One of the biggest you didn't mention in this vid....Use techron regularly to get accurate fuel tank readings. And NEVER NEVER run it out of fuel. The fuel pumps are cooled and lubed by fuel and if you run them out there is a very high chance it will not start until you replace the pump. And they're a royal pain to change. Voice of experience here. I even throw a little marvel mystery oil in every other gas tank fill up. Don't know if it helps but you really want to keep those pumps lubed and even a little mystery oil will definitely help
Lyle is the real thing ! After changing the horn membrane in my C5 he told me that I didn’t need to re-use the 2 bolts that originally held the airbag to the steering wheel . He was totally right and made the reinstall a “pc of cake” . Thanks and Kudos to Lyle👍
To clarify: I told you to screw the 2 bolts into the rear of the reassembled airbag and snap the whole assembly into the steering wheel. If you didn't put the bolts back into their holes before doing so, your airbag is not secure! Lyle
I went to replace the crummy deteriorated leather upholstery with new leather when I discovered that the driver's fiberglass seat frame had exactly the damage you warned about. I bought a fiberglass repair kit and strengthened the daylights out of that part of the seat. I also put 'door edge guards' on the edge of the fiberglass to make them a little thicker and less likely to cut into the new leather. BTW it was your video on how to install new leather seats that gave me the courage to tackle the job in the first place! 🙂 Thanks, Lyle for all you do for the Corvette community!
110% on how to sit in them. I am a big guy 6'2 300lbs. Like you said...I simply turn away/sideways and sit down in it butt facing seat and simply sit down, than ya simply juat swing both legs in. It like you said is a must for a big owner. If I did it the just hop in way as you mentioned not to do id have no seats with my big ass lol. Also the few people that have rode with me struggled also or said it hurts their legs...until I showed them how to properly sit in and use the frame piece to push themselves out.
Great video. I thought I was the only one that used that little shelf for my left hand to lower myself into the seat. Got 2 bad knees at 64 years old. My sons love to watch me pry myself up and out. But, love driving my c5. Thank you for the video
I would like to thank you for the advice on this video. I just bought a C5 a couple months ago. You definitely saved my drivers side door hinges. Keep making these videos!!! Good stuff!!!
Check your top after taking your car for any kind of service.Had a Transam with T-tops. Was having tires being put on.So i never take the tops off Thats just me and was on my way out off state and get on the interstate,and next thing I know there goes the passenger side flying in the air.There is no doubt in my mind someone at the tire place unlatched my tops.Like I said I really never take them off and have only taken the top off my C5 for a picture or something like that.So check your latches after service people!!!
Lyle I remember you mentioning about the door hinges a while back, and after hearing that and see my door hinges I went straight to buy the grease thank you very much for this informative video👍
I would say he is right on every count....the advise about the top is the most important. Do not allow yourself to be interrupted while the top is being placed. Dont let anything prevent you from latching all 3 latches!
I'm a prior C4, C5, and C6 owner and having been looking to replace my C6 after some kid texting and driving hit me and totaled it. I'm been perusing a ton of C&S's videos as I refresh my knowledge of all things Corvette. Lyle really knows his stuff and his insights and advice are priceless. Videos like this make everyone's ownership better to the point of probably improving resale values. Thank you so much Lyle and keep up the great work! (I still haven't decided what I want, so many great choices...)
One very important thing that you didn't mention was to check the front of your radiator for debris. If you clog up the front of your radiator, that will become the number one reason your C5 is overheating. Some people will find grocery bags and other trash in front of their radiator, along with the usual grass debris and other small items that can block your air flow through the radiator. To add to that, NEVER use a high pressure hose to try and clean your radiator. A high pressure hose can bend the open fins of the radiator closed, which means that you will be buying a new radiator. Taking one out and putting one in is NOT a fun job so if you don't know how to do it yourself, it won't be a cheap job.
Just got a C5 a few days ago and noticed this comment... I had a 95 TA and my friends wife had a 97 Camaro that both had grocery bags get stuck in front of the radiator and cause overheating!!!
#4 I learned that the hard way. Had to replace the motor.....shorted out. Wipers would come on randomly. I had to remove the fuse until RnR. #5 if you have stock suspension and haven’t altered it in any way, if you lower the rear end, it will decrease that front spoiler scrape when you go on or off the curb.
You're absolutely right about #5, but, consider the alternative. instead of lowering the rear end with stock suspension up front, why not consider raising it instead? doing that will allow you to take those angled entrances head on, and you'll be able to go over _any and all_ speed bumps head on, without ever having to worry about damaging your rocker panel or anything else under the car. .
I figured out the seat issue a week ago on my lady friend's C5. And I found the area to place your hand in the door opening. I am very very new to Vettes but have learned at lot in the last 9 months and especially the past 3 weeks of actual hands on work. Thank you for ALL of your information.
I always suspected that flat spot on each door jamb was porposely built-in to make ingress and egress easier. Anyway, I use it as such. Also; thank you for the warning about lubing the hinges and "milking the cow". Great maintenance tips that I did not find in the manual.
Just bought my 1997, 42k mile example and quickly learned about approach and departure angles. I would imagine that every C5 needs multiple spoiler replacements, but the subframe was a good piece to throw in there. I'll be extra careful now.!
Same thing happened with one of the T-Tops on my 94 Z28. I thought I had it latched down tight. WHOOSH! Flew off in rush hour Northern NJ traffic. Thank goodness it didn't hit anyone.
I bought my '03 z06 in November, 2002. It has been mostly mechanIcally reliable (only major mechanical repair has been a clutch). Electronics-wise, not so much. I had the steering column lock system replaced twice by Chevy, only to experience the same malfunction again, stranding me once and another time, the column LOCKED UP while i was backing out of the garage! I finally resorted to an aftermarket fix (forget the name of it, but it is a small module that connects to the fuse panel behind the passenger footwell. I still get the "Service Steering Column" warning at start up, but pushing the Rest button clears it. The other repair I had to do was the anti-lock brake module that I had to pull and send out for repair. Other than this, I replaced both power window assemblies since the factory ones failed...not too difficult of a DIY project with eBay assemblies that are still working just fine after a cojple of years. The window and door lock control assembly in the door panel actually failed with the plastic frame disintegrating. A little ingenuity with some aluminum strips and JB Weld to build it back up fixed that. Finally, I had to repalce the gas cap as it failed and caused a code to be thrown that made it fail smog. It is still a fun car and exhilarating to drive after almost 20 years...
