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Rise and Shine – Waking Your Car from Winter Hibernation

By: Gary Cockriel

Museum Delivery Program Manager



Edited by: Bobbie Jo Lee

NCM Insurance Agency Customer Service Representive


Rise and Shine – Waking Your Car from Winter Hibernation









Corvette enthusiasts are great protectors of their Corvettes and work extremely hard to take care of them both on the road, during the busy show season and after a long winter’s rest. Here are some tips that will make “waking up” your Corvette from a long, cold winters nap a bit easier and more efficient.

  • Surface Cleaning: Remove your cover or protector wrap and be sure to lightly and gently blow or dust the surface of your Corvette prior to washing. Harsh and abrasive cleaning without removing the dust first can scratch the top coat.
  • Level Checks: Be sure to unplug the battery tender prior to removing the cables from the battery, and check all fluids before starting the car. Oil, water levels, power steering, brake and clutch, windshield washer and transmission fluid –all level checks. Part of this will be repeated later on during our check list. This is also a great time to check your wiper blades. You can easily scratch the windshield if your blades are dried and cracked. So, just replace them as part of your fluid check.
  • Brake Check: Before starting your Corvette, it is a good idea to gently push the brake pedal down halfway – several times to check the pressure. You should also do the same with a clutch pedal for manual transmissions. This process will help with any sticking valves that may have occurred during the winter months. If the pedals aren’t as firm as they should be – recheck the brake fluids. If the levels look right and the pressure still is not as firm as it should be, you may need to have your brakes serviced.
  • Starting the Car: Disabling the ignition to turn over – but not start is the next step to take in preparing your car for the road. Disabling the electrical system to the engine so that you can actually “crank” the engine without actually starting the car is important. This gets the oil pumped to the top of the motor before the car is started and idling – which can be rough on the engine after months of sitting. Repeating this step several times also helps lubricate everything in the engine and prevents a dry start. Oil drains over time to the bottom of the engine and this step will help keep your car running smoother. You will see the oil gauge slowly rise as it should, and then you are ready to reconnect everything to actually start the car. A well ventilated area is the best place to perform this step.
    • If you do want to start the car you should turn on the ignition but not to the start position – just so that all the lights and buzzers are on.  This will give the electric fuel pump a chance to prime the injectors.  You may want to turn the key off and do this step once more just to help the pump and injectors get a head start.  Now try and start the car. If it cranks but doesn’t start, let the engine turn over a few times then stop and repeat with the key on but not at the starting step.  This will again let the pump get fuel to the injectors. Of course if this doesn’t work you may need to get a service person.
    • Once the car is running let it warm up completely.  Normal operating temperature should be around 200 degrees.  Keep an eye on the water temperature and do not to let it over heat.
    • For cars with and an automatic transmission: – While your foot is on the brake and the emergency brake engaged, slip the shifter into reverse.  Shift
      into drive and back into park. With the engine running and transmission in park and the emergency brake on, recheck the transmission fluid.  This should be at the normal level now.
  • Shut Down – Cool Off: Shut everything down let the engine cool off. This is a good time to check all the lights, turn signals and tire pressure. The tire sensors may start an alert signal; just reset it until you go for the test drive later.  Also, this is a good time to make sure your new plate or decal is on the car and your current insurance papers are where you keep them.   Now, recheck the fluid levels again.
  • Test Drive Time: Now that you have taken the precautionary steps to prepare your car for the first drive of they year!  Make the first one a “slow” run. Always checking the brakes to make sure they are up and working.  You should apply them from time to time to help clean the rotors and pads from light surface rust that forms from sitting. Let the transmission go through all the gears.  Once back at the garage, keep the parking brake on and with the engine still running, recheck the transmission fluid.  Let the engine cool again and check all fluid levels one last time.



We hope these helpful tips help prepare you for a fun and exciting year to enjoy your Corvette. We hope you will make the National Corvette Museum one of your stops during the show season and invite you to join us at any of our exciting events planned for 2013. Our 2013 Event Calendar is posted via our website at: www.corvettemuseum.org or give us a call at: 800-53-VETTE to find out more. Thank you for supporting the National Corvette Museum, we hope to see you soon!

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Yesterday to Today: All-new Corvette Stingray Comes to New York City 60 Years After Motorama 1953 Debut

By: Kristy Ketterman, National Corvette Museum







Sixty years ago today, spectators lined New York City’s posh Park Avenue, waiting to get a glimpse of the ground-breaking 1953 Chevrolet Corvette on display at the General Motors’ Motorama show. Today, the Corvette is back in The Big Apple, marking the historic milestone with the all-new 2014 C7 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray.



“The all-new 2014 Corvette Stingray is the most advanced and engaging Corvette in the long, prestigious legacy of this uniquely American success story,” said Chris Perry vice president of Chevrolet Marketing. “It is a car woven into the fabric of American culture and it got its start right here in the Big Apple.”



