Scariest ZR-1 risks

[t3404eo]

I'm close to purchasing a 90 Z with 600 miles and since I'm not interested in owing a trailer queen, I'm thinking of driving it home (2200 miles) for the joy of seeing the USA in my Chevrolet. It's had a battery and the fuel pumps replaced including a flush of the fuel tank and I'm told it "runs great". What are the scariest issues I might face if I attempted to drive it home vs. shipping?

[lfalzarano]

Age of tires at least!


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[secondchance]

Congratulations! With only 600 miles, she might still be on 18 year old gatorbacks. If so, at best traction will be horrible and at worst, risking a blow out.

[t3404eo]

Tires certainly make sense.

[tpepmeie]

Congratulations! With only 600 miles, she might still be on 18 year old gatorbacks. If so, at best traction will be horrible and at worst, risking a blow out.

make that 28 year old gatorbacks!

[t3404eo]

So, other than the tires, any other issues? I've read horror stories about the spark plugs, wires and coil packs? Any other thoughts?

[Riviera]

I would also be concerned about the injectors.

[efnfast]

So, other than the tires, any other issues? I've read horror stories about the spark plugs, wires and coil packs? Any other thoughts?
There is always maintenance.
Don't forget, you're going to read about every problem here.
I'd be worried about injectors and tires also.
Will you have access to the forum while on the road? -Steve

[A1990]

You indicate that you are not interested in a trailer queen, but you are going to buy one?

My biggest concern is that you will pay a premium for a 600 mile car, then by the time you get it home, you will have a car worth half of what you paid for it.

If that is okay with you, buy it and drive away.

[tomcat]

Hey Man,

Drive your ZR1 home, you'll be fine. I drove my ZR1 home from Wisconsin to Vancouver Washington. With only 1 issue, people staring. =D>

Manfred E.....Black #906:proud:

[t3404eo]

You indicate that you are not interested in a trailer queen, but you are going to buy one?

My biggest concern is that you will pay a premium for a 600 mile car, then by the time you get it home, you will have a car worth half of what you paid for it.

If that is okay with you, buy it and drive away.

Actually the price is right. I'd buy it to drive it anyway. I'm just not totally sold on hitting the road for a 2k plus drive quite yet. I bought a 73 Mercedes SL and immediately hit the road for a 2k drive without an issue. Also did it with an 86 Mercedes E-class and while I made it home, it did blow the head gasket literally 50 miles out.;)

[t3404eo]

There is always maintenance.
Don't forget, you're going to read about every problem here.
I'd be worried about injectors and tires also.
Will you have access to the forum while on the road? -Steve

Oh, for sure I'll be connected all the way!

[secondchance]

make that 28 year old gatorbacks!

Bad math...

[efnfast]

Oh, for sure I'll be connected all the way!
Reach out if there are any issues.
Where is the car coming from?

[DRM500RUBYZR-1]

We have "awakened" quite a few long slumbering ZR-1's.

My single biggest concern is the amount of rust found in ALL of the fuel tanks of low mile moth balled cars.
Pumps, sender, filter and flush are essential, but if the tank was not fully cleansed of the 2 cups of rust that inhabit the bottom then your ride could be short lived.

1990 Fuel Injectors are intolerant of today's alcohol.
However if as you say it is running "good" then you may make it home and can deal with their replacement at that point, but they do need to be replaced.

Coolant? I would check it carefully

Clutch fluid, see that is changed before you go, or you will not get very far.

Brake Fluid!!!! Make sure it is not mud.

Look at the oil, and if you are not certain when it was changed, change it!
Change it again once home.

Feel free to drive on the original tires, however jumping off of a cliff would be even more expedient. Clear?

Is it an early 90?
Do records show any cam tensioner replacement?
If yes and no, then I would be careful.
Re- awakened LT-5's will have lifters that continue to leak down for a few run in hours after coming back to life.
90 early cam tensioners will make quite a racket, especially on one side.
Those noises will startle you!
If the injectors begin to degrade during your trip, and missing occurs,the noise from the dual mass flywheel will drown out the cam and lifter noises and might cause you to soil the seats a bit.

If the car had 2500-5000 miles, I would have far less concerns for a 2000 maiden to you voyage.

