The top is not glass, it's Lexan (plexiglass). It basically turns the C4 into a GM air fryer on a hot day. And personally, I would crazy glue the cupholder shut.
My C4 is an 86 that I bought new for my 40th birthday. I still have it. I baby my C4 like if I just brought it home from the dealer. Everything about it looks, feels and operates like the day I brought it home. I agree with all your "don't dos". I'd like to pass on info about a factory defect in my Vette. When the car was parked in the sun it would blow the fuse for the ABS system when the engine was started. No dealer could fix it. I finally got the folks at the GM Tech Center to examine the car. A young female electrical engineer was assigned the project. What she found was a pinched wire overhead in the windshield surround where the lighted mirror circuit supplies the power to the ABS system. When parked in an open area the heat of the sun would close the gap on the ABS system power supply wire and create a dead short. This may have been a "one of a kind" defect, but fortunately the brakes worked fine even with the ABS system inactive. Thought you'd be interested.
Dang,I own a 92 corvette lt1 and was even lightly slamming,the hood,after what you said,I will never close my hood that way again,only lowering it to push the clamps down.i appreciate that tip for sure.
Just bought a manual 1985 c4 with 45,000 miles at 18 years old, and it's in great shape, digital dash even works! I used all of these tips and other people's tips on UA-cam to help me determine to buy it. It's a super fun car to drive and definitely turns the heads of older people seeing a young teen driving one, a manual at that! Great video!
The biggest design problem with the C4 is the opti-spark. The first 2 years of the LT1 (92-93) didn't have vented distributers. Even if you don't power wash your engine, normal driving will eventually get moisture in the opti. Rust will form and kill the distributer. The results usually happen around the 50 to 70k time. When you replace the opti, you can add the venting found on later C4s. Convertibles have an X frame added underneath and this really stabilizes the chassis. Couple that with a camber brace set up and you'll have a firm ride. Nobody is aloud to bring food or drinks in my Vette, period. One more thing, if you drive at night, put some LED headlights on. The OEM bulbs just suck.
Another tidbit, if you have any oil leaks make sure to fix them ASAP, it can leak i into your optispark and cause you to need to take it apart and clean it
@@KurtWinters I like my 92 vette original, part of me still thinks if i focus hard enough it will time jump me back to 1992 if i keep it retro fitted 43k miles original (garage queen)
For 84-89 C4s, I find that its pretty safe to guide the hood until its about 3 or 4 inches from being closed, and just letting it drop. Idk if those early model hoods are heavier or lighter, but it works, and I think its still pretty safe, when compared to your method.
Marginally lighter, do to the cut outs made in the hood to fit the LT1 which was slightly larger then the L98. Really the only applicable reason the hood would contact the doors is if doors or hood is not stock to the car/aftermarket, or really if it hasn't been perfectly reinstalled. As always a chance with everything, and only takes an accident once to know if you're golden or not. However as a point of interest, 94-96 have a different hood spring, more resistance and less compressible area. This is because even with the aforementioned cut outs in the LT1 hood, pre 94 LT1 hoods would make contact with the engine when dropped from too high. This would cause a lot of extremely noticeable chipping inside of the hood. Once it had been replaced in 94, the owners manual actually recommends you drop the hood from about where the peeks meet the top of the windshield (about your 3 - 4 inches), as it now redesigned to be, which is what most of everyone else had been just about doing before... just unnecessarily and problematically. Obviously all of this is a non-issue in the L98 or crossfire engines, just another little thing that can be problematic with the later LT1s. I have a 96, in one dunce move and without a second thought dropped the hood from above chest height with both doors open and came out completely scot free.
All great tips...I have had many corvettes and learned in the late 60's the very best way to close the hood is exactly like in your video. In fact, it is the only way. When I push down the locks on each side, Keep a microfiber handy....I have two roadsters now...do the same on the back latches too. ~Don~
Thank you don't, there is a lot of back & fourth on this. Since the GM manual SAYS slam it..... SMH..... Please remember to subscribe ! AND KEEP COMMENTING ! DON !
When I open the hood with the hood support straight up, I put a screw driver into the slot at the locking center piece. The reason being, if you have a heavy wind that can blow strong enough to straight up the hood support rod. The hood will come down on you head or your fingers when you are working on the car engine.
Loving the C4 content: here are my thoughts. 1- I don’t see getting in, but rather getting out is where people typically messing up their steering columns. I swing both feet out and tripod out on left arm. NEVER put right hand on the wheel while getting out- in fact I just swapped out my wheel for a quick release one so I now have all kinds of room getting in and out. 2- %100 agree don’t get opti’s wet. Blow off engines with leaf blower and then old fashion elbow grease is what is required. That said many grip about the opti spark but my 107k 93 is still on its original and running strong. 3-hood. I drop mine from 6” and it has a nice solid click into locked position without sounding rough on the car. Interesting point about the door sag and potential issue - will check if out. One word of advice - add pull tabs to releases and run so they are accessible by wipers. If the cable ever breaks you will be able to get hood open without buying the special tool. 4- never noticed body flex on my coup with targa off. Good advice to always always always secure in place . 5- I added a cup holder that mounts in between my legs- unconventional but I can be heavy footed and still keep the liquid in the cup lol. Vette❤️Life
@@KurtWinters I have a 93 40th Ruby. In the year in a half I’ve owned her I’ve had: wheel bearings replaced, heater core replaced, new blower motor for climate control, new rotors and pads, new fx3 shocks, new fuel pump, refurbished the gauges, along with lots of basic maintenance. Most recent issue was engine temps in the fla summer heat, but had an excklers 3 core aluminum radiator installed yesterday and last night the car didn’t break 175 with ac off. During the day I hit 188 with ac on. I know people say C4s run hot- but not mine any longer 😉👍🏼
@@KurtWinters - at first I admit I wasn’t very open to your way of closing the hood but now that I’ve tried it I am a convert. I find the solid click as I push down very satisfying 😀👍🏼
I purchased a well used 1994 C4 corvette back in 2016. The first thing i did was removed the LT1 and 700 r4 and replaced them with an all aluminum 427 bbc with a4L80 trans. New driveshaft rear end upgraded plus 373 gears. The 427 has Hyd roller cam and fuel injection. This corvette is now a blast to drive!!!!
