PLRX

8-30-2017: Thanks to Photobucket, all photos were gone.


...96 Collector Edition LT4

I know, I mentioned I was not going to buy it but, it was eating me alive, kept thinking about it and I could not let the LT4 go away.
It needs major TLC but there is nothing wrong with the power plant!

Immediatelly:

It needs a radiator and thermostat. So, you radiator experts. Should I go with a factory radiator or should I buy Dewitts?

3-piece front spoiler and retainer.

The A/C only blows at the bottom and it may need freon.

Goals:

K&N filter only
52mm TB
Hooker Shorties (I live in So California)
MSD Opti
MSD Wires
Spark Plugs
Clutch Kit, including flywheel
Magnaflow X Resonator and Magnaflow SS Mufflers
C5 front Calipers
All weatherstrip needs to be replaced
It has the glass top and I already dislike it. I'll be asking on "where to" buy one.
4-285/40ZR17
VBP Sport Suspension Package
New Seats
Whole interior carpet

Please look at the pictures and if you think there is anything that I should replace feel free to inform me


Here are pictures from this morning. You can tell it was not taken care of








I'll be needing the expertise from all LT4 and 6 Speed experts.

Doug 87L98

Wow! the engine compartment cleaned up nice!

Good luck with it. Looks like you got a good deal.

Garret

I thought power washing the engine was a no no....what gives?

Zix

Get the DeWitts or Ron Davis radiator...they are much better than the stock unit and are as close to a drop in replacement as you can get for an aftermarket piece.

There are many different views on thermostat settings, but I would consider a 180* unit personally.

The vent problem is most likely because of the controller, it's pretty common...mine is doing the same thing but I rarely use the heat/AC so I never bothered to replace it. 'm not sure GM makes the piece needed anymore so you may need to source it out of a junkyard or private sale.

Looks like it should be a good project...a little work and you should have one hell of a bargain!!! Nice buy!

Goldcylon

Add a new optispark to your list. At least on a 96 its vented so you have a welldiggers chance. But if I was a betting man a new opti and waterpump are in you near future. Nice 96 good luck never spray the engine young man.

PLRX

You are correct, I forgot to add the MSDOpti, wires and plugs

Thanks

pianoguy

Man, what a steal (I hope)!! At that price you can certainly put some dough into it and still be way ahead. Looks like you're off to a great start. Sounds like you have the common HVAC problem with '96 models. Start by replacing the vacuum check valve that's under the passenger fuel rail cover toward the rear. If that doesn't do the trick, then you will have to repair or replace the A/C controller that is under the dash up above the gas pedal - search for threads on that subject (I just bought a controller for mine this week). Good luck!

NEVRL8T

Thats what I was going to say. After hosing that engine with high pressure water/soap. Yep, optispark is going to be a big one. How many miles are on it?

Gar

Change every fluid in the car. Go to a Vette bone yard and get a GOOD used rad and some good used seats. Def buy new rugs. By the way power washing a lt1 or lt4 is not a good idea. It will kill your optispark. the 96 has the best version of the opti but they are still prone to moisture probs.

Goldcylon

Your missing my point. By power washing the engine you probably have water in the optispark (GM answer to the distributer) area. I will be surprised if it starts tomorrow so be prepared for a whole bunch of electrical issues. The new waterpump is because your going to have to pull the waterpump to get to the opti so you might as well replace it while you are there.

Other than that a C4 with a LT4 is a tough combo to beat.

NEVRL8T

He also has a 1995 model so I think he new the optispark weaknesses going in.

Goldcylon

Well I hope so.

betyelou

$3,500 I'd say not too bad, it cleaned up pretty good and with a little time and money you should have a pretty good CE. Good luck with your project.

corvetteronw

That is a deal my friend. IF you don't mind doing this kind of work. If not, then sell parts off of it and put the money into your 95. Looks like you will need an OptiSpark. Go with an aftermarket. Put in a new water pump while in there. See if you can find a good used radiator at a place like www.vette2vette.com
Change all the fluids: brake fluid, tranny, rear end, oil, coolant, power steering. Use synthetics where applicable.
Try the C4 tips section of www.corvetteguru.com where Bogus has listed some good DIY tips with pics for some of this work.

schrade

You know better than that!

No high pressure under the hood! Get a faucet adapter for the garden hose, and use your low-pressure hot water at home. If it causes the worst problem (no start), your home.

My 2


Good deal - able to drive it home for $3500.

In fact, I'd almost give ya' $3500 to come get mine, if ya' promise to not come lookin' for more later...

cwyates4

You're startin' to sound like me now!

1bdvet

What a deal you got, a little time and money should do it. Enjoy the ride.

teebee

I'd like to run across an LT4 for $3500. Good luck with the project.

pkazsr

I don't even power-wash my L98.

schrade

Unless you're already gonna' pull the motor or tranny, pull the starter, and gitcher buddy on the crankshaft with a socket. Check the flywheel teeth.

Last thing you wanna' do is pull one or the other, put it back fully tuned, then find one missing tooth on the flywheel.