Newbie needs advice on flighting

[Ronald F.]

Just picked up my first vette, a '67 L71 vert and considering flighting it. I estimate it will take several months and around $10k to accomplish. It's very nicely restored now but not exactly flight ready. For those of you who have been in this position, any advice before I take the dive? Was it worth it? How much value does the cert. add? Thanks!

Ron

[Michael J.]

Re: Newbie needs advice on flighting

The first thing to do is to take it to your local chapter judging and get the '67 judging manual. And don't be defensive or a helicopter owner. Just listen and learn and most likely hundreds of things will need to be fixed, added, changed, etc. Then you can decide if the expense and time is worth it all. As far as resale goes, a top flight regional/national may add value to another NCRS member, but the majority of people who would buy a '67 L71 'vert are not in that category, so a beautifully over-restored paint/equipment, chrome filled, jazzed up one will probably sell for more, unless yours is very, very rare and you can prove it with bullet-proof docs. In that case, follow the judges suggestions and attempt to top flight it. My 2 cents after having been through this starting where you are now.

[Don H.]

Re: Newbie needs advice on flighting

Ron, As Michael stated, have it judged at a Chapter Meet, hopefully close to where you live. It is an INCREDIBLE value considering the detailed information you will receive for a very low price. Good luck, Don H.

[Ara G.]

Re: Newbie needs advice on flighting

Ron
Welcome to the NCRS. To add to the other guys advice, I would say if you want to take it slow, go personally to a meet without your car and volunteer to be an Observer Judge or at least watch and learn as a car is being judged. Exterior, interior, chassis and operations are virtually the same for a 300hp car and your 435. The difference being mechanical, but you'll get a real good flavor of what judges will look for and how they will evaluate a car. It's such a wonderful experience. Then, go home and pour over your car taking what you learned. Prep it, and then take it to a Chapter meet to have your car judged. Your learning curve will flatten over time, but it's the most wonderful experience. This is the best organization in the world...and you will meet a TON of people who will offer you help, advice, assistance and insight. Keep posting, and really enjoy the car and the meets...Regards...ARA

[Ronald F.]

Re: Newbie needs advice on flighting

Great ideas. I'll plan to go to our local chapter meet next month and do just that. Thanks!