C3 Makeover: Modernizing a Classic Corvette

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  • Опубликовано: 9 июн 2024
  • In this video I walk through how I modernized my 1977 C3 Corvette through a number of modifications with a primary goal of improving the overall driving experience.
    To help judge the final product, I then score it against a modern sports car, my 2023 C8 Corvette in (4) key categories: Comfort, Road trip-ability, performance and maintenance.
    Check it out and let me know what you think!
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Комментарии • 921

  • @JJJCHEVY
    @JJJCHEVY 5 месяцев назад +232

    Can't argue with your scores man!
    Old cars have a totally different appeal and it's nice to see you appreciate all of what's great about these two very different sports cars.
    I think a lot of people struggle to understand how someone could rate a nearly 50 year old car so highly, but gearheads get it.
    Great video!

    • @BuckingHorse-Bull
      @BuckingHorse-Bull 4 месяца назад +8

      old cars have character

    • @gordocarbo
      @gordocarbo 2 месяца назад +1

      @@BuckingHorse-Bull Yep and Id never make a change to neuter that aspect
      A proper adjusted carb/choke will start immediately hot or cold. Never sit for hours in 110 deg heat so not worried about vapor lock. To me adding EFI just adds more to go wrong/fail.

  • @geoffrey6000
    @geoffrey6000 5 месяцев назад +341

    I've never seen a car youtuber go in this direction with a build. Some may find it less exciting than MORE HORSEPOWER BABYYY, but this is the real car stuff I appreciate. Completely agree with your scoring, awesome to see someone modernize an old car and make it comfortable to drive.

    • @Kunfucious577
      @Kunfucious577 5 месяцев назад +13

      Same. I get the die hards but I’m in my 40s now. Comfort is and ease of use is what I’m starting to value. Otherwise, I find myself just looking at it in the garage.

    • @thatslegit
      @thatslegit 4 месяца назад +3

      a lot of people dont know how to appreciate a car for what it was. this is also why i heavily dislike LS swap anything, bet those projects have more time under a tarp than miles

    • @HydetheRapper
      @HydetheRapper 4 месяца назад +8

      I really want a totally modernized ‘68 Corvette. I want it to feel modern inside, while being classic everywhere else. So, I, for one, was stoked to see this video.

    • @FRITZI999
      @FRITZI999 4 месяца назад +1

      I did it 10 Years ago with my car but I prefer to leave it in secret, as I´m not a RUclipsr anyways....

    • @manzelli1981
      @manzelli1981 4 месяца назад +3

      Love this. You are respecting the car and giving it a usability that fits the times, technology and personal taste. Not everything needs an LS swap, or a Concourse rotisserie resto

  • @oadka
    @oadka 4 месяца назад +237

    I will never get tired of the side profile of the C3. So beautiful.

    • @gordocarbo
      @gordocarbo 2 месяца назад +1

      Nice lookers but after owning, the ride and suspension components made me not want another .
      Not for tall people

    • @sporty05
      @sporty05 29 дней назад

      Agree 100%

    • @-007-2
      @-007-2 27 дней назад +1

      yeah that C8 looks terrible sitting next to that sexy coke bottle C3

    • @kg0173
      @kg0173 День назад

      The best looking C3 is 80-82. I mean its the best looking corvette of all. I also like C5 and somewhat C4.

    • @gordocarbo
      @gordocarbo День назад

      @@kg0173 Agree....love all C3 bodys but as you said...those are super classy looking.
      Wish they did hatchbacks earlier or Id buy one instead of another C4.
      DIg the 88-90 C4s and the 96 CE
      Roofline of the C5Z looks great but in general I dont care for the overeggagerated lines of them esp the giant rear bumper and tailights.
      Parked one next to my 90 Z...then my 89 coiupel and the C 5 dwarfed them
      C6 GS vert was sharp looking

  • @dos0711
    @dos0711 5 месяцев назад +141

    The C3 was imho the best looking Corvette made.

    • @michaelabrams1244
      @michaelabrams1244 3 месяца назад +7

      Agreed. I remember the first time I saw a C4 on the road... I was shocked... so disappointed. It felt like the Corvette lost its identity. I was really happy when the style started to come back with the C5.

    • @Win7ermu7e
      @Win7ermu7e 2 месяца назад +2

      I'm a C5Z guy but man this build is beautiful.

    • @sporty05
      @sporty05 29 дней назад

      Yep for sure! I think that's why it lasted so long. 68-82

    • @-007-2
      @-007-2 27 дней назад

      @@Win7ermu7e- except for that trash custom dash.

  • @relaxgaming8872
    @relaxgaming8872 4 месяца назад +64

    C3 all day. Those curves wins over everything. Back in the days it was all about design. Something we lack today because of safety rules and regulations.

    • @Anon-dx1rl
      @Anon-dx1rl 4 месяца назад +7

      I do miss the days of cars being beautiful, but it’s more to do with cost effectiveness and the emphasis on maximising company profits more than safety regulations, I’m sure many companies especially the smaller ones would love to make more interesting designs but it would simply cost too much for too little return

    • @relaxgaming8872
      @relaxgaming8872 4 месяца назад +5

      @@Anon-dx1rl yea it’s all about money and how cheap they can make it add to rules and regulations safety factors and it takes away great designs. If I had the money I would so get a c2 resto mod. My dream car. Maybe one of these days. 🙏

    • @GuileQwerty
      @GuileQwerty 3 месяца назад

      Yes and probably aero more than anything else. They're grinding all the corners off.

