C4 Motor Noise ?

[Bill B.]

While driving an 84 automatic from California to Texas, the car started continously downshifting and loosing power. Oil pressure and water temp appeared to be fine and no warning lights. Soon a slight clatter sound began and while I was pulling off the highway the radiator hose burst, clatter became louder and I shut the motor down. After having car towed to a small off beat town (Williams, Az), local garage said I needed new motor to the tune of $3500. I immediately contacted a transport company and am having the car hauled to my home in Texas.

The car is still enroute and I am very unfamiliar with this particular vette as I just bought it and was hoping it would make the trip to Texas. My question is this, can such horrible "motor noises" and the overheating be caused by something other than mains/rods/etc? I recall that my 90 sounded like it was falling apart in the engine area many years ago and I thought the engine was destroyed. It turned out to be a faulty converter. Any experienced folks out there that might provide some info as I prepare for rebuild or perform some other suggested trouble-shooting? I have located a very affordable spare/replacement shortblock but not really sure of best way to proceed.

[Jim T.]

Re: C4 Motor Noise ?

Nothing more frustrating than car problems on the highway away from home. What was the oil level and coolant level before the trip. The overflow tank must always have coolant in it even when cold, I maintain my 85 and 96 with a level even above the cold line, the tank is so big, it would take a really bad overheating problem to fill it. The clatter noise and the blowing of the water hose with no indications of overheating on your guages and good oil pressure requires some investigation.

[Bill B.]

Re: C4 Motor Noise ?

Jim, you are right about the investigation. The noise sounded really bad and I am planning on a worst case. I can get a shortblock (84 or 85) shipped to me for around $400. I will buy it even if mine is rebuildable. A ring and rebuild kit is about $225 so believe that I can put her back on the road for very reasonable dollars. Even after the the transport, misc fees, replacement block and purchase price, I will have less than $4300 in the car. Guess I was just frustrated and not thinking straight when I made the post--like some NCRS member might wave a hand and show me the light! I have done lots of work on my 58 and 72 convertible but have never messed with our 90. Time to dig in and figure out that the newer era cars are not that difficult? This 84 will be a very nice driver once I detail her out--AND GET IT RUNNING AGAIN!

If I can ever be of any assistance just email me? I love these Corvettes and appreciate very much your reply. Who knows, maybe I will end up with two good blocks so that I can help the next poor soul.