Fiber-optics

[Bwmurph]

I'm looking at (via the internet) a '71 Coupe. I've been told by current owner that the fiber-optics do NOT work. I don't know anyting about these things (I'm a C-1 owner), and understand that they are simply a light monitoring system.

Is this true ? And, if the optics don't work: (1) Is it a big deal ? (2) Is it expensive to fix ?

Also am told the clock and odometer don't work. Think I can handle the clock, but how hard to fix the odometer ?

Otherwise, this sounds like a very nice car that is ALMOST reasonably priced.

Any help/replies are appreciated.

Thanks,

Bones

 

[Eric]

A couple additional things that may be the culprit for the firber-optics not working...

Since the bulb end is exposed to road grime to some extent, they can simply become dirty and cause it to appear not to work. This was the case with the headlight and front signals on mine. When I rebuillt the headlight bucket guts, I cleaned the ends with simple green and the console lit up like a Christmas tree (had to throw that in).

Another reason they might not work is if the car was ever in an accident. It's possible that the front grilles and light pieces were replaced with '72 models which don't have the holes for the optics.

One thing I wonder about is why all of it would be out of service. I've never seen one where all of them were dead, front and rear. If that truly is the case, I would venture a guess that maybe someone had the console out and never reattached the console lines.

 

[Bwmurph]

Thanks to all who replied about my question on fiber optics. (I should preface with fact that I'm new to this web site/forum and don't know if this reply gets to all concerned, but I'm tryin'...)

I get the idea that it is NOT a major thing if these optics don't work (but of course it would be nice if they did !). Current owner did tell me that car was damaged in right front quarter in early '80's; repair, as far as I can tell, is good. He intimated that at some point a "mechanic" had cut f/o cables assuming they were wires that could simply be spliced back together !

Anyway, thanks and I'll look into this car some more; I need it like I need another hole in my head, but I do WANT it ! What the h___, you can't take it with you !!

Thanks again,

Bones

 

[Eric]

I need it like I need another hole in my head, but I do WANT it ! What the h___, you can't take it with you !!

Thanks again,

Bones

That's what it's all about when it comes to Vettes!

Oh yeah, and welcome to the ! Don't worry, you posted in just the right place.

- Eric

 

[red70vette]

If the fiber optics cables were cut they can be spliced and repaired with some kits available from some of the catalogs. Do a search for fiber optic repairs.

The optics are strictly a monitoring system and don't effect the operation of the lights. I have heard the repair kits will work but the monitor will never be as bright as original. I have never done it myself but it is on the list of to do on my 70.