A car with only a few hundred?
I would suggest a less rigorous introduction.
But if you handle the above, and the car truly is running good, then have at it, but be very vigilant, remembering that all the hoses, belt, seals etc. are nearing 30 years of age.

A few 50 mile jaunts, then a few hundred, will reveal the real answer.
I would not want to have" Get there-itis" in such a car, but if you have plenty of time and keep an eye on all, again given the above, it would be a great way to come up with a get-ready punch list, and to get to know your new car.
:cheers:
Marty

[Young1]

Flush clutch and brake fluid. Flush coolant replace with green. Replace tires. (I can't drive 55) . Replace fuel filter and have a spare. Make sure trans. Diff and engine oils are full. Do some hard stops to set brakes and verify abs is working. If accessory belt shows cracking replace it. Part of the adventure is getting it ready. The rest is doing the trip. If the injectors go that bad and that is an if. Rent a u haul and a trailer and bring it home the rest of the way. There is always a way. See the USA in your Chevrolet


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[Kevin]

My advice, don't do it. It's a nearly 30 year old car with no miles. Cars hate to sit. Seals are going to be bad, injectors are going to be shot, depending on how full the tank is the pumps will be bad and there will be rust in the tank. This isn't the car to do a 2000 mile road trip in.

[Dynomite]

My advice, don't do it. It's a nearly 30 year old car with no miles. Cars hate to sit. Seals are going to be bad, injectors are going to be shot, depending on how full the tank is the pumps will be bad and there will be rust in the tank. This isn't the car to do a 2000 mile road trip in.

I'm close to purchasing a 90 Z with 600 miles and since I'm not interested in owing a trailer queen, I'm thinking of driving it home (2200 miles) for the joy of seeing the USA in my Chevrolet. It's had a battery and the fuel pumps replaced including a flush of the fuel tank and I'm told it "runs great". What are the scariest issues I might face if I attempted to drive it home vs. shipping?

When did the car get 600 miles? Recently or years ago....how many miles recently?

If car runs great I doubt any of the issues mentioned will all of a sudden pop up on a 2,200 mile trip. I would change the oil and check Trans and Diff Fluid before I ran it (actually I would change all three fluids as those fluids may be 27 years old). I would also install a new fuel filter and oil filter.

Then I would take it for a 25 mile short trip to see if the temperature stabilizes in the normal range........then the 2,200 mile trip. Do not go overboard on the throttle until you get some new tires. Have Fun :thumbsup:

LT5/ZR-1 Fluids (http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c4-zr-1-discussion/3005470-tech-info-lt5-modifications-rebuild-tricks-500-hp.html#post1580070550)

https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.corvetteforum.com-vbulletin/800x600-1/80-353a8770_2463_4a3d_bd53_860920b2b618_1__215baaf45f a8310b57b69078bd80040f5003d62d.jpg

I concur with Young1 :cheers:
Flush clutch and brake fluid. Flush coolant replace with green. Replace tires. (I can't drive 55) . Replace fuel filter and have a spare. Make sure trans. Diff and engine oils are full. Do some hard stops to set brakes and verify abs is working. If accessory belt shows cracking replace it. Part of the adventure is getting it ready. The rest is doing the trip. If the injectors go that bad and that is an if. Rent a u haul and a trailer and bring it home the rest of the way. There is always a way. See the USA in your Chevrolet

[Z51JEFF]

You are a far braver man than I am,I wouldn’t consider driving any new to me car that distance. Pay the cash and have it trailered home. Hats off to you for your intended purpose with the car,I’d do the same thing,DRIVE IT!

[rush91]

Tires......I WOULD NOT drive that car on it's original tires, over 2500 miles!! The new battery and fuel pumps are a start, but if you are going to drive it home, please buy new tires for her.....too many unforseen issues that can arise there. These Z's are very bullet proof IF maintained. Like others said, no car does good sitting for such a long time. I wouldn't be scared to drive it so far home, because the members here will help you in any way with advice or help.

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[XfireZ51]

Have it shipped. With 600miles on it and a 27 year old car, I would not drive it without going thru it pretty thoroughly. U could end up trailering it anyway.

