VLOG 9: Celebrating the End of a Four-Year Corvette Restoration

This is the final stage in the restoration of my 1976 Corvette. It has been a long road to get here, but worth every ounce of effort.
I have never done a project of this magnitude before. To say I was out over my skis would be an understatement. But with perseverance, KZbin, and expert help just a phone call away, I was able to get through it.
Upgrades include: New BluePrint Motor: 394 HP, new cooling system, new 700R4 transmission, and much more.
She is a dream to drive!

[@UnkDrefinest]

John, thank you for the memories this was the time of classic vehicles a time of no computerization vehicles. Back then we was still rolling down the widows and electrical windows was the new thing. What a awesome job you did in the Stingray. I no longer see them anymore what a car. What a great restoration job my friend. ✌️🏾🫶🏽🙏🏾

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you! I really appreciate that you liked it! My dream!

[@UnkDrefinest]

@@johnhgarrett I loved it and how you did it the right way no cutting corners. 👌🏾

[@slyguyaction]

What an accomplishment. Taking us all back to a simpler, purer time. Thank you...

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Ryan!

[@z512345]

Ahh John, this brings back fond memories . I have owned in my life time 36 Corvettes starting with a 1958---to my 2011 Grand Sport. I have loved each car ( with the exception of my 1984 ) . Best of luck with your 76, it's a beauty!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Frank! 36-I have no words! And I surely am enjoying it!

[@louislazarus9253]

Now that's a Corvette guy if ever there was one. Making the car the WAY YOU WANT IT is awesome. Congratulations on a great job. I do own a 1969 427/435 and have owned it since early 1970. I'm the second owner and at 77 hopefully have a few years left to keep driving. Still drive the car several days a week and still love it. The engine has about 180k and still runs terrific. Other than normal maintenance throughout the life of my car, it's been a dream come true. And yes, I've made the car the WAY I WANT IT. Again, great job and hope you enjoy your Corvette for many years to come.

[@johnhgarrett]

Louis, THANK YOU! What a great story, and congrats on your stewardship of what I’m sure is an exception ‘69! I’m loving mine but unfortunately it’s already tucked-in for the winter. I’m already looking forward to spring!

[@iamrichrocker]

Professor..should nickname this beauty..the Vandal..in homage to U of Idaho..bravo..bet you shared some tears and smiles with this road warrior..fantastic story..

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Rich! I love the nickname! Thanks for watching as well!

[@marshalllewis2524]

Hi John. My apologies for not getting back to you earlier. I'm not surprised you have so many followers of your 9 VLOGS, they are all "BRILLIANT!". You have a special gift!!!! (Wish I had). I'm now retired for 4 years. A very proud owner of 1981 (C3) corvette! This beautiful lady is very special to me, (SHES FAMILY). Every time I sit in the driver's seat, I'm so thankful (and proud) this beautiful lady is mine. The smell of new leather, new carpet, feels like I just purchased from the show room floor. I'm not gifted like you!!!!. I haven't rebuilt from the ground up. My love for C3s has never diminished. In Australia C3s are very hard to come by, it's taken me 5 years to find my most prize possession. As for your questions you asked me. "THE CORVETTE!". You and I both know the answer, Shes a "GIFT BEYOND ALL GIFTS". IS MY EFFORT ON THE CAR? "YEP!" You have shared with thousands of people what it takes to rebuild our precious gift. "THANK YOU!". IS IT THE VIDEO? Yes again!!!!!!!. It's so special your back on the road. "THANK YOU!!!!". LIKE YOU SAID!!!!!!!!, I, M OUT OF HERE!!!!!!!!! GOD BLESS GOOD FRIEND!!!!!.. "HAPPY MOTORING!!".. Marshall.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Marshall! I really appreciate everything you’ve shared! Happy retirement my friend! (Not far behind you) Now go enjoy that beautiful car! 😃

[@randyholly2594]

What a GREAT video!! I've had three Corvettes and at 76 yrs old am still driving one.

[@johnhgarrett]

Randy, thank you! We all need something to keep us young, right? A corvette isn’t a bad way to go. I sort of feel like a kid with a new toy-but my internal accountant is trying to tell me to grow up. (But what does he know?)🤣

[@kiesha104]

Couldn't be happier for you . The sense of a job done well after all the work you put in can seem overwhelming I'm sure. I am just beginning my road with a 77 I inherited from my uncle shortly after I returned from Iraq. I know the joy I felt when I fixed the ground cable and reattached it and she slowly came to life.. the mice took up residence while she sat in a field just outside Bufgalo NY for 16 years but after a thorough inspection of the frame and bird cage, it's game on... the motor spun to life with some starting fluid and with that my fire was relite.. Currently the rear end is out because I noticed she had taken a hit many years ago and wasn't addressed the proper way... Stand up hook up shuffle to the door... With a smile on my face and a positive outlook Out the door I jump and count to 4... till we meet again.. Thank you for this inspirational video... God bless keep the rubber side down.. Peace

[@johnhgarrett]

What a great story! And thanks for watching my video! I am really glad you’re bringing her back! There is nothing better than bringing one back to life after languishing for years in a field. Take your time with it and it will come together. And Iraq? Thank you for serving, sir. My hat is off to you. 👍🏼

[@frankpavan7865]

John, Thank you for this heart-felt professional video. In 1981 I'm at my grandparents house. Sal across the street pulls up with his new black 1981 C3 with silver interieur. He sees me admiring it. He says Frank let's go for a ride I just got it. I was like ..sure. When I slipped into that passenger seat heard the engine and he drove off with those huge front fenders before the road ahead of me. That never seen slanted interieur dash board. Bang..!!! that's when I fell in love with the C3 Corvette. That's 40 some years ago now. I never purchased for myself a C3 corvette. Although I am in the corvette family with my own 1996 C4 . ❤ Congratulations on your beautiful C3. One of the most beautiful cars ever made !!