I take my 94 C4 through the carwash all the time, no impact on Optispark. Agree on never pressure washing engine, in fact, never pressure wash any vehicles engine. The paint on a C4 is a triple coat system and holds up well but its the spider cracks in the fiberglass underneath that paint that these are prone to. The Targa top is a part of the strutural integrity of the car and all the Corvette part sites sell different brands of structural bar systems to put in place of the Targa. Agree on not slamming the doors. The build quality of the doors is crap. I had a girlfriend where she got in the passenger side (never let your girlfriend drive your Corvette either) and before I could get there to gently shut the door she slammed the shit out of it and I have a rattle over there to this day that for the life of me I can't track down. Forums (CorvetteCentral) are filled with tips and tricks regarding the care and kid glove treatment of C4s.
Never push the pointy corners of the hood, or tug. Put your hand, one on top of the other about eight inches in from the pointy corners then push until it clicks. Never drive in the rain either, it takes days to detail the engine bay afterward
I agree. I have a 92. The drink holder not only spills easy, but makes working the shifter impossible. And my target top hasn't come off, so far, but I have to tighten the passenger side front screw daily. It's comes loose everyday. For some reason. Yet the other 3 stay tight. Still it makes it vibrate in the wind, not to mention leak when it rains. Uet, I still love my car. I drive it everyday. To and from work. Still need to finish ur vid to see what else u mention. I'm sure I probably allready know
I was really lucky when I bought mine because I didn't know this and the wheel was intact, but then I found out the transmission had melted and that made my day
@@KurtWinters yeah who ever worked on it before I bought it didn't grease the gears apparently so until it started shifting with the force of a 8 magnitude Earthquake is when I started to notice
You know the cup holders originally have rubber pieces that keep the drinks still right… i have a 95 c4 that’s completely original and stock and it has the rubber cup holders.
Not sure how old this is, but the C4 DOES NOT have a cup holder. Those are ashtrays.... they have small removable rubber inserts that come out to empty your butts.. NOT a cup holder.
I disagree about the cup holders. Sports cars never used to come with cup holders because food or drink was never considered appropriate in a performance vehicle. Cuts down on the possibility of messy accidents, also.
@@KurtWinters I remember back in the 80’s- early 90’s, it was a real dig on the American stereotype: fat, lazy, and unable to go without a supersized Micky D’s whatever. Porsche, Ferrari, etc., never used to have them. I think Enzo even commented on it. It was kinda funny when Euro manufacturer’s started to have them back in the 90’s. They were odd sizes. It was a joke, particularly among EU auto journalists, about oversized coin holders. It always worked out for me, I had the excuse for no food or drink in my Vette.
I feel like the cup holders work pretty good (automatic only) if I’m using water bottles (safest option) 12 oz cans and many small bottom disposable cups. I don’t have the manual transmission but several videos indicate that you can’t put anything in the cup hold and shift. That IS absurd lol. Anytime I will enter a “G” accelerating or turning it would not be advised to have anything but a water bottle with the lid on. Unfortunately after purchasing after market cup holder inserts the bottle actually don’t fit all that well. I’m thinking of cutting the sides off the originals and using that way. For me, the auxiliary cup holders in the passenger leg area is not so great since I like to keep my passenger as comfy as possible. If you want cup holders get a Dodge Caravan. Then when ya spill no one cares
Good info. I agree whole heartedly about the steering wheel. I've owned a 92 ever since 1993 and I drop my hood about 6 inches above and have never had a problem.
Black and Black. Everything still works, starting to have difficulty with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System, and getting about due for new paint; however, I Love the fact I can rotate my tires.
Glad to be a part of your first thousand subscribers. Good advise and I’m going to check out earlier ones and see what else I need to know for my 87 & 91 C4s What a terrible thought. Taking a corvette through an automatic car wash.
I'm looking forward to the hood video! My 95 does not close right. My wipers get stuck under the hood if we have the hood correctly body lined up. We have it set higher at the moment until we find a fix for the bow. The hood seems to be bowed down in the middle...
The cup holders were actually supposed to be ash trays, either you or someone else took the trays out and now you have a “cup holder” there is no drinks allowed in the corvette
Just bought an 89 c4, and while the owner was delivering it the targa top blew off on him... I was not to impressed but he made a claim and i got 2200 back on the purchase for it, but now the hunt is on to find a decent condition top for a decent price, i got lucky and can still use the old one for now but it does not look to nice 😂
I feel it is better to release the hood from about 6" than to close one side at a time. When you are closing one side at a time your twisting the hood. Which could cause misalignment and possibly cracking. Just lower it so it is about 6" away and let it drop. It should latch up just fine. If it doesn't, then adjustment is needed.
I agree with just about everything you had to say, only thing I don't agree with is closing the hood. I'm pretty gental with it and drop it from just a few inches from where the pins latch and the weight of the hood is more than enough to latch it.
