All we can say is WHERE IS THE AUTOBAHN?!

December 13, 2001
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT GOLD FILTER UPDATE! We received information that AC Delco had discontinued the Gold UPF44 Oil Filter (GM Part Number 25329389) and encouraged our members to contact AC Delco to voice their opinion about this poor business decision!

Well, it appears that C5 Registry Members have been HEARD! We received this HOT email update from David Delaney [C5R# X2618] via the C5Net indicating that the UPF44 has been "reinstated for production."

Dave received the following response from AC Delco . . "they are not currently available on the market. They are planning to have them back on the market in the first part of next year (2002). We recommend contacting your local AC Delco Distributor after the first of the year for the most current updates on availability."

Be sure and contact AC Delco to express your gratitude for their "change of heart." You can reach them at 1-800-ACDELCO or via email at cac@acdelco.com

October 16, 2001
Members, for a limited time, artist Lee Bivens, is offering a very special Dale Earnhardt Print,
"The Greatest Warrior" to C5 Registry members. This print will soon be available to the public,
But for now, it's for C5 Registry members only. Click Here to view and order.

October 1, 2001 ( Click on the image for a front view )
Remember the "Mako Shark" in the sixties? CORVETTE engineering rolled it out to show us a vision of things to come in the CORVETTE world. The much of the Mako was used in the 63-67 CORVETTE. Now, at a recent press introduction to the lineup for the '02 model year in Ypsilanti, MI, CORVETTE did it again! They showed the press the "Tiger Shark". The man with the most enviable job at GM, Jon Moss, was the driving force behind this C5 CORVETTE that has been modified from end to end. But... This is not just another custom C5! The strongest feature of this C5 is the Engine. Just when you think GM as put about as much horse power and torque in a C5 as they can along come the "Tiger Shark" The 427cu, Vortech supercharged LS1 in this beauty generates 742 HP at 6000 RPM and 690 ft lbs of torque at 5700 RPM. Serious power here folks.

September 25, 2001
End Of the Camaro and Firebird 

GM Celebrates Muscle Cars' Last Year of Production, 
Closes Ste. Therese Facility

DETROIT - General Motors Corporation today announced that 2002 will be the last model year for the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird. The Ste. Thérèse, Quebec plant where the vehicles are produced will close in the fall of 2002.

According to John G. Middlebrook, GM vice president and general manager vehicle brand marketing & corporate advertising, the combination of significantly reduced demand in the regular sport segment - which has decreased by 53 percent from 1990 to 2000, due in large part to the increasing popularity of trucks - along with the substantial excess manufacturing capacity in the industry made this decision unavoidable.

Middlebrook said GM is celebrating both cars' significance as American musclecar icons in 2002.

"The Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird have truly become an integral part of American culture over the years," said Middlebrook. "We appreciate the strong emotions that our customers have for these cars and we're pleased to be celebrating them with a 35th Anniversary Edition Camaro and a Collector Edition Firebird Trans Am special edition models."

Although Camaro and Firebird have always had focused appeal, both Chevy and Pontiac will continue the tradition of providing performance vehicles with high value. Next year, Chevy will introduce the SSR. Pontiac will also continue to offer excitement with performance powertrains, including the supercharged Grand Prix GTP and Bonneville SSEi and the forthcoming Vibe GT.

GM will continue to support the millions of Camaro and Firebird/Trans Am owners with replacement parts, reproduction parts, accessories and technical support through its Service Parts Organization.

General Motors of Canada Limited president and general manager, Maureen Kempston Darkes said, "Closing the Ste. Thérèse Plant is an extremely painful and difficult decision. GM has worked very hard to identify a new product or other alternative to continue manufacturing at Ste. Thérèse. However, despite several years of intensive work, we have been unable to identify any viable alternatives.

"We are committed to ensuring as smooth a transition as possible for our people. Almost all of the 1,065 employees currently on-roll at Ste. Thérèse are now eligible for retirement or will become eligible within the next few years. In addition, virtually all of the 380 employees currently on lay-off will similarly be eligible for retirement. The GM of Canada benefit package is extensive, with income continuation for up to three years for affected employees. We are committed to working closely with the CAW and the Quebec and federal Governments to put in place retraining and other transition assistance programs for those that want to continue their working careers."

The Ste. Thérèse, Quebec plant opened in 1965. Over the years, it has produced a variety of car models, including the Chevrolet Monza, Pontiac Grand Prix and Chevrolet Celebrity. It has been the sole producer of the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird models since 1993. The plant currently operates on one shift.

September 25, 2001
Corvette Test Drives Resume . . .
GM customers say GM’s the best, but the theme for this year’s J.D. Power Campaign is for GM to get even better! Brian Collins, operations manager for the Quality Department, said there are several focuses during this year’s J.D. Power period (August through December). They are based on the main complaints registered by our customers: chips and scratches, wind noise and paint blemishes.

September 5, 2001
GM LS7 ???… Thanks Hot Rod magazine!!
JUST MAYBE…the future of the C6 has never been clearer. Dave Hill, have you picked up the latest Hot Rod October 2001 issue, page 96… You may find a very interesting story regarding engine selection for the upcoming C6 Z06 . . . and we quote . . .

GM-LS7 Cammer Power! LS1 Architecture, 391 Cubes, 440 HP for ’05 – with more coming!
"HOT ROD has obtained exclusive secret documents from GM’s dyno lab in Michigan, where 2005-model year engines are running on the stand as you read this. Of particular interest is what is being referred to as the "Gen IV LS7l". It’s reportedly a 6.4L version of the familiar LS1; bore is 4.06 inches and stroke is 3.78 inches, making for 391 cubes. Though the general architecture is similar to the LS1/LS6 available now, the LS7 is in fact a twin-cam setup and likely uses a different block (a la Z06) to get the increased displacement. The rumor is that both OHC and two-cam-in-the-valley setups are being tested, and our anonymous source did not elaborate on which engine these numbers represented.

August 20, 2001
Corvette is still king of the road as reported by Bowling Green Plant "Vette Gazette", August 3, 2001. Two of the most widely read automotive magazines in the world pit Corvette against the competition in their August editions, with our American made product more than holding our own.

August 18, 2001
The Evoq Watch ~ Cadillac Roadster update
Just as construction here in Bowling Green for the build of the Cadillac roadster continues full speed ahead, so does planning for and the actual build of the sports car in Detroit. Members of the plant’s Product Launch Team report that the Beta build of about 40 vehicles is currently underway. The group is involved with virtually every step of the process.

August 15, 2001
Thanks Autoweek!!
JUST MAYBE…the future has never been so clear. Interestingly enough, within the August 6^th Autoweek under Headliner, page 8, it heralds the appointment of Mark Reuss as the new Executive Director of the newly formed Operations, Engineering, and Specialty Vehicles division at GM. The article goes on to state, "What we’d like to do now is try to do more performance packages – not just appearance packages." Additionally, "We want to get away from ‘show and no go.’ We’re going to add the ‘go.’" Sounds like Ford’s SVT team has inspired GM to work a little magic of their own. Why are we bringing this to our member’s attention? Because of the very interesting correlation of development work that was done on an SS Truck, such as using a "rear-mounted C5 six-speed manual transaxle, C5 rear axle assembly and limited-slip differential, and a C5 aluminum rear suspension cradle. There’s even a Corvette steering wheel with a custom logo." And to top it all off…within this SS lurks "a 6.6-liter, overhead-valve aluminum V8 engine that produces 480 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque." So if we were GM… and we wanted to test out the new Corvette engine setup without raising a lot of suspicion…we might put it inside a truck and see how it mates up with the running gear…which is strongly rumored to be pretty much the same in the C6 as it is in the C5. So…JUST MAYBE…if you imagine all the C5s are C6s, the SSes are Z06sss… it looks like that GM gives us a few glimpses of Corvette’s future successes….

