Scott Harrison of Texas told us the story of his 1966 427 Corvette, Rumblee Thunder, for this month’s Customer Spotlight.
“I’ve wanted a 427 C2 Corvette since I was eight. In 2017, an intense internet search turned up just what I was looking for in western Iowa. A weekend driver was all I was looking for; restoration was not part of my original plan. No power robbers like A/C and power steering. Also, why add the weight and complexity of power brakes? It had to have side exhausts and knock-off wheels. A black-on-black convertible was the only body/color to be considered.
However, two months after purchase, one of the wiring harnesses needed replacing. The new wiring harness provided the bonus of restoring the interior courtesy light function, which had never worked for me. This improvement changed everything! How great would it be if I fixed some other items and Rumblee was restored to his 1966 state?
First, I needed a correct 427/425 engine. After a four-state search, I found a date-correct Corvette 427/425 block bored only 0.025 inches and no sleeves. Every bolt thread was intact. I don’t think there is another original block like it. I acquired the remaining engine components and began fixing other items that had decayed or weren’t correct for 1966. An NCRS membership and their knowledge were indispensable to restoring my vintage Corvette.
I tried parts from several other Corvette restoration vendors. They had good stuff, but occasionally, some parts weren’t as correct as they could be. Corvette Central parts were just right when the parts from other places weren’t quite as good. You’ll find Corvette Central parts bumper to bumper: electrical, suspension, engine, brake, steering, and interior parts. Corvette Central is now my go-to source for reproduction parts. The staff is helpful and friendly, and I can get answers by phone or email.”