    • @gordocarbo
      @gordocarbo 2 месяца назад +1

      @@relaxgaming8872 Yup....if mfrs were that worried about safety they would take most the gadgets excessive buttons out of them. Nobody needs all that garbage and a screen to drive.

  • @bitemedude
    @bitemedude 5 месяцев назад +58

    Really glad you used a post-smog C3 for your build. The iconic style is there, but the performance and driving experience suffered critically from shoehorning all the necessary emissions equipment into the late 70s models. While it might bother some enthusiasts that it's not stock, personally I don't see any value whatsoever in preserving the lesser driving experience of a gas-guzzling, less comfortable, lower performing car when bolt-on upgrades are so readily available and make such a huge difference.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  5 месяцев назад +10

      @bitemedude - totally agree - and - its easy to upgrade C3 / other classic cars too / thanks for the comment!

    • @gordocarbo
      @gordocarbo 2 месяца назад +3

      Exactly, screw the purist crowd. Stock they were pig slow, boring etc .
      Stock doesnt equal more value (which I could care less about) either theres a butt for every seat
      My #s L82 buyers could give a chit if the #s matched or not ...purists just wanted to nit pick it and tell stories while chiseling $$.
      Never again

  • @wautvroman123
    @wautvroman123 4 месяца назад +40

    I rarely comment on videos. What you did here is amazing. So down to earth while talking about these incredibly thought out upgrades. Good job dude. Looking at you drive that C3 in the sunlight put a smile on my face. Respect

  • @prblackhawk
    @prblackhawk 8 дней назад +1

    This is what I want to do when buying an older car. Just modernization to make it easier to drive more. I appreciate that you did this and it gives me more motivation to start on my own project.

  • @AaronHendu
    @AaronHendu 3 месяца назад +16

    C3 is one of the most beautiful car designs ever.

    • @kg0173
      @kg0173 День назад

      especially years 1980-1982.

  • @genzdriven
    @genzdriven 4 месяца назад +15

    No joke... this video made me fall in love with my '81 all over again. It was my first car I bought at 17, and i've seriously been considering selling it in the spring because it's "hard to live with", and i'm heading to college in the fall. But now, i'm understanding it just needs more love. Going to look at fuel injection kits right now! Lol

    • @gordocarbo
      @gordocarbo 2 месяца назад

      Why? Qjet and an HEI, proper choke is as reliable as it gets.
      I think many aftermarket efi purchasers assume they will have oem reliability and that doesnt happen

  • @kilio1948
    @kilio1948 4 месяца назад +12

    I dont think anyone now-a-days are buying c3s for their performance. For a long time i think its just purely because of their unique style. So seeing someome upgrade one to modern comfort standards is so satisfying! I get to live vicariously through your amazing beauty shots of the car 😂

  • @bluescatreimer
    @bluescatreimer 5 месяцев назад +15

    I'll take the 77 over the new one any day of the week.

    • @henrywal
      @henrywal 21 день назад +1

      Circular brake lights are legendary. T Tops for the win

  • @fericyde
    @fericyde 5 месяцев назад +55

    Not a corvette guy at all here, just a gear head. I love the practical approach to your video and the way you broke down each of your mods, not just how you did it but WHY you did it and what the benefits were. I have a 2000 Mustang GT that I've updated over the years and I was nowhere near as coherent when I did my videos -- plus I can tell I'm not as rounded of a mechanic -- your work speaks for itself. Very clean and concise work here and I can tell you clearly have a passion for your cars. I have a bone stock 2011 GT500 and love driving it but have to say with some of my upgrades to the 2000 I enjoy the car so much more. There is no doubt though, it's nowhere near as safe as the newer car. I augmented my fuse boxes in almost identical fashion BTW -- the fuse box for a stock 2000 mustang is under the drivers dash -- you have to be a monkey to change the fuses and I curse when I have to get down there and change a fuse. So I added an augmented circuit setup very similar to yours. Made a world of difference. Plus it helps that the new fuse boxes have leds to show you what fuse is out.
    Loved your video and approach.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  5 месяцев назад +3

      @fericyde - thanks for the nice comment - 2000 GT had the 4.6 I believe correct? Nice motor/nice car and tons of cool mods are out there for this gen of mustang. 2011 GT500 too!?! Nice garage myman!

    • @fericyde
      @fericyde 5 месяцев назад +2

      LOL, yeah, the 4.6 I have to say was the best part of the car that I had to remove to swap in the Coyote (this is what I said in 2012, I've driven it over 10 years swapped now). The 4.6 was reliable, didn't use oil at 160k or so miles and still ran great -- sold it to a ford mechanic and his son who were rescuing another GT that had been blown up (after some mods I understood -- they were going a more stock route). I also put in a T56, major suspension upgrades, an android head unit (I use Torque from time to time but just android auto alone is an improvement) UPR k-member up front and a griggs racing setup in the rear with a torque arm (very similar to the one that is on a 3rd gen Camaro BTW). I'm shooting for 51/49 weight distribution some day :) at the moment I'm at 52.5/47.5 -- close but that 40-50 lbs of weight are rather hard to move without something drastic happening.
      @@TacoJoe

    • @VinceCannavaII
      @VinceCannavaII 5 месяцев назад +2

      100% I subscribed. Just found the channel. All hail the algorithm?