The old man I bought my 92 from brought it through my boyfriends car wash many times and I’ve been doing the same and it’s been great! I keep up on waxing and claying and ceramic coating and the paint isn’t in too good condition so I don’t mind too much about the possible scratching until I get it repainted lol
Subscribed! Thanks for the tips, I aquired an 84 C4 last year. It's got new paint but needs a little interior and mechanical TLC. Look forward to future videos!
@@KurtWinters it's blue, my buddy is a retired auto body mechanic, he painted it and it looks brand new. What is your email address, I'll send you a couple pictures. Thanks, Jack.
I allready know where ur going about pressure washing. The opti spark is crap. I bypassed mine. Put in a regular hei distributor, along with a high rise intake with a Holly 650 on top. Took the computer out, and replaces all the wiring and the dash cluster with old school analog guages. It runs great. No computer needed
I never Alam the hood on my cat. I set it down gently, then push down on one side then the other to lock it. I also don't slam it because my hei distributor only has about a half inch clearance since its right up next to the firewall in front of the window.
I’m hoping to get a sexy C4 in two tone Gray in about two weeks from now. Really helpful video! Specially with that steering wheel. That’s something I definitely didn’t know.
Besides a leaky water pump, where and how does moisture get to the opti-spark? WD-40 is a great water disperser. So is grease. Is there any reason that an opti-spark shouldn't be coated with a liberal amount of Vasoline?
I usually close the hood just like you do, but I put my hand slightly more to the front, so I don't push on the corners. Before I straightened the frame, I had to yank on it to push it in place. xD
they are small inside..... you a big guy ? also..... buy one someone drives.... don't buy one that been sitting for years, I've got a video on it, go to the CHANNEL playlist Corvette Garage.
I bought a low mileage 1990 C4 in 2016 and I use it as a wekend driver in summer only. I get caught in the rain once in a while (hate those wipers !) and the engine gets dirty. I want to clean it but not power wash it of course. Should I use a foam degreaser ? And is elbow grease the only way to get it clean ? Need some help here.
elbow grease for sure. if super dirty Flush with fresh water, put a couple plastic bags over the water pump to stop water going in behind there. I just use damp rags and take my time
I own a 93 /40th anniverary , 3 times since i bought it in Nov of 22 the engine quit i waited a minute or so and it fired up and off I went no misfire and it ran great, absolutly no water or oil leaks at all my garage floor clean, many said its the opti spark but i'm not sold on that 'just yet', could it be egr? vacum line? could anyone help with a tip before i sink into the opti spark hole, fuel pump changed 3 weeks before i got it
If no one has said it, another big problem with those cup holders is that there are **a series of openings**at the bottom of them that just happened to be the right diameter for bolts, screws, small light bulbs, et cetera. ask me how I know :-)
Is keeping the hood open in the upright position a bad idea for storing long term and will it warp it if so? I tend to keep it open due to easier access to the battery tender. (84 corvette)
The hood won't warp, the fiber glass will flex. I see no issue with storing it open. I close my hood, but leave it unlatched so I can put a dust cover on the car.
All Corvettes, And I mean all of them.. except for the C8 obviously, are designed to hold the hood in the center or as close to center as you can -and drop it from about 5 in. A good water displacing silicone lube on the latches, and graphite for the cables. If you don't know how to graphite cables stop by an old Harley shop, they will show you how or do it for you. I have been collecting Corvettes since 71, not by design it just ended up being that way. Never been married so I just get another Corvette and a new German Shepherd every once in awhile I have two C3's two C4's one C5 one C6 and a C8 on order They all close the same.. Never had an issue a corner might stay up once in awhile when I do it wrong
@@KurtWinters Good point there. I remember I would drop my WRX hood because it was aluminum. But this hood is easily soft closed. Thank you for sharing this intel. (:
I’m the original owner of a 92 convertible. I agree the cup holder is worthless, but I have a rubber insert that came from the factory on one that keeps the can/cup tight and an ashtray that fits in the second insert. Yes, that ashtray was a factory item! 😂
One more closer to one thousand! I just subscribed and thoroughly enjoyed this video. Not only that, but my 1987 convertible Roxxxy, thanks you as well.
Good God I’ve taken my vette to the pressure wash for a good clean several times (not the engine though that’s outrageous) It can really cause me problems?
Good comments, good demeanor, you have another subscriber from a DieHard Corvette lover 😎 ( I don't drink lattes though.. too bad it's against the law to drink alcohol and drive, because those mini Bud cans fit perfect)
I've never had a problem with the c4 cup holder, but then I don't try to put a cup or a can that's too large in one.. Whoever designed the cupholder for the C5 is the one that was pissed off
93-1996 for sure, the LT1 motor is hands down a fab engine ! stay away from cars that have sat for long periods of time. Are you looking for a manual or auto ?
You are right, should of explained it better, only water no brushes or whatever that's called, and blast through the engine compartment for the under spray.
Don't use the steering to get in or OUT of the car.
Absolutely, RIGHT ON !
I’ve let my friends drive mine and they use it every time!!
The top is not glass, it's Lexan (plexiglass). It basically turns the C4 into a GM air fryer on a hot day. And personally, I would crazy glue the cupholder shut.
thanks for the comment ! yes I have suction cup sunshades on it.... as it will bake you !
The perforated sun shade really works.