WHY HASN'T ANY ONE MENTIONED CODE PO1431, "LOW FUEL" GAUGE PEGS OUT TO THE BIG "E". RECENTLY SPOKE TO A LINGENFELTER TECH ABOUT THIS BIG PROB IN ALL C5's & some later c6's. I ASKED WHAT IS THE FIX IN THEIR FACILITY & WAS TOLD MOST OF THE FUEL LEVEL SENDING UNITS WERE DISCONTINUED, & GOOD LUCK. WHY? HELP !!
Thanks for the video. My passenger door has been clunking and I figured I would need new hinges. A little Tri-flow and it's almost like new. Also had some wet floor issues and this info put me on the right track to clean the rain udders. 👍
@@JustSayN2O in many cars, the drain area beneath the windscreen wipers also houses the air intake for the interior ventilation system, so when the drains are clogged badly enough, the water level will rise sufficiently for it to flow into the interior air filter and ducting
Perfect list ! I’ve had mine 10 years and wished I knew them from day 1. Gonna milk those udders this weekend. Lol. Thanks bud ! I need new seat covers and used to do the slide when top was off. Both seat switches broke off and gotta replace them
I remembered this video when getting into my newly acquired 2K Coupe as I opened the door. Like you I have shit knees and a bit of a belly, the entrance technique you described works perfect, thank you!
@@marianofilippini8801 it sounds like he's talking about lubrication that is typically used on boats. Of course we're not talking about lubrication for engines.
#5 is a no brainer for those that have driven lowered vehicles or cars with long front ends. Had an '89 Escort GT back in the early 90's that was lowered and had to take that angle approach on inclines. Or sometimes even speed bumps. Also had a 2003 Pontiac Grand Am that even at stock height, I sometimes had to take an angle into inclines.
Great videos and information. You Corvette store is excellent. Great customer service. Great materials and repair kits. Great customer service!! You are doing a really fine job! Thanks. I’ll be ordering more parts!!!
I noticed my doors "popping" whenever I would open and close them at the 19 year of ownership mark (desert car). Lubed the hinges and the pop sound is gone. Now, gotta find this squeek from the headlight...
I had a C5 convertible, and the fact you felt number 1 was necessary is scary! I enjoyed my C5 after we installed a C5R-427 engine and upgraded all the other mechanical components. It was a great track car.
@@diegogolfhotel Unfortunately the only video I have is just at idle. ruclips.net/video/DZEHXU9VLjU/видео.htmlsi=3vwSSwv_1OiSOu4_ I wish I had taken video the times I drove at Road Atlanta.
Thank you for this video. My 2001 Z06's battery died in the garage in Florida during the December 15 degree lows. I had to take my battery out, take it to Parts Store to evaluate and install the new battery. I had done this once before, but I could not remember how to remove the battery,
This video came up on my home/recommended page and I avoided it for days and “this is gonna be dumb” but actually some good tips in here. 😎 never too old to learn something
I just purchased a 2001 C5 and have some issues that I am finding are pretty common. 1) Fuel gauge indicates zero with an associated "low fuel" display but after some time it returns to normal. 2) Turn signals intermittently do not work. 3) Traction control intermittently does not work. 4) display on the HAVC control unit is very dim. Lots of fun! Thank for the information.
@@csvette Thanks! I have been researching these issues and I have found some fixes. But I will call you to confirm I am on the right track. I appreciate it.
Great video. Have 04 Convertible. Most annoying thing is remote gas cap lock pin. Most of the time it refuses to return to extended position allowing cap tp lock back in place. Open trunk and push cable back in forth till pin protrudes back out. Tried lubing not much help. Real pain traveling alone, no way to tell when pin has returned to lock position. Appreciate any pearls of wisdom.
Man I wish someone like you was around here in Bama. Your honest and knowledge is tremendous. Thanks for sharing and my first Vette I'm almost over it already. Have to babysit it to much. Parking or going to club not advised. I'm a musician and there are haters. Was fun as hell for a year but over it. Why? Well 40k miles and ABS light came on and off couple times then stayed on. Had to send off to be rebuilt 750 bucks. Loose solder wire. I went extra mile and lifetime warranty on whole deal. Then air pressure wouldn't read on back tire. Sensor. Now headlight. Noise. 40k miles and I baby the car. I'm done she for sell.
I was having issues with my wiper not shutting off after using the windshield washer. I checked the udders and found a dead mouse inside it. I removed the mouse and quite a bit of water drained out. After the week or so, the windshield wiper motor electronic control module dried out and my wipers returned to normal operation. There are five udders total. 3 on the driver side and 2 on the passenger side. I installed rollers, which are very similar to inline skate wheels, on my lower radiator supports on my C5 Corvette to protect them from rubbing on the pavement in case I am unable to approach an incline at a sharp angle. Mid America Corvettes sells them in their C5 catalog. They are nothing but inline skate wheels but at a much higher price. They're very easy to install. I installed two wheels on each radiator support.
Please do video on C6 vettes ..I've had two C6's and two C3's at different times in my life. Miss my vette terribly and hope to get another one very soon. Trying to just decide what one to buy. Thank you for your great information.
Seat is a god point. I cut the udders, and have protection plates underneath, also always change to performance suspension mode before turning into alley so it doesn’t bottom.
Hey Lyle! Thanks for all the information greatly appreciated. I have a 1999 C5 just an absolutely beautiful car I just love driving this machine. I just can’t believe that this abs brake and traction modular is an obsolete item and can’t be replaced or manufactured by someone else. It’s awful that the specs from previous manufacturer can’t be bought and this item to be produced again. The car is not a toy that you throw in the trash and go buy another one, but with out it your screwed.👎
We spoke with Bosch at SEMA about this module 10 years ago. They said they would make it again but production minimum was 10000 units at $1800 each. This is why the complicated electronic modules will probably never be reproduced. No one is going to invest $18 million in cars worth less than $20k.
