Corvette C4 knowledge

[joncowen]

A friend of mine from Maine is looking for a 96 C4. Not a track car (don't ask me why). He found one very close to me, and has asked me to take a look. Its a 96 convertible, with LT4 motor.

Anyone know of things i should look out for?

If things go well, he may want an independent inspector. Car is in Sudbury, MA. Anyone know of a good shop to inspect it, if it goes that far?

Thanks,
Jon

[Stise]

Hey John, Larrin Automotive in Norwood or maybe Boston Motorcars in Weston is pretty close. I just saw a nice advertised C5. Said never raced, red, 112k odo. $16.5k

[Aricracer]

Hi.

I have an 1988 C4. I can tell you that by 1996, they had the C4 very well sorted. If your friend likes the car, and it passes a mechanical inspection, I'd recommend buying it.
The only draw back I have with a C4 is the small foot box because of the transmission being in the traditional place, but I have size 11.5 / 4E width feet...

-Aric

[joncowen]

So, we went and drove the car today. Green convertible 96 LT4.

The car is in very nice shape. Nice paint. Very clean car inside and out.

Has 50k miles. This owner has had it 8 years, and put less than 5k miles on it. The car never sees rain. It has 2007 date code tires on it, but they are physically in good shape.

The car shakes a little when driving along. I suspect an out of balance wheel, or a bad tire. Wheel bearings feel tight by pulling the wheels.The cowl shake is really bad over bumps. Is this normal on the convertibles? I'd never experienced it before, but to me, it's bad. It makes the car feel like a crappy car.
I think the car needs shocks too. They do not appear to be leaking.

Engine felt strong, but i wasn't as impressed by the power as i thought i would be. Couldn't find any evidence of leaks.

[paultg]

A friend of the clubs Troy & I are involved with works at this place in Billerica:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Bowt ... 7986769713

They do incredible work. They can probably do an inspection for you, or if not recommend someone who can. I really don't know much about the C4s.

Paul G.

[TroyV]

+1. Those guys know more about Corvettes than just about anybody.

[4EyedFoxbody]

+2 for Bowtie Restorations. Buddy of mine works there. Top notch work. Corvette gurus.

[SEISAN]

Hi Jon,

I would reccomend Ron Belben who owns the Corvette Connection in Middleton of Rt 114

I have used him a lot since 1995. All they work on is Corvettes. They can do it all.

978-646-9996

Would have responded sooner but just got back on the forum

BBQ Bob