1977 corvette issue

[Stephen F.]

I am new to corvettes, I have a 1977 corvette that has been sitting in the repair shop for 3 weeks. The issue is that the car will lurch a couple of times then just stop. Lurch may be the wrong word, but it like it was hesitating or jumping. Almost like when a car runs out of gas or has water in the gas. Then it will be either very hard to start or not start at all. I have had it towed twice because of this issue and if it is not fixed no way can I drive it Carlisle. Coughlin Chevrolet is stumped and they have a person that only works corvettes but they can't get it to duplicate. The corvette has a GM 350 high performance crate engine. My I am thinking of either fuel pump, coil, or battery cables. Any help please???

[Leif A.]

Re: !977 corvette issue

Stephen,

Explain what you mean by "larch".

[Stephen F.]

Re: !977 corvette issue

Sorry that was spell check that changed the word, it was supposed to be lurch. That may not even be the right word for it. It was like hesitating and jumping.

[Bob R.]

Re: !977 corvette issue

I don't know that bringing your car to a Chevrolet dealer for repairs is the best option. Most of the service men weren't even born when that car was built and they have never worked on one before. I think you should check with some members of the local NCRS chapter and get a recommendation for a mechanic that specializes in these cars.

[Edward J.]

Re: !977 corvette issue

Steve, If its a fuel problem here's a few areas to check- The fuel sender has a sock that can sometime clog and prevent fuel from getting to engine, also note that a fuel hose that is at the tank and suction side of the pump can sometimes collapse from age or even kink at the pump area. the C3 suction side of the hose at pump is a (S) shaped hose make sure there is no obstruction there. these are easy inspections, next is the float level in carburetor correct and fuel pump pressure been checked?

[Tom B.]

Re: !977 corvette issue

As was said above the flexible fuel hose from the frame line to the pump could be deteriorated inside and sucking closed without showing any indication externally. If it's old or you are not sure of it's condition, replace it. They don't cost much.

Tom

[Patrick H.]

Re: !977 corvette issue

When you look in the tank for the sock on the sender, also note if the liner (bladder) in the fuel tank is still against the walls, or if it has collapsed inwards. When the liner "lets loose" it can do crazy things, and blocking off fuel flow would not surprise me.

[Duke W.]

Re: !977 corvette issue

It could also be a HEI issue... bad module or connection. The wires from the pickup coil to the module can break due to constant flexing from pickup coil rotation driven by the VAC.

If it cranks, but doesn't start, pull a plug wire and attach it to a loose, grounded spark plug to see if it has spark.

There's also a fuel pump delivery test in the CSM. When was the last time the fuel filter was inspected or replaced?

It's real basic. It takes fuel and spark for the engine to run. If either is missing...

I agree that a Chevrolet dealer is not the right place to take the car. Find a local shop that has experience with vintage Corvettes. You may also be able to find a knowlegeable person in your local chapter to help run some basic tests to isolate the problem.


Duke

[Stephen F.]

Re: !977 corvette issue

Thanks all, I will pass on the info. I have not had the corvette long and did not know where to take it. I will pass along the info and I hope it gets fixed soon. I am not able to do the work myself so I have to rely on others. This corvette was my gift to my self for finishing my cancer treatments and my cancer being in remission!! Now I just need to be able to enjoy it so I really appreciates everyone help. I just joined NCRS so I do not what the local chapter is or the members.

[Patrick H.]

Re: !977 corvette issue

Steven,

Look here:

https://www.ncrs.org/contact/index.php

Ohio has a few Chapters, so check out which one is closest to you. There is a LOT of Corvette expertise in Ohio including NCRS headquarters. Don't be afraid of calling the HQ or your closest Chapter contact to find out where to bring the car and ask for assistance.

Patrick