[@johnhgarrett]

Frank, thanks for the note! Wow! What a great story. Seriously. Really glad you’re in the Corvette family. You just need to add a C3 to your collection! Lol

[@frankpavan7865]

@@johnhgarrett I will 👍

[@markmartin5765]

I love what you say above about these corvettes,exactly,the pride,passion and to say this is one of ,if not they best designs in automotive history,is so true.I wanted one when I was younger,got a 74 350 automatic t top,had a great time with that car,but recently got a 71 454 4sp convertible dream car that I love! Would not change anything in my mind on this extremely popular car (waves,and comments from every age group, I mean everyone!)again your words speak for me ,well done!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Mark! You’re right: perhaps the most beautifully designed car ever. I never fail to get into conversations with random people wherever I go. I absolutely love it. I finally feel I have all the bugs out and it’s dialed in, but I’m still not done. Prob will never be. But I’m having a blast and only wish I had more time to drive it. I really appreciate that you took time to watch my video. Hopefully more to come! John

[@bramblecino]

My favorite generation corvette ever. Love them more than the older ones and definitely more than the newer ones. Congratulations that thing is perfect

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you!

[@truebetold65]

Man...this is one of the most beautiful cars ever. Absolutely gorgeous.

[@johnhgarrett]

My thoughts exactly! Thank you!

[@hanscramon9040]

I agree 100% - the c3 Corvette is pure art on 4 wheels !!

[@NativeMainer53]

The C3 is arguably the most beautiful of all Corvettes, I had a 1982 and loved it. Reliable and fun to drive with a stock exhaust that sounded like heaven.

[@johnhgarrett]

Awe! Totally agree! My exhaust is not original. It’s def not loud but has a great bass-note at idle. (I’m too old for loud) 😂

[@timothyhead1832]

I need to dig into my 73 I have loved this car since 1979 when I first got it. 😂

[@joevette6290]

Never seen chromed headers on a vette!!! But nice for show!!

[@johnlennon1049]

The C3’s were the ultimate!

[@that_thing_I_do]

Not arguably; it is.

[@joeplaceres5783]

Super Insperational Video. Makes me remember when I saw my first corvette featured in the 60's (Route 66) and fell in love. Well I am a fortunate man because I received mine (79 Vette) from my wife & daughter on my 50th bday 17 years ago.... Yes sir, Dreams do Come True. Enjoy your Vette!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Joe! So funny, I started watching Route 66 AFTER I fell in love with Vettes. No, I honestly think my first exposure was a ‘58 vette that was the eternal project of a young man in my home town. I saw it in his driveway for years in various states of disassembly, always wearing a coat of black primer. I remember it even driving the homecoming queen onto the football field in that condition. Despite all of that, it was still the coolest car! My love for C3s I think is due to growing up in an Air Force town. We had an F4 Wing at our base and so many of those young pilots cycled over to Vietnam. Before they shipped out, I think they all bought new Corvettes. I got to know some of these guys and thought they were the greatest guys ever. Fell in love with the car right there!

[@joeplaceres5783]

You know what's even funnier? My tag is an Air Force Tag! Since my wife & daughter know I also love aviation, it was the closest theme they could find when they got me the car & the tag. I also Love the C1's (58-60) model but the shark has that special flair that no other car has.@@johnhgarrett

[@sig7798]

Nice journey. I had a similar experience with my 77 and I fall in love again and again everytime I see her.

[@johnhgarrett]

Hi Sig! Thank you!

[@ShadowVette76]

Congratulations on an incredible job restoring your car and as others have said the way you shared this through video and narration was so well done that I kind of felt like I was there. The start up was a big smile moment not only for you but for us also!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you! I’m glad I made you smile! I was really happy (obviously) but when it fired so quickly, it scared the crap out of me! It took me a minute to digest that it was actually doing what it was supposed to do! Thanks again for watching! I really appreciate it! John

[@Lifted-Horns-4x4]

I love C3 corvettes. I fell in love with them when me and my dad restored a project 1975. He bought it when I was in elementary. We started working on it when I was in middle school. We we’re done my sophomore year of highschool, When we were finished, he tossed me the keys and said congratulations son. 🥹

[@johnhgarrett]

That is a totally cool story! Wow! Thank you for sharing!

[@browningbelgium2326]

Wow!! in 1985, I bought a 75 model and restored it in the same manner you did with lots of help from friends. It had an L48 engine and wasn't much on speed, but afterwards, it had 400HP. I kept blowing head gaskets every month. Having a 12:1 compression ratio and a cam didn't help either. Finally solved everything with copper gaskets. I think we put a 400 trans in it but can't remember for certain. You've sent memories rushing back to me. Enjoy your ride as long as you can. Fantastic vid!!!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you! I think you’re more of an authentic mechanic than me. It sounds like you actually built your engine… I just bought one! Lol. But seriously, happy I could take you back a few years. And thanks for commenting! Truly makes my day reading posts like yours!

