2019_NC_NCRS_NewsletterApril-June

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NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

April to JUne 2019 EDITION NorthCentralNCRS.com

Tom Hafner’s 1967 327/350 HP, 4-speed Corvette Coupe

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

State of The Chapter Spring has come and gone, we have had snow, rain, cold and some warm weather mixed in for good luck.

But through all of that, I’m sure we have taken our Corvette’s out of winter storage and hit the road. Just last weekend was the 46th Annual Back to the 50’s car show where several of our members attended such as Dave Cloutier, Joe Galindo, Jerome Lardy, Bob Lund and I’m sure many other club members.

Here’s a recap of the club events and activities during the past three months.

• Board Meetings: The board was scheduled and met on April 4, May 2 and June 6, at Davanni’s in East St. Paul to conduct the club business, including board member reports, old and new business. Club members who attended these meetings included Mark Swanson, Jeff Henry, Wally Grivna, Dave & Jeanne Cloutier and Bob Cox. Members are always welcome to attend.

• Technical Sessions: On April 13, twenty three members attended the body drop of John Ikeda’s 63 split window, hosted by Joe Galindo. No technical session was held in May due to our Judging Event. On June 15, sixteen members attended a safety inspection of Linda Krinkle’s 67 coupe hosted by Paul Burski.

• Social Activities: On April 27, fifteen members attended the Spring Social at Cowboy Jacks in Woodbury.

• Judging Event: On May 11, thirty members attended the Spring Judging Event at Gilby’s Street Department in River Falls, Wis. We continue to look for suggestions from our club members on how to improve our club events and increase membership participation. I would like to see new faces and I would like to do new things that are of interest to our club members, but that’s up to you the membership. Let’s make 2019 the best year ever!!!

Please feel free to contact me with your ideas.

Regards, Alden Miles / 612-387-2869 / armiles1226@yahoo.com

Chairman Vice Chairman Membership Tech Director Alden Miles Paul Burski Jerome Lardy Bob Lund

Judging Chair Chris Enstrom

Activities Secretary Treasurer Website/newsletter At-Large

Don O’Grady Dave Murphy Roger Carlson Nick Kornder Kevin Sullivan

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

2019 Calendar of Local Events January Thurs.

Sat

February Thurs.

Sat. Sat. March Thurs.

Sat. Sun. April Thurs.

Sat. Sat. May Thurs.

Sat. June Thurs.

Sat. Sun. July Wed. Sun/Thur Sat. August Thurs.

Sat. September Thurs.

Sat. Mon. October Thurs.

Sat November Thurs.

December Sat Tues.

3 6:30 PM Board meeting - Davanni’s in Roseville 19 9 AM Judging School Presentation “St. Louis Assembly Plant Old Country Buffet - Burnsville, MN - FREE BREAKFAST PROVIDED BY CHAPTER 7 16 23

6:30 PM Board Meeting - Davanni’s in Roseville 9 AM Tech Session or Judging School 6 PM Holiday Social at Mancinis’

7 16 31

6:30 PM Board Meeting 9 AM Tech Session or Judging School

Deadline for Crossed Flags articles – forward to Nick Kornder

4 13 27

6:30 PM Board Meeting - 310 White Bear Ave, St Paul, MN 55106 9 AM Tech Session - Joe Galindo hosting in Ramsey - Body on 63 5 PM Spring Social Dinner – Cowboy Jacks

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6:30 PM Board Meeting 8 AM Chapter Spring Judging Meet

6 15 30

6:30 PM Board Meeting 9 AM Tech Session or Judging School

Deadline for Crossed Flags articles – forward to Nick Kornder

10 14-19 20

6:30 PM Board Meeting - 310 White Bear Ave. St, Paul, Minn.

NCRS NATIONAL CONVENTION 10 AM Summer BBQ - Cruise to Tim & Linda DeAtley

1 17

6:30 PM Board Meeting 8 AM Chapter Judging Meet – Long Lake,MN

5 21 30

6:30 PM Board Meeting 9 AM Tech Session or Judging School

Deadline for Crossed Flags articles – forward to Nick Kornder

3 19

6:30 PM Board & Chapter Meeting, ANNUAL ELECTION 9 AM Tech Session or Judging School

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6:30 PM Board Meeting

21 31

9 AM

Tech Session or Judging School Deadline for Crossed Flags articles – forward to Nick Kornder

ALL DATES & TIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE * Monthly Board of Directors Meeting Location Announced Each Month *All chapter members are welcome at board meetings. We hope to see you at one.

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Calendar of National Events 2019 Regional and National Events February 9 Indiana Chapter Judging School Greenwood, Ind. February 21-23 Florida Regional Lakeland, Fla. March 14-17 National Judging Retreat Grapevine, Texas April 11-13 Queen City Chapter Regional Sharonville, Ohio May 16-18 New England Regional Boston, Mass.

July 14-18 2019 NCRS National Convention Greenville, S.C. September 19-21 Northern California Regional Lake Tahoe, Calif.

October 24-26 Lone Star Regional Frisco, Texas 2020 Regional and National Events February 19-22 Florida Regional May 14-16 Adirondack Regional May 28-30 Rocky Mountain Regional June 11-13 North Central Regional July 19-24 2020 National Convention August 20-22 Northwest Regional October 22-24 Texas Regional

Lakeland, Fla. Latham, N.Y. Loveland, Colo.

Rochester, Minn.

French Lick Springs, Ind. Redmond, Ore. Frisco, Texas

Paragon Rewards Program continues in 2019

As announced in last quarter’s newsletter, the 2018 Paragon Rewards Program results were an outstanding $630.00. The chapter wants to again THANK all those members that have signed up to participate and use Paragon for their parts. At an upcoming board of directors meeting the board will decide on how to use this money/certificates to further benefit our members and chapter. If you have any ideas on how to use this money/certificates please let one of the board members know. We are always looking for new and creative ideas on how to improve the chapter.

The Paragon Rewards Program continues in 2019. We currently have over 35 chapter members participating. We thank you! If you have not yet signed up and want to be a participant, please email Roger Carlson at RogerPCarlson@gmail.com.