As for the roof panel, I always put the sunshades down before I put the roof in place and only put them back when I have latched the roof in front. Because the pins in the rear of the roof panel hold it in position, if you forget about latching the rear all you will get is wind noises and rattles when going fast enough to lift it up. When the front is latched it won't just launch off the car. I did not learn this the hard way or think it up on my own. I read it somewhere as advice from someone with a brain.
IM GLAD someone "professional" made this vid. because I have been telling C5 owners for YEARS and they think I need to be LOCKED up in the FUNNY FARM !! hahahaha!
1. Cop shouldn’t have been there. 2. Good to know 3. Some people cut the bottom off the utters to prevent leaf / debris build up 4. Didn’t know that, thanks 5. Great advice
Number 4 and 5 need to be on repeat for the c6 and maybe c7. More people need to make videos showing where the udders are, but most don't know they have them.
You also need to make sure to do #4 with the C4 as well; especially because the drain on the driver's side is right behind the battery and can get squashed between it and the firewall if you're not careful
@@Kw-oh9jk It's hard to describe where they are located but easy as pie just to show you. You can't visually see them unless you put a ton of light in the right area and know where to look. Usually, I just check every C5 I run into when I see a owner with one in a parking lot. The best description that I can give you is that the driver's side udders are located beneath the wiper motor. Since you can't see the wiper motor until you remove the windshield cowl, that doesn't help you much unless you've replaced your wiper motor before and know where it is. The passenger's side udder is a completely different animal all together. You have to remove the battery to even see that one. Last of all, the AC has a small drain tube also. All I can tell you is that it is located on the firewall and you will never find it unless someone shows you or the motor is out of your car.
Haven't lubed my door hinges in my '99 'vert in the 6 years I've owned it. Of course, always garaged it and live in the desert. (but I do wash it a lot). Thanks for the tip!
Good video brother..I just inherited a 2004 C5 triple black convertible Corvette with only 28,000 miles from my uncle. Great info..I just became a new subscriber 👍
What brand "Marine" Lube to you recommend? Very good video & advise. After 2 C-4's and now my C-5 I knew all this but excellent for those who don't know.
For the door hinges? I don't think any specific brand is essential here, were not talking internal engine/trans just greasing the hinges. Any brand marine lube is probably fine, and was a suggested good option for something that would stick around a while. Main point is that its an oil/grease that has a little thickness and will stick around a while, where WD40 will clean it mostly and be very short lived.
C5 top flew off twice. First time it was on my teenage son for not locking it down. Second time it was on me. 🫣 The front of the top got separated from the fiberglass part a little so I gorilla glued it back down 👍🏽 The top got scratched up a bit so I sanded it down and had a vinyl wrap put on at a custom shop. It was much cheaper than painting it and it looks great 👍🏽
Great information to know. Thank you Lyle. Very appreciated. I have the black '03 Z06 like yours. In Logan Utah. Hot summers, salty winter roads but park it then. Do you have to remove things to access them? Keep up the great work!!! Thank you very much.
Thanks Lyle for the C5 advice. My Uncle is giving me his 2001 C5 that he has garaged and cared for like a child. It is a convertible in mint condition and only has 61,000 miles on it!! You gave great advice with how to enter inclined driveways. If I do not have access to my garage for a few months, do you have any advice on car covers? I live in California near the coast. Thanks for your help.
Man I had the same issue when I was managing a Stereo shop and the top got placed on without latching😤I left to go and deliver car and got a few blocks down the road and whoosh🥵Cost us about $1000😤
You can’t avoid the seat wear.. I’ve tried .. it’s just gonna happen.. if you are at the market and you have little room to get in and out.. it’s gonna get rubbed .. old or young .. I ve owned acouple C5 for nearly 20 years now.. replaced the leather twice
On #5: a foggy day i ran over a half of a semi tire on the interstate. $7000 insurance claim. Tore up that entire assembly, radiator, pulled the nut right out if the aluminum frame.... I do wish that frame work was a little higher or the approach angle was better.
Question 🙋🏻♂️. I’m looking at c5 to buy, what year it’s the best year and does GM still build parts for the c5, pls let me know when you can Thank you and thank you for all those great videos so far I like them ....
Liam, I really want to tap the Aussie Corvette parts market. I love your car culture! I have an entire warehouse full of 68-04 parts that I know you guys could use! Lyle
@@csvette Hi Lyle, we sure could use guys like yourselves here down under! We have a car culture that loves unique cars like Corvettes here and in normal times car shows happen every Saturday night in summer time. Check out C4 Corvette Australia's page on Facebook as it's a nationwide community dedicated to C4 Corvette enthusiasts.
Hi Lyle, Great video! My husband and I just purchased a 2001 C5 Z06 with 9500 miles on it. We know we may have some things to "break in" as it was not driven very much 😉 We hope to be able to keep her for a long time. Do you think there is a limit on how old a vette can be a good investment for us? Thank you, Debbie- new subscribers
Hi Debbie! ANy low-mileage Corvette can maintain or grow it's value over time--it's all about keeping the car in a condition that is commensurate with the low miles. DO your fluids first and foremost, then be as proactive as possible when it comes to repairs or replacement of worn-out parts. Beyond that, drive the car...nothing is worse for a car than sitting. Happy motoring, and welcome to the Corvette family! Lyle :)
@@csvette Thank you so much for your quick response. We have watched several of your videos. We can see your passion for these and your knowledge of the corvette is outstanding!
Just bought a 2003 zo6 first corvette,,thanks for the tips,,I'm been driving trucks most my life so sure il loose atleast 1 airdam..you have a website that sells parts? Just stumbled across this video so don't know anything about you,,glad you made it the the hurricane ok,, got some friends down in the fort Myers area that took a beating..thanks again for the tips.
Always look forward to your videos. Can you take a poll and see how many people on here have had their hands actually on a cow udder? Most people think milk comes in a plastic jug.