[@Amarillobymorning777]

Min 1:11 life is too short to be with the wrong girlfriend and driving the wrong car . My intentions are keep driving little joe Cartwright A Red C5 automatic transmission. In 1990 I took my white 1985 Pontiac Firebird to Toluca Mexico, drove it back and forth from west palm beach Florida. I was 22 years old. Life is good . GR8 video clip sir.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Mario!

[@midnightsun2483]

I really enjoyed your vid. You did a wonderful job on your ol girl. I have a 81 c3 and I understand everything you talked about in your video. I was 19 in 1981 and I feel in love with the corvette never forgot her and few months ago she came back to me .I like getting up before sunrise on a Saturday let her warm up and finish last gulp of coffee before my sunrise cruise. Sometimes I take my wife and sometimes I don’t. Lol

[@johnhgarrett]

Oh man! I’m just two years older and totally get it! I’m a little down right now that she’s put away for the winter!

[@SpaceGringos3D]

That white is iconic on these C3’s. ❤

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Gringo. I agree 100%!

[@HeavenReservation]

Having 9 vettes over my lifetime, I truly enjoyed each and every minute of this fantastic presentation.

[@johnhgarrett]

You are way too kind, Sir! Thank you! But nine vettes? Thats much more impressive-and I bet you wish you could own them all again! Thank you for taking the time to watch it! You don’t know how much I appreciate the encouraging words. 😃

[@HeavenReservation]

@@johnhgarrett Always keeping the current three in shape, new parts, etc. We look forward to your next video.

[@HeavenReservation]

@@johnhgarrett Do you have a website page or email I can send you photos of our 9 month project.

[@johnhgarrett]

@@HeavenReservation Yes! I really would like to see what you’re doing! No web site, but my Email is: [e-mail] . Looking forward to this!

[@braddawson4496]

I know that feeling where you are totally shocked when thing (first engine start) go way better than planned or imagined..

[@johnhgarrett]

Brad, it totally scared me when it fired up! Did you see me jump? Lol!

[@willarddenton4360]

Great video I have a 72 4 speed Elkhart Green with Tan Interior. It had its first paint job in January 2024. I am 76 and love this car so much fun to drive. Loved the vedio!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Williard! I really appreciate this! So glad you're still out enjoying it!

[@AnthonyPsomas]

Great video!! The C3 design is and always will be timeless. Awesome job done on the restoration. Have a 71 LS5 4 spd coupe that I had a frame on done 11 years ago.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Anthony! Your 71 sounds terrific. YOU need to do some posts about it!

[@jessekuchinski1172]

This brought tears to my eyes.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Jesse! Lol!

[@GHOSTBAGZ]

This was beautiful and made me think of my grandparents. Almost brought tears to my eyes with the music in the background. I gotta subscribe to your channel.

[@johnhgarrett]

@GHOSTBAGZ-Thanks! What a compliment!

[@Frontireadventures]

Well done. Back in 1978, I had an L48 1976.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you!

[@danorourke5184]

Loved this! From the way it was narrated to the sentiments about the c3! My first car was a 78 corvette and to this day coming up on 40 years ago i still love these cars! Thanks for sharing

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Dan! I only WISH my first car was a Corvette! I’m really glad you enjoyed the video and that it brought back a memory or two! Take care! John

[@anthonyf.9170]

Beautiful car and restoration. Excellent video presentation! 🇺🇸👍

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Tony! Thanks for watching!

[@jimdelora2732]

Enjoy her !!! She's beautiful....Congraduations I had a 71 LT-1 way back when, I wish I had her back....

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Jim! Since I published that video I’ve been dealing with gremlins. I finally feel I’ve got all the issues sorted out and have finally gotten to put a few miles on it this summer. It drives GREAT! 😃 Sad that winter’s just around the corner and that I’ll have to put it away!

[@lucky-rowe2623]

When i was 10 years old my Dad and Mom and I flew from Idaho Falls Idaho to Denver and we bought a new 1976 Vette in Boulder Co at Broomfield Chevrolet. It was white with tan leather. It was an auto trans L48 and it was so fun to ride in. We had it for years and when I see these cars it makes me smile every time.

[@johnhgarrett]

Hi Lucky! Thanks for sharing the memory! Basically the same as mine except I have the red leather interior. Too funny! So, did you go to IF or Skyline?

[@lucky-rowe2623]

@@johnhgarrett IF High! You must know the area..LOL. When I tell someone I grew up IF they look at me strange. Great car and thanks for stirring the memories. I rode in the center of that car all the way back to Idaho and also spent many of mile sitting backwards in the center of that great car.

[@johnhgarrett]

@@lucky-rowe2623 ha! No, I have spent a lot of time in IF. I’m from Mtn Home, lived in Boise most of my career and now live in McCall. My ex-wife and all her siblings were from IF and went to your HS. What a small world. 😃 I’m literally getting comments from all over the world (humbling to say the least) and you and I probably know the same people. 👍🏼

[@msarria]

I have a 1980 thats been sitting in my garage for 12 years....thanx for the inspiration

[@johnhgarrett]

That’s a shame! But I totally get that everything happens in due time. You got this!

[@Meuni]

Thx from Germany for these fantastic video...I have a 1982 Collector Edition and I love my corvette too...have a good ride with yours...👍

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Andreas! Collector Editions are beautiful and probably turn heads on German highways! Enjoy my friend!