Jason Alt’s 1965 triple black 327/365 HP roadster 4

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Membership Update I reached out to the NCRS members in our region that did not currently Current Members belong to the local chapter and encouraged them to join. The chapter increased its membership almost 10% last quarter. We added eleven new members bringing the total membership to 137.

Bill Gast lives in Brandon, SD and owns a ’66 coupe with the 300hp motor. Bill mentioned that it received the Bowtie Award in 1999.

Jason Jones is a new member who resides in Bemidji, MN. Chris Cleveland lives in Minneapolis and is the proud owner of a ’71 coupe with the base motor. Chris is the third owner of this Corvette and he has tackled a few upgrades. He is looking for help in checking out the wheel bearings and U-joints.

Possibly a future tech session?

Steve Nagel hails from across the St Croix River in Hudson, WI. Steve has a ’74 coupe with 28k original miles.

He previously owned a ’69 coupe, which he completed a body off restoration on, but sold that car in 2014.

Glenn Nelson resides in Pipestone, MN. Glenn owns a ’65 big block coupe which has 43k miles and knockoffs.

John Hall lives in the beautiful town of Lake City, MN. John has a pair of C4 ZR-1’s including a 1990 Black/Black and a 1993 Polo Green/Tan. We would love to see more C4’s at our judging meets!! John also owns a 2011 ZR-1.

Dave Warzala calls North Branch, MN home. Dave is a past member that decided to rejoin our chapter. I remember that Dave has a ’78 Pace Car. Welcome back!

Roger Georges resides in Delano, MN and is in the process of finishing a 7 year restoration project. Roger has a ’57 FI Corvette that was a barn find. We have a few C1 guys that would love to see your car someday.

Delaine Rud lives in Bloomington, MN and was encouraged to join our chapter by Bob Lund. He owns a ’66 Corvette which he has been working on. Delaine attended our tech session last weekend and was able to meet several members of our chapter. He mentioned that he joined another Corvette Club first and they did not work on their cars like we do. Delaine was impressed with what the chapter was doing and said this is what he was looking for.

Ron Vycital hails from Elko, MN and is the proud new owner of a ’95 ZR-1. He recently purchased this vehicle and we were able to judge it at our May judging meet. The Corvette had very low mileage and Ron received a Top Flight Award the first time out. We encouraged Ron to bring the car to our Regional Meet in Rochester next June.

Mark Shobe lives in Clearwater, MN and has a ’73 coupe with the 350 cubic inch motor and the automatic transmission. Mark stopped by our chapter judging meet to introduce himself and check out the action.

Welcome to all our new members. We look forward to seeing you at one or more of our upcoming events.

- Jerome Lardy, North Central NCRS Membership Chair

About the North Central NCRS

Formed in 1974, the National Corvette Restorers Society is a non-profit hobby group of 15,800+ families dedicated to the restoration, preservation, history and enjoyment of Corvettes.

Founded in 1988 the North Central Chapter is chartered by the NCRS National to support and organize Corvette hobby activities in the Upper Midwest to further the NCRS National philosophy of preservation and restoration of Corvettes.

The NCRS North Central Chapter is based in the Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota metro area with the majority of membership spanning throughout Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota and Canada.

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Chapter Happenings

NORTH CENTRAL CHAPTER ANNUAL SPRING SOCIAL AT COWBOY JACKS

On Saturday, April 27, 2019 the North Central NCRS held its annual Spring Social at Cowboy Jacks in Woodbury, Minnesota. The chapter had 15 members enjoy a night of socializing along with a special cake.

- Don O’Grady, North Central NCRS Activities Director 6

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Chapter Happenings

NORTH CENTRAL CHAPTER ANNUAL SUMMER ROAD TRIP

On July 20th we have a road trip planned to go to Tim and Linda DeAtley’s home for a barbecue lunch. We will meet at the Perkin’s in Hudson, Wisconsin at 10:00 a.m. and head out as a group from there. Hope to see you there.

Any questions please contact Don O’Grady at ogradydon1800@gmail.com or 651-402-3894.

Did you know? c4 In 1988, Corvette started using a unidirectional 17” wheel.

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Chapter Happenings April Tech Session - John Ikeda’s 1963 Restoration Back on November 17, 2018 we had a tech session hosted by Joe Galindo and Nick Maras. We worked on a beautiful Black/Black 1963 split window coupe owned by John and Sandy Ikeda. The car was recently painted and the body is in better than factory condition. First, we looked at the restored frame and driveline and reviewed and discussed problem areas with these older chassis. John is having Joe install a new 383 GM crate with 435HP and 445 LBS FT of torque.

Since the crate motor has significantly more power, John wanted to make sure the frame and driveline could handle the new engine without any issues. Joe installed a rebuilt factory 4:11 from a C2 big block car, C3 heavier duty half shafts, new trailing arms and disc brakes, built by Bob Lund. Bob also supplied C3 front spindles. The big block drive train is designed to handle more power and torque and should work better with the new crate engine. Joe also added some more welds to help reinforce the frame to prevent any flexing. New brake lines and a new fuel line were also added. Since the brake line goes through the frame on a C2, the only time it can be replaced is when the body is off the chassis.

Since John planned on installing a new aftermarket 5-speed SST Tremec transmission with the new crate motor, we discussed options for aftermarket clutches to use. Joe then discussed how to properly align the transmission to the new motor using a dial indicator and off-set dowel pins. If the transmission isn’t properly aligned, the roller bearings can fail. Tremec requires the owner to send in proof they aligned the transmission with off-set dowel pins.

If the pins aren’t used, the factory warranty from Tremac can be voided.

The last project we conducted was with the 383 GM crate motor. Because of hood clearance issues, we needed to install a new lower GM intake on the car to insure proper hood clearance. The new intake is about 1.25” lower than the intake that came with the crate engine.

Since the November tech session, Joe and Nick installed the engine and transmission in the 1963 frame. They had a custom drive shaft made the proper length to ensure the correct angles are maintained on the driveline to help prevent any vibrations and premature wear on any of the driveline components. They made sure the driveshaft could handle the power from the 383 small block engine.

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Chapter Happenings On April 13 2019, Joe and Nick hosted a second tech session to work on John and Sandy’s 63 split window. We worked on putting the body back on the frame. Joe discussed the proper way to get the body mounts to the correct levels for the body. There are three body mounts on each side of the frame between the wheels.