August 4, 2001
Calling all Corvette Plant Tour Guides…for members planning to attend the NCM Labor Day celebration…

The Bowling Green Corvette Plant needs our help! They will need tour guides for Friday August 31 for two shifts, 8 to 11:30 AM and 11AM to 2PM and also, Saturday, September 1, 7:30AM to 11AM.

If you have been a tour guide before and/or would like to be one, please contact Jane Bowlin at the Corvette Plant. Her e-mail address is jane.b.bowlin@gm.com  .

August 2, 2001
Sometimes know as the "Father of the Viper" General Motors announced today it has hired former Chrysler Corp. executive Robert Lutz as vice chairman in charge of product development.

Tom Davis, the group vice president for product development, will retire in the first quarter of next year after 37 years with the automaker. Wayne Cherry, vice president of the design center, will report to Lutz, GM said. "I was incredibly impressed with his (Lutz') continuing passion and enthusiasm for cars and trucks and the auto industry in general," Rick Wagoner, GM president and CEO, said in a statement.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL PRESS RELEASE

July 29, 2001
For those of you who have to have the LATEST production number breakdown on the 2001 Millennium Yellow (79U) C5 Convertibles and their interiors:

July 20, 2001
The numbers are in (well…at least some of ‘em)… What numbers are we talking about? Why Z06 production numbers and their interiors!
Total number of Z06s produced for the model year 2001 is 5773. This breaks down as follows: 5460 domestic, with 284 sent North of the border to Canada, and 29 sent South of the border to Mexico. Interior combinations are as follows: Millennium Yellow (79U) 634 produced, 539 with (19I) black interior, and 95 with (704) modified red interior. White (10U) 352 produced, 215 with (19I) black interior and 137 with (704) modified red interior. Bright Silver Metallic (13U) 1345 produced, 1025 with (19I) black interior, and 320 with (704) modified red interior. Black (41U) 1819 produced, 1383 with (19I) black interior, and 436 with (704) modified red interior. Torch Red (70U) 1623 produced, 950 with (19I) black interior, and 673 with (704) modified red interior. For a total of 4112 (19I) black interiors and 1661 (704) modified red interiors.
You want to talk rare?!
How about Navy Blue Metallic (28U) with Torch Red Interior (70I) and a White (16T) Convertible top? How rare? FOUR … worth of rare…They break down as follows: Two automatics and two 6-Spds followed by an additional FOUR more with black tops, (41T) ONE Automatic Navy Blue with Red Interior, and three Navy Blue, 6-Spds. with Red Interior for a total of only EIGHT Navy Blue convertibles with Torch Red Interior.

On the Navy Blue coupe side, Red Interior DID NOT make it into ANY 6-Spds, but made it into FIVE Automatics. The rest of the discontinued 512 Navy Blue, 6-Spd coupes, with their interiors are as follows: 183 Black Interior (19I), 227 Light Oak (67I), and 102 Pewter (92I). There were 876 Automatics with 249 Black Interior (19I), 409 Light Oak (67I), and 213 Pewter (92I) produced.

These are the early year-end results…stay tuned to this channels as the poling places across the nation continue to close… Remember…we are from Florida where the chad is king…so it may take a little time to count the votes…correctly.

July 20, 2001
HOT OFF THE PRESS!! 2001 TOTAL PRODUCTION NUMBERS!
Production numbers for 2001 C5 Corvettes including all exports as of 2:42 PM CST June 28, 2001 are as follows:

• Coupes: 15,681

• Convertibles: 14,173

• Z06s: 5773

For a total of 35,627.

Further analysis is as follows:

• For our Canadian members, there were 215 Coupes, 617 Convertibles, and 284 Z06s exported to Canada (RPO Z49) for a total of 1115.

• European exports were 838 Coupes and 348 Convertibles, for a total of 1186.

• Mexican exports were 32 Coupes, 32 Convertibles, and 29 Z06s for a total of 93.

• Domestic totals were 14,597 Coupes, 13,176 Convertibles, and 5460 Z06s for a total of 33,233.

July 13, 2001
This must be C5 Registry member front-cover magazine month!
First, Registry member Donna Littlejohn C5R# X2631 appears on the cover of the September 2001 issue of Vette Magazine and now Buzz Nielson C5R# W0492 appears on the cover of September 2001 issue of Corvette Fever (well….at least his Millennium Yellow Z06 does and it does appear to be his silhouette peering over the wheel.) These two fabulous articles are a must-read for all C5 Registry members. Buzz takes the limelight on page 14 with a old fashioned "KING OF THE HILL" shootout. A Z06 versus a ZR-1. A few notable quotes include the following: "What surprised me the most was how bad the ZR-1 ‘hooked up’" said by Roger Vinci of Vinci Hi-Performance Specialties, Inc. (XC027). Vinci is referred to by Corvette Fever as their "resident Corvette genius, and was the independent test-driver for both Corvettes." But the best part of the article concludes on page 18 with the following:

At least that’s what GM Service Operation DCS771 says…what is this important message? It is the repair DIRECTIVE to all Chevrolet dealers regarding the column lock problem, which has been experienced and reported by many of our members for the better part of the last two and a half years. The solution to the problem is installation of a repair kit number PN 88952427 for automatic transmission Corvettes and PN 88952428 for all manual transmission Corvettes. These numbers pertain only to those Corvettes sold in the US and Canada. For all other countries, PN 88952428 should be installed on either automatic or manual transmissioned C5s. This bulletin covers 1998 Corvettes with VIN W5123355 through W5131069 and all 1999 Corvettes, and every 2000 Corvettes through the VIN Y5116233. Corvette’s plans are to mail all affected owners beginning July 17, 2001. CLICK HERE FOR .gif Of Bulletin

July 11, 2001
Looking for a "Removable Hardtop" for your C5 Corvette Convertible?? There finally is one available, or soon to be...  Caravaggio Corvettes is finishing up production on a removable top for the C5 Convertible. The final price has not yet been set as the rear glass is currently being manufactured but this under 30 pound top should be priced between $3000 and $3500. The new rear window design eliminates the blind spot the the factory convertible top has. For more information, contact John Carvavaggio  at: caravaggio@interramp.com  Delivery is expected to begin in early September. CLICK FOR PHOTOS

July 1, 2001

Final Production Number for Friday, June 29th, 2:42 CST

It’s going to be a sad time for those waiting for their early 2002 C5s. The Bowling Green Plant has just shut down for its two-week break. The FINAL C5 to roll off the line had VIN 100675 and Job # 000647. When the plant resumes production on July 16th, the start number will be VIN 100827, Job # 000799. It will be one HOT July as 675 lucky owners of 2002 C5s begin to receive their factory creations! Once the factory's first 20 C5s have been evaluated during their time in the Captured Fleet -- meaning they are designated for extensive testing -- a number of Detroit engineers came to Bowling Green and drove the units to Detroit. These engineer/drivers are looking for problems in the vehicles and working towards a solution prior to the July 18th Quality Value meeting when a decision is made on whether or not our newest 2002 models are ready for shipment to dealers. If the approvals come down (and we don’t expect any delays) then a lucky owner will be smiling in Grand Prairie, TX, as his or her Torch Red Coupe with Black Sport Seats, Auto, (VIN 100675 Job # 000647) will be released for shipment. It was the last C5 out the door on its way to Graff Chevrolet. One "not-so-lucky" owner barely missed the cut (VIN 100676 Job # 000648), and will have to wait for a little longer for his completion time before his C5 is shipped -- also a Torch Red Coupe with Black Sport Seats, 6-Spd, F45 -- to Gus Paulos Chevrolet in West Valley City, UT.  