[@LynxStarAuto]

Beautiful. I'm not a corvette guy, except for the C3. Only Corvette that's ever called to me. Only thing that kind of make me shiver is those plates for the ignition wires. I would hate to chase a misfire with that.

[@johnhgarrett]

I know. It’s always been the 68-77 body style that caught my eye. And you’re right on the wires. I routed them like they came from rather factory. I guess they didn’t want wires cluttering the top of the motor. It’s the lower ones that will be a pain if I have issues. The top around the distributor are easy to access as the shielding comes off super easy. Thanks for watching and commenting on my other video!

[@davem6685]

Fantastic narration and nice music. Enjoying my ‘73 and can’t agree with you more. Great video.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Dave! I really appreciate this!

[@PROINSUL]

Congratulations on your successful restoration. In 2013 I bought my first corvette. It was a 1971 that needed my full attention. Since then I have also restored a 1980 and a 1978. Welcome to the club. Great job and loved your video. Regards Danny

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Danny! I really appreciate the comments!

[@timothyhead1832]

Let your heart be your guide. Wish you a good journey ❤

[@billp5656]

Great job. I still miss my 65 Stingray after all these years

[@johnhgarrett]

Hi Bill! I completely understand missing a 65! Wouldn’t you love to have that back? But what’s keeping you? 😃 Thanks for the compliment and taking the time to watch. I really appreciate it! Cheers!

[@davielynch2677]

Thanks for sharing your journey back to the times when life was just so good. Enjoy the ride brother!

[@johnhgarrett]

Oh man! You’re welcome Davie! It’s a time machine for sure!

[@jonboy9912]

John I lack your skills but share your love of older cars that are less complicated. However I am a Mercedes guy and own a 1999 SL320 and it's guys like you on KZbin that inspire me to get my soft hands dirty! Lovely job by the way!

[@johnhgarrett]

Jon, you’re giving me way too much credit. 😄 I’m really glad I inspired you, but don’t think my hands are any more calloused than yours my friend! I’m a risk consultant at a big four accounting firm! I got myself committed and then couldn’t turn back! Lol! And I am with you on Mercedes-especially the older SL’s. I more than casually watch them, but I am definitely no expert. Some that I see appear to be a really great value right now, and most never appear to have been abused. All of that plays well for amateurs like me! (Maybe both of us!) Thank you for the kind words, Jon! Best of luck with your project! You can do it! 👍

[@jonboy9912]

@@johnhgarrett Dear John, I bought mine off the famous "old lady" who had owned it from new and it came in pristine condition. The R129's are the last of the affordable SL's and some say the last real Mercedes made, before the accountants took over! You reminded me of why I bought it 10 years ago in that whilst it employs some technological innovations at the time like the first fully automatic roof and pop-up roll bar it remains basically an over built mechanical masterpiece! I really wanted a 500 but settled for the 320 that is more than adequate. That said I would trade you any day for your beautiful car, but they don't look so good in the London rain!!

[@johnhgarrett]

@@jonboy9912 Jon, I had no idea you were writing from London! I love how the internet has brought us all a little closer. I have had conversations now and made new friends from all over Europe, Australia, NZ, Canada, and South America. I’m so amazed my video has struck such a chord. I’m a bit humbled to be honest. All that being said, you really don’t want to trade me. Corvette had a modest problem in the design of their T-tops and how the door glass pockets into the gaskets. Very much prone to leak unless you have surgical skills and an engineering degree to adjust the problem. I’m guessing that’s not so good for London? 😂 Very fun to talk with you Jon! All the best my friend!

[@jonboy9912]

@@johnhgarrett Good to talk - best wishes for future projects!

[@jimrains8314]

Excellent video all the way around. You are right these cars are fun. Great job.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Jim! I really appreciate the comment! Thanks for watching!

[@roywebb4339]

HeyJohn, loved your video, I am presently working on a 1973, have lives corvettes ever since I can remember, It was like every word you said was how I feel, thanks, God bless

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Roy! I really appreciate that! How’s your 73 coming?

[@roywebb4339]

@@johnhgarrettSlow, hopefully get started tearing it down in a month or so, schedule pretty busy right now.

[@jobeck166]

...well done and a very nice Vette!👍

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Jo!

[@mattphillips5713]

Great video ! You said it so well and just how I feel about my 78 Vette.

[@johnhgarrett]

Oh man! Thanks Matt!

[@3.2Carrera]

Wow, brings back memories. My dad had a '74 when I was a kid. It was still a radical car back them. My generation was the C4 so I had to have one of those and glad I did. Great car to cut my teeth on as you did with yours. If you want to know why the car started on the first try here is the answer: You put love into the project and it loved you back.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Vic. You made me smile. 😃 Thanks for giving up 12 minutes to relive it with me.

[@paulbishop7361]

I started my resto mod some 6 years back, still working on her, but your video, oh man, what a wonderful piece of work perfectly sizing up the memory the atmosphere the experience I wish you all the best with your gem.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Paul! Best of luck on yours! If you don’t mind me asking, what are you building?

[@paulbishop7361]

Hi John, I have a 79 350 standard just breathed on a little, I went the route of replacing the gearbox with a 4L60E, polybush, replacing the interior etc etc, then every fall I would take on another winter project, so yes working on her since but also driving in between. The big difference I didn't do a brilliant video story like your 😎

[@johnhgarrett]

I’m sure it’s gorgeous! 👍

[@tomb5396]

Great job, she's good for another 50 years!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Tom! I can’t wait to put some miles on it!