The front and back mounts are both 1” higher than the center body mount. Joe showed us how he uses a piece on square steel tubing to use as a guide to get the proper spacing for the mounts.

We took a look at the body and what they did to get it ready for the frame installation. Joe showed us some of the factory markings in the inside of the firewall and showed how they put them back on the fire wall the same way they did at the factory in St.Louis. We rolled the chassis under the body and slowly lowered the body on the frame using Joe’s 2-post lift. It was amazing how little clearance there is between the body and certain points on the frame clearance back in 1963. We had many sets of eyes watching for interference while lowering the body. There is very little room for error especially by the fire wall and by both rear tires. I’m surprised GM could build a car with so little clearance back in 1963 without using computers and CAM CAD software.

We had around 40 people attend the tech session, 30 club members and 10 non-members. We had one member bring his grandson along to watch and learn. Kids and friends are always welcome to attend our tech sessions.

I have been told the work on the ‘63 is almost complete and John and Sandy will soon be enjoying their Corvette again.

We would like to thank John and Sandy Ikeda for allowing us to use their beautiful split window for our tech session. We would also like to thank Joe and Nick, again, for hosting another tech session If you haven’t attended and tech session at Joe’s Garage, I would highly recommend you do.

They really put a great tech session together with a lot of useful information and tips to help make your restoration projects much easier. Joe really puts forth extra effort to keep things moving and makes sure to get everyone involved.

Please contact Bob Lund (612) 309-0344 or Paul Burski (612) 987-1154.

- Paul Burski, North Central NCRS Vice Chairman

Did you know? c4 The FX3 adjustable suspension option, permitting shock valving changes via a rotary dial mounted on the interior console between the seats, was first introduced in 1989.

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Chapter Happenings June Tech Session - Safety Inspection of a 1967 Roadster The North Central NCRS chapter had a tech session on June 15th. Our member, Linda Krickle, had contacted us a few times about doing a safety inspection of her Corvette. Linda has a 1967 Red/Black roadster. This beautiful Corvette was purchased by Linda’s late husband back in the early 70’s. He had restored the car himself in his garage, including an awesome paint job, many years ago. After a few failed attempts to get a tech session date that would work with Linda’s schedule, we were finally able to help her this June. I volunteered my garage for the tech session since I have a four-post lift and few tools at my garage in Lakeville.

Due to weather concerns and the fact that the ‘67 has older bias ply tires, Linda had her son, Andy, drive the car to my house in Lakeville on Thursday evening.

We put the car on my lift and got the rest of the garage set up for the tech session. We had 16 members and 3 kids attend the tech session.

The goal of this tech session was to look at the condition on the car and come up with a list of repairs that would need to be done in order to make this a safe car to drive and enjoy.

First of all, Tech Director, Bob Lund, went over types of oil to use in older collector cars. He mentioned that older car required oil with zinc to help prevent cam wear in the older cars. Bob mentioned that even though the new synthetic oils have many advantages over the old conventional oil in newer cars, the older cars are not designed to use synthetic oils. When you go to start up an older engine that has been sitting for a while there may not be any oil left on the parts during start-up; which could cause premature wear of your engine. Bob recommends using conventional Valvoline VR1 oil or any other oil with high zinc content in your collector cars. You should change your oil in the fall, just before storage, so the last drive coats the engine with new oil.

We then discussed tires. We asked Linda how old the tires on her ‘67 are and she thought at least 20 years old.

If you are going to have your car judged, you may want to keep your old original bias-ply tires on your Corvette, just for judging events. However, If you want to drive your car, it is highly recommended you buy newer steel belt-

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Chapter Happenings ed radials tires for your car. Steel belted radial tires ride better and have a lot less road noise and are much safer on the road. They will have shorter stopping distances and will perform better in the rain or in slippery road conditions. If the tires on your car are over seven years old and you have an issue with them, most shops will not repair the tire for you. The cost of a normal tire for the older Corvettes in normally under $100 each. If you have a blow out and the tire comes apart it can seriously damage your Corvette and could easily cost thousands of dollars to repair! If you decide to buy new tires, one of the tires recommended is Uniroyal Tiger Paw Tires. These tires are very high quality, are made by Michelin, and were available

on the Corvettes from the factory.

We looked at the brakes on the ‘67. A couple of the tires showed signs on leaking brake fluid on them. We discussed which order to bleed your brakes and why. We discussed the different types of DOT brake fluids and which one to use in your collector cars. The brakes on this car need to be replaced. We put tires and brakes on the top on the repair list.

We jacked up the front and rear of the car and shook the wheels and suspension systems looking for loose or worn parts. The front idler arm had some play in it and will need to be replaced. They checked the back wheels for play and it appears the back passenger side wheel bearing has some play in it and should be replaced. The car appeared to sit to low and showed signs that both the front coils and the leaf spring in the back will need to be replaced along with the shocks. We recommended Linda replace the shocks with AC Delco’s to keep the car as original as possible.

Bob helped Andy bleed the brakes before the end of the tech session. We were able to give Andy a list of projects to do on his Mom’s ‘67. We put down tires and brakes first on the list followed by shocks and new springs.

I would like to thank Linda and Andy for bringing their car to Lakeville for the session. I would also like to thank Bob Lund for putting on an awesome, information-filled tech session. Bob really is an expert when it comes to working on Corvettes, especially C2 and C3 cars.

If you have a project on your Corvette that you need help with, I would encourage you to host a tech session. You will get a lot of help and advice from your fellow NCRS members. If you have any ideas for future tech sessions we would like to hear from our members. Please contact Bob Lund (612) 309-0344 or Paul Burski (612) 987-1154.

- Paul Burski, North Central NCRS Vice Chairman

Member's Thoughts The event hosted by Paul Burski and speaker Bob Lund was just one of the best.

The topic was what should be done on a car that had been in storage for some time... it should have been on tape so all members could see it. You just can’t get this “hands on” teaching like this club provides. Thanks. Bob Cox 11

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Chapter Judging

We are always looking for Judges The NCRS North Central Chapter will hold two “Chapter Events” during 2019 and multiple “Judging Schools”. We are always looking for judges to volunteer at these events, regardless of experience. If you are interested in learning more please contact Chris Enstrom for more details.

Got an IDEA?