Hi Lyle, I have a 2003 Corvette C5 having nothing but trouble with the codes brought it to the mechanic said he checked it on his coach machine and they were no codes on my onboard computer. There are several code to come up some of them. I know how to turn off others I don’t can you please help me with this I’ve been dealing with this problem for over a year, what happens is at some point the engine light comes on steady. I learned how to turn it off other times the ABS active handling comes on at the same time that stays on for maybe 4:50 hours and then it comes on again would you please help me with this problem I would appreciate it. Thank you.
Good evening Lyle, this may sound like a dumb question. The prior owner of my 99 FRC told me the only damage the car received was a full head on approach to a incline. My question is there a small dimple on the passenger frame rail. The front bolt that I repaired was tore loose. Is this a possibility or is someone selling me a story? Thank you graciously for your time and your second to none info is greatly appreciated. David T.
Hey David! That incline damage story is probably truthful. The lower radiator support (or what some call the skid bar) takes a lot of abuse, and it is not uncommon to have dents scrapes and damage on the leading edge of it. This unit can be replaced, as it just bolts to the frame. On impact, one or more of the nutserts that are pressed into the frame rail can be torn out--the only fix for that is to weld in a new steel patch and drill it to match the original hole circumference, then press in a new nutsert. Lyle
didnt make it a minute into the video... came back from a vacation and forgot my habit of checking my latches, luckily nobody was behind me but it was an expensive mistake!
I’ve taken both sides of my utters and I’ve actually cut the split off of them so they’re a wide open tube it seems to not cause me any trouble yet and it was over a year ago.
What brand of marine lube would you buy??? My window rubber on the drivers side that the glass slides up and down may be dry what would you use for this issue???
Having owned a 2004 C5 since it came out of the factory in April 2004, the dealer pointed out that one should NEVER slam the hatchback or the hood when closing, He said to gently set the hatch or hood on the latches, then place your hand on the hood or hatch directly above the latch and firmly push down until you hear a click, then do the same to the other side. This will prevent cracking the fiberglass. In the 18 years that I have owned this great car, the only thing that I had a problem with was the Auto transmission shift cable that broke on one end, leaving me stranded until the Tow truck arrived. The cable itself is fine, but the PLASTIC attachment points on each end will eventually fail, and it is a MF-ing BITCH to change that cable. I put the car on my lift at home, and I had to pull off the X-tube exhaust member, and the torque tube cover that has about 50 bolts in it This is next to impossible to do without a lift, since the car is so low to the ground. I did learn something on how to get the car going in an emergency with a broken shift cable. 1.) Set the Emergency Brake. By the Left rear wheel, find the cable attachment on the transmission. Attach a set of vise grips to the shifting shaft. Use the grips to get into PARK if you need to Start. Then start the engine. 2.) Make sure the Emergency Brake is still engaged. Go back to the grips and go three clicks with the shifting shaft until it is in drive. Remove the vise grips so they don't fall off. 3.) Get in, release the Emergency Brake, and drive. Avoid having to back up on the drive home, which can complicate things. Go home or to a garage to fix it. If you do it yourself, you will need a lift. I did. For such a well-designed car, the shift cable with the plastic junk attachment points was a disappointment. I hope Corvette comes up with a reliable shift cable that holds up to the heat inside the torque tube area, which is where the cable resides. ruclips.net/video/aUpHp4mvzGc/видео.html
Just got my 1st vette!! 2002. Thanks so much and God bless
One of the biggest you didn't mention in this vid....Use techron regularly to get accurate fuel tank readings. And NEVER NEVER run it out of fuel. The fuel pumps are cooled and lubed by fuel and if you run them out there is a very high chance it will not start until you replace the pump. And they're a royal pain to change. Voice of experience here. I even throw a little marvel mystery oil in every other gas tank fill up. Don't know if it helps but you really want to keep those pumps lubed and even a little mystery oil will definitely help
Thanks, Lyle. I've had my C5 for about 6 hours. At the very least, you just saved my air damn/front spoiler.
Lyle is the real thing ! After changing the horn membrane in my C5 he told me that I didn’t need to re-use the 2 bolts that originally held the airbag to the steering wheel . He was totally right and made the reinstall a “pc of cake” . Thanks and Kudos to Lyle👍
To clarify: I told you to screw the 2 bolts into the rear of the reassembled airbag and snap the whole assembly into the steering wheel. If you didn't put the bolts back into their holes before doing so, your airbag is not secure! Lyle
I went to replace the crummy deteriorated leather upholstery with new leather when I discovered that the driver's fiberglass seat frame had exactly the damage you warned about. I bought a fiberglass repair kit and strengthened the daylights out of that part of the seat. I also put 'door edge guards' on the edge of the fiberglass to make them a little thicker and less likely to cut into the new leather. BTW it was your video on how to install new leather seats that gave me the courage to tackle the job in the first place! 🙂
Thanks, Lyle for all you do for the Corvette community!
110% on how to sit in them. I am a big guy 6'2 300lbs. Like you said...I simply turn away/sideways and sit down in it butt facing seat and simply sit down, than ya simply juat swing both legs in. It like you said is a must for a big owner. If I did it the just hop in way as you mentioned not to do id have no seats with my big ass lol. Also the few people that have rode with me struggled also or said it hurts their legs...until I showed them how to properly sit in and use the frame piece to push themselves out.
Nice. Never knew about the udder under the wipers. Like for 25 years never knew. Holy shit. Thank you!!
#6 Don't keep chocolate bars in the arm rest.
Great video. I thought I was the only one that used that little shelf for my left hand to lower myself into the seat. Got 2 bad knees at 64 years old. My sons love to watch me pry myself up and out. But, love driving my c5. Thank you for the video
Yes I have the same issue but I absolutely love the car and that little shelf to get yourself in and out is perfect for me
I would like to thank you for the advice on this video. I just bought a C5 a couple months ago. You definitely saved my drivers side door hinges. Keep making these videos!!! Good stuff!!!
