Period Correct/Era Modified

Period Correct - In the beginning of this build we decided this car would be built period correct. For me, this means the driving experience would be the same as you would get back in 1963. This would be achieved by making sure the drive train and major components were manufactured in 1963 and they would also be date coded appropriate for the day and month the car was manufactured. Exceptions would be allowed only if they supported the fact that the car would be driven often. Some exceptions we have taken include neoprene bushings, stainless steel fasteners and shims, and the engine has valves and valve seats that tolerate unleaded gas. This is an example of a period correct car:

Era Modified - We are considering 1960’s era modifications simply because if you had a car like this back in the 60’s chances are it would have been modified. Era modifications for our build would be limited to bolt on modifications only, no cutting allowed, and the original part would be retained. Era modifications under consideration include: · American Torq Thrust D wheels · Side exhaust · 1967 Big Block Stinger hood · Other modifications you might recommend

This is an example of an era modified car:

So, do you prefer period correct only or do you also like era modified? There is a poll at the top of this posting. Please be sure to vote. Thanks.

Rear End Alignment, Stabilizer Bars, Shocks & More

Ty came over on Friday and finished the alignment on the rear end. If you look past the shock tower and past the (left) control arm you will see several of the shims he installed. Unlike the original shims these are stainless steel. This is the right control arm. Shims were installed on both sides of the neoprene control arm bushings.

Ty also refurbished and installed the rear torsion bar on Friday.

1965 was the first year a Corvette came with a rear torsion bar. Although the 63 model did not have a torsion bar it was common practice to have one installed simply because it offered exceptional handling performance. It's hard to believe that a 3/8" torsion bar could do so much. Although it's not period correct it is an era modification that I am OK with.

A close up view of the same area.

The front torsion bar was also installed. This is a 7/8" bar sold only with the hi-performance package. The standard size was 3/4".

The rolling chassis is surprisingly close to completion. The gas tank will be next followed by the drive shaft. If my nephew James comes out for Cool Desert Nights we will most likely fire up the engine at that time. James is attending Michigan Tech for his Mechanical Engineering degree and he and several of his classmates have expressed interest in this motor. I think as a good uncle it's only appropriate he gets first honors. I know, I am a nice guy.

And look who's back. I dug this out from under the tarp and made a spot for it in the garage. This picture was taken yesterday morning and since then it has been fully block sanded from the spring line up and is ready for more primer.

This area desperately needs a coat of primer and it might happen today. Stay tuned.