[Bob Eyres]

It sounds like the general consensus is to change all the fluids, get fresh tires, and do a good shakedown run, then head for home. That’s what I would do. It might be helpful to locate a good Corvette shop in the vicinity of the purchase to do all this, and take a look for other things while they’re at it.
BTW, when I bought my 91’ (with3Kmi.on it), I flew to LA with my son, bought the car, filled the gas tank, and headed back to south Florida. No problems, and the most fun I’ve ever had with the car........but that was 1994 :)) Go for it!


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[KFoster]

I would be concerned about the injectors and tires. You can look at the tires, but if original they are probably hard as a rock. Injectors are a different story and seem to be pretty bad on low mile cars. Be careful.


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[WARP TEN]

Have it shipped. With 600miles on it and a 27 year old car, I would not drive it without going thru it pretty thoroughly. U could end up trailering it anyway.

I absolutely agree with Dominic but with one addition. Have it shipped directly to Marc Haibeck in Addison Illinois for a thorough going over. (Talk to him first though:)). Don't drive it much if at all until that has happened. That's what I did when I purchased my 20,000 mile '95. Had him change ALL fluids, replace the serpentine belt (which was hanging on by as few threads), and a number of other items. On a '90 he will, as others have noted, undoubtedly recommend replacing injectors and probably fuel system components. Also had him do a couple desirable mods like add a Hurst shifter and 4.10 rear gears while it was there. And definitely replace the tires if they are original. Save the originals for NCRS shows. --Bob

[Vette73]

Actually the price is right. I'd buy it to drive it anyway. I'm just not totally sold on hitting the road for a 2k plus drive quite yet. I bought a 73 Mercedes SL and immediately hit the road for a 2k drive without an issue. Also did it with an 86 Mercedes E-class and while I made it home, it did blow the head gasket literally 50 miles out.;)
600 mile Z....I'm sure the car is in showroom condition....I've always said, we see many corvettes for sale and follow some interesting sales,Ex-low mileage ones, heavily modded ones, rare colored ones.....

However, I find not even five percent of the buyers actually post what in fact they paid for the car at time of sale,auctions excluded,they post the final sale.....

Was yours an auction vehicle? Would you be willing to post final sale price....I feel in the future if the selling price was given with the asking price it would help in valuing the cars better...



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[Hib Halverson]

a 600-mile '90 and you're going to drive it 2000+ miles. Well...

I'd run the fuel pressure tests in the FSM as a quick assessment of the condition of the injectors.

Then, as the fluids are likely 28 years old, I'd change all of it..brake fluid, power steering, coolant, engine oil, trans lube and rear axle lube.

Change the accessory drive belt.

Inspect all rubber hoses and replace as necessary.

The hvac might need service.

Road test the car to check brake function and service the brakes as necessary

Finally, the aformention tires ought to be replaced.

[Riviera]

From a potential purchase standpoint I would be concerned about the statement "runs great". If it's only had 600 miles put on it in 28 years it hasn't been run much at all. Just my two cents. Showroom condition, maybe yes, but more likely no. How long ago was the gas tank flushed and who did it?

[JThomas]

All of the above, and let us know your route and progress, so that if or when you have a problem, we are there to help you.

Personally, I would trailer/ship it home. But understanding your enthusiasm, have it checked out before you get started, but let us know how the trip goes if you drive it, so we know you are okay or be there to help.

Good luck!!!

[gbrtng]

have it shipped, your cost will be less in the long run... you are in very shaky territory if you drive it.

[Dynomite]

I would change Engine Oil and Oil Filter. I would check trans and diff oil. Take it for a spin after the engine oil change and make sure the temperature stabilizes.
I would not tell anyone what I paid for it :p

Then I would drive it home :D

Hey Man,
Drive your ZR1 home, you'll be fine. I drove my ZR1 home from Wisconsin to Vancouver Washington. With only 1 issue, people staring. =D>
Manfred E.....Black #906:proud:

If something happens on the road, have a friend with a trailer available.

All these scare posts takes the fun out of it. There have been many here who have ZR-1s with 20,000-100,000 miles that have not changed trans or Diff oil and some have not even checked the trans or Diff oil. And definitely not the clutch or brake oil change out and probably not the Coolant except checking that it is green. Those fluids are as old as the fluids in your 600 mile ZR-1 without the condensation from many cycles of temperature.