[@sambaaam7268]

wow you knocked it out of the park, beautiful car, takes patience to accomplish what you have, cudos

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Sam! I really appreciate that!

[@hondaman6918]

Beautiful car, great job, and super video! Thanks for sharing your journey! 😎

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you! 😃

[@jaybailey8044]

Way to go my friend what a beautiful car for you to enjoy and love.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Jay!

[@jameswenkheimer9111]

Thanks for making this! I’m 2 days into a frame off ‘restomod’ of a 1980 L82. So far I’ve pulled seats and old carpet out and already feeling very overwhelmed. I do some other light mechanical work on my other vehicles but this is a whole different species. These machines are absolutely worth the time and effort and need to be driven. The dream of many to own and drive these. Thanks again

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks James! I am glad you liked it! Don't feel overwhelmed. You got this. Take lots of pictures and seek out "how to" KZbin videos for instruction. I also recommend you go on Amazon and order the 1980 Corvette Factory Assembly Manual. (I assume they have a 1980 version, they had one for 1976). Super helpful. I'm no mechanic but please feel free to reach out to me. Sincerely, John

[@klonidier]

Check the welds on the frame on that before you reassemble it. The early 80s was a bad time for the “bubble gum welds” as I’ve heard them called.

[@davidwarburton8890]

Love it. Wish I still had my white '76.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks, David! Was yours a Firethorn red interior as well?

[@davidwarburton8890]

@@johnhgarrett Mostly red interior; the seats were ordered white with split white and red door panels. I sold it to buy a wedding ring for my wife in '79. I still have the girl 45 years this summer. It was a good trade.

[@idessaoutlaw]

Nice job on a nice ride.. I still have my 68 Camaro RS SS Big Block, 1977 L48 Corvette Auto, 1977 L82 Corvette M21 4spd Gymkhana suspension, 1977 L82 Corvette Auto, and 1998 Corvette. 🍷😎👌

[@johnhgarrett]

Lol! Thanks! You are definitely beating me in the classic Chevy race! Lol!

[@HectorGarcia-eo1lq]

Wow looks awesome/amazing car . Congratulations 🍾🎊🎉🎈 The video and the details are perfect. In my opinion. Definitely with these videos you encourage all those of us who are passionate about cars and projects to move forward. And thank you for sharing this video. This February 14 I bought an 81 corvette and I'm working on it step by step with the hope that I can see it finished and enjoy it soon in the midst of all this crazy stuff that's going on around

[@johnhgarrett]

Hector, thank you so much for the comment. I hope it’s motivating for you on your new acquisition! I’ve lived my restoration and loved it. I guarantee you will to! Cheers my friend! John

[@chrischilton3958]

What a fantastic video. You really captured the essence of why we still love old cars - and your C3 looks brilliant. Great job

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Chris! I really appreciate the sentiment and couldn’t agree more. I cant tell the difference between most new cars (make, model, etc.) but there is no mistaking a C3 or most classics for that matter. The designers of the day had a style all their own!

[@ericnorton5524]

Absolutely perfect.. I own a C4 now like the one I bought as a kid and this made me smile the entire video.. Congrats

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Eric! I don’t know why I waited so long to make this happen. I almost find myself wanting to go cruise like I did when I was 17. 🤣 Then the grown-up in me sits me down for a little chat. Super glad you enjoyed it. That makes me smile! Cheers my friend!

[@ericnorton5524]

@@johnhgarrett do not let the grown up win my friend.. life is short. I just paid for my new LT motor and transmission to upgrade the C4.. went 570hp and can’t wait to play with it

[@johnhgarrett]

@@ericnorton5524 that’s awesome Eric! You are going to LOVE that! Just don’t let your inner 16 year old behind the wheel! Lol

[@mikepapillo5728]

congrats i could never do this,, im 68 and i own a 75 rag top 33 000 miles its nice i changed the rear spring to a fiber glass one 30 yrs ago it s nice ,, now you go out n drive your gem god bless

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Mike! I really appreciate the encouragement. Was a ton of work now trying to enjoy it when I can. Take care!

[@marshalllewis2524]

Hi John. Its Christmas eve here in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. I hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful Christmas and happy new year. Take good care. God bless, good friend. Marshall.

[@johnhgarrett]

Marshall, wishing you and your family all the best as well. We are celebrating Christmas in a little town called Jackson Hole, Wyoming this year, very near Yellowstone national park. A beautiful winter wonderland, but COLD! 19 degrees below zero last night. (Fahrenheit) Maybe Santa might bring us a little of your summer if only for a day or two. 😂

[@bonn3tt07]

I love this. Great job. I just got given my late grandfather's 72 stingray and im about to start the restoration. Hope to have it even half as nice as you did with yours!

[@johnhgarrett]

Alex, congrats! You have a lot of reasons to put your heart into your restoration. Love the history and family legacy. Don’t let it get away. You can do it! Take your time and do it well. He would be proud you’ve picked up the torch! Cheers!

[@bonn3tt07]

@@johnhgarrett thanks! I can't wait to start. Going to be quite a project but cannot wait to start. I plan to work on it with my kids and make it a whole family thing just the way he would have wanted it. Thanks again for the reply!