The introduction of the original Corvette took place at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel on Jan. 17, 1953. Only 300 Corvettes were built – all of them white with a red interior. The enthusiastic response prompted Chevrolet to accelerate production plans and by late June that year, Corvettes were rolling out of a specialized assembly facility in Flint, Mich. One of these 300 is on exhibit at the National Corvette Museum, along with another piece of important Corvette history that many don’t know about.



This was the logo that was switched at the last minute because it had the American flag on it.


Although the Corvette crossed flags emblem has seen some variation over the years, it actually had a controversial beginning. The first logo design included an American flag crossing over the checkered flag to emphasize America’s entry into the sports car world. Originally created by Robert Bartholomew, an interior designer at Chevrolet, this emblem was installed on the 1953 prototype that was set to debut in New York’s Waldorf-Astoria during the “Motorama” show. As preparations were made for Corvette’s big day, the Chevrolet legal department discovered that it was against the law to use an American flag on any commercially made product. With only four days left before the show, the pressure was on to come up with a new logo, and fast.




The designers acted quickly, and looked toward Louis Chevrolet for inspiration. Searching at first for a family crest that could be adapted into a flag they ran into a dead end, as the Chevrolet family didn’t have a crest. Getting desperate, they looked to the French origins of Chevrolet’s name for inspiration. They chose the fleur-de-lis, which means “flower of the lily” as it is the French symbol for royalty. Beneath that there are three lines to represent the three Chevrolet brothers. The revised emblem was quickly made by jewelers and installed on the prototype where it has remained on Corvettes ever since.




The actual American flag emblem that was pulled off of the first Corvette for the Motorama show is on display at the National Corvette Museum, on loan from GM.


Source:
National Corvette Museum

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Welcome Back Stingray! The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette is HERE!

It has been a long couple of years filled with speculation, rumors, internal leaks, etc. Finally today, January 13th #one13thirteen, the world finally has a complete glimpse of the new Chevrolet Corvette Stingray! By the way, YES, WE WILL INSURE THAT!

The engineers, designers, assembly folks have done a fantastic job of keeping enthusiasts on their toes. Marketing launched a fantastic campaign that gave us bits and pieces of information. Finally, we get to see the big picture! General Motors has done an amazing job with this car. They listened to customers at car shows, high performance driving schools, focus groups, etc. They have given us what we asked for!

Below you will find in its entirety the press release, and all of the images from General Motors. We hope that you enjoy! Come see the C7 Corvette at the NCM Bash in April!

________________________________________________

Return of the Stingray: The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette

2013-01-13

DETROIT – Chevrolet is redefining modern performance with today’s debut of the all-new Corvette Stingray. And only a Corvette with the perfect balance of technology, design and performance can wear the iconic Stingray designation.

The 2014 Corvette Stingray is the most powerful standard model ever, with an estimated 450 horsepower (335 kW) and 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm). It is also the most capable standard model ever, able to accelerate from 0-60 in less than four seconds and achieve more than 1g in cornering grip. It is expected to be the most fuel-efficient Corvette, exceeding the EPA-estimated 26 mpg of the current model.

“Like the ’63 Sting Ray, the best Corvettes embodied performance leadership, delivering cutting-edge technologies, breathtaking design and awe-inspiring driving experiences,” said General Motors North America President Mark Reuss. “The all-new Corvette goes farther than ever, thanks to today’s advancements in design, technology and engineering.”

The all-new Corvette Stingray shares only two parts with the previous generation Corvette. It incorporates an all-new frame structure and chassis, a new powertrain and supporting technologies, as well as completely new exterior and interior designs. Highlights include:

  • An interior that includes real carbon fiber, aluminum and hand-wrapped leather materials, two new seat choices – each featuring a lightweight magnesium frame for exceptional support – and dual eight-inch configurable driver/infotainment screens
  • Advanced driver technologies, including a five-position Drive Mode Selector that tailors 12 vehicle attributes to the fit the driver’s environment and a new seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching that anticipates gear selections and matches engine speed for perfect shifts every time
  • An all-new 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine combines advanced technologies, including direct injection, Active Fuel Management, continuously variable valve timing and an advanced combustion system that delivers more power while using less fuel
  • Lightweight materials, including a carbon fiber hood and removable roof panel; composite fenders, doors and rear quarter panels; carbon-nano composite underbody panels and a new aluminum frame help shift weight rearward for an optimal 50/50 weight balance that supports a world-class power-to-weight ratio
  • A sculptured exterior features advanced high-intensity discharge and light-emitting diode lighting and racing-proven aerodynamics that balance low drag for efficiency and performance elements for improved stability and track capability
  • Track-capable Z51 Performance Package including: an electronic limited-slip differential, dry-sump oiling system, integral brake, differential and transmission cooling, as well as a unique aero package that further improves high-speed stability.

