Advice on a used c5

[AllIWantIsAC6Z06!]

So, Ive had a Mustang for a few years now and Im getting kinda bored with it now. Im really considering buying a c5 Z06 (or if the gods smile on me - a c6) in the next year or so. But I have a few questions. As Im sure some of ya'll know, the Mustang chasis is a unibody design making it VERY weak and susceptable to sagging and warping over time (even with normal driving). What is the Corvette's chasis like - is it a unibody design or a straight framerail design? Are there common issues or things to look for when buying a used c5? Ya'lls comments would be very much appreciated !

 

[DRTH VTR]

The C5 has a VERY stiff chassis. There are two hydrformed frame rails, as well as the central tunnel structure. Even in the convertible, there is no cowl shake. The frame is extremely rigid.

 

[C4 Fan]

I agree the C5 chassis is very stiff. Mine has the Z-51 suspension so it is even stiffer. All of my corvette have been convertibles, and I would definitely recommend you get one as well. They are a blast to drive especially if you get the 6 speed. A couple mods and you have all the HP of the Z/06 and still have all the enjoyment of the convertible.

 

[AllIWantIsAC6Z06!]

Thanks guys for the responses. The rigidity of the chasis great to hear! Are there any other things to look for? I realize its a performance vehicle and things do break or wear out (especially if driven hard), but is there anything that is fairly common to be worn that ya'll would recomend to look out for? Every car has its weak points, knowing them can really help when looking for a good used car (especially when haggling for a lower price). I appologize for sounding like a total noob but thats cause I am a noob when it comes to corvettes. But Id definately like to change that soon Thanks ya'll!

 

[DRTH VTR]

Check this thread. There will be lots of information in previous posts. Try doing searches. This one was "fuel and pump and whine".

http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/forums/showthread.php?t=52283&goto=nextoldest

Jim

 

[bluecoupe]

Look under the nose there is a small skide plate (actually a small frame with rails). I saw a few C5s that had damaged skids plate assemblies. Also bring a mirror with you to look under the car especially where the side body meets the frame. If you don't jack the car up correctly you can crack off pieces of the body.

Check the parking brake, many are far out of adjustment and won't self adjust. It costs a few $$$ or hours to fix.

Look to see if the windshield is good and doesn't have any cracks or too many chips (many $$$ to replace especially with HUD).

Look for battery leaks and under the battery tray. A leak there will trash the wire harness underneath it. If you see a chaulky looking residue or green corrosion at the wire harness connectors those are an indication of a past or current problem.

Look at the rear end seals for leaks.
Check tire debt with a tire depth guage. don't trust your eyes when it comes to performance tires.

Happy hunting!
Frank (bluecoupe)

 

[AllIWantIsAC6Z06!]

Thanks again ya'll! Bluecoupe and VTR that's exactly the stuff I was looking for! I'll make sure and check the battery and the rear seal as well as other little things. And yes I will use the search button for the rest of my research. Im hoping that by the time the c6 z06 hits the market the prices of the c5's will come down a little more and I can pick one up for a good price. I definitely appreciate the help guys!