In this segment, the '62 Corvette's wheels and tires are evaluated.
Note : This is a summary of steps included in the automotive restoration procedures shown in this episode of Classic Car Restoration. These are general guidelines for restoration procedures on this particular make and model of vehicle, and for the level of restoration selected for this project. There may be variations in procedures depending model, condition of vehicle, level of restoration undertaken and the types of replacement parts or upgraded kits selected. Always follow proper safety precautions, and read and follow manufacturer's guidelines, diagrams and safety notices that come with any replacement parts or kit that you select.
Safety Alert: Always wear eye protection when working with power tools or pneumatic tools.
- The tires currently on the Corvette are radial tires. Though the tires have 15,000 to 20,000 miles on them, the treads are in fairly good shape (figure A).
- The tire treads not only provide information about the condition of the tires themselves, but can also provide information about other systems on the vehicle -- such as shocks, ball-joints, etc. -- and how they connect the car with the road ( figure B).
- The original tires that came standard on the early Corvettes were bias-ply tires. Radial tires are superior in strength and wearing properties because they don't build up as much heat during driving. Heat, brought about through friction, is what ultimately destroys tires.
- Some vintage-Corvette owners keep two sets of wheels and tires for their car. They use radial tires on their cars when they drive them, but keep a set of authentic bias-ply tires for installing on the car for auto-shows (figure C).
- For optimum tire performance, it's important to make sure that wheels are properly balanced. Wheels are professionally balanced using balancing weights (figure D ).
- To help keep your tires looking good and protect them from dry-rot, spray them with cleaner and tire dressing (figure E).
RESOURCES :
Corvette Black Book : 1953-2001
Model: 0933534477
Author: Michael Antonick
Corvette: The American Legend
Model: 0785343741
Author: Consumer Guide Editors
Classic Car Restorer's Handbook: Restoration Tips and Techniques for Owners ...
Model: 1557881944
Author: Jim Richardson
Order this book from Amazon.com
H.P. Books
Classic Car Restoration Guide: The Complete Illustrated Step-By-Step Manual
Model: 1850108900
Author: Lindsay Porter
Order this book from Amazon.com
Haynes Publishing
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