Just bought your first Corvair and don’t know where to start? Keep reading!
We want you to ride with us, but more than that, we want you to feel safe driving your Corvair.
There is a lot of good information and ,unfortunately, bad information out there. On this page you will find answers to many of the same questions that we have received time and again from new Corvair owners.
We were all new to Corvairs at one time and have had the same questions. While we encourage you to attend a club meeting, we think it is important for you to know some basics to Corvair ownership.
New to Corvairs?
Corvair Basics is the most important tool for your Corvair toolbox.
The Corvair Basics Book comes free with your new two year print membership to the Corvair Society of America (CORSA).
Just want to buy the book? No problem!
1st Steps
Oil, tires, gasoline, ignition, belts and filters. Make the wrong choice and your Corvair experience may not be a pleasant one.
Engine Oil
Gasoline
Wheels & Tires
Basic Engine Maintenance
coming soon!
Visit our SFBA CORSA supporters.
FAQs
Why is my Corvair engine making a chatter noise after startup?
Often after sitting for some time, the oil in the engine lifters will drain back to the sump. When you do a cold start after the car has been sitting, you may hear a chatter. This is from the lifters trying to pump oil back up. Usually, a drive through the neighborhood will quiet the engine down when it warms up. If you hear significant noise, this may be a loose rocker or valve seat and should be assessed or taken to a Corvair mechanic.
Why does my Corvair bog down or die under acceleration?
This could be a few things, but likely old gas or a fuel delivery issue. Either a fuel filter is clogged or there may be an obstruction or ethanol corrosion in your carburetors. Rebuilding a Corvair carburetor isn’t difficult. Have zero interest in rebuilding a carb? Reach out to us, here, and we will give you a list of reputable rebuild specialists.
My engine feels like it is overheating?
Air-cooled engines often feel like they’re running hot. Well… that’s because they are running hot! Sometimes, engines can reach 450-500 degrees. We like to keep them running as cool as possible though, so always make sure that you have a full level of clean engine oil. It should look like honey on the dipstick. If it’s dark, change it! Make sure your timing isn’t too far advanced. This can cause a lean condition and can make your engine run hotter than designed. You’ll also want to make sure your fan belt is snug and that there are no obstructions under the engine shroud like leaves, rags, plastic bags or rodent nests. You wouldn’t believe the things we have seen when we’ve pulled the top shroud!
I just want to drive my Corvair. Can you find me a good local mechanic?
Sure! We know a few very good mechanics in the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Contact us here and we will find the mechanic closest to you.
The best part of Corvair ownership is the people you meet along the way.
- Make new friends.
- Showcase your Corvair.
- Experience a community unlike any other in the hobby.
SFBA CORSA 