C3 Frame Rust Issues

**Randy W.** · March 19, 2009, 12:24 PM

Re: C3 Frame Rust Issues

The answer is: it depends. I wouldn't give too much weight to the 8 yr old judging. Also, they would never have any indication of the condition of the birdcage which is the bigger deal. Get a NCRS or Forum member to look at it if you are concerned.
Rand

**Tom H.** · March 19, 2009, 03:17 PM

Re: C3 Frame Rust Issues

You might ask to see the actual judging sheets to see if any notations were made regarding rust.

As another member posted, if you have doubt, have it inspected by a third party.

Tom

**Patrick H.** · March 19, 2009, 03:59 PM

Re: C3 Frame Rust Issues

I doubt that the comments would have too much benefit.

He needs to send you pictures, lots of pictures.
See the link in my sig below to my 72. Now go look at my frame pics.
Surface rust and nothing more. However, it's nice to have the chance to look at them and see "how much" rust there is.

Patrick

**Tom H.** · March 19, 2009, 05:03 PM

Re: C3 Frame Rust Issues

The ideal situation would be to have the owner put the car on a hoist and photograph key areas of the frame for you. You'll be ableto tell in a hurry with just a few pictures if the car is of the quality you expect.

**Lawrence M.** · March 19, 2009, 06:10 PM

Re: C3 Frame Rust Issues

Todd, back in '01 i had my '69 for sale down at Bloomington. A 1967 small block coupe was in the sale corral near me and I struck up a conversation with the owner. The car had a top flight award displayed which I think was from the chapter level. The owner told me the car was very original, but did have some frame rust. On the drivers side near the rear kickup the side of the frame had a hole rusted thru. a good 1to 1 1/2 inch size. So I would yes a top flight car can show up with rust on the frame. I saw the hole with just a quick look underneath. This would probably be noted on the judging sheets under condition. An original car can loose a lot of condition points and still top flight. Good luck on your search.

Larry

**Todd L.** · March 30, 2009, 03:59 PM

Re: C3 Frame Rust Issues

I went and looked at the vette this past weekend and here are a few pics. I know it is missing a few of the major pieces that make it an LT-1 but I believe it to be a real one based on some of the other items such as #'s(CTU), tach, amplifier still in place, etc. Do you think this amount of rust on the windshield would be an issue?

I did not see anything other than surface rust on the frame as it looked solid. I did not get to look behind the kick panels (my bad).

I need to remind myself that I am looking at an almost 40 yr old car. I want one I can enjoy but also have a good base for a future restoration if desired. Comments?

Thanks to all who gave me a good hit list of items to look for during the inspection. Todd

Driver Side Upper Window frame.jpg

Frame Wheel Welll.jpg

Pass Side Engine Top.jpg

Underside 3.jpg

**Terry M.** · March 30, 2009, 04:13 PM

Re: C3 Frame Rust Issues

Frame doesn't look too bad in photo #4, but photo #2 shows what appears to be undercoat on the frame and fuel line (good it is single line) that shouldn't be there. Skeptic that I am, it makes me wonder what it might be hiding. It may just be the car was undercoated at the dealer, but photo #4 is devoid of any undercoat.

That amount of windshield rust, if it were surface rust, wouldn't scare me -- but those who have fought that battle ought to be heard from.

Did you collect the numbers and dates from the major components -- engine, carburetor, distributor, and alternator? Those can be expensive if your goal is NCRS awards.

**Jim T.** · March 30, 2009, 06:14 PM

Re: C3 Frame Rust Issues

Todd your first picture of the rust on the inside of the withdshield frame tells me that there is a rusting issure on the top windshield frame.
The only way to get an idea of how bad it is to remove the upper stainless steel windshield trim.
Two things to find. Rust is advanced enough that the reasonable solution is to replace the upper windshield frame or it has some rust holes, but overall it can be repaired with welded patches.
If this is the only place you find, it can be repaired. The upper windshield frame is the easiest and less invasive than other areas.

**Todd L.** · March 30, 2009, 07:19 PM

Re: C3 Frame Rust Issues

All, I think I figured out to get more pics out here. Hope this link works. I did not get any numbers from the Alternator, etc.
Thanks, Todd

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