“Stingray is one of the hallowed names in automotive history,” said Ed Welburn, GM vice president of global design. “We knew we couldn’t use the Stingray name unless the new car truly lived up to the legacy. The result is a new Corvette Stingray that breaks from tradition, while remaining instantly recognizable as a Corvette the world over.”

The new Corvette Stingray will be built at GM’s Bowling Green, Ky., assembly plant, which underwent a $131-million upgrade, including approximately $52 million for a new body shop to manufacture the aluminum frame in-house for the first time.

“We believe the Corvette represents the future of modern performance cars because it delivers more power, more driving excitement and better fuel efficiency,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “The result is better performance by every measure. The 2014 Corvette delivers the fastest acceleration, the most cornering grip, the most track capability, the best braking performance and what we expect to be the best fuel economy ever for a standard Corvette.”

The 2014 Corvette Stingray coupe goes on sale in the third quarter of 2013.

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

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2013 NCRS Winter Regional’s in Florida – We’ll be there!

2013 NCRS Winter Regional’s in Florida – We’ll be there!


With the New Year in full swing and we are can’t wait to be attend the fun and festivities in warm and sunny Kissimmee, Florida – January 23rd – January 27th at the 35th Annual Winter NCRS Regional Meet!


NCRS Florida Chapter puts on a great Regional Meet in Old Town, Kissimmee, FL. The weekend is filled with judging of some of the finest Corvettes produced. Most of these cars are preparing for NCRS Nationals this summer.



It is the first of many shows we will be attending in 2013 and look forward to meeting friends and enthusiasts of the Museum and the NCM Insurance Agency! We will be set in the vendor area ready to quote and write you collector car insurance needs on the spot, and will be handing out our newest poster created specifically for the Museum’s Insurance Agency for anyone giving us a moment of their time to explore coverage options.



Attending shows across the U.S. is an awesome opportunity for us to meet our current customers and chat, and gives us the chance to introduce what makes the NCM Insurance Agency unique in collector car coverage. We offer excellent service and premiums, flexible usage, a 9 to 5 work endorsement, agreed value protection, a $2000 automatic spare parts coverage loss, and many other options.



We are Corvette people and proud employees of the National Corvette Museum! Who better to protect your Corvette! We would love to chat with you at the show while you are enjoy the activities – so come on over to the NCM Insurance Agency Booth and say hi!



If you are not attending the show, give us a call anytime at: 877-678-7626. You can also get a quote online at: www.ncminsurance.com or via our iphone/ipad app designed for customers on the go – www.ncminsurance.com/mobile-app

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2014 C7 Corvette LT1 Engine – 6.2L Direct Injection Powerhouse!





The C7 Corvette is coming! Are you as excited as we are? Our friends at General Motors/Chevrolet have taken the social media outlets by storm with their #one13thirteen ad campaign. The C7 Corvette will be unclothed from its camo coverings on January 13th, 2013 to a sold out group of National Corvette Museum supporters and a limited group of journalists and industry insiders.

Last week Chevrolet unveiled the newly designed C7 logo at Petit LeMans with much fanfare. Here at the National Corvette Museum we offer C7 Lapel Pins (now sold out), C7 Logo Bricks and our smartphone C7 wallpaper ready for our Corvette faithful to purchase or download. Today Chevrolet has released information on the heart of the C7 Corvette, dubbed the LT1.

LT1 first was introduced in 1970 to the Chevrolet lineup and was an option on the Corvette from 1970 to 1972. Between 1970 and 1972 just shy of 5000 cars were produced with the LT1 engine with the solid lifters. The 1970 Corvettes packed the most punch with 370hp, and General Motors started detuning the engines to give oil companies some time to phase in lower octane levels for unleaded fuels needed for the future use of catalytic converters. 1971 LT1 Corvettes suffered a decrease to 330hp and the final year of the 1972 LT1 was at a meek 255hp.

The C4 Corvette in 1992 reintroduced the RPO Code LT1 as their base engine packing 300hp at 5,000 rpm and 330 lb-ft torque at 4,000 rpm. One big achievement for the LT1 was the introduction of the reverse cooling system. Traditional cooling methods route coolant through the water pump first then through the block to the heads. The LT1 engine routed coolant to start at the heads and then down through the block. This kept the heads cooler which allowed for greater power.

The C7 Corvette will introduce the 3rd variant of the LT1 nameplate. The new LT1 engine will be a 6.2L engine with 450hp and 450 lb-ft of torque. The all-new LT1 is being dubbed “one of the most advanced engines in the world.” Over 10 million hours of CFD modeling was put into the entire engine with 6 million of it focusing on the combustion system.

Speaking of the combustion system, the LT1 utilizes a radically different combustion system.