My C4 is an 86 that I bought new for my 40th birthday. I still have it. I baby my C4 like if I just brought it home from the dealer. Everything about it looks, feels and operates like the day I brought it home. I agree with all your "don't dos". I'd like to pass on info about a factory defect in my Vette. When the car was parked in the sun it would blow the fuse for the ABS system when the engine was started. No dealer could fix it. I finally got the folks at the GM Tech Center to examine the car. A young female electrical engineer was assigned the project. What she found was a pinched wire overhead in the windshield surround where the lighted mirror circuit supplies the power to the ABS system. When parked in an open area the heat of the sun would close the gap on the ABS system power supply wire and create a dead short. This may have been a "one of a kind" defect, but fortunately the brakes worked fine even with the ABS system inactive. Thought you'd be interested.
great secret info ! thanks Tom !
I actually feel stupid for people with no more common sense then this
Well, a young female engineer TOOK my car from me in a divorce, so....
Dang,I own a 92 corvette lt1 and was even lightly slamming,the hood,after what you said,I will never close my hood that way again,only lowering it to push the clamps down.i appreciate that tip for sure.
ya, show that hood some LOVE
Correct me if I'm wrong, 1992 -1996 LT 1 had optispark. Not previous c4s.
CORRECT !
95 - 96 corvettes fixed the issue with the optispark
@@dominiclaker5675 What do you mean they fixed it? Just asking because I have a 96
@DC-uw8hp they released a vented optispark so it stays dryer, but it can still go bad if it gets really wet.
My 96 Optispark died as well. After replacing Opti's on 2 of my other C4's, I got pretty good at it
Just bought a manual 1985 c4 with 45,000 miles at 18 years old, and it's in great shape, digital dash even works! I used all of these tips and other people's tips on UA-cam to help me determine to buy it. It's a super fun car to drive and definitely turns the heads of older people seeing a young teen driving one, a manual at that! Great video!
Thanks for sharing, WELCOME TO THE CHANNEL !
My own technique for the hood is to jump on top of it from a running start, I haven’t replaced it that many times.
hahahahhaha, I'd pull a muscle if I did that !
The biggest design problem with the C4 is the opti-spark. The first 2 years of the LT1 (92-93) didn't have vented distributers. Even if you don't power wash your engine, normal driving will eventually get moisture in the opti. Rust will form and kill the distributer. The results usually happen around the 50 to 70k time. When you replace the opti, you can add the venting found on later C4s.
Convertibles have an X frame added underneath and this really stabilizes the chassis. Couple that with a camber brace set up and you'll have a firm ride.
Nobody is aloud to bring food or drinks in my Vette, period. One more thing, if you drive at night, put some LED headlights on. The OEM bulbs just suck.
Agreed, the OEM LIGHTS SUCK !
Had my water pump go...took out distributer along with it.
Another tidbit, if you have any oil leaks make sure to fix them ASAP, it can leak i into your optispark and cause you to need to take it apart and clean it
@@KurtWinters I like my 92 vette original, part of me still thinks if i focus hard enough it will time jump me back to 1992 if i keep it retro fitted 43k miles original (garage queen)
@@billbill9392 they are like a time machine ! well said sir
For 84-89 C4s, I find that its pretty safe to guide the hood until its about 3 or 4 inches from being closed, and just letting it drop. Idk if those early model hoods are heavier or lighter, but it works, and I think its still pretty safe, when compared to your method.
I baby all my cars... I don't even slam my front door to my trailer home.
Marginally lighter, do to the cut outs made in the hood to fit the LT1 which was slightly larger then the L98. Really the only applicable reason the hood would contact the doors is if doors or hood is not stock to the car/aftermarket, or really if it hasn't been perfectly reinstalled. As always a chance with everything, and only takes an accident once to know if you're golden or not. However as a point of interest, 94-96 have a different hood spring, more resistance and less compressible area. This is because even with the aforementioned cut outs in the LT1 hood, pre 94 LT1 hoods would make contact with the engine when dropped from too high. This would cause a lot of extremely noticeable chipping inside of the hood. Once it had been replaced in 94, the owners manual actually recommends you drop the hood from about where the peeks meet the top of the windshield (about your 3 - 4 inches), as it now redesigned to be, which is what most of everyone else had been just about doing before... just unnecessarily and problematically. Obviously all of this is a non-issue in the L98 or crossfire engines, just another little thing that can be problematic with the later LT1s. I have a 96, in one dunce move and without a second thought dropped the hood from above chest height with both doors open and came out completely scot free.
All great tips...I have had many corvettes and learned in the late 60's the very best way to close the hood is exactly like in your video. In fact, it is the only way. When I push down the locks on each side, Keep a microfiber handy....I have two roadsters now...do the same on the back latches too. ~Don~
Thank you don't, there is a lot of back & fourth on this. Since the GM manual SAYS slam it..... SMH..... Please remember to subscribe ! AND KEEP COMMENTING ! DON !
When I open the hood with the hood support straight up, I put a screw driver into the slot at the locking center piece. The reason being, if you have a heavy wind that can blow strong enough to straight up the hood support rod. The hood will come down on you head or your fingers when you are working on the car engine.
Great TIP ! ouch !
Loving the C4 content: here are my thoughts.
1- I don’t see getting in, but rather getting out is where people typically messing up their steering columns. I swing both feet out and tripod out on left arm. NEVER put right hand on the wheel while getting out- in fact I just swapped out my wheel for a quick release one so I now have all kinds of room getting in and out.
2- %100 agree don’t get opti’s wet. Blow off engines with leaf blower and then old fashion elbow grease is what is required. That said many grip about the opti spark but my 107k 93 is still on its original and running strong.
3-hood. I drop mine from 6” and it has a nice solid click into locked position without sounding rough on the car. Interesting point about the door sag and potential issue - will check if out. One word of advice - add pull tabs to releases and run so they are accessible by wipers. If the cable ever breaks you will be able to get hood open without buying the special tool.