June 29, 2001
The Plant’s GEARED UP for model change time…

The 2002 model Corvette is ready to go. In fact, you’ll see the first of the new parts for the 2002 Corvette online in some areas of the plant.

System fill for the ’02 is began in Body Systems Friday, June 22 as parts for the new model go into the production system in Body and Paint.

The plant said farewell to the highly acclaimed (J.D. Power winning!) 2001 Corvette Monday, June 25.

Late in the shift that same day, the first of the 2002s came off-line. As many as 36 C5s were scheduled for build. Throughout the remainder of the week (Tuesday through Thursday) a total of 129 C5s were expected off-line each day. Plans called for eight hour shifts for the entire week.

For the last week of June, a total of 552 of the new model Corvettes are scheduled for build.

The first 20 of them will be placed in the Captured Fleet, meaning they are designated for extensive evaluation. A number of Detroit engineers will come to Bowling Green and drive the units to Detroit.

Included among the engineering test drivers is the chief Corvette engineer, Dave Hill, who will also drive one of the vehicles.

A total of nine of the earliest of the new units will be driven and tested by plant personnel.

Drivers will look for problems in the vehicles and work towards a solution prior to the July 18^th Quality Value meeting when a decision is made on whether or not our newest model is ready for shipment to dealers.

Thanks to Jane Bowlin, editor of the Vette Gazette, for the above information.

June 22, 2001
On Thursday June 21, 2001 production ended for CORVETTE model year 2001 with VIN Number: 135448,  Job Number: 035446. The 2002 Production  began Friday June 22 with VIN Number: 100036,  Job Number: 000008. Are sources say those new "Electron Blue" CORVETTES sure look good going down the line!

May 28, 2001
One lucky C5 owner is waiting in Menlo Park, CA, as he or she will receive the LAST C5 produced in the 2001 Model Year! Yes, as you would expect, it is a Z06! This Red Z06 (VIN # 15135601 Job # 035599) is headed for Anderson Chevrolet where someone (hopefully a C5 Registry member!) is getting ready to have one HOT California Summer!

May 26, 2001
It’s OFFICIAL!! The Registry has learned . . . Drum roll please. . . . the Corvette will end Model Year 2001 with Job # 035599. Stay tuned to MOHN as we will post additional production details on the FINAL 2001 Corvette! Members, any guesses on color and model?

May 25, 2001
You can tell the 2001 Model Year is wrapping up as production numbers are coming in fast and furious . . . what a FABULOUS year Corvette has had!! The 2001 C5 is certainly, as Dave Hill says, "the Best Vette Yet!" For final production numbers on Bowling Green Metallic (91U) and Navy Blue Metallic (28U) . . . and we do mean FINAL – as these two colors have been discontinued and will not be built in the 2002 Model Year.

Bowling Green Metallic (91U), our plant’s namesake, leaves us with 443 Coupes and 476 Convertibles produced during the 2001 Model Year. Navy Blue Metallic (28U) ends the 2001 Model Year with 1385 Coupes and 1199 Convertibles produced.

May 24, 2001
Gentlemen, grab your phones! It’s May Madness… 2002 ordering allocations begin today! Feeling frantic trying to get in line to get your 2002 Z06, 2002 coupe, or convertible in the early production cycle before it’s too late? Getting mixed messages from your dealer about when you can put in an order and any constraints that may or may not be placed on your order? Sit back, relax, and let the C5 Registry put you "in the know."

Since about April 17th, dealers have been able to put orders into a "preliminary order" within their system.  As of this order week, GM will pull orders on May 28th and dealers can make any changes to be finalized by 9PM EST, Tuesday May 29th.  At 9PM, the orders go into the GM system and the dealer will be given a target production date of between June 25th through the 29th (the Plant is closed for two weeks) and production will continue on July 16th through 20th. As all you loyal members know, these dates are subject to and do often change. (We have to remember; GM still owns the place. <grin>)  Orders will start to be pulled from dealers on Tuesday May 29th.  In fact, just today (05-24-01), the FIRST release of allocations for 2002 Corvettes came in this morning to ALL dealers.  This means, if your dealer had taken advantage of placing orders into the VOMS system under "preliminary orders" and if he received any allocations today, these order will go next Tuesday, pending any order constraints.  Larger dealers were allocated about three 2002 Corvettes with possibly one being a Z06. 

Z06 allocations are based on last year's sales. 

This first week’s constraints are as follows:

Z06

• Electron Blue Metallic 21U Limited Availability 4%

• Millennium Yellow 79U Limited Availability 16 %

Convertible

• Millennium Yellow 79U Limited Availability 8%

• Magnetic Red 86U Limited Availability 9%

Coupe

• Millennium Yellow 79U Limited Availability 11%

• Magnetic Red 86U Limited Availability 11%

Coupe and Convertible

• Performance Axle Ratio RPO G92 Limited Availability 38%

• Electron Blue Metallic 21U Limited Availability 3%

May 23, 2001
2001 Z06 Production Update: Word has reached the Registry office today regarding the number of Z06s produced year-to-date. We wanted our members to have this information as quickly as it became available. The actual breakdown of 2001 Z06 exterior colors with interior choices will be available at a later date, but the Hot Info, as of this moment, is that there have been 5566 Z06s built with a planned target run of 5700 to be produced.

May 19, 2001
As the 2002 C5 introduction draws near…more exciting 2002 production news becomes available. E-mails continue to flood the Registry office regarding dealers who are misinforming our members that there are some color/interior RESTRICTIONS on the Z06 in ’02. Once again the Registry searches for the OFFICIAL word for our members.

Q: We have been overwhelmed with emails (all of a sudden) from our members regarding information that dealers are informing them that they cannot get the modified interior (Red/Black) in a Millennium Yellow Z06 for 2002 and maybe restricted in certain other Z06 colors. So we asked, "Are there any restrictions on ordering the modified interior in any of the Z06 colors (U.S. or Canada) in 2002?"

A: There should be NO restriction on various interior and exterior color combinations IN THE U.S. There was a discussion at the 4^th annual Birthday Bash in Bowling Green wherein a C5 Registry member (who lives in Toronto, Canada) stated that his dealer would not allow him order a 2002 Millennium Yellow Z06 with a modified Torch Red interior. GM’s (U.S division) position is that they don't control Canada, but we do let them know that it is not a restriction in the U.S. Regarding U.S. production, we will double-check our 2002 Model Year selection tables to make sure there are no computer-generated restrictions.

