#09-06-04-011A: Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Illuminated, DTCs P0420 and/or P0430 Set (Reprogram Engine Control Module (ECM)) - (Apr 3, 2009)

Subject: Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Illuminated, DTCs P0420 and/or P0430 Set (Reprogram Engine Control Module (ECM))


Models: 2007-2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZO6

2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZO6 Built Prior to VIN Breakpoint 95112736

with 7.0L Engine - RPO LS7

Please Refer to GMVIS




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This bulletin is being revised to update the reprogramming emission controller warranty information statement and to change the labor operation. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 09-06-04-011 (Section 06 -- Engine Controls)


Condition
Some customers may comment that the MIL is illuminated.

Technicians may find DTCs P0420 and/or P0430 set as current or in history.

Cause
This condition may be caused by the ECM determining that either/both of the catalytic converters are exhibiting low efficiency under certain vehicle operating conditions.

Correction
Important: DO NOT replace the catalytic converters for this condition.

A revised calibration has been released to address this condition. Follow the published SI diagnostics for DTC P0420 or P0430 and repair if necessary.

If the SI diagnostics do not isolate a cause for this condition, reprogram the ECM using the Service Programming System (SPS) with the latest calibration available on TIS2WEB. Refer to the SPS procedures in SI.

When using a multiple diagnostic interface (MDI) for reprogramming, ensure that it is updated with the latest software version.

When using a Tech 2® for reprogramming, ensure that it is updated with the latest software version.

During programming, the battery voltage must be maintained within the proper range of 12-15 volts.
Only use the approved Midtronics® PSC 550 Battery Maintainer (SPS Programming Support Tool EL-49642) or equivalent during programming.

Warranty Information
For vehicles reprogrammed under the 8 year / 80,000 mile (130,000 km) emission controller warranty, use:

Labor Operation
Description
Labor Time

J6353
Reprogram ECM using SPS
0.4 hr

Max Angelelli ran the fastest lap of the three-day Roar Before the Rolex 24 test session on Sunday morning with a lap of 126.712 mph in the No. 10 SunTrust Corvette DP co-driven by Ricky Taylor and Ryan Briscoe.

The new Corvette DPs took the top five places at the test, with the two Action Express cars following the SunTrust team.

Angelelli sounded cautiously optimistic about his team’s chances in the upcoming 50th Anniversary edition of the 24.

“You’ve got to understand that we were pushing the limit and, in the first session today, we did a qualifying run under the perfect conditions – low fuel, new tires, a good, clear lap, no mistakes,” he said.
“It was the perfect lap. Obviously we’re happy, but not because of that lap. We’re happy because we did eight practices without a single issue.

“Our SunTrust Corvette ran really well the entire time. So far, I’ve never had a January test as good as this one. It’s been great, very successful.
All we’re hoping for is another weekend like this one, and that will be the race weekend. The sad part is that this was just a test. There is a lot that will have to be achieved on race weekend, but I’m pretty confident.”

The Corvettes were rolled out after the 2011 season. Being so new, there was a lot of concern among the teams using them about potential.

SunTrust owner Wayne Taylor said the car’s performance in the three-days test relieves a ton of pressure.

“I feel much better,” Taylor said. “We’ve got the best crew on the pit lane and they look at every single millimeter of this car.
There’s not even a question in my mind that we have the best driver lineup. We have three guys who are fast. We have three guys who are reliable.
We have three guys who have done this before, together. And we have three guys who understand it takes a team effort.”

The No. 01 Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates TELMEX/Target Dinan-Prepared BMW Riley piloted by defending race winners Scott Pruett, Memo Rojas, Graham Rahal and Joey Hand finished the test sixth overall with a 1:41.761, while the No. 02 Target/TELMEX Dinan-Prepared BMW Riley of Dario Franchitti, Juan Pablo Montoya, Scott Dixon and Jamie McMurray finished eighth with a time of 1:41.868.
The No.10 Corvette Daytona Prototype of SunTrust Racing with Angelelli/Taylor/Briscoe topped the charts with a 1:41.142.

The team rolled out a pair of new-look Riley DPG3s at the test, which is the new bodywork style for the Riley Chassis manufacturer in the Daytona Prototype category. It was the first test the team has participated in with the new formula.

“For me,” Dixon said, “this is the most fun event we do all year. It gets everyone together. Sure, we want to win the race, but there’s not so much pressure.
All of us on the team are pretty close with our times, so everyone pulls their weight. Our times are down a little bit right now as we learn about the new cars, but this team is consistent and it deals with problems really well. It also helps having the same driver lineup back.”

The defending champion No. 1 Ganassi car was involved in an unfortunate situation in the opening laps of Saturday’s night session when the No.01 was spun by another car entering turn three of the infield road-course section of the track, resulting in damage and a tow-back to the garage for lengthy repairs.
Due to the limited availability of spare parts for the new bodywork the No.01 team was unable to test the Sunday sessions.

“I had just passed a GT car.
He hit me in the rear and I spun. That put me into the guardrail and tires.
It’s definitely a little setback.
Normally, we’d just throw new parts back on it and get back out there, but since this is a new car, we’re going to take the car back to the shop and take our time getting a good look at everything. We will take advantage of a bad situation and learn from it.”

Ferrari came away with the quickest laps in the GT sessions. Guy Cosmo led Sunday’s testing with a lap of 117.216 mph in the No. 03 Patron Tequila Ferrari 458 Italia Grand Am. Toni Villander led the class at the test, running 117.321 mph on Saturday in the No. 63 Risi Competizione entry.