If you have a suggestion for a topic for an upcoming Judging School, - Chris Enstrom, North Central NCRS Judging Chair please contact Chris Enstrom 651-503-4165.

NCRS Judging is recognized around the world as THE STANDARD in determining originality.

The Judging System is designed to educate each owner about their car as well as providing recognition for excellence in the areas of restoration, performance, or preservation. You can learn to judge through participation. Start out as an observer judge and work your way to Master Judge through the Judges Recognition Program.

JUDGE NCRS Judges are volunteer members who offer their time and knowledge to Judge Members Cars under the guidance of the NCRS Technical Information Manual & Judging Guide.

Master Judge NCRS Master Judges are volunteer members who have been recognized by the organization and membership for accumulating a minimum of 100 points in our judging recognition program by Judging at events, attending Judging Schools at Chapter Meets, Regional Meets and National Meets. Many have also attended National or Regional Judging Seminars that last for one or two days of intensive instruction and hands on participation.

Did you know? c3 The big block engine made it’s final curtain call in the 1974 Corvette.

The FE7 Gymkhana Suspension package was first introduced in the 1974 Corvette.

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

What Makes us NCRS

NCRS Members benefit from mountains of technical information that they can rely on. When you join the NCRS, you access the combined knowledge of thousands of previous members. A group of 19 Technical Advisors, who are recognized as the authorities in their fields, are also just a letter or e-mail away. Whatever problems that you might run into has been solved in past years by other NCRS members.

At the chapter level we are always looking for Tech Session ideas. This is NOT the chapter coming to work on your Corvette. It is the chapter coming to HELP YOU work on your Corvette as you learn more about your piece of American History. If you are currently working on your Vette and would be interested in hosting a tech session, please contact Tech Director Bob Lund or Asst. Tech Director Paul Burski.

The North Central Chapter of the NCRS has received NCRS Chapter Top Flight Award for Seven straight years!

(2012 to 2018) Did you know? C2 The “GM Mark of Excellence” sticker appeared, placed on the inside driver’s door jamb, appeared in 1967 only.

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Member of the Month Matt and I have restored the C1 as tribute to the 43 “Airbox” Corvettes produced in 1957. However, we did take a few liberties in upgrading the engine to a 350/400 HP, paired with a 5 speed Tremec. While we elected to leave the vintage single stage paint, Matt and I decided to have it hand painted with vintage style race numbers.

April - Jason Alt

Thank you for the opportunity to be featured as the Member of the Month! My name is Jason Alt. I am single (divorced), no children. I live in Inver Grove Heights, MN and own a “man cave” in Burnsville, MN. I am a Vice President/Partner with a Minneapolis based consulting firm ProSource Technologies, LLC. My primary areas of expertise consist of managing complex and politically sensitive acquisition and relocation projects, assembling teams to implement right of way projects, training right of way staff for public agencies, and establishing policies and procedures for agencies to oversee right of way consultant firms. I have worked throughout the country on various land acquisition and relocation projects for private, commercial, industrial and local, state and federal governmental clients. And, have managed several high profile land projects including the State of New York’s disaster management for Hurricane Sandy, and major expansion projects for Los Angeles International Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and various airports in the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) Reliever System and across Minnesota and Iowa.

I joined NCRS several years ago after being encouraged to do so by Bob Lund after acquiring my first corvette and “dream” car, a 1965 triple black 327/365 HP roadster. It’s a numbers matching car that my best friend, Matt Ruvelson, and I (with assistance from Bob Lund and learning from other members at various tech sessions) have spent the last 5 years restoring it to NCRS standards. Since that time, I have acquired a 1957 Corvette Roadster.

This past year, my corvette collection has again grown. I purchased a 2001 triple black roadster which has been highly modified to exchange the stock 5.7 liter with an 6.0 liter iron block, Vortec supercharger, and Z06 suspension. I have a few projects (e.g., new wheels/tires, new transmission/motor mounts, and a smaller clutch master) for this winter on my C5. But, I plan to use it as a daily driver this summer.

Both my C1 and C2 are reliable weekend and sunny weather drivers that we continue to maintain and improve as time permits.

Outside of work and my passion for cars, I love spending time with my niece and nephew, and have a passion for both domestic/international travel, adventure fishing trips (e.g., Mexico, Florida, Canada and the Artic Circle), attending sporting events (e.g., Vikings, Twins and Wild) and his work with local charities such as the University of Minnesota Children’s Hospital and supporting the development of affordable housing in our community with leading housing developers, CommonBond and Aeon.

For a “backyard” mechanic like myself, it would not be possible for me to own these corvettes had it not been for Matt Ruvelson, Bob Lund and abundance of resources NCRS (both on the local and international levels) has offered to me over the last several years. I have learned and grown so much in the hobby and enjoy the opportunity to be associated with “like-minded” car guys who love corvettes and care about preserving history for future generations.

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Member of the Month

May - Tom Hafner

The Vette know has 42,000 miles on it and Sue I’ve been married for 46 years to my wonderful and I drive it every chance we get. I’m 78 years wife Sue. We have two kids Beth and Ben and old, but every time I get behind the wheel of my Four very energetic fun grand kids who unfortu- Vette I feel 30 again. nately live in Seattle.

June - Jeff Geisler

Before all that in 1969, I bought a 1967 Corvette with the 327/350 HP 4speed with 13,000 miles for $3,200 dollars. I drove the Vette for several years until at 39,000 miles the brakes started to fail. Being married with a family I parked the Vette in my garage, and covered it.

The June North Central NCRS Member of the Month is Jeff Geisler. He has been married to his wife Jenny for 36 years and they have a son, Chris, daughter in-law Jes and two grandchildren, Hailey and Cameron.

There it sat for the better part of 30 year and in 2006 it was time to sell. Then I got lucky and met Bob Lund. With his recommendations and expert knowledge of my car, in a few years, he brought my Vette back to life. Bob suggested I join NCRS and have my Vette judged. In 2010, I took Bobs advice. Being new to NCRS I did not know what to expect, I was totally blown away when I was awarded Top Flight. Thanks Bob.

Jeff owns a red 1981 Corvette and a 2014 Laguna Blue Corvette along with a share of a silver 1976.