  • @skaughtmc6591
    @skaughtmc6591 2 месяца назад +5

    I have a 72 and an 02 Z06. The one small change I did that made a huge difference was swapping out the steering wheel. The stock wheel in 72 at least (maybe not by 77) was pencil thin and so large that you only have a couple inches between it and the door panel. At 6’2”, it also sat on my thighs. Ecklers makes a reproduction that looks identical, but is a few inches smaller in diameter and leather wrapped, so it’s thicker and more comfortable to grip. It made a world of difference in leg room.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  2 месяца назад +1

      Hey well said & totally agree. My steering wheel needs an upgrade too and thanks for the tip!

    • @gordocarbo
      @gordocarbo 2 месяца назад

      Makes anight and day difference!! 6ft3 that stock wheel was a joke and made driving feel way more cramped than it was

    • @deanwilliams433
      @deanwilliams433 Месяц назад

      I know the 80-82 had smaller thicker wheel

  • @JacopoSkydweller
    @JacopoSkydweller Месяц назад +2

    Really enjoyed this. It's a nice balance between the hour long videos about specific tasks on car builds, and the 2 minute "here's what I did, it's sick!"

  • @tombrennan3458
    @tombrennan3458 21 день назад +1

    The quality and information in this video are insane. I know nothing about cars mechanically, but the video was just way too entertaining. Love it!!

  • @TraydonDunkheel
    @TraydonDunkheel 4 месяца назад +5

    I love the stance and those chunky BFG's! Perfect.

  • @lewisclinton8080
    @lewisclinton8080 4 месяца назад +3

    Hey man, you are awesome at explaining everything, simply. I am not car savvy so it was a great experience listening to you narrate your video. Cheers!

  • @edgarsdzerins
    @edgarsdzerins Месяц назад +2

    C3 is one of the most beautiful car designs ever!

  • @mnistor1
    @mnistor1 5 месяцев назад +3

    Your videos are very educational and well edited, thanks for sharing your work in a clear cohesive way!

  • @scalecustomworkz7837
    @scalecustomworkz7837 5 месяцев назад +13

    One of the BEST video's I have seen in a LONG time! The video itself is super well put together. I honestly think with your knowledge and a bit of thought applied a BIG channel could arise from it. WELL DONE!

  • @cajunroadwarrior
    @cajunroadwarrior 5 месяцев назад +5

    Making my 82 streetable has been challenging due to the 550 hp Dart 427. It has a big cam so I had to use a hydroboost brake booster. I went with a Steeroids rack and pinion for a more refined steering. I went with a 4L80E with US-Shift 4 TCU. It's a beast. It has a FAST Street XFI Multiport EFI system. For comfort it has a new interior leather seats, AC, 7 inch touch screen, Dakota Digital system with retained accessories, cruise control, keyless entry and start.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  5 месяцев назад +1

      Oh man that sounds like a handful - and - a totally sweet ride!!! They don't get much stronger than a 427 dart block. I've watched the dart blocks on summit-jags and the only bummer is the long 3-6 month lead time (seems prior to COVID these were much easier to order and see in a few weeks). Did you use an OEM hydroboost unit or aftermarket? Thanks for the comment - any links/pics to your 82? Sounds awesome!

    • @adamarndt7617
      @adamarndt7617 2 месяца назад

      Very nice! I've got a many year project 79. Did Steeroid Rack conversion, rebuilt the 14.4k mile 350, Profiler heads, aggressive Mike Jones roller cam, aftermarket TPI intake, Holley HP fuel injection, 4L60e conversion (with the TCI EZ TCU), LS ignition coils, 58x crank trigger setup. QA1 single adjustable semi-coilovers, some other suspension bits, sound deadening and new carpeting, a Shark Bar 5 point seatbelt harness bar, new stereo system, LED and HID light conversion (Dapper Lighting 575s), electric headlight motors, Willwood Big Brake conversion.
      I need to get the EFI harness installed and a 100 tiny mini-projects completed so that I can start it up. Then it'll be stereo and gadget time. (I already replaced all the speakers, anticipating a touch-screen stereo.) The 100 tiny projects after getting the engine reinstalled are slowly killing me and sapping my motivation....

    • @cajunroadwarrior
      @cajunroadwarrior 2 месяца назад +2

      @adamarndt7617 Mine has been a 10-year project. It's always evolving. I was having transmission overheating problems so now I'm installing a large fan cooler oil cooler. I'm adding an engine oil cooler too. I'm also installing a crankcase evac system. I had to replace my MSD distributor due to corrosion making it misfire. I have 1700 miles on this setup and I just had a hydraulic lifter failure. I called Howard's about it and they sent me a new set. Luckily the cam wasn't damaged.

  • @rickhenson660
    @rickhenson660 11 дней назад +1

    I think Roadster Shop makes a complete chassis for your C3. Just say'n. I had a 75 Stingray, I built the factory L-48. 560hp @ the flywheel. Definitely fun to drive! I think you did a great job on yours! Thanks for sharing it.

  • @M--76
    @M--76 5 месяцев назад +3

    I absolutely LOVE your C3! Extremely well done build.

  • @CX0909
    @CX0909 5 месяцев назад +17

    Maybe with a little clay you could have build out the old dash to accept the new dash components and update its styling and then rendered it in fiberglass. Just a thought. That said C3’s are, for me, close to the Jaguar E Type in beauty and being a national icon. I like the C3 better than the original E Type but not quite as much as the restomoded Eagle Speedster. It would be wonderful for a company to do for the C3 what Eagle does for the E Type.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  5 месяцев назад +6

      well said @CX0909 - I like the fiberglass idea / longer term I'm still thinking for ways I can make the new dash look more natural (and not like a Greenwood Vette, racecar or something similar) - Totally agree that E-types are works of art too - Thanks for the comment!