[@marshalllewis2524]

I have commented before and i will say again! Thank you... God blees you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!..

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Marshall! 🙏

[@johnhgarrett]

Marshall, I recognize you from a bit ago where I think you commented. I really appreciate that you took the time to comment again! So, at the risk of letting my ego get in the way of a perfectly good conversation, I have to ask-is it the car? Is it my effort on the car? Is it the video? It’s just that I seem to have struck a chord and I just want to know! Thank you again!

[@josephbarbeck7182]

1 Word.! SWEET.!!!!!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Joe!

[@jimmyhamm6041]

I love the ones of this year that had the L-82 Motor . Beautiful white color.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Jimmy! Totally agree! Unfortunately, my car was originally the underwhelming L-48. I probably would have gone another route if it was the L-82! Cheers!

[@johnhenry7319]

Awesome job! What you say about these old cars is so true. I recently got my childhood car 1976 Trans Am and got made fun of for "not knowing anything". So, far I've rewired the entire car and replaced the factory Heat/AC. One step at a time!

[@johnhgarrett]

That’s awesome! I was in the same boat-but taking time, labeling, tagging, basically just being careful-we can figure this stuff out! Love the old Tran Ams! Hard to believe these are almost 50 years old!

[@doug-fn8lc]

I have a Grey 1976 Ordering catalogs now

[@johnhgarrett]

That's awesome. Doing a full resto?

[@VettemanLT5]

WOW!!!!! Awesome job! This is a great car hope you enjoy it for years to come!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks J! I really appreciate the compliment! It’s been a fun project. Goal was to build a car that I would drive better and perform better than new while keeping it as stock looking as I could. It’s no where close to perfect-still original paint that’s showing its age-but I really hope to have fun with it for years to come! Thanks again for watching this!

[@VettemanLT5]

@@johnhgarrett I subscribed my brother I'm looking forward to more on this killer Vette!

[@johnhgarrett]

@@VettemanLT5 Thank you! Challenge accepted! 😃

[@jameshufford2706]

Thanks for sharing. I need to do the same thing with my son's corvette. Right now, we are doing glasswork on the passenger side. His corvette is a L82 4 speed 74 corvette. He plans on getting it back on the road by Christmas. We have a new borgeson steering box to install. Plus all new brake lines, booster and calipers (the previous owner lost the front calipers). The fiberglass work is pretty much just cosmetic since the passenger side fender was not done right. Not sure when that was done. My son just got his license this week. He does not know how to drive a stick. He will learn like his brother had learned. Even he thinks its gonna be a cool ride to go back and forth to school.

[@johnhgarrett]

That sounds like a great car for a young man! I’m jealous! Tried buying my first used corvette at the age of 21 as a new college graduate. It was a 77, so about 6 years old in 1983. Had to do this completely on my own, no help from my parents. Put a deposit down and went to my bank and my insurance agent, both of which I had talked to before and were aware of my search. Funny thing, my insurance tripled from what I was originally quoted, making the premium more than the car payment. I was CRUSHED! Had to walk away and lost my deposit. Still disgusted by the insurance game. 40 years later I still have had only a couple of tickets in my entire life. 🤬. Lol Ugh!

[@johnmenzies2313]

As the owner of a 1980 C3 in New Zealand that I purchased in LA in 2011 with only 27300 miles on the clock with all documents this is a great filming of renewing an old Corvette as your drivers car. I like you have upgraded engine etc to get the pleasure of having a real “drivers care”. Many thanks for uploading this video Thanks John

[@johnhgarrett]

John, thank you so much for the kind words! It sounds like your 1980 is exceptional! Congrats on finding one of that quality. I very much appreciate that you took time to watch to the end. It was a labor of love, and very fun to do. Cheers my new friend!

[@kylemartin2594]

Me and my 76 stingray love this. Good job

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Kyle! I really appreciate that! 😃

[@RojerLockless]

Best looking car ever made.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks again Charles! I totally agree!

[@philip4193]

Thank you so much John for this video, and in particular your closing remarks at the end; you have just convinced me to follow my heart instead of my head. I'm a decade younger than yourself having started driving in the mid 80's however these C3 Corvettes were like spaceships to me when I was a kid growing up and I set a goal to own one someday. Well, fast forward to the present day and I am now in a financial position to fulfil my dream, however my head keeps telling me to buy a C4. Better brakes & trans, fuel injected motor etc, more subdued and "modern" appearance (well, comparatively speaking anyway) but still a classic Corvette in the style department and the one that was on the poster gracing my bedroom wall when I was a teenager taking my first driving lessons; but I know now that ultimately, I would not be completely happy with the C4, as my heart still yearns for the C3 in all it's glory!

[@johnhgarrett]

What a great story Phillip! You absolutely made my day! There really is something iconic about a C3! Yet, their age, lack of storage, and other shortcomings make them about the most impractical Corvette ever made. Still, I wouldn’t change a thing! My advice is to simply get the year, model and color you want. They’re out there. Take your time and get the best one you can afford! Send me a photo when you finally find it!

[@thomaswilson8634]

I have a 74 454 4 speed with a/c i inherited from my brother n law. It has been a show car from the beginning. Completely original. I feel ya im in awww everytime i walk into my building on my property. I have 3 vettes but the c3 is to me a last of the real big blocks. True big blocks. My 2010 and 2013 are ok but the 74 is a true vette

[@johnhgarrett]

Hi Tom, I like all Vettes, but I have a soft spot for the early ones, too. The C3 is such an iconic shape and design, it stands out among them all. But that’s just me. So glad your brother left his 74 to you. Obviously he knew you’d be the caretaker it deserves. Cheers my friend!

