Just got a 79.

[thricekid00]

Hi everyone. I just got a 1979 vette. Paid only $145. Just the registration. It was my dad he just had it sitting for 7 years. It's runs but the calipers are all leaking!! I was wondering if you guys could give me some advice. I want to fix this car well restore it. Would it be worth it if I repaired the calipers or just buy new ones? The seals are all wet. It brakes but I'm not driving it.

 

[73shark]

Great deal!

Sometimes the calipers can be honed and repaired w/ a new seal kit but not very often. Best bet is to replace w/ ones w/ stainless steel sleeves and be done w/ it. One less thing to worry about.

 

[bb2kksy]

Got my 79 in March , paid 8K. when I figure out how to post pictures I will do so. You need a shop man, an AIM man, tools, and lots of patience. You will fix one part / problem and something else will pop up. Make it safe to drive and enjoy, replace the calipers.

 

[LanceB]

I've done the brakes on my 81, my brothers 77, and my Dads 75. I replaced all calipers, flex lines and pads recently on the 75 and they work great. Got all of the parts at Autozone and didn't spend a whole lot (3-400 I think) but you can get better brakes for more $$. I have a motive bleeder so I don't mind bleeding once a year if necessary and couldnt bring myself to get the latest and greatest technology (new o ring technology resists problems with air getting in lines from out of round rotors, worn bearings, etc). I recommend just changing all of the calipers, pads and rubber flex lines at minimum (your life is worth it!). Depending on condition and mileage the rotors aren't a bad idea either. Congrats on the "new" vette! I have had a fascination with C3's since I was 5 years old and it never goes away!

 

[Vette79]

Got my 79 in March , paid 8K. when I figure out how to post pictures I will do so. You need a shop man, an AIM man, tools, and lots of patience. You will fix one part / problem and something else will pop up. Make it safe to drive and enjoy, replace the calipers.

What's up bb2kksy? I have a 79 as well and in MD. Hope to see you around sometime.

For the OP: As suggested get new ones with the stainless sleeves and be done with it. Enjoy your Vette!

 

[thricekid00]

thanks everyone! i will just get new ones. im going to get the front first then next month the rears. im going to work suspension first. i had a WRX and before i even touched the motor i went suspension first. :Twist

oh whats the widest tire you can put on the stock rim? ive notice the rear is turning into slicks lol.

 

[ducvw2004]

Congratulations!

 

[73shark]

Without any mods, 255/60-15 on stock rims.

 

[Evolution1980]

Would it be worth it if I repaired the calipers or just buy new ones?

Get yourself a complete setup from Vette Brakes & Products. They offer excellent parts and customer service. As well, they are an Industry Partner here on the CAC, so you'll likely get a nice discount if say you're from here. Or you can contact them directly from here via one of their stickied threads at the top of the various forums.

 

[Vette79]

Get yourself a complete setup from Vette Brakes & Products. They offer excellent parts and customer service. As well, they are an Industry Partner here on the CAC, so you'll likely get a nice discount if say you're from here. Or you can contact them directly from here via one of their stickied threads at the top of the various forums.

AND get a 79 shop manual. You WILL need it!

 

[6880 Mike]

Ya can't argue with $145.00!! Cruise and enjoy. Remember: C3 drivers wave!!!!