  • @hughmarloweverest1684
    @hughmarloweverest1684 4 месяца назад +3

    If I were rich I would ask if you would build me a car. Genius, man.

  • @0xymfzzty0
    @0xymfzzty0 29 дней назад +2

    when i was 22 i bought corvette of the same model with the same color and leather combo, used to daily it for a couple of years, i swear one day i will buy anoter and rebuild it from scratch, this video makes me so happy

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  28 дней назад +1

      Glad you like it / you should go surf craigslist man! There are still plenty of C3s out there that can be had for low $$$ / thanks for the comment!

    • @0xymfzzty0
      @0xymfzzty0 27 дней назад

      @@TacoJoe Im not from the us actually, these are kinds expensive where im from as the only ones are imports, but i work hard and plan that in the next two years ill have the money to buy one and put a full Detroit street suspension with a 427 on it, kind of pricey but you know, a man can dream

  • @jinsane731
    @jinsane731 Месяц назад +2

    The C3 is still my favorite Corvette of all time and for me personally because it's a build somewhat more like a resto mod I give it a 37 that's just my opinion though and a 33 for the C8 it just fits me like a glove at 5:5 but definitely this C3 is done better than well and it's modded to your comfort

  • @KC-pf4tj
    @KC-pf4tj 5 месяцев назад +3

    I upgraded my 74 C3 similar but automatic.
    Coil over front shocks, fiberglass mono leaf rear.
    Punched out the engine to 355 cid, aluminum heads, mild cam 460 lift 272 duration, compression 10.75 to 1.
    Running a Holley sniper fuel injection system.
    I modified a standard GM HEI distributor so I could control the timing with the holley sniper system. The last thing I’m planning on doing is to install a rack and pinion system for the steering. I’ll be doing that sometime next summer.
    I’ve had this car since 1985 and loved driving it back then and even more so now with the mods.
    Enjoy your C3 and drive it, it was made to be driven and not sit inside a garage!

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  5 месяцев назад

      Hey I like the HEI mod so sniper can adjust timing! - is it a just replacement metal pickup/contact -reluctor setup that the sniper can control over a larger degree range after you set timing at a specific "set" cal value? I know my edelbrock setup was calibrated to 12 deg then once set, the ECU takes over / thanks for the comment!

    • @KC-pf4tj
      @KC-pf4tj 5 месяцев назад +2

      No, you first have to prevent the mechanical advance and vacuum advance from changing. Then you need to modify an old HEI cap so you can see where the rotor is pointing to get a good approximation. Holley in their setup wants a fixed 16 degree setting when using timing control and you should see that 16 degrees with your timing light. Once that’s set you put the Holley system in control. You can purchase a cable to bring out the reluctor signal. The module inside is discarded.
      Hope this helps!@@TacoJoe

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  5 месяцев назад +1

      I sure does / thanks for the details! I have a have a small block ford build in the works and may add EFI to the mix - and with the build - take on more mods like this (vs a prescribed Edelbrock kit setup) - I love the HEI design and appreciate the help!

    • @KC-pf4tj
      @KC-pf4tj 4 месяца назад

      Sorry for such a late reply, all I did was remove the stock Gm module and I purchased a cable from Holley to connect to the two reluctor wires that originally plugged into the module. I also had to lock the mechanical advance. I had an old HEI cap that I cut up so I could see where the rotor was pointing. From what I understand is that the Holley distributor comes with a clear cap to show you where the rotor it pointing.
      Now I setup my sniper first to get that going and once I was happy with it running,I then tackled the timing my way.
      Hopes this helps you and again, sorry for the late response!@@TacoJoe

    • @adamarndt7617
      @adamarndt7617 2 месяца назад

      If you do the rack and pinion (Steeroids, I'm assuming) conversion just make sure you get all their new reinforcement brackets. I have the v1.0 installed in my 79 and the original brackets flex too much and do not inspire confidence. Also know that your turning radius will slightly increase if you do the Steeroids conversion as you can't turn the wheel quite as far lock-to-lock.
      The Steeroids rack is very picky with your power steering pump specs, too and it wants a narrow range for pressure AND flow from the pump. If it flows too much and you don't install a power steering cooler, it can actually damage the rack and lead to premature failure... (Steeroids says 1000-1200 PSI for the pump; 1000 makes it less darty at high speed, but harder to move at idle / low speed; they also want a pump with

  • @projectkr71
    @projectkr71 5 месяцев назад +9

    C3 wheels look fantastic. The entire build is really well done, but I especially love that you kept the wheels that way. beautiful.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  5 месяцев назад

      glad you like it / thanks for the comment!

    • @stevelee2833
      @stevelee2833 5 месяцев назад

      Love it . BUT! Black wheels are terrible.

    • @InsomniaReal
      @InsomniaReal 3 месяца назад

      @@stevelee2833 I love using rims to contrast I have a white car so black rims, i woulda went for silver with the color of this c3 but looks amazing regardless its all preference i love every car and every build, its amazing to see how engineering can tailor the same rough idea to so many different visions. love c3, c4, c5s I'm hoping to buy a base c5 next year and enjoy it for a while before i start modding. I wish i could have a c3 exterior on a c5 thatd be the ultimate car imo.