4- never noticed body flex on my coup with targa off. Good advice to always always always secure in place .
5- I added a cup holder that mounts in between my legs- unconventional but I can be heavy footed and still keep the liquid in the cup lol.
Vette❤️Life
Chris, great thoughts ! Thanks for channel support. clear you love your C4 ! What color/year is your car ?
@@KurtWinters I have a 93 40th Ruby. In the year in a half I’ve owned her I’ve had: wheel bearings replaced, heater core replaced, new blower motor for climate control, new rotors and pads, new fx3 shocks, new fuel pump, refurbished the gauges, along with lots of basic maintenance. Most recent issue was engine temps in the fla summer heat, but had an excklers 3 core aluminum radiator installed yesterday and last night the car didn’t break 175 with ac off. During the day I hit 188 with ac on. I know people say C4s run hot- but not mine any longer 😉👍🏼
@@KurtWinters - at first I admit I wasn’t very open to your way of closing the hood but now that I’ve tried it I am a convert. I find the solid click as I push down very satisfying 😀👍🏼
@@chrisbjarkman GLAD I CONVERTED YOU ! LOL
nice, mine runs cool as a cucumber too !
I purchased a well used 1994 C4 corvette back in 2016. The first thing i did was removed the LT1 and 700 r4 and replaced them with an all aluminum 427 bbc with a4L80 trans. New driveshaft rear end upgraded plus 373 gears. The 427 has Hyd roller cam and fuel injection.
This corvette is now a blast to drive!!!!
That's a BEAST ! don't forget to share this video on your facebook feed and timeline ! and sub if you like the content
Where did you get a 427 bbc?
Have a 92 im original owner . 5-6 inches and let go as far as closing hood tgars hiw ive always done it. Never had an issue with my hood ever.
I totally hear ya ! The GM manual says to do the same thing. I'm just OCD. Thanks for the comment , I really Appreciate it.
I take my 94 C4 through the carwash all the time, no impact on Optispark. Agree on never pressure washing engine, in fact, never pressure wash any vehicles engine. The paint on a C4 is a triple coat system and holds up well but its the spider cracks in the fiberglass underneath that paint that these are prone to. The Targa top is a part of the strutural integrity of the car and all the Corvette part sites sell different brands of structural bar systems to put in place of the Targa. Agree on not slamming the doors. The build quality of the doors is crap. I had a girlfriend where she got in the passenger side (never let your girlfriend drive your Corvette either) and before I could get there to gently shut the door she slammed the shit out of it and I have a rattle over there to this day that for the life of me I can't track down. Forums (CorvetteCentral) are filled with tips and tricks regarding the care and kid glove treatment of C4s.
Late 90's vettes had AMAZING paint. I left my wife drive all the time. LOL Great points though scott !
I lower my hood to a few inches above and I drop it to latch it. Gently and no touch.
that's also a great method sir
Never push the pointy corners of the hood, or tug. Put your hand, one on top of the other about eight inches in from the pointy corners then push until it clicks. Never drive in the rain either, it takes days to detail the engine bay afterward
Ron, great tips ! thank you for your comment ! What year and color is your vette ?
I own a 1996 LT4. 6 speed. Purchased it new. Watching from Seguin Texas
AMAZING CAR ! what color ?
I hold mine in the middle and drop it ever so gently from about 4”-6”. If it doesn’t close I do the same thing for the corners.
Good technique, go easy on that aging fiberglass
I have a L98 91 corvette and I confirm it does not have an Opti for anyone who is wondering! So don't worry for my fellow 91 owners 😌
92-96 for the opti
The C4 Corvette is my favorite car of all time
As for getting in the C4 I put my right foot in first, swivel a bit to face outward, drop into the seat and swivel back forward.
hokee pokee ?
I agree. I have a 92. The drink holder not only spills easy, but makes working the shifter impossible. And my target top hasn't come off, so far, but I have to tighten the passenger side front screw daily. It's comes loose everyday. For some reason. Yet the other 3 stay tight. Still it makes it vibrate in the wind, not to mention leak when it rains. Uet, I still love my car. I drive it everyday. To and from work. Still need to finish ur vid to see what else u mention. I'm sure I probably allready know
what color is your 92 ?
I was really lucky when I bought mine because I didn't know this and the wheel was intact, but then I found out the transmission had melted and that made my day
Dammit !
@@KurtWinters yeah who ever worked on it before I bought it didn't grease the gears apparently so until it started shifting with the force of a 8 magnitude Earthquake is when I started to notice
You know the cup holders originally have rubber pieces that keep the drinks still right… i have a 95 c4 that’s completely original and stock and it has the rubber cup holders.
mine were long gone, thanks for the OEM fact, Alex !
Number 1 rule, "no eating or drinking " in my fucking car!
Great rule !
Right on! Its not a fast food joint, let no pigs in a c4, eat in if your needs are bad.
@@garypiont6114 body shaming ! LOL - have you seen the bumper stickers - that say "no fat chicks"
"This door is at least 30 feet long" HAHA that got me good
Glad you like sir, thank you for the sub and comment !
I just bought a 84 corvette with only 38k miles been dreaming of owning one since I was little. this video had some good advice.
What color Jesse ?
@@KurtWinters it’s a really nice red with red and black interior
Not sure how old this is, but the C4 DOES NOT have a cup holder. Those are ashtrays.... they have small removable rubber inserts that come out to empty your butts.. NOT a cup holder.
correct ! thx chris for the comment and the sub
I disagree about the cup holders. Sports cars never used to come with cup holders because food or drink was never considered appropriate in a performance vehicle. Cuts down on the possibility of messy accidents, also.
