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  • #8350
    V8 Staff
    Keymaster

    This 1977 Chevrolet Corvette arrived at the V8 Speed & Resto Shop after the customer wanted some modern upgrades done to the inside of the car. This car is not wearing an original color, and the original engine has been replaced with a GM Performance Parts crate 350, so the customer does not place a heavy priority on originality. The 1977s are not high on the list of collector Corvettes, so these make great platforms to personalize and enjoy.

    The plans include upgrading the center console, gauges, audio system, adding a Vintage Air A/C system, and backup camera, as well as fixing some issues like leaks and engine cooling problems.

    Kevin Oeste

    #8352
    V8 Staff
    Keymaster

    The stock interior on a 1977 Corvette was very similar to all the C3 Corvettes, and quite stylish and functional. The vents are at the top, with a gauge cluster below housing small temperature, fuel, oil pressure, clock, and volts gauges. The console slopes downward and towards the firewall, where the 2-shaft radio lives above the A/C control and shifter. Power window switches are behind the shifter, along with the e-brake and armrest. The dash houses the large speedometer and tach.

    This configuration presents several challenges when it comes to retrofitting a modern audio system with a display screen, as the slope fights the angle of the screen. Also, the gauges would have to move to make room, and fitting them in the 2-gauge dash would be tricky.

    Kevin Oeste

    #8459
    V8 Staff
    Keymaster

    1977CorvetteDakotaDigitalInstallWEB2Thumbnail.jpg

    This 2-part video series covers the upgrades to the Corvette’s dash, console, and A/C system with the install of a Dakota Digital VHX gauge system, a Vintage Air A/C unit, and a custom steel console made in the V8 Speed & Resto Shop.

    Kevin Oeste

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