Check your top after taking your car for any kind of service.Had a Transam with T-tops. Was having tires being put on.So i never take the tops off Thats just me and was on my way out off state and get on the interstate,and next thing I know there goes the passenger side flying in the air.There is no doubt in my mind someone at the tire place unlatched my tops.Like I said I really never take them off and have only taken the top off my C5 for a picture or something like that.So check your latches after service people!!!
Very good video. I've owned 7 Corvettes and still found it interesting and useful. I didn't know 2 of the 5 tips. Thank you
If you don’t mind me asking what corvettes have you owned
Lyle I remember you mentioning about the door hinges a while back, and after hearing that and see my door hinges I went straight to buy the grease thank you very much for this informative video👍
Could've used this video 15 years ago. 😂
I would say he is right on every count....the advise about the top is the most important. Do not allow yourself to be interrupted while the top is being placed. Dont let anything prevent you from latching all 3 latches!
I'm a prior C4, C5, and C6 owner and having been looking to replace my C6 after some kid texting and driving hit me and totaled it. I'm been perusing a ton of C&S's videos as I refresh my knowledge of all things Corvette. Lyle really knows his stuff and his insights and advice are priceless. Videos like this make everyone's ownership better to the point of probably improving resale values. Thank you so much Lyle and keep up the great work! (I still haven't decided what I want, so many great choices...)
One very important thing that you didn't mention was to check the front of your radiator for debris. If you clog up the front of your radiator, that will become the number one reason your C5 is overheating. Some people will find grocery bags and other trash in front of their radiator, along with the usual grass debris and other small items that can block your air flow through the radiator.
To add to that, NEVER use a high pressure hose to try and clean your radiator. A high pressure hose can bend the open fins of the radiator closed, which means that you will be buying a new radiator. Taking one out and putting one in is NOT a fun job so if you don't know how to do it yourself, it won't be a cheap job.
very good information! Thank you!
@@c5corvettejapan2001
Thanks. Are you in Japan? I spent time in Okinawa and Sasebo, Japan.
@@Junkman2008 yes! what car did you drive in Japan?
@@c5corvettejapan2001
The USS Ogden. I wasn't driving, I was traveling on a ship with the U.S. Marine Corps. Had a blast. Wish I could visit again. 🙂
Just got a C5 a few days ago and noticed this comment... I had a 95 TA and my friends wife had a 97 Camaro that both had grocery bags get stuck in front of the radiator and cause overheating!!!
#4 I learned that the hard way.
Had to replace the motor.....shorted out. Wipers would come on randomly. I had to remove the fuse until RnR.
#5 if you have stock suspension and haven’t altered it in any way, if you lower the rear end, it will decrease that front spoiler scrape when you go on or off the curb.
You're absolutely right about #5, but, consider the alternative. instead of lowering the rear end with stock suspension up front, why not consider raising it instead? doing that will allow you to take those angled entrances head on, and you'll be able to go over _any and all_ speed bumps head on, without ever having to worry about damaging your rocker panel or anything else under the car.
.
@ Iraqi Food Cart
I agree with what you’re saying, but a lowered Vette looks soooooo cool! 😎😁
I removed my fuse for wipers.
I figured out the seat issue a week ago on my lady friend's C5. And I found the area to place your hand in the door opening. I am very very new to Vettes but have learned at lot in the last 9 months and especially the past 3 weeks of actual hands on work. Thank you for ALL of your information.
I always suspected that flat spot on each door jamb was porposely built-in to make ingress and egress easier. Anyway, I use it as such. Also; thank you for the warning about lubing the hinges and "milking the cow". Great maintenance tips that I did not find in the manual.
I never knew about that spot in the door frame to help you get in and out of the car!! Since I watched this I’ve used it every time.
Just bought my 1997, 42k mile example and quickly learned about approach and departure angles. I would imagine that every C5 needs multiple spoiler replacements, but the subframe was a good piece to throw in there. I'll be extra careful now.!
Also watch out for speed bumps and know where the nose when parking Head on to sidewalks or parking curbs
Same thing happened with one of the T-Tops on my 94 Z28. I thought I had it latched down tight. WHOOSH! Flew off in rush hour Northern NJ traffic. Thank goodness it didn't hit anyone.
I bought my '03 z06 in November, 2002. It has been mostly mechanIcally reliable (only major mechanical repair has been a clutch). Electronics-wise, not so much. I had the steering column lock system replaced twice by Chevy, only to experience the same malfunction again, stranding me once and another time, the column LOCKED UP while i was backing out of the garage! I finally resorted to an aftermarket fix (forget the name of it, but it is a small module that connects to the fuse panel behind the passenger footwell. I still get the "Service Steering Column" warning at start up, but pushing the Rest button clears it. The other repair I had to do was the anti-lock brake module that I had to pull and send out for repair. Other than this, I replaced both power window assemblies since the factory ones failed...not too difficult of a DIY project with eBay assemblies that are still working just fine after a cojple of years. The window and door lock control assembly in the door panel actually failed with the plastic frame disintegrating. A little ingenuity with some aluminum strips and JB Weld to build it back up fixed that. Finally, I had to repalce the gas cap as it failed and caused a code to be thrown that made it fail smog. It is still a fun car and exhilarating to drive after almost 20 years...
WHY HASN'T ANY ONE MENTIONED CODE PO1431, "LOW FUEL" GAUGE PEGS OUT TO THE BIG "E". RECENTLY SPOKE TO A LINGENFELTER TECH ABOUT THIS BIG PROB IN ALL C5's & some later c6's. I ASKED WHAT IS THE FIX IN THEIR FACILITY & WAS TOLD MOST OF THE FUEL LEVEL SENDING UNITS WERE DISCONTINUED, & GOOD LUCK. WHY? HELP !!
Thanks for the video. My passenger door has been clunking and I figured I would need new hinges. A little Tri-flow and it's almost like new. Also had some wet floor issues and this info put me on the right track to clean the rain udders. 👍
Glad you are finding the info useful! Lyle
Anybody know the water pathway from clogged udders to interior? Seems not possible.