Overview of your car(s): model, engine, convertible?, coupe? The 81 T-top is my NCRS car-almost all stock. Not much for power but I think this era is one of the prettiest. The 2014 is a stock coupe LT-3 with Z-51 suspension. The 76

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Member of the Month In March of 2018, we found an almost new 2014 with only 200 miles on it. When it turned out the car was at Ryan Chevrolet in Buffalo MN, we had to buy it. Last summer we put 6000 miles on that car and intend to drive it more this year.

What is your next Corvette project? I’m just finishing putting an Al Knoch carpet kit in the 81. I’m continuing to work on a lot of small things. I’m hoping to get it judged again this August.

T-top is owned with my son. We work on that car together- it has been repainted and has a custom interior. A year ago, we installed new calipers and rotors ourselves.

History of your Corvette(s): I bought my ’81 at Bloomington Gold in June 2005. It had been restored and found it in the area where you could sell your car. I had been learning as much about Corvettes as I could but I didn’t know everything I didn’t know. It was my first Vette and we chose the best one we could find. I drove the car home from Chicago and had to work hard to keep it from overheating at the toll booths. It was hard to drive but we got it home. We found quite a few problems with loose suspension parts, a poor cooling system, very bad alignment and the steering rag joint holding on by 1 loose bolt. I began to learn very quickly-one repair bill after the other. The car really began to work great by the end of that summer. It’s a great driver now.

We bought the 76 shortly after my son bought his first home in 2010 and had room to store it. The front and rear bumpers were falling apart and the paint was very worn. We had new bumpers installed and the car painted. A year later, we had the seats and door cards refinished in leather. It’s a very nice driver. A new motor may be in that car’s future.

When did you buy it? Do you or your car have a unique story to tell about how you got into the Corvette hobby? We had been looking on the internet for a C7 to use for longer driving trips.

North Central Chapter – When did you join? 2016 What activity do you like best? Judging? Car cruises? Tech Sessions? I like the tech sessions.

There is a ton of knowledge in the Chapter. I had my car judged last August and really enjoyed that.

I was awarded 2nd Flight, It’s fun getting to know everyone.

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Chapter Board Minutes

April 4, 2019

Board Members Present: Alden Miles, Jerome Lardy, Bob Lund, Roger Carlson, Kevin Sullivan, Don O’Grady, Nick Kornder, Dave Murphy Board Members Absent: Chris Enstrom, Paul Burski, Members present: Mark Swanson, Jeff Henry Location: Davanni’s, 310 White Bear Ave., St Paul, MN 55106 Approval of Minutes Meeting Minutes from the March 7, 2019 meeting – Motion to approve by Roger Carlson, seconded by Kevin Sullivan. Motion passed.

Chairman’s Report Alden and Paul Burski gave their power point presentation on March 12 to the Classic Corvettes car club. This was about the new NCRS Concours judging.

Vice Chairman’s Report Paul presented quotes for the North Central Chapter window clings that we are considering. The board voted on approving the purchase of 500 3½” x 2“ North Central Chapter logo window clings for $180.00. Motion to approve by Don O’Grady and seconded

by Kevin Sullivan. Motion approved. These will be passed out to members as they participate at chapter functions and will also be given out at the 2020 Regional in Rochester.

Treasurer’s Report.

Roger reported that the $500 application fee for our hosting the 2020 Regional has been sent to the NCRS. Roger will be working with Dave Murphy on the finances for the Regional and making sure we are on track with our budget.

Roger reported we had $630 in Paragon Rewards that we will receive. He is going to reach out to Paragon about donating additional rewards for our silent auction at the regional. Possibly a matching donation to what we might contribute.

Judging Report The members who went to the Judging Retreat had a great time and learned a lot about the NCRS judging process.

Our chapter judging meet in May is online at the NCRS website. Sign up to judge. Chris stated that we have a 58, 63, 66, 72 and 80 so far. We need judges so please register if you have not already done so.

Dave Murphy received a revised contract from the Apache Hotel & Event Center for our Regional. Dave went over the details and Alden signed the contract so we could lock in the dates and move forward with planning for the event. Dave went over the many tasks that will need to be performed up to and during the event.

Volunteers will be needed to make this a successful judging meet. Dave also said that the Apache Hotel will be changing to a Best Western Hotel by the time our regional occurs.

Membership Report Jerome reported that we have 126 members after all the renewals and additions have been accounted for. Jerome will be sending out an email to all the NCRS members in our area that do not belong to our chapter, inviting them to join. There are 154 of them.

Jerome was informed that our chapter will receive the Chapter Top Flight Award for 2018. This is our seventh year in a row receiving this honor. Congrats to the chapter for making this possible The 1st quarter report for the Chapter Top Flight Award was submitted.

Tech Report Bob reported there will be a tech session on April 13 at Joe Galindo’s home. We will be putting the body back on John Ikeda’s ’63 split window. A notice will be sent out to the chapter. Bob is looking for members who would like to work on their Corvettes for a tech session. If interested, please contact him or Paul Burski. Bob would also like to do another detailing tech session sometime this year.

Activities Report Don said we are all set for the Spring Social on April 27th at Cowboy Jack’s in Woodbury, MN. We seem to have a much better turnout at this event due to the weather not being a factor any longer. Hopefully some members can drive their Corvettes for the first time this spring.

Don has talked with Tim DeAtley who has offered to host another BBQ get together at his place in Menomonie, WI on July 20th. The plan is to meet in the Hudson, WI area and road tour to Menomonie. Details will be announced in the near future.

Website Report Current and up to date.

Newsletter Report Nick reported that the newsletter was sent out on April 1. We are always looking for member articles to include.

Member-at-Large Report Kevin Sullivan reported that Jason Alt is the Member of the Month for April. Read all about him on our chapter website: Read more at northcentralncrs.com.

Old Business None New Business None Alden made the motion to adjourn and Nick seconded. Motion passed.

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Chapter Board Minutes

May 2, 2019

Board Members Present: Paul Burski, Jerome Lardy, Bob Lund, Roger Carlson, Chris Enstrom, Don O’Grady Board Members Absent: Alden Miles, Kevin Sullivan, Dave Murphy, Nick Kornder Members present: Mark Swanson, Wally Grivna, Dave and Jeanne Cloutier, Bob Cox Location: Davanni’s, 310 White Bear Ave., St Paul, MN 55106 Approval of Minutes Motion to approve minutes from the April 4, 2019 meeting – Motion to approve by Jerome Lardy, seconded by Bob Lund. Motion passed.