    • @gordocarbo
      @gordocarbo 2 месяца назад

      They never came painted black

  • @allanjohnsen1034
    @allanjohnsen1034 Месяц назад +1

    C3 .... Oh my god I love it and allways have. Thank you for keeping it alive :)

  • @BridgeGuitar
    @BridgeGuitar 4 месяца назад +2

    I love your take in simply making the C3 a joy to own and drive. It all seems very reasonable. There are so many channels promoting projects that are unrealistic for many car owners, and C3’s don’t cost an arm and a leg.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  4 месяца назад +2

      Glad you enjoyed in @BridgeGuitar - C3s are great cars with tons of potential - thanks for the comment!

  • @sultankuto8724
    @sultankuto8724 4 месяца назад +3

    Amazing good sir,you made this beautiful classic your own,and you're happy with it,that there is a success,love it and goodwill.

  • @klonidier
    @klonidier 5 месяцев назад +3

    This is a textbook instruction on what “doing it right” means. Great work sir. Top out, stereo up, pipes rumbling. Keep Corvetting and Save the Wave.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  5 месяцев назад

      Thanks, will do!

  • @gasmonkey3706
    @gasmonkey3706 5 месяцев назад +1

    This is one of the best videos, auto comparison, that I have ever seen on you tube

  • @johnnyfinance
    @johnnyfinance 4 месяца назад +2

    Outstanding. Had a 1981 way back when.
    If I could have afforded to have this done at the time, I'd still have it today.

  • @ktr831
    @ktr831 5 месяцев назад +9

    In S. Ga., AC was the best upgrade I did then the 5 Speed. Both were a must to enjoy it though. A carb will perform just as good as FI but you must know how to set it up correctly. Adding upper arms to get more caster will up the handling and crushing a lot in c3’s as well. A few minor but very easy things I did was the borgenson power steering with the brace, the Holly serpentine belt kit (uses the ls water pump, alternator, power steering pump, and Sanden ac compressor), electric headlights, and led bulbs (especially on the gauges) I chose my 73 over a 80 because of the sunken speed/tach and love the 60’s fighter plane inspired gauges. Although I love seeing all the cool custom interiors (yours is nice and clean) that add cup holders, I just can’t bring myself to removing what I think is one of the coolest aspects of C3’s. Overall I’m glad to finally see these cars getting the love they deserve the last few years. Great job on your car!

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  5 месяцев назад +3

      Thanks for the comment @ktr831 - well said. The serpentine setup definitely is a worthy mod- where does the belt tensioner go? I can totally see the benefit of upgrading the pulleys and steering upgrades are great to consider too - my OEM steering setup works OK but it wanders with the valve slop. I kept all my interior pieces too so I can revert back someday if I want (or if values of the C3s continues to climb and collectors are interested in the OEM interior / etc) - thanks for the comment!

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  5 месяцев назад +2

      @ktr830 - one more thing / the quadrajet carburetor that came on the C3 (when tuned correctly as you say) - is a GREAT setup. A lot of people hate these carbs because of the small primaries but when tuned correctly you get the best of both worlds - great cruise fuel economy - throttle response and large secondaries to dump the gas when needed!

    • @ktr831
      @ktr831 5 месяцев назад +2

      @@TacoJoe look up Holley part # 20-240BK. Thats what I went with because it’s one piece instead of a Lego set of brackets. Also allowed me to change heads without pulling the belt off.

    • @roryblake7311
      @roryblake7311 5 месяцев назад +1

      Love your ideas. My first new car was an early 1977 Corvette, kinda nostalgic for that reason. Somebody must make suspension mods ...as that was my only gripe. I'd get another is so!

  • @pauljanssen7594
    @pauljanssen7594 5 месяцев назад +3

    Great build I think I like about this video is you basically covered a lot of the points that need to be it was right to the point of how to build a badass machine.😊

  • @LordHolley
    @LordHolley 5 месяцев назад +2

    I absolutely love what you've done. I have been wanting to resto mod as C3 corvette for a long time. Clearly, i'm not the only one....

  • @ronsmith7739
    @ronsmith7739 3 месяца назад +1

    You took a lot of work on this. Most people would not be able to do this. Thank you, thank you, thank you !!!!!

  • @hpmotorcars
    @hpmotorcars 5 месяцев назад +3

    Thank you TJ - this video is outstanding! You have provided useful information and advice that can benefit so many people to have more enjoyment with their later model C3s. You have communicated your points with clarity and honesty. Super impressive!

  • @jeffkarr9580
    @jeffkarr9580 5 месяцев назад +5

    Just wanted to say Thanks TacoJoe for sharing all of your insights into the modifications to your C3 vette ! I'm also a C3 owner and all of your mods make perfect sense to me. I especially liked the great info about SST and adding fuel injection ! Best regards JK

  • @h5mind373
    @h5mind373 4 месяца назад +2

    Extremely well done, both the build and the video! Pro-level work all around.

  • @carminep.5960
    @carminep.5960 3 месяца назад +1

    c3's are easily my favorite cars ever made, from any time period and any manufacturer the c3 takes the cake its got a special place in my heart

  • @Lucas_Fidalgo
    @Lucas_Fidalgo 5 месяцев назад +6

    What you did to the old Vette should be done in many classics and I absolutely love the way this was build!

  • @Mr42960
    @Mr42960 5 месяцев назад +4

    Great job, the c3 looks fantastic and great job with the video production. I have a c6 with minor mods so far. While I might not mind a c7 I just can't accept the c8 yet.

  • @johnzilla3155
    @johnzilla3155 3 месяца назад +1

    Wow. Incredible story-incredibly told with the video setup of all the parts and everything.