@@JustSayN2O in many cars, the drain area beneath the windscreen wipers also houses the air intake for the interior ventilation system, so when the drains are clogged badly enough, the water level will rise sufficiently for it to flow into the interior air filter and ducting
@@halofreak1990 Seems bad engineering, but thank U for the explanation
Perfect list ! I’ve had mine 10 years and wished I knew them from day 1. Gonna milk those udders this weekend. Lol. Thanks bud ! I need new seat covers and used to do the slide when top was off. Both seat switches broke off and gotta replace them
Thank you so much! I bought my first C5 2 weeks ago and I found myself sliding down the seat bolster! Ugh! Thanks for the advice!
Anytime!!! Lyle
Thank you. Informative. I subscribed just for the information you give. I have owned 6 vettes over the years. And you are SPOT ON.
As a 2001 C-5 owner, I think your video here was GREAT. Gonna go back and look for more useful ones now that I am subscribed. Thanks !
I remembered this video when getting into my newly acquired 2K Coupe as I opened the door. Like you I have shit knees and a bit of a belly, the entrance technique you described works perfect, thank you!
Thanks for the heads up about the door hinges. I thought WD-40 was the answer to everything. A lesson well learned about lubrication and draining.
Hi, I italian... I didn t understand which kind lubrification I have to use on doors hinge... not WD40? Thank you very much!
@@marianofilippini8801 it sounds like he's talking about lubrication that is typically used on boats. Of course we're not talking about lubrication for engines.
Marine grease is water proof and is a white lithium grease.. Auto parts will have it in tubes
Thank you , very informative ! Especially about the door hinges !
#5 is a no brainer for those that have driven lowered vehicles or cars with long front ends. Had an '89 Escort GT back in the early 90's that was lowered and had to take that angle approach on inclines. Or sometimes even speed bumps. Also had a 2003 Pontiac Grand Am that even at stock height, I sometimes had to take an angle into inclines.
Great videos and information. You Corvette store is excellent. Great customer service. Great materials and repair kits. Great customer service!!
You are doing a really fine job!
Thanks.
I’ll be ordering more parts!!!
I noticed my doors "popping" whenever I would open and close them at the 19 year of ownership mark (desert car). Lubed the hinges and the pop sound is gone. Now, gotta find this squeek from the headlight...
I had a C5 convertible, and the fact you felt number 1 was necessary is scary! I enjoyed my C5 after we installed a C5R-427 engine and upgraded all the other mechanical components. It was a great track car.
Do you have any videos of the car with the engine? It would be great to see!
@@diegogolfhotel Unfortunately the only video I have is just at idle.
ruclips.net/video/DZEHXU9VLjU/видео.htmlsi=3vwSSwv_1OiSOu4_
I wish I had taken video the times I drove at Road Atlanta.
Thank you for this video. My 2001 Z06's battery died in the garage in Florida during the December 15 degree lows. I had to take my battery out, take it to Parts Store to evaluate and install the new battery. I had done this once before, but I could not remember how to remove the battery,
Oh man, I would like to have an uncle like You, to help me with some c5 issues. Hah very good job !
This video came up on my home/recommended page and I avoided it for days and “this is gonna be dumb” but actually some good tips in here. 😎 never too old to learn something
I just purchased a 2001 C5 and have some issues that I am finding are pretty common.
1) Fuel gauge indicates zero with an associated "low fuel" display but after some time it returns to normal.
2) Turn signals intermittently do not work.
3) Traction control intermittently does not work.
4) display on the HAVC control unit is very dim.
Lots of fun! Thank for the information.
Call me. There are fixes for all of these. 8008865064. Lyle
@@csvette Thanks! I have been researching these issues and I have found some fixes. But I will call you to confirm I am on the right track. I appreciate it.
Fill the tank all the way with super. Then add a bottle of Techron. Fixed my fuel gauge problem immediately.
Great video. Have 04 Convertible. Most annoying thing is remote gas cap lock pin. Most of the time it refuses to return to extended position allowing cap tp lock back in place. Open trunk and push cable back in forth till pin protrudes back out. Tried lubing not much help. Real pain traveling alone, no way to tell when pin has returned to lock position. Appreciate any pearls of wisdom.
Thank you Lyle!
Man I wish someone like you was around here in Bama. Your honest and knowledge is tremendous. Thanks for sharing and my first Vette I'm almost over it already. Have to babysit it to much. Parking or going to club not advised. I'm a musician and there are haters.
Was fun as hell for a year but over it. Why?
Well 40k miles and ABS light came on and off couple times then stayed on. Had to send off to be rebuilt 750 bucks. Loose solder wire. I went extra mile and lifetime warranty on whole deal. Then air pressure wouldn't read on back tire. Sensor. Now headlight. Noise. 40k miles and I baby the car.
I'm done she for sell.
Did you end up selling and what did you get?
I was having issues with my wiper not shutting off after using the windshield washer. I checked the udders and found a dead mouse inside it. I removed the mouse and quite a bit of water drained out. After the week or so, the windshield wiper motor electronic control module dried out and my wipers returned to normal operation. There are five udders total. 3 on the driver side and 2 on the passenger side.
I installed rollers, which are very similar to inline skate wheels, on my lower radiator supports on my C5 Corvette to protect them from rubbing on the pavement in case I am unable to approach an incline at a sharp angle. Mid America Corvettes sells them in their C5 catalog. They are nothing but inline skate wheels but at a much higher price. They're very easy to install. I installed two wheels on each radiator support.
Please do video on C6 vettes ..I've had two C6's and two C3's at different times in my life. Miss my vette terribly and hope to get another one very soon. Trying to just decide what one to buy. Thank you for your great information.
THIS IS A KEEPER, LYLE!
Thanks so much.
Seat is a god point. I cut the udders, and have protection plates underneath, also always change to performance suspension mode before turning into alley so it doesn’t bottom.
Thanks for all of the items you covered!
Thanks Lyle. C7 2015 here but everything u tell me is something I can check out on mine. Great vids
Hey Lyle! Thanks for all the information greatly appreciated. I have a 1999 C5 just an absolutely beautiful car I just love driving this machine. I just can’t believe that this abs brake and traction modular is an obsolete item and can’t be replaced or manufactured by someone else. It’s awful that the specs from previous manufacturer can’t be bought and this item to be produced again. The car is not a toy that you throw in the trash and go buy another one, but with out it your screwed.👎
We spoke with Bosch at SEMA about this module 10 years ago. They said they would make it again but production minimum was 10000 units at $1800 each. This is why the complicated electronic modules will probably never be reproduced. No one is going to invest $18 million in cars worth less than $20k.