Chairman’s Report Alden was unable to attend the meeting but reported that the contract with the hotel in Rochester for our 2020 Regional was signed.

Vice Chairman’s Report Paul has the 500 North Central Chapter window clings that we ordered. These will be passed out to members as they participate at chapter functions and will also be given out at the 2020 Regional in Rochester.

Treasurer’s Report.

Roger paid the $215 bill for the window clings. Finances are in order Roger received $630 in Paragon Rewards. They were broken out as 6-$50, 1-$80 and 1-$250 that we will receive next year and hope to pair with a Paragon matching reward for our silent auction at the regional.

It was noted that the new gift certificates expire after 1 year from the issue date. The certificates we received in the past did not expire for 5 years.

Judging Report Our chapter judging meet is May 11 at Gilby’s Street Dept. in River Falls, Wis. All members are welcome to attend. Chris stated that we have a 63, 66, 72, 78 and 80 to look at. Please contact Chris if you would like to judge or observer judge.

Membership Report Jerome reported that we have eight new members that joined our chapter this month which brings the chapter membership up to 134.

This was from his efforts in reaching out to NCRS members in our region that did not belong to the chapter.

The new members are Bill Gast, Jason Jones, Chris Cleveland, Steve Nagel, Glenn Nelson, John Hall, Dave Warzala and Roger Georges. Welcome to all our new members and we look forward to seeing you at one of our upcoming events.

Tech Report Bob and Paul reported the tech session on April 13 at Joe Galindo’s home was well attended. 23 members watched and helped put the body back on John Ikeda’s ’63 split window.

There will not be a tech session in May since we are having our chapter judging meet.

Bob is looking for members who would like to work on their Corvettes for a tech session. If interested, please contact him or Paul Burski.

Activities Report Don said there was a good turnout for the Spring Social on April 27th at Cowboy Jack’s. 15 members and spouses attended and we even had a North Central Chapter cake for dessert. Randy Zauner won the drawing for the Paragon gift certificate and Jeannine O’Grady won the bottle of wine.

Don has confirmed with Tim DeAtley that he will host a BBQ get together at his place in Menomonie, WI on July 20th. The plan is to meet in the Hudson, WI area and road tour to Menomonie. Details will be announced in the near future.

Website Report Current and up to date.

Newsletter Report We are always looking for member articles to include.

Member-at-Large Report Kevin Sullivan reported that Tom Hafner is the Member of the Month for May. Read all about him on our chapter website, www. northcentralncrs.com .

Old Business None New Business None Paul made the motion to adjourn and Bob seconded. Motion passed.

MEETING ADJOURNED

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Chapter Board Minutes

June 6, 2019

Board Members Present: Paul Burski, Jerome Lardy, Bob Lund, Roger Carlson, Don O’Grady, Alden Miles, Kevin Sullivan, Nick Kornder, Dave Murphy Board Members Absent: Chris Enstrom Members present: Mark Swanson, Wally Grivna, Dave and Jeanne Cloutier, Jeff Henry Location: Davanni’s, 310 White Bear Ave., St Paul, MN 55106 Approval of Minutes Motion to approve minutes from the May 2, 2019 meeting – Motion to approve by Don O’Grady, seconded by Kevin Sullivan. Motion passed.

Chairman’s Report Nothing new to report.

Vice Chairman’s Report Nothing new to report.

Treasurer’s Report.

New Pro Forma for 2020 Regional. Suggest we consider charging $80 to attend and $85 to have car judged. Finances are in order Judging Report Dave Murphy discussed the 2020 Regional by handing out copies of the new Pro Forma, the new Hotel Contract, the list of volunteers so far, the Roles and Responsibilities and the Tasks List. Next month we will focus on approving the menu for the Welcome reception, And the fees for the Driveline Registration. Don’t forget to sign up for judging and tabulating at the August Chapter Judging which is available on the Driveline. Also come to Jerome’s house for the Judging School and BBQ the night before.

Membership Report Jerome reported that we have three new members that joined our chapter this month which brings the chapter membership up to 137.

The new members are Mark Shobe, Delaine Rud and Ron Vycital. Welcome to all our new members and we look forward to seeing you at one of our upcoming events. Jerome will be setting up an NCRS display at the Back to the 50’s car show on Saturday June 22.

Tech Report Our next Tech Session will be at Paul Burski’s house on June 15 and we will have Linda Krickle’s 67 red and black for a safety check.

Don’t forget the Suburban Car Show- Plastic Fantastic on the same date. No Tech Session in July or August.

Bob is looking for members who would like to work on their Corvettes for a tech session. If interested, please contact him or Paul Burski.

Activities Report Don has confirmed with Tim DeAtley that he will host a BBQ get together at his place in Menomonie, WI on July 20th. The plan is to meet in the Hudson, WI area and road tour to Menomonie. Details will be announced in the near future.

Website Report Current and up to date. Added the new Member of the Month.

Newsletter Report We are always looking for member articles to include by the last week of June. Jerome suggested including Mark Swanson’s article.

Member-at-Large Report Kevin Sullivan reported that Jeff Geisler is the Member of the Month for June and July maybe Pete Heunisch.

Old Business None New Business We had guests present so we offered them the floor. Mark Swanson shared some comments about Mike Ernst and recommended that we support him for the Regional NCRS position. Dave Cloutier provided more clarity to the way the layout gets done for the Regional and many of us forgot his long hours in getting the layout ready such that it isn’t just putting some tape down. His points were well taken and a way to automate the process is being reviewed.

Paul made the motion to adjourn and Jerome seconded. Motion passed.

MEETING ADJOURNED MARK YOUR CALENDAR On Monday July 8th at 9 P.M. on the History Chanel a documentary on the building of the one of a kind 1983 Corvette will be aired.

The car was built from the ground up by Metro-Li Chapter member Chris Mazzilli a die hard Corvette expert and re-builder. Chris’s shop Dream Car Restorations did all of the work. Chris is also restoring most of the cars from the Peter Max collection.