According to Sam Winegarden, vice president, Global Powertrain Engineering, “The Corvette LT1 represents the most significant redesign in the Small Block’s nearly 60-year history – building on its legacy to make one of the world’s best engines even better.” He went further to say, “More than just great horsepower, the LT1 has been optimized to produce a broader power band. Below 4,000 rpm, the torque of the Corvette LT1 is comparable to that of the legendary, 7.0L LS7 out of the current Corvette Z06. The LT1 is a sweetheart of a power plant and drivers will feel its tremendous torque and power at every notch on the tachometer.”

The all-new LT1 engine also utilizes Active Fuel Management which is a first for the Corvette. This helps save fuel by very slightly, but gradually, reducing half the engines’ cylinders in light-load driving conditions. Also a first for Corvette is Direct Injection, which is the primary contributor to the greater combustion efficiency of the engine. This allows a more complete burn of fuel in the air-fuel mixture by precisely controlling the mixture motion and fuel engine spray pattern. Direct injection keeps the combustion chamber cooler, which allows for the higher 11.5:1 compression ratio.

Here are some fast facts on the LT1 engine:

  • Radically different combustion system makes the LT1 unique
  • Dedication of more than 10 million hours of CFD modeling to the entire engine – including 6 million hours just on the combustion system.
  • The result delivers more power and more fuel economy. Output and fuel economy numbers have yet to be confirmed, but the 2014 Corvette is expected to be:
    • The most powerful standard Corvette with 450 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque.
    • The quickest standard Corvette, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds.
    • The most fuel efficient Corvette when fuel economy ratings are released next year.









Complete Press Release:
For Immediate Release: Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2012

All-New 2014 Corvette LT1 V-8 a Technological Powerhouse

  • Advanced technologies including direct injection, active fuel management, continuously variable valve timing support advanced combustion system
  • Preliminary output of 450 horsepower (335 kW) and 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm)
  • Helps deliver estimated 0-60 performance in less than four seconds and best-ever fuel economy in the Corvette  

DETROIT – When the all-new 2014 Chevrolet Corvette arrives late next year, it will be powered by a technologically advanced, racing-proven 6.2L V-8 delivering an estimated 450 horsepower and helping produce 0-60 times in four seconds flat.

The new Corvette LT1 engine, the first of the Gen 5 family of Small Block engines, combines several advanced technologies, including direct injection, Active Fuel Management and continuously variable valve timing to support an advanced combustion system.

“Our objective for the development of the all-new LT1 was to raise the bar for performance car engines,” said Mary Barra, senior vice president, global product development. “We feel that we have achieved that by delivering a true technological masterpiece that seamlessly integrates a suite of advanced technologies that can only be found on a handful of engines in the world.

“What makes this engine truly special is the advanced combustion system that extracts the full potential of these technologies. The art and science behind that combustion system make the Corvette LT1 one of the most advanced V-8 engines in the world,” said Barra.

Output, performance, and fuel economy numbers will not be finalized until early next year, but the new LT1 engine is expected to deliver:

  • The most powerful standard Corvette ever, with preliminary output of 450 horsepower (335 kW) and 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm)
  • The quickest standard Corvette ever, with estimated 0-60 performance of four seconds
  • The most fuel-efficient Corvette ever, exceeding the 2013 EPA-estimated 26 miles per gallon on the highway.

“The Holy Grail for developing a performance car is delivering greater performance and more power with greater fuel economy and that’s what we’ve achieved,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “By leveraging technology, we are able to get more out of every drop of gasoline and because of that we expect the new Corvette will be the most fuel-efficient 450 horsepower car on the market.”

Advanced combustion system optimized with 6 million hours of analysis

“The Corvette LT1 represents the most significant redesign in the Small Block’s nearly 60-year history – building on its legacy to make one of the world’s best engines even better,” said Sam Winegarden, vice president, Global Powertrain Engineering. “More than just great horsepower, the LT1 has been optimized to produce a broader power band. Below 4,000 rpm, the torque of the Corvette LT1 is comparable to that of the legendary, 7.0L LS7 out of the current Corvette Z06. The LT1 is a sweetheart of a power plant and drivers will feel its tremendous torque and power at every notch on the tachometer.”

Increased power and efficiency were made possible by an unprecedented level of analysis, including computational fluid dynamics, to optimize the combustion system, the direct injection fuel system, active fuel management and variable valve timing systems that support it. More than 10 million hours of computational analysis were conducted on the engine program, including 6 million hours (CPU time) dedicated to the advanced combustion system.

Direct injection is all-new to the engine architecture and is a primary contributor to its greater combustion efficiency by ensuring a more complete burn of the fuel in the air-fuel mixture. This is achieved by precisely controlling the mixture motion and fuel injection spray pattern. Direct injection also keeps the combustion chamber cooler, which allows for a higher compression ratio. Emissions are also reduced, particularly cold-start hydrocarbon emissions, which are cut by about 25 percent.