I see your point. But why put them in the car, if they suck ? LOL
@@KurtWinters I remember back in the 80’s- early 90’s, it was a real dig on the American stereotype: fat, lazy, and unable to go without a supersized Micky D’s whatever. Porsche, Ferrari, etc., never used to have them. I think Enzo even commented on it. It was kinda funny when Euro manufacturer’s started to have them back in the 90’s. They were odd sizes. It was a joke, particularly among EU auto journalists, about oversized coin holders. It always worked out for me, I had the excuse for no food or drink in my Vette.
@@BAndersen-ee1xy i agree sir !
I feel like the cup holders work pretty good (automatic only) if I’m using water bottles (safest option) 12 oz cans and many small bottom disposable cups. I don’t have the manual transmission but several videos indicate that you can’t put anything in the cup hold and shift. That IS absurd lol. Anytime I will enter a “G” accelerating or turning it would not be advised to have anything but a water bottle with the lid on. Unfortunately after purchasing after market cup holder inserts the bottle actually don’t fit all that well. I’m thinking of cutting the sides off the originals and using that way. For me, the auxiliary cup holders in the passenger leg area is not so great since I like to keep my passenger as comfy as possible. If you want cup holders get a Dodge Caravan. Then when ya spill no one cares
Good info. I agree whole heartedly about the steering wheel. I've owned a 92 ever since 1993 and I drop my hood about 6 inches above and have never had a problem.
what color is ur vette?
Black and Black. Everything still works, starting to have difficulty with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System, and getting about due for new paint; however, I Love the fact I can rotate my tires.
Glad to be a part of your first thousand subscribers. Good advise and I’m going to check out earlier ones and see what else I need to know for my 87 & 91 C4s
What a terrible thought. Taking a corvette through an automatic car wash.
Thank you ! you'd be surprised what will do to their vettes......
Thank you just bought an 87 in Jan 2021, wasn't closing hood that way; keep the videos coming, visual learning is always best.
I agree ! thanks for the support Jerry !
I'm looking forward to the hood video! My 95 does not close right. My wipers get stuck under the hood if we have the hood correctly body lined up. We have it set higher at the moment until we find a fix for the bow. The hood seems to be bowed down in the middle...
Yes the panels will warp. The fiberglass is prone to heat and moisture. Plz subscribe to the channel, so WE can hit our goal of 1000 subs !
Already did!! Looking forward to new videos
The cup holders were actually supposed to be ash trays, either you or someone else took the trays out and now you have a “cup holder” there is no drinks allowed in the corvette
good to know !
Just bought an 89 c4, and while the owner was delivering it the targa top blew off on him... I was not to impressed but he made a claim and i got 2200 back on the purchase for it, but now the hunt is on to find a decent condition top for a decent price, i got lucky and can still use the old one for now but it does not look to nice 😂
I feel it is better to release the hood from about 6" than to close one side at a time.
When you are closing one side at a time your twisting the hood. Which could cause misalignment and possibly cracking.
Just lower it so it is about 6" away and let it drop. It should latch up just fine. If it doesn't, then adjustment is needed.
def pro tip
I do the same
I agree with just about everything you had to say, only thing I don't agree with is closing the hood. I'm pretty gental with it and drop it from just a few inches from where the pins latch and the weight of the hood is more than enough to latch it.
i baby all my hoods ! I don't even slam the hood on my trailer home....
The old man I bought my 92 from brought it through my boyfriends car wash many times and I’ve been doing the same and it’s been great! I keep up on waxing and claying and ceramic coating and the paint isn’t in too good condition so I don’t mind too much about the possible scratching until I get it repainted lol
That is awesome!
Do you know the secret to being able to open the hood if the latch cable breaks?
Yes, it has a manual release in the engine bay. BUT that's a secret.......
Subscribed! Thanks for the tips, I aquired an 84 C4 last year. It's got new paint but needs a little interior and mechanical TLC. Look forward to future videos!
Your welcome, thanks for the sub and welcome to the C4 community ! What color is your car ?
@@KurtWinters it's blue, my buddy is a retired auto body mechanic, he painted it and it looks brand new. What is your email address, I'll send you a couple pictures. Thanks, Jack.
I allready know where ur going about pressure washing. The opti spark is crap. I bypassed mine. Put in a regular hei distributor, along with a high rise intake with a Holly 650 on top. Took the computer out, and replaces all the wiring and the dash cluster with old school analog guages. It runs great. No computer needed
your smarter than me
Targa top. Yep. Mine had scratches all over it because the previous owner did that. It flew off at 60
I never Alam the hood on my cat. I set it down gently, then push down on one side then the other to lock it. I also don't slam it because my hei distributor only has about a half inch clearance since its right up next to the firewall in front of the window.
great tip !
Awesome video 😮. Just bought an 86' Corvette and this information is definitely useful.
Glad it was helpful! - check out my other corvette videos ! we feature an 85 !
Of course!, I love the 80s aesthetic digital display on these machines 😅.
@@randomboi665 agreed
I’m hoping to get a sexy C4 in two tone Gray in about two weeks from now. Really helpful video! Specially with that steering wheel. That’s something I definitely didn’t know.
Let us know how the purchase goes !