I have bought several ZR-1s and never really know what maintenance or fluids were used or the change intervals. Your 600 mile ZR-1 prolly has had zero changes and you know what fluid was used....That is a BIG Plus....exactly like my LT5 Crate Engine :thumbsup:

Have Fun Driving that NEW ZR-1 :cheers::cheers::cheers:

https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.corvetteforum.com-vbulletin/800x600-1/80-353a8770_2463_4a3d_bd53_860920b2b618_1__215baaf45f a8310b57b69078bd80040f5003d62d.jpg

The further you drive the ZR-1 towards home base, the cheaper the shipping charges become if the naysayers are correct :p

[Ccmano]

We have "awakened" quite a few long slumbering ZR-1's.

My single biggest concern is the amount of rust found in ALL of the fuel tanks of low mile moth balled cars.
Pumps, sender, filter and flush are essential, but if the tank was not fully cleansed of the 2 cups of rust that inhabit the bottom then your ride could be short lived.

1990 Fuel Injectors are intolerant of today's alcohol.
However if as you say it is running "good" then you may make it home and can deal with their replacement at that point, but they do need to be replaced.

Coolant? I would check it carefully

Clutch fluid, see that is changed before you go, or you will not get very far.

Brake Fluid!!!! Make sure it is not mud.

Look at the oil, and if you are not certain when it was changed, change it!
Change it again once home.

Feel free to drive on the original tires, however jumping off of a cliff would be even more expedient. Clear?

Is it an early 90?
Do records show any cam tensioner replacement?
If yes and no, then I would be careful.
Re- awakened LT-5's will have lifters that continue to leak down for a few run in hours after coming back to life.
90 early cam tensioners will make quite a racket, especially on one side.
Those noises will startle you!
If the injectors begin to degrade during your trip, and missing occurs,the noise from the dual mass flywheel will drown out the cam and lifter noises and might cause you to soil the seats a bit.

If the car had 2500-5000 miles, I would have far less concerns for a 2000 maiden to you voyage.

A car with only a few hundred?
I would suggest a less rigorous introduction.
But if you handle the above, and the car truly is running good, then have at it, but be very vigilant, remembering that all the hoses, belt, seals etc. are nearing 30 years of age.

A few 50 mile jaunts, then a few hundred, will reveal the real answer.
I would not want to have" Get there-itis" in such a car, but if you have plenty of time and keep an eye on all, again given the above, it would be a great way to come up with a get-ready punch list, and to get to know your new car.
:cheers:
Marty

Marty knows what he is talking about, especially when it comes to these low mile cars.
H
:cheers:

[karlaw]

Get a proper shipping cost.
Then carefully calculate your minimum cost to fly, motels, food, and gas, as well as fluid changes, tires, new battery, serpentine belt, time off work, insurance, then compare to shipping cost.
Then consider this: what if you encounter a infamous no start on the 2nd or 3rd day ? And you are far from any mechanic that has experience on these cars ? How many days of downtime and hundreds of dollars of garage bills are you willing to spend halfway to home ? I have 2 ZR-1 cars here with the dreaded No Start, and they been sitting for months as I keep trying to get them to fire.
Even if it was a more simple ride, like a Chevy pickup truck, I would do the shipping choice.
If it costs a couple hundred extra to ship, it is well worth knowing you won't be stranded.
If the car was only 10 years old with 100,000 miles, much better chance of having no problems.
I love these ZR-1 cars, but as with any C4 corvette, they are not the most comfortable car for a longer trip.



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[Dynomite]

Get a proper shipping cost.
Then carefully calculate your minimum cost to fly, motels, food, and gas, as well as fluid changes, tires, new battery, serpentine belt, time off work, insurance, then compare to shipping cost.
Then consider this: what if you encounter a infamous no start on the 2nd or 3rd day ? And you are far from any mechanic that has experience on these cars ? How many days of downtime and hundreds of dollars of garage bills are you willing to spend halfway to home ? I have 2 ZR-1 cars here with the dreaded No Start, and they been sitting for months as I keep trying to get them to fire.
Even if it was a more simple ride, like a Chevy pickup truck, I would do the shipping choice.
If it costs a couple hundred extra to ship, it is well worth knowing you won't be stranded.
If the car was only 10 years old with 100,000 miles, much better chance of having no problems.
I love these ZR-1 cars, but as with any C4 corvette, they are not the most comfortable car for a longer trip.
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If that Infamous No Start you describe........just put trans in 2nd gear with clutch in and key on.....one person can just push it a bit and you then pop the clutch.......wowza........it fires right up :p

For your ZR-1s that do not fire......just push start and if you park it....make sure you are on flat surface and can push it forward a few feet.

