I had my local Chevrolet Dealer run ALL available frame/suspension part numbers for mid-years. This is what you can purchase today; front control arm bushings both upper and lowers, rear spring end mount bolts/washers/rubber washer, rubber bushings, rear control arm bushings and insert pin, AC/Delco rear shocks. Question is are these parts worth the price or just buy repo from one of our friendly vendors? Just a added note, rumor is GM may begin to delete ALL pre 1982 parts numbers shortly. Any thoughts members...
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Re: C2 Susspension Parts, GM verses Aftermarket
Mark-----
I kind of doubt that your dealer ran ALL of the original C2 suspension and frame part numbers. For one thing, I highly doubt that the dealer even has any record of the original part numbers unless you supplied them. In any event, the listing you described is about right as far as what's still available. However, the upper front control arm bushings are not the original part number and are not as originally configured. The rear spring end (long) bolts have not been of the original part number or exact configuration for years and even the last ones available are available no more.
As far as the Delco shocks go, they are NOTHING like the original shocks in configuration. However, I think that under NCRS judging rules you can still get some credit for them if you leave the ugly and totally non-original Delco labels on them.
Whether to buy them from GM depends. Most of the parts you mentioned that are still available are pretty low cost even through GM. The bushings are somewhat of an exception. If you can get bushings in the reproduction or aftermarket that you KNOW are manufactured by Harris or Clevite, they'll be the same as GM. Otherwise, go with the GM.
As far as whether GM is going to discontinue whatever parts for 53-82 Corvettes are still available, I doubt there is such a policy. However, there are very few such parts still available as it is. Without a doubt, in the next several years the vast majority of those few will be gone.In Appreciation of John Hinckley -
Re: C2 Susspension Parts, GM verses Aftermarket
I bought some lower control arm bushings from Corvette Central as part of their kit. The bushing were made from a noticeable thinner steel when compairing to original. When pressing them into the control arm the steel flange started folded around. I threw them way and bought some Raybestos (professional line) from Rock Auto and they were much closer if not exact to the originals with the exception to the part number on the rubber that is covered by the end cap.
The uppers in the kit from CC looked to be the correct thickness and installed fine.
MikeComment
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Re: C2 Susspension Parts, GM verses Aftermarket
Mike-----
The 1963-72 original bushings, upper and lower, were manufactured by Harris and that name appears embossed on the exposed rubber portion of the bushing.
Beginning in 1973, the upper bushing manufacturer changed to Clevite and that name appeared on the exposed rubber. The outer steel shell was slightly lengthened on these bushings and the inner rubber collar disappeared. These bushings became SERVICE for 63-72 after 1973.In Appreciation of John HinckleyComment
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Re: C2 Susspension Parts, GM verses Aftermarket
I opened the GM box at the dealer and the upper bushings have "made in mexico". I haven't purchased yet, but I will get some photos. I get the feeling there not GM and not Clevite.Comment
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Re: C2 Susspension Parts, GM verses Aftermarket
Here are some shots of original vs replacement control arm bushings for my '65. Note: The arms are only in primer so they do not have the correct gloss.
MikeLast edited by Mike E.; November 14, 2012, 10:41 PM.Comment
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Re: C2 Susspension Parts, GM verses Aftermarket
Mark------
They could still be Clevite. Most of the major automotive manufacturers have foreign manufacturing operations now. Look at the exposed rubber on either end and see if there is an embossed brand name.In Appreciation of John HinckleyComment
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Re: C2 Susspension Parts, GM verses Aftermarket
Rick-----
The original bushings used in PRODUCTION from 1963-72 (and also non-Corvette applications prior to 1963) were GM #3711826. These were also available in SERVICE until January, 1973. At that time, they were discontinued and replaced by GM #401267 which was also used for some non-Corvette applications prior to that time.
Why don't you see the 3711826 very often? Well, the fact that it was discontinued 41 years ago probably has a lot to do with it.In Appreciation of John HinckleyComment
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