  • @zman204
    @zman204 5 месяцев назад +2

    Found this video completely by mistake. When you talked about the dash that you custom built, I felt the same, a bit out of place being all squared off, but still looks FANTASTIC! I think the car looks perfect!

  • @RobertNolanvaragon
    @RobertNolanvaragon 4 месяца назад +3

    I thought for sure you would have discussed driveability- lights, visibility, weather, suspension, etc since you're upgrading it to be more modern. I'd love to see a second video where you add more to the car.

  • @mdavis472000
    @mdavis472000 6 месяцев назад +4

    Another OUTSTANDING video TJ!! You're content and quality are top notch!! I have always LOVED the C3. And those wheels are PERFECT on the car. Thanks for another great video!!

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  6 месяцев назад

      Thanks for the nice comment Mr. Davis / hope you are well my friend :)

  • @guiart4728
    @guiart4728 3 месяца назад +1

    Probably my all time favorite body style! This is a car to modify the way you did it! Congratulations!!!

  • @KS-sy9gr
    @KS-sy9gr 3 месяца назад +1

    Professionally done all around! Clean ride…totally well planned and explained…great post brother!!!

  • @fuzter2007
    @fuzter2007 6 месяцев назад +3

    C3 is a great car, fun and historic. . C8 is only a.nice new car...

  • @xtnuser5338
    @xtnuser5338 5 месяцев назад +3

    A big factor I consider to be important if you want an older car to approach new car levels of daily comfort and usability is the weather seals around the doors, windows, T-tops, and also the alignment of doors, windows, T-tops, etc. Whistling wind noise and/or dripping rain inside both contribute towards older cars feeling their age and being annoying to drive often.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  5 месяцев назад +1

      Excellent excellent comment and I completely agree. I actually replaced the door seals and T-top seals too but didn't capture that in the video. The door seals made a HUGE difference with road noise and totally eliminated some of the door rattles with the latch linkage too. Thanks for sharing @xtnuser5338 and well said!

    • @xtnuser5338
      @xtnuser5338 5 месяцев назад +2

      @@TacoJoe Rattles, squeaks and resonant vibrations are another checkbox that should be addressed by anyone seeking to refresh an older car. Spend the time to track them down and eliminate them. Sometimes it's just a loose fastener. Sometimes you just need a bit of foam rubber tape between two parts. Sometimes more effort is required, but eliminating such noises goes a long way towards making your pride and joy livable on the regular. It can be the difference in a passenger walking away thinking you have a shitbox versus thinking you have a well built, tight, quality machine.

  • @russianchoc
    @russianchoc 3 месяца назад +1

    Great video! As a kid I used to wake up early every morning to see a red C3 Corvette that passed by on their way to work. I was enamored with the car. I still love it.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  3 месяца назад +1

      Sounds like you should find a red C3 for your garage / thanks for the comment!

  • @mattphillips5713
    @mattphillips5713 Месяц назад +1

    Quality video.
    I love my C3 and I appreciate your hard work on yours.

  • @michaeljulian4997
    @michaeljulian4997 5 месяцев назад +5

    What a spectacular build! When you clean and update things that can't be seen, it makes it clear that great care was taken to do things right. I even like the dash. I get what you are saying about being difficult to match the curves of the interior, but it is 100X better than anything I could do. Having owned C3s and driven a C8, I agree on the comfort scores as well. The driving position of the C3 is better than most cars built today, despite the 50+ years since it was designed.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  5 месяцев назад

      @michaeljulian4997 Thanks for the nice comment and glad you like it! Sounds like you are familiar with the C3s too / tough to beat a morning drive on a nice summer day with the T-tops off :)

  • @johnbutera5805
    @johnbutera5805 5 месяцев назад +4

    I love the C3 paint color!! 😮

  • @SilkiTre
    @SilkiTre Месяц назад +1

    This is one of the best car vids I have ever seen

  • @comfort_in_discomfort
    @comfort_in_discomfort 6 месяцев назад +3

    I think there is another, albeit subjective, measure you might consider - Smiles/mile. The C8 is a fantastic car, and if you could chose just one to live with, it likely would be a reasonable choice, given modern convenience and reliability/performance. For me, as I have an affinity for older cars, I look for character. Very few new cars have it, but I think that's very much in the eyes of the beholder. I was really hoping that GM would allow the C8 to be a 3-pedal car. Alas, it's cheaper to make with only one transmission, and the focus on performance figures took that away. Great video, and spot-on editing! What's next??

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  6 месяцев назад

      completely agree - if the C8 had a 3 pedal option, I definitely would have gone that route / thanks for the comment!

  • @srhatfield
    @srhatfield 4 месяца назад +4

    It's a 16 minute video and we never got to hear it run.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  4 месяца назад +1

      I'll see I can create a short to capture this - the SBC in it sounds EXCELLENT - thanks for the comment!

  • @wildernessfieldjournal8211
    @wildernessfieldjournal8211 3 месяца назад +1

    Great C3 build! I love that green color and simple style. Good choices of mods too. Thanks for going into such detail and comparing it to the new C8.

  • @mwms9872
    @mwms9872 6 месяцев назад +1

    Wow. GREAT VIDEO! Thanks for taking the time to give the details. Well done.

  • @byronholt4912
    @byronholt4912 6 месяцев назад +77

    I’m one minute and 40 seconds into this video and if you believe AFM belongs in a “sports car” we cannot be friends.

