DIY or send it to a garage?

[KarlMac]

I picked up a C5 Corvette at the end of last year that was a bit of a fixer-upper, I’ve gathered the parts together and debating whether it’s worth tackling the jobs myself or finding a garage to do them properly.

Work that needs doing:

- new water pump
- replace weather strip
- change battery
- full oil and plugs service
- fit and code new BCM

I’m based between Rotherham/Worksop so we need to track down a competent garage to do the work.

I’ve done quite a bit of research into each of the jobs and think I could have a crack at most of them, the problem is I’m useless with tools and would have to work outside on the drive.

If anyone has any experience with any of those jobs above and can give me some insight into how fiddly they are it would be appreciated!

[steveo3002]

bet theres a dozen youtube videos showing you each one listing all the tools , if not youtube then owners forums

[LuS1fer]

Nothing particularly difficult in that list bar perhaps the BCM. No codes on the stereo to lose.

Now a new clutch, that is extremely hard.

[KarlMac]

LuS1fer said:

Nothing particularly difficult in that list bar perhaps the BCM. No codes on the stereo to lose.

Now a new clutch, that is extremely hard.

Thankfully I don’t have to worry about ever having to replace a clutch

I think I’m going to stop worrying about it and give it a go. I’m actually more worrried about the weather strip as it looks like a right fiddly sod to get it to stop leaking.

[MrNoisy]

The fact you’re considering doing it yourself suggests to me you definitely should. All of it is totally DIY possible even the BCM code, just gotta have the right kit obvs.

Lot’s of research and take your time, don’t be afraid to walk away and come back tomorrow, that always works for me when it feels like you’ve hit a wall.

First job I tackled on my C6 was the clutch, many many ‘what have I done’ moments…

Any problems, ask here or on CCC and i’m sure you’ll be inundated with help.

[C5_Steve]

Out of the jobs you've listed as others have said the only one that might be tricky is the BCM and even then it's only the fact you need Tech 2 or equivalent to code it that's an issue.

For the oil change the car should be level to fully drain it, so just check you can get it up and under it on the drive I guess.

I did the plugs/leads on mine having never changed a set of plugs in my life and it was simple, just make sure you have socket extensions and a swivel head along with a spark plug socket (obviously). Took maybe 45 mins and I was being super slow checking everything as I went. Ones at the back are fiddly but really wasn't a problem.

I'd give all of that a go on the drive, there's not much you can get wrong with any of it!