As for the roof panel, I always put the sunshades down before I put the roof in place and only put them back when I have latched the roof in front. Because the pins in the rear of the roof panel hold it in position, if you forget about latching the rear all you will get is wind noises and rattles when going fast enough to lift it up. When the front is latched it won't just launch off the car.
I did not learn this the hard way or think it up on my own. I read it somewhere as advice from someone with a brain.
Great advice! Thanks! Lyle
IM GLAD someone "professional" made this vid. because I have been telling C5 owners for YEARS and they think I need to be LOCKED up in the FUNNY FARM !! hahahaha!
1. Cop shouldn’t have been there.
2. Good to know
3. Some people cut the bottom off the utters to prevent leaf / debris build up
4. Didn’t know that, thanks
5. Great advice
Your #3 lets rodents into that well to nest.
I use an air hose to blow mine out regularly. But actually mine never gets in the rain !
#3 == mice access if cut off .
Number 4 and 5 need to be on repeat for the c6 and maybe c7. More people need to make videos showing where the udders are, but most don't know they have them.
You also need to make sure to do #4 with the C4 as well; especially because the drain on the driver's side is right behind the battery and can get squashed between it and the firewall if you're not careful
We’re are they located
@@Kw-oh9jk
It's hard to describe where they are located but easy as pie just to show you. You can't visually see them unless you put a ton of light in the right area and know where to look. Usually, I just check every C5 I run into when I see a owner with one in a parking lot. The best description that I can give you is that the driver's side udders are located beneath the wiper motor. Since you can't see the wiper motor until you remove the windshield cowl, that doesn't help you much unless you've replaced your wiper motor before and know where it is.
The passenger's side udder is a completely different animal all together. You have to remove the battery to even see that one. Last of all, the AC has a small drain tube also. All I can tell you is that it is located on the firewall and you will never find it unless someone shows you or the motor is out of your car.
Thank you for all good tips I will follow up and do
Haven't lubed my door hinges in my '99 'vert in the 6 years I've owned it. Of course, always garaged it and live in the desert. (but I do wash it a lot). Thanks for the tip!
Wow. Very informative. Thanks Lyle!
Great video. Will you do a more in depth video on things to check before buying a C5?
Good video brother..I just inherited a 2004 C5 triple black convertible Corvette with only 28,000 miles from my uncle.
Great info..I just became a new subscriber 👍
Good tips. Didn't know about the lubing door hinges mandate.
Great video Lyle, can you do one on C6 next please
😷👍👍👍Please!
Thanks didn't know about the wiper drain or the WD-40.
Lyle , great video Awesome Thank you
I did #5 three times and placed parts damaged. So I traded off my C5 for a 124 Spider.with no problems with TX road dips.
What brand "Marine" Lube to you recommend? Very good video & advise. After 2 C-4's and now my C-5 I knew all this but excellent for those who don't know.
Following
For the door hinges? I don't think any specific brand is essential here, were not talking internal engine/trans just greasing the hinges. Any brand marine lube is probably fine, and was a suggested good option for something that would stick around a while. Main point is that its an oil/grease that has a little thickness and will stick around a while, where WD40 will clean it mostly and be very short lived.
C5 top flew off twice. First time it was on my teenage son for not locking it down. Second time it was on me. 🫣 The front of the top got separated from the fiberglass part a little so I gorilla glued it back down 👍🏽
The top got scratched up a bit so I sanded it down and had a vinyl wrap put on at a custom shop. It was much cheaper than painting it and it looks great 👍🏽
C5 owners refer to that as joining the "flying roof club". That club has many members, unfortunately, LOL.
Great Video. Thanks So Much!!
I definitely did not know that about an entry way. My driveway is angled up on the entrance
Great info - thanks very much!
Great information to know. Thank you Lyle. Very appreciated. I have the black '03 Z06 like yours. In Logan Utah. Hot summers, salty winter roads but park it then. Do you have to remove things to access them? Keep up the great work!!! Thank you very much.
That last one I needed to know, thanks
Thanks Lyle for the C5 advice. My Uncle is giving me his 2001 C5 that he has garaged and cared for like a child. It is a convertible in mint condition and only has 61,000 miles on it!! You gave great advice with how to enter inclined driveways. If I do not have access to my garage for a few months, do you have any advice on car covers? I live in California near the coast. Thanks for your help.
Just cleaned the udder. Never knew it was there!
Glad to see y’all are doing well tell Steve I said hi @C&S Corvettes
Man I had the same issue when I was managing a Stereo shop and the top got placed on without latching😤I left to go and deliver car and got a few blocks down the road and whoosh🥵Cost us about $1000😤
I’m in the FRC (Flying Roof Club). Put it on and got side tracked to get something from in the house, before I got in the car.
I like the "Aboouuut face!" 🤣😂
You can’t avoid the seat wear.. I’ve tried .. it’s just gonna happen.. if you are at the market and you have little room to get in and out.. it’s gonna get rubbed .. old or young .. I ve owned acouple C5 for nearly 20 years now.. replaced the leather twice
To protect against the top flying off for not being hinged, I bought a C5 Z06. It's an FRC. 😊
I like your Channel! hey can you do more videos on C3 vettes we are feeling left out here!
Great advice! Thank you
On #5: a foggy day i ran over a half of a semi tire on the interstate. $7000 insurance claim. Tore up that entire assembly, radiator, pulled the nut right out if the aluminum frame.... I do wish that frame work was a little higher or the approach angle was better.
Question 🙋🏻♂️. I’m looking at c5 to buy, what year it’s the best year and does GM still build parts for the c5, pls let me know when you can
Thank you and thank you for all those great videos so far I like them ....
Hi Edwin! I did a video on this exact subject with the C5...check it out! Lyle
simply outstanding;
Love these videos! Great source of information as it's very scarce here in Australia.
