If you're just getting
started with classic Corvettes, you'll find The Complete Corvette Volume 1: Making
Sense of it All an excellent beginner reference for under $20.
Published by County Corvette Sales Service Restoration this CD uses browser technology for its presentation and is compatible with Macintosh and Windows (3.1, 95, 98) operating systems. If you don't already have an Internet browser, not to worry; one is included. If you've got a browser already installed, you can use it. I found the installation instructions to be clearly written and easy to follow. Actually, because I already had a browser program on my machine, installation and setup time was zilch.
The topics covered in Volume 1 are Detailing, Originality, Towing, and Panel Repair.
Three cheers for a
presentation that really addresses the questions a beginner or first-time detailer will
have! Nothing is assumed. Your lesson in detailing begins with a list of the items you'll
need to assemble to do the job right. Print the page and take it shopping with you! In
case you aren't sure what some of the items are, each item is pictured on subsequent
pages. Perhaps this is a little too much beginner detail for some, but you can always
rapid-click the Next button, and I personally hate it when authors assume reader knowledge
of important tools.
Following the tools descriptions, the CD takes you step-by-step through the basics of cleaning a Vette. It includes tips for keeping soft-tops and plastic windows looking their best. It even discusses the difference between laquer and acrylic finishes, how to tell which your Vette has, and the care requirements of each.
The CD includes an excellent article about matching numbers, with a breakdown of what's important and where to look for it with each model year. You can view photos of the numbers you'll be looking for. There's also a section of pages, loaded with photos, with VIN and Engine Assembly Codes for each group of model years. Anyone who's thinking about buying a classic Corvette should read this information before making a purchase. First-time buyers especially can avoid headaches and heartaches by knowing what to look for and where.
Towing a Vette? Well, this section of the CD actually covers both towing and transporting. The towing section suggests pre-breakdown steps you can take to make sure you've got what you need when you must make a call for towing. Don't assume that the tow truck driver will have the right equipment to properly secure your Vette, and don't assume that driver will know how to secure it. There was only one question I didn't see answered. "When your Vette is going to be towed, should you leave the doors slightly ajar with the windows rolled down?" I'm sure that question and any others the publisher receives as feedback will get answered in a revision.
For transporting, the presentation shows detailed photos to step you through how and where to tie-down your Vette, whether you're transporting it on an open car trailer or a closed one.
Hey, I've attended enough Corvette shows throughout the world to know that even the pros don't always get it right or have exactly what they need when an emergency arises. I've also seen the consequences of not securing a Vette properly and not using the right equipment. It wasn't a pretty sight!
Panel RepairWhether you're just curious as to how fiberglass panels get repaired and replaced or think you might want to tackle such a project on your Vette, you'll appreciate the excellent step-by-step presentation. You'll also be amazed by how many small steps it takes to do the job right.
Each step is illustrated with a captioned photo, and each step is explained simply and clearly.
Corvette pros may find The Complete Corvette Volume 1: Making Sense of it All too basic. Fine. This CD was published for the folks just getting started in the Corvette hobby: folks thinking about buying their first Corvette, first-time owners, and even multi-Vette owners thinking about doing some of their own fiberglass repair work or showing their Vettes for the first time. The language and presentation is simple enough for a Corvette-infatuated kid to understand, but not too simple for adult readers.
If you've always wanted a Corvette, but been afraid to take the big step, this CD can teach you what you need to know to have the confidence to make a purchase. If you know someone who's either thinking about buying a Vette or recently bought one, this CD would make a great "New Arrival" gift.
You can order a copy of The Complete Corvette Volume 1: Making Sense of it All online at the County Corvette website. Or, you can place your order by phone by dialing: 1-800-920-7888.
Copyright 1996 Barbara Spear