Q: Canadian ordering information provided to the Registry shows that for the Z06 in 2002 the memory and electrochromic mirrors are being packaged together in a Driver’s Convenience Package. Will this be the procedure for the U.S. as well?

A: For the U.S. optioned 2002 Z06’s, the memory and electrochromic mirrors options WILL BE packaged together in a Driver’s Convenience Package. GM has noted that the two options were typically ordered together in 2001, hence the change for 2002. 

May 16, 2001
We have received numerous emails from many of you "itching" to get the scoop on 2002 production! We are happy to announce that we have received OFFICIAL word from our "friends in high places" concerning the Start Up of the 2002 Model Year production schedule as it pertains to the first few weeks:

"The 2002 Corvette build will start the week of June 25. GM shuts down the first two weeks in July. We start back up on July 16. We will begin shipment of the 2002 MY Corvettes sometime during that week . . . Dealers are able to place sold orders in the system right now. They've been able to do so for a few weeks. Dealers won't see their first 2002 order placement process until next week."

April 6, 2001
Keep a look out for these if you live in Kentucky. The engineering staff from Bowling Green and Detroit will be behind the wheel. During this annual test and evaluation, the engineers routinely drive upcoming model year Corvettes and look for any type of problem including electrical, drivability and mechanical. Following the drive, the engineers get together to discuss their evaluations . . . in preparation for a fabulous 2002 production start!  

April 5, 2001
Have you ever wondered how Bowling Green looks at Gross Units versus Net Units? Gross Units are all the Corvettes that have been built and shipped. Some could still be on the carrier’s lot, or in transit to the dealers’. The Net number reflects the actual amount of Corvettes actually at dealerships. The number of days refers to the time it would take (on average) to sell all the Corvettes already built and shipped.
Corvette Field Stock as of February 28^th is:
Gross units: 5,289 units 53 days
Net units: 3,609 units 37 days

March 19, 2001
The Evoq Watch! Straight from a Q&A recently held at the Bowling Green Plant, find out what’s happening as the plant prepares for the Evoq!

Q: How will the plant protect the paint shop from dirt during the (Cadillac) construction?
A: The plant will work together with the crews and skilled trades to contain dust and debris to a minimum. They will also use plastic to wrap areas we need to protect.

Q: What is the timeframe for launching the Cadillac?
A: Right now the Alpha build is going on in Warren, MI. Seven employees recently went there for the first time to help with the build and to track issues that they see with the program. The next step is called Beta and this build will take place later this year. The plant will start to see Cadillacs being produced in the summer of 2002. The car will be released in late fall 2002.

March 17, 2001
Corvette Kits for Race Teams!
Not a month goes by without a question about how many "Bowling Green Built C5R Race Corvettes have been produced (referred internally as Corvette Kits for independent Race Teams). The latest update from the Vette Gazette, edited by Jane Bowlin, tells us that . . .

A dozen race car kits assembled at the Bowling Green Plant left earlier this month and will eventually show up on race tracks around the country. Building the kits started in late February, taking place primarily in the plant’s Workplace Development Center. They were transported via closed truck to Detroit on March 2, 2001, by GM Motorsports.

According to planning administrator Tom Lohmann, the kits consist of a uniframe, braking system, chassis, engine, suspension components, wheels and steering wheel. Each hand-manufactured Corvette is stored at the GM Motorsports Warehouse where it remains until a race team contacts GM to buy the kit. The team, which races the cars under the Corvette name, will then make decisions on how the car should be modified for their particular race.

The last time the plant built the race car kits was in 1999 when they turned out a total of 30. According to Lohmann, the C5Rs started out as race car kits built at Bowling Green.

And for those of you waiting for the GRAND TOTAL . . . as of March 17 there have been 42 C5R Race Car Kits produced in the Bowling Green plant!

March 15, 2001
MotorTrend Magazine "Spells it out!"
The April 2001 issue of MotorTrend "spells out" all the details for the upcoming 2002 C5 Z06. According to MotorTrend’s *Briefs Column on page 11, they say "Four-oh-five! That’s the horsepower and torque number for the ’02 Chevrolet Corvette Z06. Chevy engineers considered the 385 hp and 385 lb-ft of the current Z06 a kind of "interim" figure on the way to breaching each 400 barrier."

WOW! If 385 hp in my Z06 is only "interim" – can you imagine the POWER coming our way in 2002 and beyond? Well . . . It appears that with all the money that GM spends in advertising with the magazine, MotorTrend receives the hottest "Hot News" as a bonus!

 March 9, 2001
Chevrolet announced to all its dealers on March 1st that MSRP prices on 2001 Corvettes would be increased $200 on each model. Check out the 2001 RPO Page www.c5registry.com/Production/2K1.htm   for a full details, model by model, on the increases.

The Registry strives to be as accurate as possible and not just go with rumors as is found on many other web pages. It has been reported by many of those who only guess that the Z06 1SA Content package for 2002 will be the same as it is in 2001. Their statement is inaccurate. The 1SA Content Package for 2002 Z06's has been changed with optional equipment on other models now standard. Stay tuned!

February 12, 2001
Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar Tires Now Available for 1988 and newer Corvettes, including all C5s and the ZR-1 Model:
The quickest production Corvette year – and some nearly as quick – have an opportunity to wear new Goodyear race-inspired rubber. Goodyear fine-tuned its Eagle F1 Supercar ultra performance tires at the racetrack for the 2001 Corvette Z06, and now the tire maker is engineering tire sizes for other late-model Corvettes. 

Bob Toth, marketing manager for auto tires, said Goodyear will expand the Eagle F1 Supercar tire line with four new sizes by summer. Sizes 275/40ZR17, 245/45ZR17, 315/35ZR17 and 275/40ZR18 will fit 1988 and newer Corvettes, including the ZR-1 model. "These new sizes are our commitment to Corvette owners. It’s a chance to improve the breed with the latest ultra performance tire that Goodyear offers," Toth said. On the Corvette Z06, Chevrolet credits the wider, grippier tires for the sport car’s "racetrack" performance. ">From 0 to 60 mph in four seconds flat, and more than 1 G of cornering acceleration, the Z06 truly takes Corvette performance to the next level," according to Dave Hill, Corvette chief engineer and vehicle line executive.

Goodyear’s Eagle F1 Supercar tires also get an assist from the car’s suspension. The Z06’s negative camber helps to keep the tire perpendicular to the road, which flattens the tire contact patch for greater grip while cornering.

John Eagleburger, Goodyear team leader for the General Motors engineering team, said the Supercar tires are "very controllable at the limit. Although they are not true race tires, these street tire compounds approach race tire performance. They are extremely focused on maximum handling."

The P265/40ZR17 (front) and P295/35ZR18 (rear) (Z06) Eagle F1 Supercar tires are larger than the Eagle F1 GS EMT run-flats on the 2001 Corvette coupe and convertible. The new tires are up to five percent wider in the road contact patch than the C5 Corvette tires.

Despite their size, the four tires weigh 23.5 pounds less than the run-flat tires. Eagleburger said the weight savings come from removing the run-float reinforcements as well as using lighter weight internal components.

Since the Z06 is not equipped with a spare tire, a GM tire inflator kit is included to seal punctures up to 5 mm in diameter.

