TSheff

Master cylinder installed and brakes bled, but I can't test because I've already drained the coolant.
Tried to replace heater hoses only to find they are 1" on one end and 3/4" on the other.
Also tried to replace the crankshaft position sensor, but the bolt is too tight to remove with such limited room and lack of leverage. WTH?
Over the next few days I'll slowly begin to remove the fans, shroud, and radiator, as it will be a week before the new one is here and the weather is not going to be very good.

jazfe

Your project reminds me of my 86 six years ago when I first purchased it.
Mine had one head off and the other was still on because the previous owner couldn't find the hidden bolt on the AC compressor.
I found that every thing made of rubber had to be replaced. Vacuum leaks every where.
I'll be following with interest.

TSheff

I've skipped a few. So here goes, replaced the rear hatch weatherstripping (first one was poor fit and junk - Precision Replacement) with one from Corvette Rubber Co,, and a remanufactured instrument cluster. I replaced the fender skirt to panel screws/bolts and clips on the left side. Early models are screws and I know my 96 has machine threads. I had changed them to the earlier model clips and screws, because that was all I was able to find (1985 at a salvage yard). I'm glad to get them back to the proper retainer.
Shout out to Gary's Corvettes who sent the bolts free with my refurbished instrument panel. Also replaced the tank to engine (water pump) heater hose.
Waiting on instrument bezel (found the old one cracked and a piece broken) and the new radiator.

mazdaverx7

How did the new hatch seal fit from Corvette Rubber Company?

TSheff

Perfectly. Easy installation and proper fit. Rubbed over a coating of Sil-Glide to insure the glass would not stick to the new seal. Was very pleased with the product and results.

mazdaverx7

I've heard nothing but good things about them and it's nice to hear how well the seal fit! I will definitely use them when i replace the weatherstripping on the two Corvettes that need it. Thank you!

TSheff

Rebuilt front calipers and installed new pads. Had front and rear rotors turned. I also installed a new crank position sensor, but got anothe ERROR. I'll clear it and run it tomorrow to see if it comes back.
Because of the position and lack of a lift, as well as clearance limits for tools, it too over an hour to replace the sensor which on any other model car would have taken less than 2 minutes.

TSheff

WELL. Still have Crank Position error. Running fairly smoothly with just an occassional pop (misfire). Brakes still suck, rear rotors have been turned also, but I didn't rebuild the calipers (yet).
Have only driveway tested to this point. I've totally bled the system twice and it's still very spongy and will continue to the floor when enough pressure is applied. Even though I did it well, I may remove the NEW MC and bench bleed it again. If that doesn't get it I'll return it as defective and get another.
At the point, I may just need to let it sit a while and get my head right before I get too frustrated.

Railroadman

That's good advice, often taking a break clears your head and things fall into place much easier once you get back into it again.

dburgjohn

This has been a awesome post for read. Thanks for sharing your journey. This would have made an great show for one of the Car channels.

TSheff

Did a fuel pressure check yesterday and that is OK. Going to order some Accel Injectors tomorrow. Next week I'll tackle 1 rear caliper at a time and see where that gets me. I also ordered a ratcheting caliper spreader, which should make installing pistons easier and even.
In between all this, when it quits raining so heavy and dries a little I have 6 acres of grass I need to cut. Top that off with being busy, weather and just stuff I haven't had the Harley out at all this year. Perhaps Sunday will be a nice day.

TSheff

Rebuilt the right rear caliper yesterday and this afternoon I'll do the left. If the brakes still feel spongy I'll benchbleed the NEW MC again and if that doesn't correct it, I'll reinstall the original MC and retun the NEW one for a replacement.
Other than tha I'm waiting on injectors, which is fine, because the chill time seems to be beneficial to my attitude toward the car in general.

Railroadman

Tim, the big difference between you and me is you seem to have the time to keep at it - I sure envy that! I just have too much stuff going on, too many projects (Corvette and otherwise) started but not finished, and not enough hours in the day and not enough energy in the old man! Your progress is interesting and inspiring, makes me want to keep plugging away.

TSheff

I started many year ago as more of a need than a hobby, buying and fixing, driving for free, then selling for a small profit. The past 15 - 20 years my focus was on Harleys, as I understand that market, as well as having great connections and resources. My issue is keeping at it too much. I'll get into it and not realize what time it is. Fortunately I'm retired, while on the other hand I've had too many 3 -4 month projects that ended up being 2 - 3 weeks.
Spend the time you choose too and don't burn yourself out - that is a real thing.
I know the Vette will come around, I'm just more accustom to wrenching and troubleshooting things I can touch and see. Board level issues and codes on parts that are fuctioning perfectly drive me crazy. The VooDoo of a computer chip is both a blessing and a curse.