Active Fuel Management (AFM) – a first-ever application on Corvette – helps save fuel by imperceptibly shutting down half of the engine’s cylinders in light-load driving.

Continuously variable valve timing, which GM pioneered for overhead-valve engines, is refined to support the LT1 AFM and direct injection systems to further optimize performance, efficiency and emissions.

These technologies support the all-new, advanced combustion system, which incorporates a new cylinder-head design and a new, sculpted piston design that is an integral contributor to the high-compression, mixture motion parameters enabled by direct injection.

The LT1 head features smaller combustion chambers designed to complement the volume of the unique topography of the pistons’ heads. The smaller chamber size and sculpted pistons produce an 11.5:1 compression ratio, while the head features large, straight and rectangular intake ports with a slight twist to enhance mixture motion. This is complemented by a reversal of the intake and exhaust valve positions, as compared to the previous engine design. Also, the spark plug angle and depth have been revised to protrude farther into the chamber, placing the electrode closer to the center of the combustion to support optimal combustion.

The pistons feature unique sculpted topography that was optimized via extensive analysis to precisely direct the fuel spray for a more complete combustion. The contours of the piston heads are machined to ensure dimensional accuracy – essential for precise control of mixture motion and the compression ratio.

Race-proven legacy, state-of-the-art performance

The first Small Block V-8 debuted in the Corvette in 1955. It displaced 4.3L (265 cubic inches) and was rated at 195 horsepower, drawing air and fuel through a four-barrel carburetor. Five years later, V-8 power helped Corvette secure its first victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

In 2012, the Small Block-powered Corvette Racing C6.R beat Ferrari, BMW and Porsche to sweep the drivers’, team, and manufacturer championships in production-based American Le Mans Series GT class. These championships make Corvette Racing the most successful team in ALMS history, with a total of 77 class wins, eight drivers’ championships, and nine manufacturer and team championships since 2001.

“The engine requirements for a production car and a race car are remarkably similar,” said Jordan Lee, Small Block chief engineer and program manager. “In both cases, you want an engine that is powerful and efficient, compact and lightweight, and durable. That combination is what made the original Small Block so successful. Today, the introduction of state-of-the-art technologies and engineering makes one of the best performance car engines in the world even better.”

As an example, the new LT1 engine is 40 pounds lighter than a competitor’s twin-turbo 4.4L, DOHC V-8 with similar output. That weight savings not only improves the Corvette’s power-to-weight ratio, but also contributes to a near-perfect 50/50 weight balance for enhanced steering response and handling.

The new LT1 is also four inches shorter in overall height than the competitive DOHC V-8. That also improves handling by lowering the center of gravity while enabling a low hood line – contributing to the Corvette’s iconic profile, as well as ensuring exceptional driver visibility.

The new LT1 is the third engine in the Corvette’s history to be so-named, with previous versions introduced in 1970 (Gen 1) and 1992 (Gen 2). All iterations of the LT1 – and all Small Block engines – have shared a compact design philosophy that fosters greater packaging flexibility in sleek vehicles such as the Corvette.

“The power and efficiency of the Small Block V-8 are hallmarks of Corvette performance,” said Lee. “But, the compact size and great power-to-weight are just as important for the overall driving experience. The all-new LT1 will play a huge role in making the all-new Corvette a world-class sports car, in terms of technology, performance, and refinement.”

Engine features and highlights

All-aluminum block and oil pan: The Gen 5 block was developed with math-based tools and data acquired in GM’s racing programs, providing a light, rigid foundation for an impressively smooth engine. Its deep-skirt design helps maximize strength and minimize vibration. As with the Gen 3 and Gen 4 Small Blocks, the bulkheads accommodate six-bolt, cross-bolted main-bearing caps that limit crank flex and stiffen the engine’s structure. A structural aluminum oil pan further stiffens the powertrain.

The block features nodular iron main bearing caps, which represent a significant upgrade over more conventional powdered metal bearing caps. They are stronger and can better absorb vibrations and other harmonics to help produce smoother, quieter performance.

Compared to the Gen 4 engine, the Gen 5’s cylinder block casting is all-new, but based on the same basic architecture. It was refined and modified to accommodate the mounting of the engine-driven direct injection high-pressure fuel pump. It also incorporates new engine mount attachments, new knock sensor locations, improved sealing and oil-spray piston cooling.

Advanced oiling system, with available dry-sump system: The LT1 oiling system – including oil-spray piston cooling – was also optimized for improved performance. It is driven by a new, variable-displacement oil pump that enables more efficient oil delivery, per the engine’s operating conditions. Its dual-pressure control enables operation at a very efficient oil pressure at lower rpm coordinated with AFM and delivers higher pressure at higher engine speeds to provide a more robust lube system for aggressive engine operation.