The 1983 was judged in the Concours class at the Metro Chapter meet in the spring of 2018. The judging was filmed and the award was presented by Dave Brigham . The car was also judged at last years Convention in Las Vegas.

The NCRS is prominently displayed in the 1 hour show. It is a great story and should not be missed.

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

The NCRS Membership in the North Central NCRS is open to person interested in the restoration, preservation, and history of the Corvette produced by the Chevrolet Motor Division of General Motors Corporation from 1953 thought 1999. NCRS is not affiliated with Chevrolet or General Motors.

Membership in the North Central Chapter of the NCRS is open to all members of the NCRS National organization. Dues payable to the North Central Chapter are $25.00 per years. All editorial materials should be sent to Nick Kornder, Editor, (Kornder@NorthernSun.org). Advertising in the North Central Newsletter is free to all active members for personal items. Commercial advertising rates for the newsletter are: $12.50 per year for a business card; $25.00 per year for a half page ad and $50 per year for a full page ad.

Deadlines for articles and advertising are: March 1, June 1, September 1 and December 1 of each year.

The NCRS Judging Process The NCRS has compiled and is constantly updating highly detailed judging standards and rules for each basic model division from 1953 through 1999. The guidelines in these NCRS Technical Information Manuals are recognized throughout the hobby as THE STANDARD in determining originality.

The judging system is designed to educate each owner about their car as well as providing recognition for excellence in the areas of restoration, performance, or preservation. It is not a “cleanliness contest” like other events, nor do you compete against your friends’ Corvettes. Judging is not done by some secret group of “experts”.

You can learn to judge, or you can have your Corvette evaluated by other NCRS members. 10,516 members are currently recognized for their judging expertise. They have created 27,871 NCRS judging records through NCRS events internationally to date.

New Item Added NCRS has recently announced the addition of an Award Confirmation Document Service.

This service will provide a confirmation document with a complete listing from the NCRS database of the available award statistics for a specific Corvette. The presence of this confirmation document will assure the owner of the NCRS judging history on a Corvette.

NEED TOOLS?

Below is a listing of Chapter Tools, that may be checked out from the North Central Chapter Board.

NCRS North Central Chapter Tool List Contact – Don O’Grady Dial Indicator set Bearing Race Seal Tools Spindle shims misc Spindle Spacers Spring Compressor Spindle Remover Press Harmonic Remover Contact Alden Miles Club Display Contact Jerome Lardy C1 Body Lift

Did you know? C5

The performance axle ratio for C5 Corvettes with automatic transmission is 3.15:1 (the standard ratio is 2.73:1).

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

North Central Chapter to Host 2020 REGIONAL Regional Judging Event – Rochester, Minnesota – June 11-13, 2020 As you have probably heard by now, the North Central Chapter is hosting one of the six Regional Judging Events in 2020. The event is set for Thursday-Saturday, June 11-13, 2020 in Rochester, Minnesota. If you are interested in seeing some great Corvettes, learning more about the NCRS Flight Judging system, and meeting people from around the country, we would love to have to come to Rochester! The event starts on Thursday with the event check in and Operations Judging. The cars then proceed inside the Graham Center Arena. The evening wraps up with a 1 point Judging School put on by the National Judging Chairman, David Brigham and a Welcome Reception. Friday will see a full day of Flight Judging and a 3 point Advanced Judging School.

Saturday will see the remainder of Flight Judging and a second 3 point Advanced Judging School. Saturday evening is the awards banquet and we’re done!

Here are the different ways you can participate at the Regional.

• Increase your judging knowledge by attending three different judging schools (receive a maximum of 7 judging points) • Participate as an Observer Judge and assess some really great Corvettes as they go through the judging process • Volunteer to be a tabulator • Volunteer for tasks that need doing to help the Regional be the best event it can be • Bring your car down and have it judged • Drive your car down and enjoy the event If you have any questions at all, please reach out to me. Below are some photos from our 2016 Regional.

Chris Enstrom North Central Chapter Judging Chairman

2016

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

MAKING JUDGING SHEET REFERENCES BASED ON THE C-D-C-I-F As the NCRS judging system is based on 5 different descriptions for ORIGINALITY, with each having a value of 20%, it is most helpful to the owner, that we use the same descriptions for the comments on the sheets, when we judge their cars.

C = CONFIGURATION D = DATE C = COMPLETENESS i = INSTALLATION F = FINISH The use of words like “Service Replacement”, “Reproduction” or “Restoration” are very little to no help to the owner, since they do not describe WHAT the difference to original is.

Since we judge the APPEARANCE of ORIGINALITY, we do not care where the particular judged part comes from (Original GM, Restoration Parts House or Neighbors Shed).

BAD WORDS:

iNStEAD USE:

“Wrong”

“Not Typical”

“Incorrect”

“Not Typical”

Certain parts, which do not reflect any Originality based on the CDCIF (Full Deduction) are not listed on our Standard Deduction Sheet. Such parts may be described as: SiGNiFiCANtLY DiSSiMiLAR. A good example is the typical parts-house (AutoZone, O’Riley etc.) Cooling Fan Clutch.

Judging Example: One of the most often “non-original” parts encountered on the chassis are the shock absorbers. They are a single line item and have a value of 5 points. Based on the CDCIF we can make the following determination: Configuration: Check nuances on the shock absorber body (may be different print, “Made in Mexico” etc.)

Date: Check for presence of date. (Not necessary, if a non-typical configuration has been detected) Completeness: Are any factions missing??

Installation: Are the bolts, washers at their intended places and orientation (or reversed)??

Finish: Is the shock painted in a typical finish (lower bushings free of paint etc)??

Conclusion: A shock absorber with “Made In Mexico,” finished and installed in a typical manner would differ in the Configuration (1 Point) as well as the Date (1 point) since we know that a shock with such configuration was manufactured later than the car. Total deduction would be 2 points.