Liam, I really want to tap the Aussie Corvette parts market. I love your car culture! I have an entire warehouse full of 68-04 parts that I know you guys could use! Lyle
@@csvette Hi Lyle, we sure could use guys like yourselves here down under! We have a car culture that loves unique cars like Corvettes here and in normal times car shows happen every Saturday night in summer time. Check out C4 Corvette Australia's page on Facebook as it's a nationwide community dedicated to C4 Corvette enthusiasts.
More. .please
Hi Lyle, Great video! My husband and I just purchased a 2001 C5 Z06 with 9500 miles on it. We know we may have some things to "break in" as it was not driven very much 😉 We hope to be able to keep her for a long time. Do you think there is a limit on how old a vette can be a good investment for us? Thank you, Debbie- new subscribers
Hi Debbie! ANy low-mileage Corvette can maintain or grow it's value over time--it's all about keeping the car in a condition that is commensurate with the low miles. DO your fluids first and foremost, then be as proactive as possible when it comes to repairs or replacement of worn-out parts. Beyond that, drive the car...nothing is worse for a car than sitting. Happy motoring, and welcome to the Corvette family! Lyle :)
@@csvette Thank you so much for your quick response. We have watched several of your videos. We can see your passion for these and your knowledge of the corvette is outstanding!
Any suggestions for a marine lubricant? So many choices out there. Thank you for the great advice.
Just bought a 2003 zo6 first corvette,,thanks for the tips,,I'm been driving trucks most my life so sure il loose atleast 1 airdam..you have a website that sells parts? Just stumbled across this video so don't know anything about you,,glad you made it the the hurricane ok,, got some friends down in the fort Myers area that took a beating..thanks again for the tips.
Always look forward to your videos. Can you take a poll and see how many people on here have had their hands actually on a cow udder? Most people think milk comes in a plastic jug.
I gotta believe they have at least seen it in a movie at some point! :)
John ‘not so’ Quick. Have you never ever ever never seen a movie or a video of someone milking a cow? No poll needed.
Hi Lyle, I have a 2003 Corvette C5 having nothing but trouble with the codes brought it to the mechanic said he checked it on his coach machine and they were no codes on my onboard computer. There are several code to come up some of them. I know how to turn off others I don’t can you please help me with this I’ve been dealing with this problem for over a year, what happens is at some point the engine light comes on steady. I learned how to turn it off other times the ABS active handling comes on at the same time that stays on for maybe 4:50 hours and then it comes on again would you please help me with this problem I would appreciate it. Thank you.
Good evening Lyle, this may sound like a dumb question. The prior owner of my 99 FRC told me the only damage the car received was a full head on approach to a incline. My question is there a small dimple on the passenger frame rail. The front bolt that I repaired was tore loose. Is this a possibility or is someone selling me a story? Thank you graciously for your time and your second to none info is greatly appreciated. David T.
Hey David! That incline damage story is probably truthful. The lower radiator support (or what some call the skid bar) takes a lot of abuse, and it is not uncommon to have dents scrapes and damage on the leading edge of it. This unit can be replaced, as it just bolts to the frame. On impact, one or more of the nutserts that are pressed into the frame rail can be torn out--the only fix for that is to weld in a new steel patch and drill it to match the original hole circumference, then press in a new nutsert. Lyle
My targa top peeled off the frame at over 100mph back in the day. Upgraded to a acrylic see through one.
Fake news. The highest speed limits in the usa are 75 or 80 mph
@@tylerfabish5578 ya so I never break the speed limit... lol
didnt make it a minute into the video... came back from a vacation and forgot my habit of checking my latches, luckily nobody was behind me but it was an expensive mistake!
Great video! Looking forward to buy my first C5, near Boca Raton, can you recommend someone to do a pre purchase inspection nearby ?
Give VetteXperts in Pompano. :)
Just don’t get a 1997 one
I’ve taken both sides of my utters and I’ve actually cut the split off of them so they’re a wide open tube it seems to not cause me any trouble yet and it was over a year ago.
it will only be a rpoblem if rodents find their way into the car through them, but it isn't a big issue in most of the country. Lyle
What brand of marine lube would you buy???
My window rubber on the drivers side that the glass slides up and down may be dry what would you use for this issue???
Good job Lyle!!
What a great video. Thank you sir. Common sense thinking just isnt that common anymore.
I just got my 2004 corvette convertible. Love it my retirement car. Never own a corvette. That's for the information this morning.
Having owned a 2004 C5 since it came out of the factory in April 2004, the dealer pointed out that one should NEVER slam the hatchback or the hood when closing, He said to gently set the hatch or hood on the latches, then place your hand on the hood or hatch directly above the latch and firmly push down until you hear a click, then do the same to the other side. This will prevent cracking the fiberglass. In the 18 years that I have owned this great car, the only thing that I had a problem with was the Auto transmission shift cable that broke on one end, leaving me stranded until the Tow truck arrived. The cable itself is fine, but the PLASTIC attachment points on each end will eventually fail, and it is a MF-ing BITCH to change that cable. I put the car on my lift at home, and I had to pull off the X-tube exhaust member, and the torque tube cover that has about 50 bolts in it This is next to impossible to do without a lift, since the car is so low to the ground. I did learn something on how to get the car going in an emergency with a broken shift cable.
1.) Set the Emergency Brake. By the Left rear wheel, find the cable attachment on the transmission. Attach a set of vise grips to the shifting shaft. Use the grips to get into PARK if you need to Start. Then start the engine.
2.) Make sure the Emergency Brake is still engaged. Go back to the grips and go three clicks with the shifting shaft until it is in drive. Remove the vise grips so they don't fall off.
3.) Get in, release the Emergency Brake, and drive. Avoid having to back up on the drive home, which can complicate things. Go home or to a garage to fix it. If you do it yourself, you will need a lift. I did.
For such a well-designed car, the shift cable with the plastic junk attachment points was a disappointment. I hope Corvette comes up with a reliable shift cable that holds up to the heat inside the torque tube area, which is where the cable resides.
ruclips.net/video/aUpHp4mvzGc/видео.html