Standard oil-spray piston cooling sprays the underside of each piston and the surrounding cylinder wall with an extra layer of cooling oil, via small jets located at the bottom of the cylinders. For optimal efficiency, the oil jets are used only when they are needed the most: at start-up, giving the cylinders extra lubrication that reduces noise, and at higher engine speeds, when the engine load demands, for extra cooling and greater durability.

An available dry-sump oiling system promotes exceptional lubrication system performance during aggressive driving maneuvers and high cornering loads. It includes two stages: a pressure stage and a scavenge stage. The pressure stage includes the new, dual-pressure-control and variable-displacement vane pump.

Dexos semi-synthetic motor oil, with a 5W30 specification, helps reduce friction to further enhance the LT1’s efficiency.

New, tri-lobe camshaft: Compared to the Gen 4 Small Block, the camshaft remains in the same position relative to the crankshaft and is used with a new rear cam bearing, but it features an all-new “tri-lobe” designed lobe which exclusively drives the engine-mounted direct injection high-pressure fuel pump, which powers the direct-injection combustion system. The cam’s specifications include 14mm/13.3mm (0.551/0.524-inch) intake/exhaust lift, 200/207-crank angle degrees intake/exhaust duration at 0.050-inch tappet lift and a 116.5-degree cam angle lobe separation.

New, cam-driven fuel pump: The direct injection system features a very-high-pressure fuel pump, which delivers up to 15Mpa (150 bar). The high-pressure, engine-driven fuel pump is fed by a conventional fuel-tank-mounted pump. The direct injection pump is mounted in the “valley” between cylinder heads – beneath the intake manifold – and is driven by the camshaft at the rear of the engine. This location ensures any noise generated by the pump is muffled by the intake manifold and other insulation in the valley.

PCV-integrated rocker covers: One of the most distinctive features of the new engine is its domed rocker covers, which house the, patent-pending, integrated positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system that enhances oil economy and oil life, while reducing oil consumption and contributing to low emissions. The rocker covers also hold the direct-mount ignition coils for the coil-near-plug ignition system. Between the individual coil packs, the domed sections of the covers contain baffles that separate oil and air from the crankcase gases – about three times the oil/air separation capability of previous engines.

Intake manifold and throttle body assembly: The LT1’s intake manifold features a “runners in a box” design, wherein individual runners inside the manifold feed a plenum box that allows for excellent, high-efficiency airflow packaged beneath the car’s low hood line.

Acoustic foam is sandwiched between the outside top of the intake manifold and an additional acoustic shell to reduce radiated engine noise, as well as fuel pump noise.

The manifold is paired with an electronically controlled throttle, featuring an 87mm bore diameter and a “contactless” throttle position sensor design that is more durable and enables greater control.

Four-into-one exhaust manifolds: The LT-1 uses a cast version of the “four-into-one” short-header exhaust manifold design used on the Gen 4 LS7 engine. The cast header passages enable consistent exhaust flow into the “wide mouth” collector at the converter.

Cooling system, humidity sensor and more: Additional features and technologies of the Gen 5 Small Block include:

  • A revised cooling system with an offset water pump and thermostat for more efficient performance
  • Air induction humidity sensor ensures optimal combustion efficiency, regardless of the surrounding air’s humidity
  • 58X ignition system with individual ignition coil modules and iridium-tip spark plugs
  • All-new “E92” engine controller.

General Motors’ investment in the Gen 5 Small Block will create or retain more than 1,600 jobs in five North American plants, including Tonawanda, New York, which recently received upgrades to support its production.

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

# # #

Sources:
Corvette Black Book
Chevrolet 

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Winding Down C6 Corvette Production and Gearing Up for C7 Production





Last month I had the pleasure of helping the National Corvette Museum Delivery Department with photography of a 60th Grand Sport Coupe. The gentleman that owns the car had won it in one of our Corvette raffles, and the photos that I took will appear in a leather bound photo album that he purchased.



We followed the car throughout the entire build process. It was followed from the bumper, freshly out of the paint booth, from the frame coming down the chassis line, from body panels and carpet installed to the drive train being married to body. This process took us a full two days to capture from 6:12am to 4:45pm.



As I sat waiting for the car to come to the next photo location I looked around and saw such pride in the employees faces as they work to build dreams for others. Here lies, what I consider, one of the greatest automobiles in the world, built by the greatest automakers in the world. The entire team from designers, sculptors, engineers, assemblers, test engineers, etc., each with the daunting task of creating the dreams of many.