OUR COMMENtS ON tHE SHEEt WOULD BE: Configuration (No Pliacell Script / Delco Part Number), Date Provided by Marco Hartner 23

Issue Number 17 * July - September 2017

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

For Sale C1 Parts / Corvettes 1962 Corvette, Ermine white, red interior, frame off restoration by Joe Galindo, completed April, 2010. 327 NOM; period correct, .060 over, aluminum heads, 4 speed, disc brake up front, both tops, body never hit, straight frame. $80,000. Toby, 763-221-9982, toby327340@gmail.com 56-59 NOS valve covers - Contact Craig Skaaden 612.819.7172 for more details C2 Parts / Corvettes None C3 Parts / Corvettes - Set of stainless steel sleeved brake calipers. Fits 65-82, correct for73-82. $200 plus shipping. Email: rrenfandt@min.midco.net - 1978 Silver Anniversary Coupe. The ‘78 has the L-82 350 engine, B2Z silver anniversary paint, black interior, A31 power windows, AR7 leather bucket seats, C49 rear defogger, C60 air conditioning, FE7 gymkhana suspension, K30 cruise control, M38 automatic transmission, K37 tilt-telescopic steering, UM2 AM/FM stereo 8-track, YJ8 aluminum wheels, and U75 power antenna. More info at coming at: https://www.uniquemankato.com - 1980 Corvette - 200r4 Automatic Overdrive Trans - Rebuilt Motor - $15999 - Email: Kornder@northernsun.org - Set of C3 rear bumpers - Asking $250 for the pair. Contact Don O’Grady. 651-402-3894 C4 Parts / Corvettes None C5 Parts / Corvettes None C6 Parts / Corvettes None C7 Parts / Corvettes None MISC / Corvettes Various scales/years of diecast models, Hot Wheels, kits, framed posters, etc. - Most items are Corvette, but some muscle cars included as well; Wally Grivna (member #15096) 5960 Ridge Creek Road, Shoreview, MN 55126 - Cell (612) 991-8099

https://www.facebook.com/NorthCentralNCRS/

Did you know? c6 The 2009 ZR1 was the first 200+ mph production Corvette ever made.

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Bob’s Stingray Service

Corvette Repair Mechanical & Electrical Repair and Restorations ‘63-67’ Specialized Repair * Up to 1982 Body Off Restorations Experienced Workmanship Many Parts in Stock Member of NCRS Bob Lund 9319 Riverview Avenue S - Bloomington, MN 55425 612-309-0344 - bobsstingray@yahoo.com

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North Central Chapter Crossed Flags Newsletter NATIONAL CORVETTE RESTORERS SOCIETY

Conversation Starter Our 1980 Drive in Chevrolet’s Experimental Twin-Turbo Corvette From the April 1980 issue of Road & Track We were at 100 mph and climbing when I pulled my foot off the accelerator and we could hear the turbos in the engine compartment whining down on overrun. It was the early Seventies and the car was a very plain-looking gold Nova powered by a very unordinary Chevrolet 350 V8 with a pair of turbochargers. With its extraordinary power and church parking lot looks that Nova was as much fun as any Chevrolet I’ve ever driven. Most interesting of all, it was a product of Chevrolet Engineering, not some crazed speed freak operating out of an old Sinclair gas station.

The fact is, virtually every automaker has these little experiments hidden here and there, because they are a very necessary part of staying current with the world. Back then such cars were also done for the pure, unadultered fun of it, but these days emissions, energy and economics add a new color to such projects. Whatever is developed, no matter how non-production oriented, it must be certifiable. Pieces used need to be production derived. The search isn’t necessarily to add swiftness, but to recover what has been lost.

Chevrolet’s turbocharged Corvette follows all those rules. This is not a potential production car in the exact form shown here, but one meant to see what could be done with production parts plucked from General Motors’ stock bins with an eye toward future Corvette development.

Nothing has been changed internally in the Vette’s L82, 350-cu-in. V8, except for a milder L48 camshaft which is needed because the stock cam with its greater overlap isn’t compatible with the fuel-injection system. That injection setup is not port type, but two-point—essentially two fuel-injection nozzles taking the place of the throats in a 2-barrel carburetor. This is an adaptation of the digital injection system used in the new [for 1980 -Ed] Cadillac Seville, with the electronics in the metering box revised to match the turbo V8’s needs. The turbo is not a version of that used by Buick, but an AiResearch T3 with an integral wastegate. Chevrolet used basically the same turbo unit as Mercedes-Benz fits to the 300SD, but with a turbine and compressor matched to the V8’s demands and topping at seven PSI boost. This is mounted on the right side atop a modified version of the stock cast iron exhaust manifold, the left-side exhaust being brought over via a cross-under pipe. One interesting feature of the system is that the throttle blade controlling incoming air is upstream of the turbo compressor. This means that when the air is shut off, the compressor is spinning in a vacuum. If the throttle blade is downstream of the compressor, it will back up incoming air when it shuts, which then tends to slow the compressor and increase throttle lag. Detonation is minimized with a slightly reworked version of the same knock sensor used on the Buick, sensing detonation and retarding timing accordingly to eliminate knock.

All the equipment behind the engine is stock, with a Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 transmission and a 3.55:1 rear axle with Positraction.

[By 1980, that rear axle ratio was no longer available, a victim of fuel economy regulations.] The suspension is Chevrolet’s FE7 Gymkhana option; the P255/60R-15s are on 15x8-inch alloy wheels not offered by Chevrolet.

Chevrolet doesn’t have any horsepower figures for the Turbo Corvette, dynamometer time being hard to come by these days. They will say, however, that the car should get through the quarter mile in the 13-second range, which checks with a couple of acceleration runs we made.

This takes us back to the best days of the 454-cu-in. Corvettes and right to the purpose of such cars these days: Coupling early-Seventies acceleration with the fuel economy expected of the early Eighties in what amounts to a dream car. And you can dream on, at least for this experimental Corvette. But do close your eyes—feel yourself being shoved back in your seat and remember how it used to be, the turbo whistling tunes of a new era. You’ve had solid boost since 15-20 mph and whenever that small block gets in the 4500-5000 rpm range, there’s a smooth slip into the next gear. It’s really all somewhat reminiscent of a small, personal jet plane. What a kick.

Did you know?

CORVETTE IS NAMED AFTER A SMALL WARSHIP. - Though it was originally called “Project Opel,” the

board expressed interest in a “C” name for the alliterative effect. So Chevrolet PR exec Myron Scott grabbed a dictionary and started flipping through. When he ran across the word “corvette,” which refers to a fast ship that’s easy to maneuver, Scott knew he was onto something. He was right—the name was quickly approved (after rounds and rounds of previous attempts).

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