My comment is how do you change the Optics Spark and can you post it online like you do your five things about owning a Corvette
watch ua-cam.com/video/pxJy9IOEB6Y/v-deo.html
Besides a leaky water pump, where and how does moisture get to the opti-spark? WD-40 is a great water disperser. So is grease. Is there any reason that an opti-spark shouldn't be coated with a liberal amount of Vasoline?
it's made of a plastic housing, any plastic will start to fail after 20 years, so moisture is able to get in. Not sure about putting Vasoline on it
4 reverse torx bolts in that tilt mechanism that back off. I rebuilt many
thanks for the tip Mike !
Hey Kurt.... Enjoyed the video. I've got a C6 but always interested in other generations info.
Glad you enjoyed it! THE C6 is a great car. The 90's GM products are fun to reminisce about.
I usually close the hood just like you do, but I put my hand slightly more to the front, so I don't push on the corners.
Before I straightened the frame, I had to yank on it to push it in place. xD
i agree, the move even pressure on the hood IN THE CENTER the better ! What year is you Vette ?
@@KurtWinters It's an '86! When I look at yours, I realize how good mine looked when it was completely yellow (and undamaged).
@@Sk1ds87 Thanks.... FYI I like old paint too ! Hope you enjoy the channel ! don't forget to share this video on your facebook feed and timeline !
Beautiful vette man,gonna get my 1985 soon,anything I should know?
they are small inside..... you a big guy ? also..... buy one someone drives.... don't buy one that been sitting for years, I've got a video on it, go to the CHANNEL playlist Corvette Garage.
@@KurtWinters thanks man,I’m 5’9 not that big so I think I should be okay,it’s a doug Nash Manual too!
I bought a low mileage 1990 C4 in 2016 and I use it as a wekend driver in summer only. I get caught in the rain once in a while (hate those wipers !) and the engine gets dirty. I want to clean it but not power wash it of course. Should I use a foam degreaser ? And is elbow grease the only way to get it clean ? Need some help here.
elbow grease for sure. if super dirty Flush with fresh water, put a couple plastic bags over the water pump to stop water going in behind there. I just use damp rags and take my time
GM advertised the “cup holders” as an ashtray and I guess a coin holder? 🤷🏻♂️
Awesome video!!! I'm soon going to be in the market for one. Best believe I'm going to tug on that steering wheel for play.
what years you looking at ? please comment you make that purchase !
Early c4s don't have optispark. Ive got an 87. Ive pressure washed the bay and have had no issues. Cover the air filter though.
correct, your motor is the Tuned Port injection. Very good motor !
@@KurtWinters yes sir. 5.7 liter sbc 350. Not a bad engine. Lots of torque.
You said the cupholder engineer was "angry" and was fired. Where did you get that info? I would like to know. Thanks.
just for a laugh
@Doug Moody The info came from Cupholder Fire Department, Angryville USA. Lol. Lemme go find somebody else to annoy! Bye.
I own a 93 /40th anniverary , 3 times since i bought it in Nov of 22 the engine quit i waited a minute or so and it fired up and off I went no misfire and it ran great, absolutly no water or oil leaks at all my garage floor clean, many said its the opti spark but i'm not sold on that 'just yet', could it be egr? vacum line? could anyone help with a tip before i sink into the opti spark hole, fuel pump changed 3 weeks before i got it
Thanks for sharing, mine runs funny time to time
If no one has said it, another big problem with those cup holders is that there are **a series of openings**at the bottom of them that just happened to be the right diameter for bolts, screws, small light bulbs, et cetera.
ask me how I know :-)
murphys law for sure ! great comment
Is keeping the hood open in the upright position a bad idea for storing long term and will it warp it if so? I tend to keep it open due to easier access to the battery tender. (84 corvette)
The hood won't warp, the fiber glass will flex. I see no issue with storing it open. I close my hood, but leave it unlatched so I can put a dust cover on the car.
All Corvettes, And I mean all of them.. except for the C8 obviously, are designed to hold the hood in the center or as close to center as you can -and drop it from about 5 in.
A good water displacing silicone lube on the latches, and graphite for the cables.
If you don't know how to graphite cables stop by an old Harley shop, they will show you how or do it for you. I have been collecting Corvettes since 71, not by design it just ended up being that way.
Never been married so I just get another Corvette and a new German Shepherd every once in awhile
I have two C3's two C4's one C5 one C6 and a C8 on order They all close the same..
Never had an issue a corner might stay up once in awhile when I do it wrong
Yes, I just can't slam fiberglass. But the GM manual READS exactly as you say ! You've got a nice collection, Let's shoot a vid !
Good video. 😊
I'm wondering about that hood technique. Does dropping the hood damage it? 😮😢
ever seen someone slam a Ferrari or Austin Martin hood ? no, you put in place then soft-close it.......
@@KurtWinters Good point there.
I remember I would drop my WRX hood because it was aluminum. But this hood is easily soft closed. Thank you for sharing this intel. (:
@@WarriorsPhoto thank you for contributing to the channel !
@@KurtWinters We as Corvette enthusiasts need to thank you all for keeping the hobby alive.
I drop the hood from approximately 7 inches. I am going to try your process, (one person) and if that works never gonna drop it again
Save that fiberglass ! no need to slam ! what color and year is your vette ?
@@KurtWinters black 1996 convertible, great vid btw
Well the drop is over. Latches so nice with a gentle “mash”. Thanks again
@@pathart2080 good to hear
Knew everything but the hood technique at the end, thanks -Drew
welcome drew ! welcome to the channel - Kurt
Would it be okay to rke it through the carwash if it was repainted?
no, auto car washes destroy corvettes
I’ve had four corvettes C-3 and c-4s my 94 seems to ride a lot better than the C-3s
c3 were on an ancient platform.....
