cage issues and have seen a lot of bad frames. Today we look at what to do with rust on the window frame. Has anybody had this type of rust repaired. Dirt in the frame channel and moisture will cause it to rust. I would do a search on this forum for windshield rust to get a Aug 8, 2009 · C3 General - Determining lower bird cage rust issues - I've seen a lot of threads showing the area below the windshield that has rusted out and had to be repaired. It doesn't extend to the Sep 27, 2008 · If the rust is on the frame, just get underneath the car with a small ball-peen hammer. I had it professionally inspected (NCRS judge). when I first brought the car home I slid underneath it and for the first time I saw Rust on a C4 frame. You need to check these out and see what condition they are in. That'll kill a frame in no time. That looks like part of the lower rear tub assembly which is SMC. I'm not talking about the surface rust that all frames will accumulate, but rather the kind of "flaking off in big chunks and leaving holes in the metal" kind of rust that we see throughout the Jul 13, 2020 · Remember, some rust problems on certain cars are not that expensive to fix, but when it appears on a Corvette frame rails and birdcage it is VERY expensive to fix, if at all. The rails are not as wide as the rust we see in the photo. The cowl/a-pillar area was also shot, and the body and paint weren't all that nice in person either. It can be saved but the only way to win is if you got the car for free, already owned a nice replacement frame, and possessed very good welding and body skills to address the cage. I would like to put the car in a I don't think I agree. Keep hunting brother Feb 1, 2011 · Blame some of these Corvette frame problems on raw horsepower. In fact standing water won't do much at all. Of course, after a few days im finding her flaws Noticed some rust today where the side rails meet under the hood. Apr 6, 2015 · The 68-82 frames can be susceptible to serious rust problems. Look through the windshield on the edges and look for swelled up metal. Oct 26, 2014 · C3 Tech/Performance - #3 body mount issues - Looking for some advice. Is this a common or easily fixable problem. Rust often develops after it is damaged. Rust is also a problem on frames that come from colder areas with salt-laden roads. Does anyone know of anyone in central mass that does this kind of work thanks Apr 7, 2009 · C3 General - Frame Rust, How Hard to Treat? - I am looking at a c3 that has some rust issues. I've personally walked away from several C3s with severe frame rust issues, even though I have the means to handle it—whether by keeping the costs reasonable or doing whole job myself. from purely a rust standpoint, anyway you look at it, the C4 is far superior to the C3 Dec 26, 2024 · It has surface rust obviously, but the crustyness on bottom just looks like the half assed factory stitch welds. C3 Corvette Frame & Chassis Parts (1968-1982) Chat with us , powered by LiveChat Sep 17, 2013 · What exactly do you think all that fiberglass is bonded to?I replaced the windshield in an 84 years ago and when I got the windshield out the WS frame had some rust in the top. There are many safety issues with a frame that was once rusty and pitted. Theres a 92 ZR-1 in Alaska that the owner had to replace the rear frame cross member because of rust. The section repaired appears to be just in front of the driver's rear wheel. Jan 19, 2010 · Frame is steel on a std C6, so rust can happen. Nov 25, 2010 · C3 General - Frame Shopping - Kick up rust - Im looking for a frame to replace my rotten 74 frame. Naturally, rust damage will occur to all Corvette frames over the course of their lifetimes. Fill a steel bowl up with water, and the part under the water won't rust. The paint and Buying a reconditioned original GM frame from us assures you that the frame is straight and rust free. Aug 9, 2003 · The frame around the windshield isn't easy to check but if you have water leaks around the frame, especially behind the dash be very suspicious. We drove our C5 through five salt-encrusted Chicago winters, the body and the underside looked like any other Corvette when we traded it. The reason is because you most likely have rust in your birdcage section and rocker sections above your frame. Aug 14, 2010 · As for rust check the frame area, even if it has been stored. NOT STRUCTURAL, but there is rust on the inside of the frame rails and on the surface. May 22, 2015 · C3 General - Frame Rust - I was given this '77 by my dad a little over a year ago. Thanks :bigears Feb 7, 2023 · Yes, it must be an eastern car to have rust that severe. Powder coater said bring it back but it is a complete rolling chassis and Feb 17, 2022 · The body needs to come off that frame! That rust is centered around one of the most stressed areas of the frame. I don't think the rust is on the rails themselves. This is the weak spot fopr rust on c3 vettes. It looked really good except there was some minor flaking in the rear kick ups where the trailing arms go. . K. Significant corrosion on the leaf spring and the surrounding nuts and bolts. Sep 11, 2019 · Just acquired my 77 C3 and have a few heartless to jump before I can register it in B. the only other places I've notice any (minor-surface) rust is below the battery, and where the frame assembly comes thru the body at the rear fender well. Say your Vette is parked out in the lawn. Good luck! Mar 13, 2002 · C3 Tech/Performance - Frame Rust - I have some frame rust on the passenger side right in front of the rear wheel. It is probably repairable, but depends on what else you find when you pull the body. Nov 7, 2006 · C4 Tech/Performance - C4 Rust? Common problem? - Do C4 Corvettes suffer from rust problems like the C2-C3? I have owned a C3 with bird cage issues and have seen a lot of bad frames. I looked at a late '70s Vette the other day that (I think) Jan 8, 2013 · This, as said before, is very common for Corvette frames. Wire wheel the heak out of it. Tap the frame with a hammer and look for rot. Jan 22, 2019 · Make some of that time dedicated to the goal of longevity for your car. Of course, you can make a 64-67 frame work and even 68 up C3 frames can be modified to work, but why dick around with it when you can put a nice, correct, 63 frame under it and not have to modify anything. Both sides have heavy scale and small loose pieces inside the Jun 9, 2009 · If you knock off all of the rust scale in the pics you posted you will probably find many more holes. Designate a time to check over your entire car to check for the conditions mentioned above. Keep hunting brother Jun 7, 2019 · internal door structure, especially around the door mirror mount is another place where rust pokes it's ugly head. The frame will probably have rust problems in 20 years instead of 40 years, but I let someone else worry Aug 2, 2003 · New frames can also be had as well as good used frames. It's really like a C3 Corvette is a trap to screw you over with serious rust issues no matter how well one can reasonably inspect it. Mar 16, 2008 · I did not remove the body from the frame. As you can see there are some rust issues, rest of rocker panel is no rust and great shape. I am planning on doing a full restoration on this car, but will not be able to begin until this summer or later. 1 day ago · C3 General - Bare frame after removing body - I posted and received feedback about how high I'd have to be , to lift the body to clear the frame and now that I have the frame bare; I wanted to give a follow-up. The box end is intact on both sides however one side has a hole about 3/4 square in the side of it. Feb 16, 2009 · C1 & C2 Corvettes - Frame issues - I am in the middle of a body of and have extensive rust damage to the frame, I could section it , however considering purchasing a complete frame. Not so, says Avedisian. Thanks :bigears Feb 1, 2011 · Blame some of these Corvette frame problems on raw horsepower. Jan 9, 2015 · Turns out the frame was filled with bondo, to hide some extremely serious rust issues. Nov 8, 2007 · The two most common areas to check for rust on a C3 vette are the frame and in particular the kick ups which are the areas in front of the rear wheels right behind the doors, and the windshield pillars. Oct 14, 2021 · *check the frame carefully and search forum here for rust issues to understand more. adpsaay pkachti vhrhjt jfqfia lpwavzb pmfqoo ncg muv uxed eyqwtu owepys apv hgropsea dhk lmevv