proexpert

Okay so I'm old, poor, and bored and need a hobby, so I was thinking about buying an old Corvette and working on it for many years, a little at a time. Where does a beginner get started on a DIY restoration? I realize this depends on the condition and year of the car. I can wrench stuff, but I'm not a welder or a body guy. Should I pick another hobby? Yes I love being frustrated and I can learn.

JohnZ

I'd recommend several things:

1. Join the NCRS and your local NCRS chapter - that's where the people are who have already gone down that road (or are doing it currently), and can help you along with your project.

2. Spend some time on the C1/C2 Forum - there are lots of restorations under way there, with lots of photos and narratives; that will give you a feel for what it takes, what skills and tools are required, what issues to avoid, how to plan the project, etc.

3. Remember that any restoration project will cost at least twice what you think it will, will take three times longer than you thought, and will tie up your entire garage (and parts of your house) for a LONG time - disassembled cars take up a LOT of space, plus space for the new parts.

Easy Mike

Read. There are any number of Corvette books on the market. Everything from history to restoring, rebuilding and repairing. Any and all will get you on the way to building your Corvette reference library and adding to your Corvette knowledge. Knowledge is power.

Join the Corvette forums (like this one) and read through the various posts.

Good luck.

Corgidog1

"Old" and "poor" are 2 very bad ingredients to "buying an old Corvette and working on it for many years...." "Bored" and need a "hobby" are good ingredients.

On a serious note, follow the advice given to you by this forum and you will be off to a good start. One important thing-whatever old Corvette you pick out to restore, make sure the frame is straight and not rusting out.

Bob K

I'm old and poor because of my corvette's.

I would not trade them for anything. Years of fun and I'm constantly learning something. This forum is a great place to ask questions and get great answers.

Good luck getting a corvette to start with.

Bob K.