Mike Neal, Corvette ride and handling engineer, said, "Taking mass out of the tires is extremely beneficial for wheel control because it reduces unsprung weight. It also reduces rotational mass, which improves acceleration and braking performance."

Eagleburger said an asymmetric tread pattern enables high cornering capabilities. Large tread blocks on the tire outside shoulder provide maximum lateral grip, responsive steering and an aggressive appearance.

The tread design features four circumferential grooves, including variable tapered grooves on the outboard side of the tread to provide optimized forward and lateral grip, Eagleburger added. A unique, racing-derived tread compound gives race-like dry handling, lateral grip and overall traction, Eagleburger said.

Corvette engineers reduced the Z06’s weight by more than 36 pounds compared to the C5 hardtop, boosting it’s power output by 40 hp. Besides the savings in the tires, the other areas include a lighter battery, titanium exhaust, lighter wheels and thinner windshield and rear backlight.

New air scoops on the rear rocker panels funnel air to the rear brakes for better cooling, Chevrolet said.

The Chevrolet Corvette has been America’s favorite sports car for 47 years, with more than 1.2 million in sales. Goodyear tires have been standard equipment on the sports car since 1978.

Another history tidbit: The Corvette Z06 honors the father of the Corvette, Zora Arkus-Duntov, Corvette’s first chief engineer. Zora first created a Z06 racing package in 1963, for purists who wanted a Corvette that was equipped to race on the track when they took delivery at Chevy dealerships. 

December 31, 2000
Curious about the upcoming Cadillac Production coming to the Bowling Green plant? Here are some answers for you . . .

Q: How is the Cadillac coming?

A: Preparations for the Cadillac are moving along very well. Engineering is working on assembling the cars in the earliest pre-production builds. This allows them to problem solve issues that arise during the build. At the plant, they have just hired the first seven employees who will help with these pre-builds as well.

Q: What options will the Roadster have?

A: The Roadster will have very few options. However, night vision, adaptive cruise, backup assist, etc., will be standard on the car.

Q: Is the Cadillac shorter than the Corvette?

A: Yes, the frame is shorter by four inches or so.

Q: Where is the Cadillac going to be built?

A: There will be changes made to the Bowling Green plant in the upcoming year. The supermarket and tire install equipment will be moving out of the plant in order to make room for the general assembly area for the Cadillac.

Q: Will there be two shifts for paint?

A: Yes, there will be two shifts for the paint shop, as the Cadillac requires two carriers to paint one car. The Cadillac panels will be painted horizontally to ensure top quality.

A C5 Thanks to Jane Bowlin, editor of the Vette Gazette, for sharing this Cadillac information with the C5 Registry.

December 12, 2000
Mid America Designs needs to borrow a Z06 for a photo shoot for an upcoming cover and inside apparel shots for their catalog. Yellow or red is preferable but not mandatory. No one will drive your car, the owner can be present the entire time, if so desired. The location is in the Boca Raton―Ft. Lauderdale area on Dec. 20. It will be an all day and evening event. If you are interested, please call Cheryl Habing at 217-540-4252 by Dec. 14.

November 15, 2000
2000 Corvettes with Millennium Yellow and Torch Red Interiors
Members: Breaking news!! The "RP" has announced that a tie has occurred between 2000 Millennium Yellow Coupes with Torch Red interior and 2000 Millennium Yellow Convertibles with Torch Red interior.

This HOT story breaking from Bowling Green, KY, continues to break along party lines! FIFTEEN Millennium Yellow Coupes with Torch Red interior have been produced, twelve of them being 6-speeds and three automatics. On the other side, FIFTEEN Millennium Yellow Convertibles with Torch Red interior have been produced, seven of them 6-speeds and eight automatics. The totals are THIRTY coupes and convertibles with nineteen 6-speeds and eleven automatics. These figures have been checked and double-checked BUT….. Those in charge are calling for a manual recount of the vote!

November 4, 2000
Corvette Millennium Yellow and Magnetic Red Constraint Allocation
ADMINISTRATIVE MESSAGE
Message Date: 10/25/00 Admin Number: CHG20000232

We would like to announce a process change to the Millennium Yellow and Magnetic Red constraints on the Chevrolet Corvette. These colors are currently allocated on a national basis. This means that dealers with Corvette allocation for a given target production week can view the total national target quantity and placements. If a dealer who has been allocated the constraint decides to configure a model with a different color, that constraint goes back into the national "pool" and is available to any other dealer in the nation.

Beginning on October 27, 2000, we will now allocate these two colors on a dealer (BAC) level. If a dealership has been allocated the constraint, that dealer will see the target quantity of "1" (or whatever quantity they were allocated) in the constraints screen. Unlike the national level constraint process, no other dealership has access to this constraint, it is specific to the dealer. If a dealer is allocated a Magnetic Red or Millennium Yellow constraint unit and chooses not to use it, the constraint will be reallocated the following week.

This enhancement will eliminate the need for dealers to continually check for color constraint availability on the chance that another dealership has given theirs up. It should also eliminate the need for a dealership to participate in the Friday "rush" to secure a color constraint on Corvette.

This process will begin with the October 27, 2000, order generation on the Corvette Z06 model. It will then be rolled out to the Coupe/Convertible allocation group starting with the November 10, 2000 order generation. This change applies only to the Magnetic Red and Millennium Yellow constraints on the Coupe/Convertible model, and the Millennium Yellow constraint on the Corvette Z06.

October 25, 2000
Members this is an UPDATED partial list of parts numbers we have researched for the 2001 Z06 and misc. part numbers for the 2001 C5. This is for our members only – please do not pass this information to non-members. We will continue to research and post additional part numbers in the future. We began this project because members wanted to update their C5s with Z06 components.

GAS TANK SHIELDS (All models)

REAR SHIELDS (back of Gas Tanks) effective with start of production on the 2000 model year.
LEFT SIDE GM # 10410936
RIGHT SIDE GM # 10410937 TEMP # (new # DUE TO Z06 MODIFICATION) RIGHT SIDE WILL BE GM # 10306421.
SHIELD NUTS GM # 11514517

Z06 WHEEL PAINT CODE (WAPB-9789) called LIGHT GRAY METALLIC PAINT FROM J.B. FULLER COMPANY

2001 WHEELS FRONT
QG1 FRONT GM # 9594181 BASE & EXPORT 17 X 8 ½
N73 FRONT GM # 9592638 MAGNESIUM 17 X 8 ½
QE1 FRONT GM # 9593804 Z06 17 X 9 ½ OFF SET 54MM
QF5 FRONT GM # 9594010 HIGH POLISHED 17 X 8 ½ OFF SET 56MM

2001 WHEELS REAR
QG1 REAR GM # 9594183 BASE & EXPORT 18 X 9 ½
N73 REAR GM # 9592640 MAGNESIUM 18 X 9 ½
QE1 REAR GM # 9593806 Z06 18 X 10 ½ OFF SET 58MM
QF5 REAR GM # 9594011 HIGH POLISHED 18 X 9 ½ OFF SET 61MM

2001 TIRES FRONT
FRONT EMT GM # 9592410 P245/45ZR17
FRONT NON EMT GM # 9593315 P245/45ZR17 EXPORT
FRONT Z06 GM # 9593819 P265/40ZR17