I’m the original owner of a 92 convertible. I agree the cup holder is worthless, but I have a rubber insert that came from the factory on one that keeps the can/cup tight and an ashtray that fits in the second insert. Yes, that ashtray was a factory item! 😂
we need pics to see ! great info !
It’s in winter storage (I’m in Minnesota) so have to wait till spring!
'... it's not pretty' LOL! You're now my fav Vette channel - thx for the tips!🎯🤟😉😎
Wow, thanks! Do you have a vette or are you on the market ?
There is special storage clips in the back. Put it along the garage?
Garage for sure, the top rattles around too much.
Did u get a msd opti? Pls doo that hood alignment video, I’ve got that problem also
I will ask my mechanic. Will DO !
plz sub and share this video on facebook, our goal is 1000 Subscribers and I need your help !
MSD yes
Great video. I agree with you on how to close your hood. Once again, thank you.
Glad to help
You must have the gas cylinders on your hood. I have to hold on to mine with all my might to keep it from slamming shut.
wow really, what year is your vette ?
I lower my in middle and it drop about 8 inch from bottom 👍🏾
welcome to the channel ! good tip - what color is ur vette ?
great advice ty.. you might let people know that only a few years of c4s had the optispark but still great video.
That's a really Great point, I try to focus on the LT1. My fav C4 engine by far. I've still much to learn also !
Why not use little small plates and small magnets to keep the cup holder shut?
not a bad idea, i think i'll just ban drinks in the car LOL
I learned a lot. Thanks 👍
Glad it was helpful!
Just so you know, it's a door sill, not "seal," as you stated (at least in the context that you're using it).
I meant Seal, like the aquatic animal.
One more closer to one thousand! I just subscribed and thoroughly enjoyed this video. Not only that, but my 1987 convertible Roxxxy, thanks you as well.
Welcome SIR, thanks for the SUB ! your entered into the contest !
@@KurtWinters Thank you!
BTW, check your email!
@@ROXSTARCorvette4371 Thanks, GREAT RED ON RED XXX
@@KurtWinters Thank you!
Great video...I close my hood the same way...ty.. for the good information!!
Thanks MARCUS ! remember to gimme a SUB if you like this content !
Good God I’ve taken my vette to the pressure wash for a good clean several times (not the engine though that’s outrageous) It can really cause me problems?
you can pressure wash the body, just never the engine bay !
I saw other youtube vids of c4s driving in rain & snow. Might be a ol wives tale!
@@garypiont6114 Opti-spark 94-96 is not moisture resistant. Dude if it's shitty out, drive something else !
@@KurtWinters i saw many o man drive c4 in dowmfalls. Chevy has the best engineers known to the auto industry
A hick made his into a swamp buggy.
Good comments, good demeanor, you have another subscriber from a DieHard Corvette lover
😎
( I don't drink lattes though.. too bad it's against the law to drink alcohol and drive, because those mini Bud cans fit perfect)
HAHAH yes they do ! Thank, your kind words mean a lot to me. Thank you for watching ! Please tell your friends, and enter into my free giveway !
I've never had a problem with the c4 cup holder, but then I don't try to put a cup or a can that's too large in one..
Whoever designed the cupholder for the C5 is the one that was pissed off
C5 is worse huh ?
Not a shake. Grab the wheel at about 8 o’clock and pull down at an angle. If it moves, you’ll know. Don’t buy it.
That is also a really good point. Thank u for your comment. Do you have any other tips for the c4 ? good/bad experiences ?
what about if it rains will it ruin it too?
no sir
Very good information..I will be looking forward to more videos
More to come!
C4 1992-1996 models only have optispark
correct sir !
I'm just lost for words, I actually feel more stupid
Whats the best c4 year to buy a corvette?
93-1996 for sure, the LT1 motor is hands down a fab engine ! stay away from cars that have sat for long periods of time. Are you looking for a manual or auto ?
😎💯👍🏾🔥....good tips, new sub, proud owner of a 1987 C4 Vette
Thanks for the sub! What color ? plz share these vidz on facebook too
I have the original two tone silver/gray, check my UA-cam video out on it, I’m goin began to post more at the beginning of the year 😎💯🔥👍🏾
My main technique for closing my hood is dropping it from about 3 feet up 👍🏾
The GM manual says 12 inches. But hey ! if it works cool ! Thanks for the comment !
Love the content you should do a video on suspension n handling mods i have a 85 tpi
thats a great idea, 85's are a good year ! what color is your car?
You can wash your c4 in a car wash, been doing it for 20 years, never had an issue.
It could damage the OPTI-Spark or leave scratch marks on your paint -BUT if it works for you ! FANTASTIC !
You are right, should of explained it better, only water no brushes or whatever that's called, and blast through the engine compartment for the under spray.
@@stevegoetsch2984 that makes sense
So, how long have you been selling Keto Coffee?
please send those sponsors my way, KB ! LOL
Smashed the like and subscribe buttons! Awesome tips!!
You rock!
The L-98 Engine does not have an 'Opti Spark' you should check your facts jack..
correct, only the Lt1 ans LT4 double D.....
@@KurtWinters We all forget certain things at times..
What Sony stereo do you have
let me check
Only the LT1 had the optispark. So only 1992-1996 needs to worry about it.
correct, GM ditched the LT1 after 1996
Can I wash it with my hose and foam gun?
def, but i wouldn't power spray it...
I always enjoy your videos! Keep them coming!!
Thanks Ricks ! I sure will, your support means a ton to me ! Seriously Dude
There is room, by design, to put your targa top in the rear hatch. Don't prop it up by your garage.
or drive with it on.... but not bolted in