    • @user-lu3or3sq7z
      @user-lu3or3sq7z 6 месяцев назад +7

      Same here, absolutely agree, gen 5 is just a waste of money, absolutely stupid technologies added to this gen unlike gen 4 that has the Variable valve timing (vvt) which does actually improve performance and feul efficiency without having to deactivate any cylinders

    • @beaches2mountains230
      @beaches2mountains230 6 месяцев назад +10

      EXACTLY. ITS TURNED THE RELIABLE HEMI AND LS/LT ENGINES MODERN LEGACY OF DURABLE, HIGH MILEAGE POTENTIAL MOTORS TO FAILED LOW MILEAGE EXAMPLES BC OF CHEWED UP CAMS/LIFTERS AND METAL PARTICULATES RUINING THE BLOCK.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  6 месяцев назад +33

      hey Guys - yeah cylinder deactivation has its risks too (totally agree) - one thing I discovered is when I drive the C8 in sport mode, the throttle position sensor threshold for deactivation is considerably lower -ie- it only ever seems to activate on the highway. In track mode i don't think it even engages, but then your shift points start to get ridiculous. In terms of MPG savings - minuscule between touring/sport mode and I usually leave it in sport to keep all 8 firing most of the time. I think Silverados-SUVs likely benefit more from an EPA standpoint. thanks for the comments!

    • @user-lu3or3sq7z
      @user-lu3or3sq7z 6 месяцев назад +7

      If that's the case, then i think that's ok, you can just keep the car on sport or track and no cylinders will be deactivated, thanks man@@TacoJoe

    • @davejalenderki
      @davejalenderki 5 месяцев назад +6

      I absolutely hate AFM as well. I disabled it on my wife’s truck. Too many issues with the 5.3 with no benefits whatsoever.

  • @MyEyesBled
    @MyEyesBled 4 месяца назад +4

    The C3 = The worst handling car I ever owned

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  4 месяца назад

      there's definitely room to improve - a number of comments mention a fiber leaf in the rear along with some suspensions mods up front go a long way towards improving overall handling- going to look into this further / thanks for the comment!

    • @MyEyesBled
      @MyEyesBled 4 месяца назад +3

      @@TacoJoe No need, I did them all while spending big money and plenty of wasted weekends… the front to rear weight ratio along with oddball front end geometry would cause horrible plowing understeer, along with sway-bar bushing squeaks, and not to mention GM’s complete disregard for sporty feedback feel & control … bought it new, sold it for pennies on the dollar to some poor kid 5 years later … he tracked it and eventually totaled it…what a death trap IMO… he was unhurt but fully agreed, the C3 was not a Corvette… is was a Mako Shark wannabe. That’s all the Chevy bosses at GM were concerned about… looks not handling.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  4 месяца назад

      Haha - thanks for sharing - believe it of not I talked to a bunch of drivers at Laguna Seca raceway that were racing Greenwood wide body C3 Corvettes at a reunion race and they ALL said something similar. One of my favorite quotes from one of the drivers was "the C3 handles like a station wagon with a load of plywood strapped to the top" - lol

    • @MyEyesBled
      @MyEyesBled 4 месяца назад +1

      @@TacoJoe lololol…hahaa! …Thanks for the chat!

  • @planbenterprise
    @planbenterprise 5 месяцев назад +1

    Exelent production quality. You gunna hit a million subs this year.

  • @ChapsUnlimited
    @ChapsUnlimited 5 месяцев назад +1

    Great video; it felt like a big production! Good content, time management, and flow. Very informative.

  • @geraldscott4302
    @geraldscott4302 5 месяцев назад +3

    So you basically destroyed a 1977 Corvette. I have a 1976 Corvette. It is my third one. I finally found the one I wanted. It looks 100% stock. The interior is 100% stock, except for a hidden MP3 player. NO touchscreens. The suspension is stock except for polyurethane bushings and body mounts. Brakes are 100% stock with sleeved calipers. Exhaust is a true dual system with no cats, but looks stock from the rear. The engine was not original when I bought the car. I built a 360 rwhp 383ci old school small block for it, that both makes more power and is more reliable than stock. But on the outside it looks completely stock, even the color. It is carbureted. I did switch from an automatic choke to a manual choke. I had a TH400 transmission built for more reliability. It has 225/70-15 BFG RWL Radial T/As on silver steel rally wheels with trim rings and stock center caps. It was repainted in the stock white color, and the Buckskin tan leather interior was restored/replaced. It is 100% reliable and can be driven anywhere, but it still has all its original charm and character.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  5 месяцев назад

      destroyed my 1977 Corvette? Ouch! I still love my car and glad you like your 76 too / sounds like a nice setup

    • @colinwalker436
      @colinwalker436 5 месяцев назад +1

      ​@@TacoJoeclassiest of replies there, man. Well done.

  • @douglaswestbrook1683
    @douglaswestbrook1683 2 месяца назад +1

    I appreciated the keep it simple approach. On point on the issues you addressed.

  • @danielnewton2390
    @danielnewton2390 5 месяцев назад +2

    I love that you have the same stereo that I put in my 2000 Honda Accord back in high school.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  5 месяцев назад +2

      Haha - ok so maybe I could upgrade to a more current stereo too (lol)

  • @twomustangs
    @twomustangs 4 месяца назад +2

    One of the best automotive videos I've seen. Production values are through the roof - and that's outside of the mechanical work and analysis. Interior is where I'd go a different direction. The brown seats and carpet would be where I'd do the replacing/upgrading and I'd leave the dash & console. Keeping the exterior stock look is a rare and admirable choice. Wide body kit and 22" wheels are for different applications/not at all in my book. Nice car and great work on your video!