Production for the 2013 Corvette will end in February of 2013, and the plant will be shut down for approximately six months to prepare for the 2014 C7 Corvette. It is going to be an amazing car and we are all so excited! The new C7 logo has been made public and you can view it, find out more on the newest Corvette and download a neat C7 Corvette Wallpaper for your smartphone at: http://www.ncminsurance.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/iphone-screen-saver.jpg



Once the Corvette Assembly Plant is up and running again, we will continue offering the photo album to anyone who orders a new Corvette. In addition, you will be able to watch your Corvette being assembled through the Buyers Tour. The Buyers Tour and the photo album can be purchased in conjunction with each other. The Museum also handles the Museum Delivery Option Program (RPO R8C) and that allows you to pick your car up from the National Corvette Museum. We will give you a private tour of the plant/museum and a complete run down of your new Corvette. If you have been considering purchasing a new Corvette and taking advantage of the many ways to make the experience more memorable, you have time to get your plans in place before the new model year production starts! Find out more about the NCM Delivery and Buyers Tour Programs and photo album here: http://www.corvettemuseum.org/ncm_delivery/index.shtml



I mentioned earlier that the pride in the plant was very obvious, and here in the National Corvette Museum Insurance Agency we have great pride in protecting your passion. We can insure a brand new Corvette the same as we insure the classic ones. With the NCM Insurance Agency you will carry Agreed Value Coverage and often we can save you money. Check us out at www.ncminsurance.com or give us a call at 877.678.7626.






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Gloves, Wrenches, Grease – the NCM Insurance Agency Joins in on “The Build” – American Modern’s Resto Project.




If you are anything like we are here at the National Corvette Museum you can look at a mangled car and know that one day it was stunning, or one day it will become this gorgeous restomod. You have this vision of a heart pounding V8, ghosted stripes or flame job, plush interior, etc. Most non-car buffs look at that wrecked car as wasted space, but you and I are different! We have gasoline running through our veins!


You may be wondering what the difference is between a true restoration and a restomod. The answer is quite simple. A restoration is refurbishing the car to be mechanically and cosmetically the way it was when it was new. A restomod is taking a car and refurbishing it to appear stock or slightly modified with modern components to improve handling, drivability and performance.



The NCM’s Insurance Agency’s underwriter, American Modern Insurance Group, is up to their elbows in fun as they take on restoring a wrecked 1965 Chevelle Malibu SS and shape it into that heart pounding show winner! This restomod build will involve many employees from American Modern as well as some external agencies that want to have their hand in the rebuild. The NCM Agency will be taking part in several days of the restoration project, dubbed “The Build”. “The Build” will provide tuned in enthusiasts helpful tips, helpful training videos, and information tidbits to replay and use when restoring classics of their own – from beginning to end from American Modern’s own Sr. Collector Car Claim’s Specialist, Rick Drewry and his team of experts.



If you love cars, love restoring cars from wrecked/old to new, want to learn more about restoring or you’re just simply curious – join us in this amazing project by the people who know collector cars! Adam Boca, NCM Insurance Agent will be there for several days during the project’s adventurous journey to take part in the” down and dirty” fun. “We are thrilled to join American Modern’s experts in restoring this wrecked classic back to condition,” NCM Agent Adam Boca shares. “We hope our insurance customers and all enthusiasts will join in with us, ask questions, share thoughts and take part in the interactive fun. It is a great opportunity to get to know more about the folks who handle your claims, team members and have fun in the process.”


Find out more about “The Build” taking place now by clicking “like” on American Modern’s facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/AmericanModernCollectorCar It is going to be a fun ride so be sure to also follow the NCM Insurance Agency facebook page to see our involvement: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/NCM-Insurance-Agency/225876839230


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Going to Funfest? We are too! Come see us for an Insurance Quote!

Corvette Funfest 2012



The NCM Insurance Agency is excited to be attending this year’s Corvette Funfest 2012, hosted by Mid America Motorworks – September 13-16! We are attending this awesome show for the very first time and look forward to meeting and greeting show goers. Funfest brings over 3,000 Corvette faithful to Effingham, IL each year and we invite you to stop by and say hello. If you haven’t had a chance to pick up one of our new limited edition posters yet, we will have them on hand for anyone that allows us a chance to quote their collector car insurance needs. The poster is specially designed by our good friend, Sabastian Poole, and is free to everyone we quote.




Funfest is a great event that has seminars from many friends of the National Corvette Museum from Paul Koerner and Brittany George on Maintenance & Troubleshooting to GM Engineers discussing the latest products, and Team Corvette to Dana Forrester on Automotive Art, etc.  We encourage you to attend one of these great seminars.  The event wraps up with a Funfest signature concert by the World Classic Rockers which features former members from Journey, Santana, Boston, Lynyrd Skynard and Steppenwolf.



We can instantly write your insurance policy on the spot during the event and answer any questions you have. Whether you currently own or are planning to purchase a collector car – we can insure just about every make and model!