[@thomaswilson8634]

@@johnhgarrett 😁😁😁😁 thank you.

[@gregoryrankin4728]

Excellent video, Excellent narrating, excellent story. Oh yah, excellent car. All new parts, no used parts, impressive 👏. Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@johnhgarrett]

Oh man! Thanks Greg! It was way fun to do. Thanks for watching!

[@michaelstevens6002]

Great job John! I was lucky enough to have ordered a 76' new. I had the white with a white interior, that hadn't been available since 67'. Enjoy your beautiful Corvette sir.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Mike! I bet you wish you still had it…like so many of the cars I’ve sold over the years. 💔Thanks again and yes, love driving it!

[@jeffmoss309]

I am very happy for you. Have a good life. Thank you.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Jeff. All the best my friend!

[@frankpolo5603]

Beautiful and well done…….Enjoy your dream!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Frank!

[@Olnhausen77]

Wow! Congrats! I own a 77 in white. Masterpiece of a Video…

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Thilo! Your compliment of my video is very high praise from a person who's business is Marketing! I sincerely appreciate your comment, but in all honesty, I'm just having fun! I am consistently amazed by the number of heads my car turns as I drive down the street here in my hometown. I can only imagine that it's more pronounced for you with your '77 on the streets in your hometown. Are you in Germany?

[@Olnhausen77]

@@johnhgarrett Yes, in Germany near Stuttgart. The car is here similar to an UFO sight… 🖖 your text, the pictures… can watch the video several times. 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@LittlePixieBot]

I never was much of a Corvette fan until I found out about the C3. How that came about was through the Transformers franchise. There is a character named Tracks who turns into a C3 Stingray. What's really neat is Takara, the Japanese company that makes the toys, released a Masterpiece line of figures for collectors. The Tracks figure is officially licensed through Chevrolet and even has the Corvette logo. If I had the finances to do it, I would love to restore a C3 Stingray. I'm sure some like showing them off, but it looks like such a fun car to just drive around in.

[@johnhgarrett]

Hi Angela, thank you for dropping a comment! This is too good! My first discovery and budding romance with the car was through toys! I was 8 years old in 1968 when the C3 Corvette was introduced. That same year, Santa brought me an Eldon remote control car-a shiny red Corvette. Now, these were nothing like todays RC cars, this red Corvette was about a foot long and tethered to a controller for steering. It was super slow and you had to walk with it. Lame by todays standards, but was super fun nonetheless. The Hot Wheels craze came about the same time and I managed to amass a huge collection of those little cars, including several Corvettes. ALL OF WHICH I STILL HAVE! It took me another 5 decades after I got my first toy Corvette to get my real one. All I can say is, dreams do come true. Hang in there! 😃

[@craiglewis7081]

Best looking Vette of all. In 76 at the height of the malaise era, the motors were just anchor weights. You brought it up to the respective level it should have been all along. I like the later models appearance better than the first years up to 77.

[@craiglewis7081]

From 78 on till 82, not as big of a fan.

[@johnhgarrett]

Craig, my sentiments exactly. Exactly what I was trying to do. Not a racer or a hot rod, just a more respectable version of its original self. I like the way you put that. And I’m with you-I get why some people like the bubble back Vettes from 78 thru 83, as the were much more practical with more room. But, not my cup of tea. I’ll take my 76 any day over a later model c3!

[@loviepeiffs3822]

Wow great job my man Beautiful car I love c3 vettes

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks! I totally love them too! Thanks for watching!

[@guitarhero9999]

Ahhhh very pretty! Doors fit really well…sharp!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks! It’s not perfect at all-I don’t think they ever were! But it’s as good as I can get it for now. 😃

[@guitarhero9999]

I have a 73 with 60k miles found in a garage for 40 years…enjoy…not many in great shape around

[@MrTimdtoolman1]

I painted a Vette like this when I was 18 and this car was brand new and I drove it around a little before I gave it back to the customer and it was GREAT, nice job with this. You don't see many restorations anymore like this, everyone uses the LS now days and has to make all of the computer stuff work right. I did a frame off restoration on a 66 Chevy PU back in the day and did what they would call a restmod build nowadays and this brings back some nice memories from that work I did. Great job on the video, there was no such thing as KZbin, or the internet back then Haha! Enjoy the fruit of your labor, you deserve it, that was a lot of work, time and money invested.

[@johnhgarrett]

Tim, thank you sir! I really appreciate the encouragement. Was definitely out of my comfort zone a fair bit during the build, but never stopped. Had to see it through. I am still dealing with some shakedown issues like a phantom oil leak and trans leak. I’ll get them chased down and -after winter-enjoy some time behind the wheel! Thanks again!

[@ralphbillick1210]

Excellent work , good luck with the car ❗️🇺🇸

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Ralph!

[@bagrat22]

This video and story = outstanding.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Barry! I really appreciate you taking the time to watch it! Cheers my friend!