2001 TIRES REAR
REAR EMT GM # 9592411 P275/40ZR18
REAR NON EMT GM # 9593316 P275/40ZR18
REAR Z06 GM # 9593820 P295/35ZR18

Z06 VALUE STEMS GM # 9427575 FOR ALL WHEELS

CD CHANGER WIRING KIT GM #12496743

GAS TANK SIZE (2001) TOTAL CAPCITY 18.5 US GALLONS – EACH TANK HOLDS 9.25 US GALLONS

GETRAG REAR END CHUNKS (as used at the factory 2001):
AUTO 2.73 AXLE RATIO GM # 12563137 (Std. RPO GU2)
AUTO 3.15 AXLE RATIO GM # 12563138 (Perf. RPO G92)
M12 in Z06 3.42 AXLE RATIO GM # 12561854 (RPO GU6)
MM6 – VD1 3.42 AXLE RATIO GM # 12563408 (RPO GU6) U.S. Domestic
MM6 + VD1 3.42 AXLE RATIO GM # 12563409 (RPO GU6) European

Z06 FRONT FASICA SCREENS
RT side GM # 10424820
LF side GM # 10424821
SCREWS GM # 11514314 (2 screws needed per side)
CLIPS GM # 10437991 (2 clips needed per side)

Z06 INSERTS (BLACK SCREENS) VENTS
RT side GM # 10420858
LF side GM # 10440860
4 NUTS PER SIDE GM # 11515930

Z06 REAR AIR DUCTS (leads air to rear brakes)
RT side GM # 10425977
LF side GM # 10425976

INNER FENDER WELLS (special for Z06 Design) They allow space for rear ducts. (Special Cut)
RT side GM # 10424681
LF side GM # 10424682

Z06 SILL PLATES
RT side GM # 10444693 must be painted to match.
LF side GM # 10444692 must be painted to match.

Z06 PERFORMANCE BRAKE PADS
The Front Brake Pads were a special pad provided by GM Performance Parts (GM Part Number # 12480154) which lists for $135.00. Corporate Member Dealer # VC001, Bruce Glueck Chevrolet, has agreed to sell these Performance Pads to C5 Registry members for $113.40 plus shipping to you. Please contact Parts Manager Ken Bassett at 1-904-792-1111.

GM PERFORMANCE ROTORS
GM Performance Parts has also come out with Front Performance Rotors (Part Numbers left rotor GM # 12480155 and right rotor GM # 12480156). These C5 Performance Rotors have a different metallurgy than stock C5 rotors. They are a thicker design - less prone to warping, checking or cracking. These rotors and brake pads allow the driver to handle the demands (especially heat) of racing better than stock parts.

Factory Rotors (stock 2001)
GM part #10445856 Right front Rotor
GM part #10445857 Left front Rotor|
GM part #10445858 Right rear Rotor

GM part #10445859 Left rear Rotor

Titanium ZO6 Mufflers
GM part #10426193 Left side –[10303856 Factory Internal #]
GM part #10426192 Right Side [10303853 Factory Internal #]

Exhaust Gaskets (all Models)
GM part #10276792

ZO6 Tire Inflation Kit
GM part #9594073 – caution label outside of box
GM part #9594074 – sealant inflater
GM part #9594075 – air pump
Equal a total Kit.

ZO6 Caliper RED (REAR)
GM part #10420087 (left)
GM part #10420088 (right)

ZO6 Caliper RED (FRONT)
GM part #10420085 (left)
GM part #10420086 (right)

2001 C5 Automatic Transmission
GM part #24213031-Complete Unit – [Factory code 1YDD-M30]

2001 C5 Manual Transmission
GM part #12561852-Z06-M12-Domestic
GM part #12570231-MN6-Domestic
GM part #12570232-MN6-EXPORT(no lock-out (1-4) sensor)

2001 ENGINE Suffix’s
ZZC-6Spd
ZCB-Auto
ZCA-6Spd(ZO6)

Traction Control Module
GM part #10306494

Plastic Lug Nut Covers – All 2001
GM part #09593239

Z06 Wheel Center Cap
GM part #09594326

LS6 Red Engine Beauty Covers
GM part #12564248 – Right Side
GM part #12564247 – Left Side

Z06 Emblem on Fenders
GM part #10429629

September 25, 2000
DVT "Road Test" Under a Roof..
The Dynamic Vehicle Test, or roll test, is not only one of our tourists’ favorite stops, it’s also (and most importantly) a major test of our end of the line product quality. Does Corvette accelerate, stop on a dime, and have lights that work? The DVT measures it all and much much more.

Ron Branch, a utility auditor and DVT coordinator for the past eight years, said DVT measures 98% of the components in the car. That includes mechanical items like the brakes, transmission and rear axle. It also measures electrical functions like power seats; light switches and even the memory of the keyfob.

DVT stays busy throughout the day since 100% of C5 production makes a run through on of the two booths located just past the alignment pit. The driver revs the engine up to a speed of 75 miles per hour for a period of 45 seconds. The car sits on rollers that spin the tires around. While DVT, a computer outside the car is connected to the vehicle’s ADL. Following about three and one-half minutes in the booth, the car either passes or fails. By far, most of the vehicles breeze right through this part of our inspection process.

Since every Corvette must pass this test before leaving the plant, any cars that fail go next to repair. Following the appropriate repairs, they must again go through DVT. When they get a thumbs up at DVT, all vehicles head for water test. At between 96.5% and 97%, Branch said Corvette’s first time pass rate is very good. A rate of 96% means that out of 131 vehicles, only five or six failed the test. If a car fails, the problem is not only fixed; the source of the problem is found and corrected. "If there’s a problem, the operators are very receptive to making changes," Branch pointed out. He looks into every single item found on DVT and checks on the source of the problem. Several operations on the assembly line – especially jobs where wiring is connected – are critical to the DVT pass rate. These operations are identified with a pink sheet.

A 35-year veteran, Branch said he especially likes working on DVT and with the people. "It gives me a chance to learn about Corvette and the business. I learn something new every day." He transferred here in 1981 from St. Louis where he worked for a year on the Corvette line.

Among his closest co-workers are DVT drivers Don Million, Larry King, Nellie Smith and Berdine Miller. When any of them gets a 100% pass rate for the day, congratulations are in order. "We all get excited when that happens," Branch said. He also helps educate other employees at meetings where he shares DVT information with them.

A BIG C5 Thank You, to Jane Bowlin, Editor of the VETTE Gazette for informing the Registry of this latest factory procedure.

September 23, 2000
If you are a member coming to the Las Vegas Show and want to attend SEMA, which starts on Tuesday, October 31st and runs through Friday, November 3rd, you must be registered.

Please email Dan Adovasio at c5dan@c5registry.com directly or call the C5 Registry Office at 321-452-2743 and leave a message. Dan will then email you the appropriate information for registration. The price is $40 per person payable directly to SEMA. Space is limited so contact Dan as soon as possible. Email registration closes October 15th., 2000.