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  4 месяца назад +1

      Hey thanks @twomustangs - longer term I have more work on the horizon for the interior (including dash improvements) - totally agree with you on the 22" wheels & wide body too (not the right fit on a C3) - thanks for the comment!

  • @jasonwishart6800
    @jasonwishart6800 27 дней назад +1

    lovely C3. Modern shocks and tyres will do a lot for the ride and handling

  • @2wheelcobra
    @2wheelcobra 6 месяцев назад +1

    I just rematched your old cobra videos yesterday. Great channel. Love your content

  • @blackbuttecruizr
    @blackbuttecruizr 5 месяцев назад +2

    Excellent editing on the video, impeccable build.

  • @MAWUSIFITNESSTRAININGINC
    @MAWUSIFITNESSTRAININGINC 2 месяца назад

    Love the C3 and I can appreciate your modernization. The only difference I'd prefer is sticking to a curvier dashboard. But I understand.
    Awesome Job👍

  • @davidwilcox5916
    @davidwilcox5916 5 месяцев назад +2

    Very well done video! I am a gear head as well, but noticed more than anything the quality of the video...mostly the editing. Nice work!

  • @cdubb6128
    @cdubb6128 3 месяца назад +1

    C8 & C3 totally different beasts, a great pair to drive. Props to diy skills.

  • @user-qf6wy3uz3q
    @user-qf6wy3uz3q 2 месяца назад +1

    Best edited car video I've ever seen on youtube. Nice work.

  • @SpencerMusic880
    @SpencerMusic880 4 месяца назад +1

    good content! you explain things in a way that is easy to understand. Great breakdown of normal person usage and recommendations.

  • @venomada1
    @venomada1 4 месяца назад +1

    Awesome video. A while back, I was thinking about buying a classic Corvette (Maybe same year and body style) and doing some modifications. I got a lot of great ideas from watching you.

  • @MrClassicmetal
    @MrClassicmetal 4 месяца назад +1

    Man, this was unexpected. You focused on building a _practical_ car. Love this video, A+ !!! 😎

  • @jamesengland7461
    @jamesengland7461 5 месяцев назад +1

    Great build! I like the dash as well. And that paint color is amazing!

  • @johnbarker5009
    @johnbarker5009 5 месяцев назад +1

    Great upgrade plan, excellent video. Thanks!

  • @bodieb.1239
    @bodieb.1239 2 месяца назад +1

    Love the C3's Nice job abd awesome overview. Really enjoyed the video along with the choices and explanations.
    Thanks

  • @terrancedawson7030
    @terrancedawson7030 5 месяцев назад +1

    This is such a great & informative video! Than you for creating and posting this!

  • @randyrainier9670
    @randyrainier9670 3 месяца назад +1

    100% agree with the overdrive transmission being the number one mod needed. I had a '78 that I loved but the entire time I owned it I wished it had an overdrive when I road tripped it.

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  3 месяца назад

      its like a new car first time you drive it / best mod you can make (in my opinion) - thanks for the comment!

  • @TJonMaxx1
    @TJonMaxx1 4 месяца назад +1

    Wow Excellent Job! love the look of this unit!

  • @jeffb2456
    @jeffb2456 5 месяцев назад +2

    Never had much interest in a C3 until now. Enjoyed the video. Beautiful corvettes.

    • @gordocarbo
      @gordocarbo 2 месяца назад

      Problem is many parts are pure ripoff prices "vette tax". Youre kinda stuck with aftermarket stuff
      A and F bodies are more affordable to keep on the road.

  • @user-qi9hy3zf9m
    @user-qi9hy3zf9m 5 месяцев назад +1

    really amazing video, love the animations and attention to detail in all the information

  • @Brapbatt-YO
    @Brapbatt-YO Месяц назад +1

    That’s a rad C3 build. Really classy and great enhancements.

  • @MetikalMan
    @MetikalMan 3 месяца назад +1

    This editing is unreal brother. Very impressed.

  • @rodmeisterful
    @rodmeisterful 5 месяцев назад +1

    Really great comparison, inspiring, thanks!

  • @rlstrad2059
    @rlstrad2059 6 месяцев назад +1

    Great build, great video, great story. Thanks

  • @nickbo7124
    @nickbo7124 5 месяцев назад +1

    Wow the editing is as much impressive as the car itself, excellent job

  • @frankarrieta9211
    @frankarrieta9211 5 месяцев назад +1

    Thank you for the video. Enjoyed the whole content and presentation, it was very well done.

  • @robdedgar
    @robdedgar 5 месяцев назад +1

    OMG, I love this video! Thank you for giving me some ideas for my c3 restomod!

  • @josephackeret7911
    @josephackeret7911 Месяц назад +1

    I really like what you’re doing. Very well done 👍

  • @MrRanggong
    @MrRanggong 5 месяцев назад +1

    Subscribed. I have a lot of choices on YT but you consistantly put out high quality videos on the cars I'm most interested in so you get the nod. Very well done. Thank You!

    • @TacoJoe
      @TacoJoe  5 месяцев назад +1

      appreciate the kind words @MrRanggong - more content is on the way so stay tuned!

  • @carlosgarza1962
    @carlosgarza1962 4 месяца назад +1

    I'm glad i found your channel. Great video

  • @davidpavlich8939
    @davidpavlich8939 5 месяцев назад +1

    I owned a '76 'Vette so this was a fun video. 😀 Nicely done!