[@user-ts1fp4nm9y]

Nice 👍👍👍 job!!! Congratulations!!!!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you! 😃

[@markd9137]

Enjoyed the video I restored a 77 and it took about the same amount of time between work and free time. Now I drive it daily i still have many more upgrades that I plan on doing over time. It's just one of those cars I never get tired of driving or looking at. I know your gonna have fun 👍

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Mark! Congrats on getting yours finished. I am pretty happy so far with the level of upgrades I’ve done. But now I’m in shake-down mode. Just over 500 miles since first start and finding lots of little things that still need addressed. Ugh!

[@rickwhite2567]

Great video. You really tapped into the feelings. I bought a 1968 Corvette Convertible when I was 17. Paper routes, mowing grass, and construction work got the down payment. It was a love-hate relationship. No A/C was available on the 427/435. It was hot and the ride was harsh. There were also days when it was cool and the road was smooth. Nothing in the world like that thrill. Something was always going wrong. Starters, plugs, leaking carburetors, and broken valve springs meant you needed a toolbox. In 1976 another broken value spring led to major engine issues. So I sold it. To this day I regret selling it. It was alive and part of me. Today I drive a 2014 GT500. In 10 years the only issue was replacing the battery. Which do I like more. Well, I am not sure. For its time my 1968 Corvette was the top of the world.

[@johnhgarrett]

Rick, thank you for the great comment. The cars of our youth. I wonder what cars the kids of today are going to reminisce about when they’re our age. 🥴

[@brianwilson415]

Great video enjoy that beauty my Friend.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Brian! It’s a bit of a dream. Tried buying a Vette in the early 80s and it wasn’t meant to be. Tried two other times before I got married in the late 80’s. I finally made it happen 40 years later. Never give up! 🤟

[@AN-ce1nd]

You can keep the new ones. That’s a Corvette!

[@johnhgarrett]

Lol! Totally agree!

[@cricketcorder]

Great video! You did a nice job sharing the journey with us (minus hundreds and hundreds of hours behind the scenes:). Thanks for sharing!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Guys! You’re right! I took a four month sabbatical from work earlier this summer to do the mechanical components. Im glad I’m not a real mechanic because I’d starve! So slow at it!

[@rankmanupthejohns116]

Bumped into your video by chance. Wow. I've never been in such lockstep and agreement, I think we are about the same age and lived in the same era to have the exact same thoughts. Kudos brother, enjoy the fruits of your labor. BTW white is the only color for any vette of any year.❤❤

[@johnhgarrett]

Oh man! Thank you for this! I’d like to think we like this era of Corvette, not because we’re getting old, but because we were raised right and have great taste! 😂 Super glad we crossed paths! Thanks for watching! Check back once in while-given enough time I’ll make another video! lol!

[@vincentcarvelli1086]

Your passion is second to none!!! Appreciate the work!!!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Vincent! So much fun!

[@Austin_Hart]

What a beautiful piece of art you have restored. The classiest cars ever made. I wish I could see this in person. Great job. Take care and enjoy your blessing!

[@johnhgarrett]

Austin, thank you my friend! I sincerely appreciate the sentiment! 👍

[@joefuentez7232]

Beautiful C3 my friend.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Joe!

[@johnericsson2983]

When you turned the ignition key and it stared, the smile on my face was almost as big as the smile on yours.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks John! Lol! Glad I made you smile! To be honest, when it literally fired on the first crank, it scared the crap out of me! You could see my hand jump! I absolutely couldn’t believe it. I know myself. That wasn’t skill….that was dumbass luck! Lol!

[@bodieb.1239]

I've just finished my 1969 Triumph TR 6. While not American and not a corvette, (Beautiful Car you've got) it's still a 53 y/o piece of history and at 73 years old puts a smile on my face too. Your car looks and sounds great and you've got that same smile. Awesome video. Thanks, Tony

[@johnhgarrett]

Tony, I love that we share the same passion across the pond. (Assuming you’re in GB?) And a TR6? Beautiful car! Would love to see photos if you care to share! My cousin, a retired physician, is heavily involved in our town’s British Car Club. He has done a ground up resto on a Spitfire and Jaguar, more modest work on two other Jags. He is now doing something with a Citroen-no, not British-but I guess he was looking for a more painful challenge! Lol. Thank you Tony! I really appreciate the kind note and your time to watch my video! Cheers!

[@timconnell5878]

You more than doubled the hp. Beautiful car!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Tim!

[@josephackeret7911]

I really liked your video. I didn’t even mind the music. There was something about watching this that grabbed me and made me want to watch it. Very well done. And the end was so touching. You are a true corvette person.👋👋👋👋👋

[@johnhgarrett]

Joe, mission accomplished! Super glad I was able to suck you in to watching all 12 minutes! Lol! But in all seriousness, I just had fun putting it together. Yes, I was bitten by the Corvette bug decades ago and I expect I always will be bitten. That said, your kind words made my day! Thanks my friend!

[@steelrolex]

Nice restoration, but the garage WOW 🤩 !

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Steel! Okay, I love a clean garage and I get told mine is a bit neurotic. Thus, the painted floor, etc. however, my brother was kind enough to let me use his shop for my project. His shop is spectacular, both heated and cooled with sitting area, coffee pot, etc. 😃 thanks for watching!

[@eddiehuff7366]

Absolutely great! Very very good video and wonder ful car.

[@johnhgarrett]

Thank you Eddie! It is a labor of love! And I’m having a blast doing it… just sad winter is here!

[@BudBarnesCarGuy]

Nice John, really NICE!

[@johnhgarrett]

Thanks Bud! Praying for spring now. 😃