I think you can even push it backwards in reverse and fire it up :D

That I call the famous start

I have taken a ZR-1 on several 2,000 mile trips and they are very comfortable with all the seat controls :thumbsup:

Common guys....quit trying to scare the fun out of this deal :sign10:

Ya....I and a couple others are saying "Drive It" and like any ZR-1 something weird can happen albeit it be rare especially if you give it a test drive first.

You might be surprised to know (I am guessing) how many ZR-1s have original belts and original Trans, Diff, Brake, Clutch Fluids. And.......Original Injectors, starters, alternators, tires......and they are on the road every day.

I have bought several of these ZR-1s with 40,000-80,000 miles on them and correct all that original stuff with my Standard Top End Restorations which sometimes includes new Pilot Roller Bearing. and clutch disc. Some of these I drove home.

All of the ones I drove home....two of us drove out so had second car just in case :cheers:

[Young1]

I appeal to the original posters personality and mechanical aptitude. Remember the Viagra commercial where the guy with the 69 Camaro calmly pours water into his radiator? Some of us are like that and handle whatever comes our way with adventure. But others find all the what if's stressful and no fun. Toy cars are not always practical. But they should always be fun and enjoyable. It could be stressful to have people work on your car way out of town that you are not familiar with and do not trust. OP above all enjoy yourself in whatever decision you do make.


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[32valvesftw]

BMW Motorcycles owners association publishes BMW Anonymous every year. It a book of addresses and contact numbers for other BMW owners that will help you out in a jam.
We have a much fewer folks in our group here with the Zs but still we have people in pretty much most states. Perhaps you put out a route plan and we give you some contacts for folks in those areas that can help you out if you need it.

[XfireZ51]

I'm close to purchasing a 90 Z with 600 miles and since I'm not interested in owing a trailer queen, I'm thinking of driving it home (2200 miles) for the joy of seeing the USA in my Chevrolet. It's had a battery and the fuel pumps replaced including a flush of the fuel tank and I'm told it "runs great". What are the scariest issues I might face if I attempted to drive it home vs. shipping?

If u r bringing the car back to Michigan, it needs to come thru Chicago. Have it dropped off there.

[Paul Workman]

If u r bringing the car back to Michigan, it needs to come thru Chicago. Have it dropped off there.

Good point!;)

[Ls7/Ls9 Test Engineer]

Well, in my case I weighed out the risks of low mile cars vs high mile units and bought a 30k mile Z. I decided to go for it and I drove it home to Michigan from NC. 16 hr trip. Not a single issue. It wasn’t the smartest leap of faith, but it’s great knowing I went for it! If you have the means to deal with anything which may occur, then just go for it. It’s a memory you’ll remember either way..;)


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[randy ransome]

I say Go for it. I bought a highly modded ZR-1 in Texas and drove it home to Olive Branch, MS. It's 13 hours and the trip was trouble free. Can something happen? sure but if you're not pressed for time and you're ready for adventure,do it.





:USFlag:

[karlaw]

If driving it home, great idea to get a list of other owners in your route, and a list of corvette shops as well.


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[billschroeder5842]

[B]
You might be surprised to know (I am guessing) how many ZR-1s have original belts and original Trans, Diff, Brake, Clutch Fluids. And.......Original Injectors, starters, alternators, tires......and they are on the road every day.


That's the way I bought my guy. I drove it home 1600 miles after it sat for a few months. Now, it had 65k on the clock and the owner did keep up with (most) of the maintenance

However.... 600 miles is not low mileage... it is NO mileage. That is a roll of the dice. I'd ship her home, do a reasonable maintenance routine THEN drive the snot out of it.