August 14, 2000
OUR MEMBERS ARE EVERYWHERE!!!
As fortune would have it, one of our members came upon a rare sighting on a transport outside of Bowling Green. As all of our members know, Nassau Blue (RPO 23U) was discontinued late in the 2000 model year. Low and behold, an error at the plant has occurred! Wil Cooksey, Plant Manager, has anybody told you, that Some How, Some Way, Some Fluke…. Has occurred, and a 2001 Nassau Blue Convertible was produced in late August. According to eyewitness accounts, it is an automatic, with a white top, black interior, loaded with a 1SC Option Package. Our eagle –eyed member observed some additional options which included high polished wheels, CD changer, and (after climbing under the rear), confirmed a Z51 handling package. This 2001 one of a kind fluke’s VIN (ends in) 15102652. Talk about instant COLLECTABLE!!! Mr. Cooksey, where was quality control when this one went out the door??!!

August 10, 2000
MAKING THE BEST EVEN BETTER!!!
J.D. Power Survey confirms (what Registry Members already know) that the 2000 C5 was the best vehicle produced by GM during the last model year. The gauntlet for the 2001 has been thrown down. Mark McGehan, Quality Manager says "we are going to make the best vehicle in GM even better…. we are going to close in on the items that we know were a concern on the 2000 model year". What tops the list you ask? Wind noise and paint blemishes. We have learned that the plant is ready to combat these quality items by starting a drive audit including water test, squeak and rattle and a dynamic check. To protect the C5s spectacular paint job the plant will begin to apply (during the week of August 7^th) a paint protection (said to be heated strips of laminate that will be applied to the horizontal surfaces, like the hood, roof, hatch and decklid) before transit. This is a very unique system in that after the strips are first applied, the Corvette travels through a very low bake oven. Once the C5 has had a successful "in transit" to its dealership the strips can be easily removed.

August 9, 2000
SPECIAL UPDATE TO JULY 12, 2000 HOT NEWS!
As we stated on July 12^th, the Z06 you are going to take delivery of is not equipped the same as the Z06 the press took on their press tour and tested. The press Z06’s had an inexpensive performance upgrade that is a must for all Z06 owners. Members, the Z06 which the press and I tested at the Mid-Ohio Race Track had special brake pads provided by GM Performance Parts. The part number for the performance brake pads is # 12480154 these are front pads only. At present I'm not sure if there are any in stock. I can attest that the performance brake pads really add to the stopping power of the Z06 brakes…but they squeak. As I stated before, GM made a decision to avoid needless warranty complaints (squealing) by putting on an owner (non-warranty) friendly pad. These pads list for $135.00 at your local dealer

July 25, 2000
The model change over from 2000 to 2001 at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant was rather unique; it was a "rolling model change". That means as each area of the plant builds out, the new 2001 model will be right behind the old 2000 one. !!

As you know the last 2000 Corvette came off the line on Monday, June 26^th, as did a number of 2001 Corvettes did that same day.

The first 25 units were part of Chevrolet’s captured fleet which is used to identify early quality and customer concerns. Many of these were driven by Chevrolet and Corvette Executives on their two week vacation shut down – July 1^st through July 16^th. Anyone who attended the Black Hills Classic Event got a chance to see one of those Corvettes. Executive Russ Craighead brought a Black Z06 (appropriate color for the event) to the Classic and spent a weekend driving it around the Black Hills! Everyone enjoyed checking out the Z06 and we appreciate Russ’ willingness to let everyone take a peek! If you want a great run with your Corvette, I would make the Black Hills Classic a "must attend" for your 2001 schedule!

July 12, 2000
The Z06 you took delivery of is not equipped the same as the Z06 the press took on their press tour and tested. The press Z06’s had an inexpensive performance upgrade that is a must for all Z06 owners. Members the Z06 that the press and I tested at the Mid-Ohio Race Track had special brake pads provided by GM Performance Parts. It seems that the performance brake pads really added to the stopping power for the Z06 brakes…but, they squeak. GM made a decision to avoid needless warranty complaints (squealing) by putting on a different pad and will list these performance brake pads in their upcoming GM Performance Catalog. Those of you that race know that high performance brake pads squeal. We are presently trying to locate the part number for you and will provide you with the information as soon as we receive it.

July 10, 2000
It has come to the attention of the C5 Registry that if the 2001 C5 Coupe, Convertibles and Z06 are not properly broke-in you may experience a whining rear end noise. While at the Bloomington Gold Show we were able to visit with several engineers from GM Power Train. The consensus is that C5s that are driven "somewhat hard" out of the box are experiencing a whining rear end sound. GETRAG the manufacturer of the rear axle assembly has notified the factory that this noise is being caused by improper break-in, the gears not being allowed time enough to mate through various heat and cooling cycles. They are requesting that a normal driving cycle of up to 350 miles be acquired before you begin to "ENJOY" your C5 to it’s fullest potential. This 350 mile break in period for the rear end assembly will ensure a PROPER mating of the rear end gears and eliminate any "unwanted play" in the GETRAG gear set. Be advised that this not a new for 2001 concern – this has been true since 1997, but with the upcoming arrival of the Z06 this type of break in may be more important than ever! Dan Says – regarding his Z06 (due in August) he has advised his dealer NOT TO ALLOW a "test drive" by anybody (technician, lot porter, or owner) before he arrives to supervise the dealer prep. After learning the above – he wants to have full control of the break-in.

June 26, 2000
ON-LINE TODAY: THE 2001 CORVETTE
The plant’s first model year of the new century comes to an end today when the final 2000 Corvette rolls off line. Just moments after saying farewell to the last 2000, employees will usher in the first of the 2001 model year.

The first area of the plant set for build out was the Paint Department followed closely by uniframe. On Thursday, June 22, employees in the Uniframe put together the last of the 2000s and changed over to the 2001 frame. Since this is a rolling model change, as each area of the plant builds out, the new model will be right behind the old one.

Plant planning coordinator Tom Lohmann said the last 2000 Corvette is currently scheduled off the final line today. A number of 2001 Corvettes are also expected to come off line. The plant will only have four additional days of 2001 build before going down for the two week July shutdown period. More than two dozen of the early 2001 model will see action over the downtime. The first 25 units will become part of Chevrolet’s "capture fleet."

Lohmann explained that these cars will be assigned to staff and engineers from both here and Michigan who will drive them extensively starting with the downtime. "We use the captured fleet to help us identify early quality and potential customer concerns," he said. "Each of the drivers will constantly evaluate the cars and complete detailed quality evaluation forms. The information from those forms will be collected after the downtime so that we can address any issues as soon as possible."

Once testing of the captured fleet Corvettes is complete, the units will eventually be refurbished and become salable vehicles. A BIG C5 Registry thanks to Jane Bowlin and the Vette Gazette, the Bowling Green Plant’s weekly newsletter, for sharing this exciting news!
June 24, 2000
There hasn't been a lot of news lately we could post in the members only section. There is a lot of news, but most of it is concerning the 2001 Corvette and the hot new Z06! We are under an embargo and can't post this until July 1, 2000. The other news it more of a public nature, and we want to keep this section special for our members so, finally, here is some news!! First on the NET!! - Final Production Numbers by RPO Code for the 2000 Model year!  Access is only available to  C5 Registry Members. Your a member or you wouldn't be looking at this, so...   CLICK HERE !