We pride ourselves on expert coverage, knowledge and customer service – with premiums that will surprise you.  Our office is located within the National Corvette Museum and you will always find an agent and staff member ready to assist you.



Flexible usage, 9 to 5 endorsement, mileage options that allow you to enjoy your collector car, friendly one on one service, and most importantly…agreed values and protection that never changes – plus premium costs that will astound you! Quotes are fast and easy with no obligation so you have nothing to lose by seeing how our agency’s service can help you.



Come by our booth at Corvette Funfest 2012 or give us a call anytime at: 877-678-7626. You can also get a quote online at: www.ncminsurance.com or via our iphone/ipad app designed for customers on the go – www.ncminsurance.com/mobile-app



Check out more information on Corvette Funfest at www.corvettefunfest.com.



See you in Effingham, Illinois – Have a safe trip!

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Are you buying a Corvette at Carlisle? Come see us for a quote and get a poster!

We are excited to be attending Corvettes and Carlisle again this year and look forward to meeting current NCM Insurance customers and working up quotes for new folks we meet. This year we have a new limited edition poster that we will be sharing with anyone that allows us a chance to quote their collector car insurance needs. The poster is specially designed by one of Kentucky’s newest artists, Sabastian Poole, and is free to everyone we quote.  The NCM booth will be located in the same spot as last year – under the Grandstands connected to the Food Court. Our booth will be in the next building over from the Orrstown Bank and Chip’s Choice Display – Spot #27.



We can instantly write your insurance policy on the spot during the event and answer any questions you have. Whether you currently own or are planning to purchase a collector car – we can insure just about every make and model!



We pride ourselves on expert coverage, knowledge and customer service – with premiums that will surprise you.  Our office is located within the National Corvette Museum and you will always find an agent and staff member ready to assist you.



Flexible usage, 9 to 5 driver endorsements, mileage options that allow you to enjoy your collector car, friendly one on one service, and most importantly…agreed values and protection that never change – plus premium costs that will astound you!



Quotes are fast and easy with no obligation so you have nothing to lose by seeing how our agency’s service can help you.



Come by our booth at the Carlisle event or give us a call anytime at: 877-678-7626. You can also get a quote online at: www.ncminsurance.com or via our iphone/ipad app designed for customers on the go – www.ncminsurance.com/mobile-app



See you at Corvettes at Carlisle – Safe travels!

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Our Collector Car Insurance Claims Management – Proof is in the Performance!





Ok, so you love your agent and the customer service is outstanding, but how secure do you feel if you have a claim and need assistance to make sure you get the coverage you purchased?



As an insured of the National Corvette Museum’s Insurance Agency, we want you to know that we can back up our words about excellent service, agreed value and expert claims assistance – because we mean what we say and we have experience in providing the “high standards” of service we hold important. We guarantee that playing a never ending game of phone tag and messaging isn’t our way of providing service. We have one mission – to provide the quality of service we would expect as a customer. We appreciate our clients and feel it is important to always be mindful that we are in people serving business, no matter what.



To ensure we stay on the cutting edge of service, we regularly survey our clients and the results we obtain for our service is consistently outstanding. Isn’t that what you want when searching for the right insurance to protect your collector car?



In June of this year, we surveyed many of our clients that have experienced a claim with us and asked them to share their feedback. Here are few of the results:

  • 80 percent of our clients responded with a “very satisfied” rating to the manner in which their claim was handled.
  • 89 percent shared a “very satisfied” response with the overall job of the adjuster handling their claim.
  • The overall experience when working with our agency on claims rated at 90 percent in being a “very satisfied” client.
  • When we asked our clients if they would recommend us to a family or friend shopping for similar coverage – 90 percent of our clients said “yes, I would recommend to others.”

Client comments regarding recent claims:

  • “Rock hit my windshield of my 2004 while traveling. Contacted window repair company and the NCM Insurance folks. Claim was handled quickly. Customer happy!”
  • “Had to have my ’64 Corvette towed. Paid the invoice and submitted to NCM Insurance. NCM sent me a check immediately without question. Very impressed with response.”
  • “Good and friendly help with the claim.”
  • “No problem at all – quick to respond.”

You can also see how our agency handled a severe wildfire claim for one of our customers attending an event at the Museum last September by clicking here: http://www.ncminsurance.com/wildfire-claims-2-corvette-see-how-it-was-handled.html  We pride ourselves with one-on-one attention and an understanding for the needs of our customers. We don’t hide behind a phone when a crucial moment hits. We would love to earn your business and show you why we are one of the fastest growing collector car insurance Agencies in the country! We can be reached at: 877-678-7626 – Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT. You can also visit our website at: http://www.ncminsurance.com for more information. iPhone/iPad user? Check out our new NCM Insurance Mobile App http://www.ncminsurance.com/mobile-app Get a quote fast and easy!


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