Norris Crown Corv-8

Things yet to do

With the 2000 convention behind him, Rick is now working on the Corv-8's finishing touches. He will install the rest of the air-conditioning system and hunt down a stereo head unit with the most powerful built in amplifier he can find. He has a new custom front sway bar to bolt on, and he's ordered rear disc brakes from Bob Coffin. There are the oil pan mods to complete. A power rack and pinion is in the "thinking" stage, and according to Rick, "it should become a reality." He says the car "steers like a road wagon" when it's not moving and adds, "short steering arms, fat tires, a smaller diameter steering wheel and more weight on the front... wonder if that has anything to do with it?"

He's also sitting on a full set of NOS wheel well trim and trying to figure out how to mount it to wheel wells with virtually no inner lip. They've been rolled for tire clearance.

Such is the world of custom cars. One modification leads to another. In Rick's case he's modified his way to a 95.68 point Senior Division Concours car, and the challenges ahead shouldn't give him much trouble. They simply represent an opportunity to push the Corv-8's Concours points total closer to the top. I have total confidence the dream weaver will prevail!

As a Corvair enthusiast, I've spent hours dreaming of the perfect Corvair and I've asked myself whether it would be an early or a late, a 110, a 140 or a turbo; coupe or convertible, stock or custom? Now I wonder about a Corv-8. Whatever I decide, maybe I should do it is the way Rick has; step by step, a little at a time, until I crouch beside it in the grass and grin with delight, even before the judges have counted up the points.

Where are Crown style parts available today?

Many people ask me about the current availability of Crown Corv-8 conversion components. The only source I am aware of at the moment is Clark's Corvair Parts in Shelburne Falls, MA. Clark's is listed in this site's Links section, under Corvair Parts & Restorers. The other listed Corvair vendors may also be able to help you locate the components. Of course, you can always try ebay.