May 12, 2000
Recall Alert: CHEVROLET CORVETTE
Owner Notification Date: May 11, 2000
Number of Units Potentially Affected: 71,569
Component Description: INTERIOR SYSTEMS:SEAT BELTS:LAP:FRONT
NHTSA Campaign Number: 00V111000
Description of Recall Campaign:
Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles. The lap belt webbing can twist allowing the webbing to become jammed in the retractor. When the belt webbing becomes jammed in the retractor, the belt may be unusable.

Dealers will install inserts to the belt web guide of each lap belt retractor. Owner notification is expected to begin during May 2000. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Chevrolet at
1-800-222-1020. Also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline at 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

 May 10, 2000
If your dealer received a Z06 allocation on Tuesday May 9, 2000 then they are one of the Top 195 CORVETTE dealers in the US....How do we know? See the wording in the Administrative Message:

Administrative Message Dated 05-09-00
As you may already have noticed, initial order generation of the newly enhanced 2001 Corvette Hardtop took place on May 8, 2000. these orders were distributed to only the top 195 Corvette dealerships in the country. There will be no PROSPEC information on this model until the early July timeframe. Please be aware, however, that there is only one PEG available for this model and only a few freeflow options.

If you are one of the top 195 dealers that received a Corvette Hardtop, you will need to make any desired changes to the vehicle in the Vehicle Order Management System. VOMS has all of the necessary information you will need to place these initial orders. You can change the order by highlighting it in VOMS, then clicking the change button. The next Corvette Hardtop order generation will be in July, after the ordering information has been fully released and updated in PROSPEC. If you should need any clarification this issue, please contact your Area Sales Manager or Market Area Manager. 

May 9, 2000
ZO6  Allocation available TODAY!  Phones have been ringing off the hook today at the C5 Registry office as the Corporate Member Dealers call in with the Z06 allocations they received today. Allocations range from 18 to 3 pre selected units. Some of the dealers reporting in are: Les Stanford , Steve Moore, Kerbeck, Bud's Chevrolet, and Bruce Glueck. The dealers tell us the target production start date is June 5th with target production of 403 units. The dealers also tell us each dealer is being shipped a pre-selected configuration.  Keep checking for Updates!

May 1, 2000
Pro Spec information regarding the 2001 C5 that was sent to Corvette Dealers during April, has been modified. Dealers will receive UPDATED ordering information before the May 9th order Acceptance date.

Dealers will be informed that (before the May 9 ordering date) the initial packaging of 2001 C5 options HAS BEEN MODIFIED. We believe that some additional stand alone options have now been added to the 1SB or 1SC packages and possibly those packages themselves have been modified. Many members have asked, since the base seats (AR9) are only in the 1SA package, will you be able to still order the (AG2) power passenger seat? Over 2500 AR9 seats were ordered with AG2 power seat last year. We agree that deletion of this option may be an error. We have asked the question and will inform you as soon as we know.

April 28, 2000
The C5 Registry is proud to announce that "Corvette: The American Dream" will be premiering on Speedvision on May 4^th at 6:30PM EDT (one week from today). Those of you who were present at the 24hrs of Daytona dinner on February 4^th saw the promo video for the show. The C5 Registry is presenting part of this show and we have acted as a consultant to this show directing the producers as to what the Corvette Enthusiast are interested in. The C5 Registry will be featured in the "This is my Vette Segment" Look for your logo, which will be proudly displayed…. Check it out…. This will be a weekly series on Speedvision. Let us know what you think of the Show. We will have input as to the contents of the show…C5Ya!…..Dan & Jake

April 26, 2000
As many Registry Members already know, Corvette has gone to packaging for the 2001 model year. ‘01’s availability will be two basic packages above the already standard 1SA package. The 1SB option package which is the standard equipment package and adds to it, the memory system (power seats, sports bucket seats, dual zone air), fog lamps and the rear luggage shade. The 1SC package includes all the above plus electrochromic mirrors (new for 01), HUD, twilight sentinel and power telescoping steering column.

The Convertible packaging is slightly different in that the 1SB package includes the electrochromic mirrors.

Members call your dealer now!!!!  Dealers can only order Coupes or Convertibles at this time for submission in the first round of ordering, which begins on Tuesday, May 9^th.As of this date there is no information on ordering Fixed Roof Coupes (Hardtops) in the dealers computer system. Which leads us to believe the Hardtop (RUMORED ONE) will be something VERY SPECIAL in 2001.

April 24, 2000
On Friday, April 14th, Gary Cowger, Vice President of General Motors in charge of Labor Relations, visited the Bowling Green Corvette factory. His scheduled permitted a tour of the NCM during our C5 Birthday Bash Event. To our surprise he stopped by the C5 Registry table to thank Dan Adovasio and ALL the C5 Registry Members for the "THANK YOU PARTY" we threw for the plant employees during our 2nd Annual Birthday Bash in April 1999. His comments were very gracious towards us as he went on to say "your thank you of plant employees was unprecedented throughout General Motors". We told him it was just an expression of our admiration for those employees who build the "BEST VETTE YET"!!

April 21, 2000
"CORVETTE CONVERTIBLE NAMED "BEST ENGINEERED"
Readers of the Society of Automotive Engineers' (SAE International) Automotive Engineering International Magazine voted the 1999 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible as the "Best Engineered Car of the 1990's and Best Engineered Car of the 20th Century". Winners were chosen for each decade with the exception of the "1990's" and the "Century" overall, in which the 1999 Chevrolet Corvette shared the award with the 1999 Mercedes-Benz S500. Winners were announced in Detroit at the SAE 2000 World Congress.

It's always exciting when our favorite Corvette C5 wins ANOTHER award. Looks like the SAE has just confirmed what every C5 Registry Member already knows!!

April 10, 2000
As stated in the 2001 GM Product Preview Fleet and Commercial Vehicle Guide (HOT NEWS February 28, 2000) there will be a 5 HP gain for the LS1 base C5 Corvette engine for 2001. Further review of the LS6 GM Power Train press release indicates that one of the increases in HP will come by the elimination of an external EGR Valve. It is our belief that this improvement will also be made on the 2001 LS1. Technicians have stated to me that a possible way to eliminate the use of the EGR Valve (to meet strict emissions law) might be to "do it internally" by an overlap on the cam.

April 7, 2000
Based on the emails we have received, we believe a CLARIFICATION is in order. For model year 2001 there will be a new WHITE color. This new WHITE (name will be released at the Birthday Bash) is NOT a TINT COAT color. The current tint coat production line does not have the capability of increased production of any additional colors at this time. Millennium Yellow and Magnetic Red II have taken up all the current capacity, and will continue this trend in 2001. The "RUMORS" across the Internet speculating on a PEARL WHITE (Diamond White – Cadillac Color) will NOT be made available on the 2001 C5 Corvette. (As a HINT to the new WHITE (RPO 40U) color name you would have to figure out another name for RACETRACK.) Let the guessing begin…..

April 3, 2000
Corvettes are in tight supply and from the information below getting tighter as we approach the prime SPRING buying season. The Corvette field stock as of February 29 was:

• Gross: 3557 units 37 Days vs 57 Days in January
• Net: 1494 units 16 Days vs 25 Days in January

What does Net and Gross Field Supply mean? (that means they more C5s on trucks than at all their dealers) The net field supply reflects the number of days (at the current selling rate) it would take to sell all of the vehicles on dealer lots. Gross field supply means all unsold vehicles that have been shipped from the plant and are either at the carriers, in transit, or at the dealers.