Billy Johnson turned the fastest lap of the weekend in the Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge Grand Sport (GS) class on Sunday with a lap of 1:56.984 (109.533 mph) in the No. 61 Roush Performance Ford Mustang.

Charles Espenlaub turned the second quickest lap of the day in the No. 48 Fall-Line Motorsports BMW M3 (109.289 mph), followed by Bill Auberlen in the Turner Motorsport BMW M3 (109.187).
All three times were posted in the Sunday’s morning session.

Jeff Mosing was fastest in Street Tuner, turning in a lap of 2:06.959 (100.945 mph) in the No. 56 RACE EPIC/Murillo Racing BMW 328i also in Sunday’s morning session. Cory Friedman, of Autometrics Motorsports, and BimmerWorld Racing’s Seth Thomas rounded out the top three with laps turned in the weekend’s first two days.

Daytona Prototype (DP):

– Ricky Taylor/Max Angelelli/ Ryan Briscoe – No. 10 SunTrust Corvette DP – 1:41.142 (126.712 mph)

– Alex Gurney/Jon Fogarty/Memo Gidley – No. 99 GAINSCO Auto Insurance Corvette DP – 1:41.541 (126.215 mph)

– Joao Barbosa/Terry Borcheller/JC France/Max Papis – No. 9 Action Express Corvette DP – 1:41.657 (126.215 mph).

A celebration of the Chevrolet Camaro and it's heritage, over ten 2010/2011 Camaro were featured, also including one of each past generation Camaro in a tribute homage.
We hope all Camaro and car enthusiasts alike enjoy

Clearly the driver was a dork wazer so no real results we can see other then we already knew both cars can haul ass

Over the past 6 years, Car and Driver has brought over 115 production cars to Virginia International Raceway (VIR) 4.1 mile Grand West Course.

The result is an American style Nurburgring-like timed lap test called the Lightning Lap.
Currently, the 2010 Corvette ZR1 sat 4th fastest on the list with only a Viper ACR and 2 Moslers that have run faster.

Nice to see how the 2012 Corvette ZR1 tested with the new Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires would compare to its previous lap time and the results do not disappoint.

The 2012 Corvette ZR1 Centennial Edition with the Michelin Sport Cups ran a blistering fast lap of 2:50.7 – a second faster than the previous time of 2:51.8 set by the 2010 Corvette ZR1.

The ZR1 was the fastest car overall of the 20 vehicles that were tested.

The Nissan GT-R (2:53.2), the Porsche Cayman R (3:03.9), the Audi TT RS (3:0438) and the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG (3:04.9) round out the top five of those cars tested in the LL3 class.

No surprise to Chevy fans considering the 638-horses and an overall weight of 3,363 lbs gives the C6 King of the Hill a good 5.3 pounds per horsepower ratio.

Corvette Team members Harlan and Tadge have both mentioned the Car and Driver Lightning Lap previously in their talks with Corvette enthusiast so you can count on them to tout the improvement as validation to the changes made to the latest model.

Behind the super-shiny supercharged LS9 motor sits a six-speed T-56 transmission, which is not native to the ZR1 Corvette

Neither is the Dana 44 rear end that came with the SRIII chassis.
But the massive carbon ceramic brakes and rotors are straight off of the ZR1, and they are so good at stopping the featherweight ‘63 that at low speeds the brake lights don’t even have a chance to trigger

One of the nicer features of this ‘63 ZR1 is the Ridetech air bag suspension, which can raise or lower the car over a range of four inches via a controller in the glove box.

And while the ‘63 exterior has been left stock (save for the see-through hood) the interior is a custom affair where simplicity trumps all else.

Its design was a collaborative effort between Anthony and John from Miller Place Upholstery.

The center console, sculpted by Anthony, rides up the middle of the car right into the intergrated checkered flag in the leatherwork by John.

From the impeccable stitching right to the stainless inserts, John manages to make the interior look exotic yet subtle.

Anthony has also done an exceptional job of hiding the ZR1’s complicated electronics suite (along with the battery) in a box behind the custom center pod and seats.

This gives the already-cramped engine bay some breathing room, rather than attempting to stuff everything under the hood.

Yet for all the glitz and glamor, it was Anthony’s decision to leave the outside of this ‘63 ZR1 stock that really adds to the presence of this car.

Outside of the big ZR1 wheels and brakes, and the see-through hood, this could almost pass for an otherwise stock split window.
But once the suspension is lowered, and the hood is popped, it doesn’t take long to figure out that this is anything but.

Its custom color is not distant from the ZR1s Jetstream Blue but has substantially more depth and highlights to accentuate the amazing lines of the 63s body.

During the middle of the auction, a few extra goodies were thrown in, including a Jeff Gordon racing suit and a VIP trip to the 2012 Daytona 500, and soon thereafter bidding quickly went passed the half-million-dollar mark to finally rest at $600,000.

The new owner of the car?

Ron Pratte, the same man who has generously bought many previous charity auction cars at Barrett-Jackson over the last several years.
To top it all off, Eddie Vannoy even added on another $100,000 donation to the price of the car, all of which will be going to benefit the AARP Drive For Hunger.

Corvette Racing will seek its ninth American Le Mans Series championship and its eighth victory in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2012.
With a win in the GTE Pro class at Le Mans and runner-up finishes in the ALMS GT team and driver championships last year, America's premier production sports car team has focused on improving all aspects of its performance as it prepares its Compuware Corvette C6.R race cars for the 2012 campaign.

Corvette Racing's revised driver lineup delivers a powerful combination of youth and experience.
Antonio Garcia joins Oliver Gavin, Jan Magnussen, and Tommy Milner as the four full-season drivers.

Richard Westbrook will reprise his role as third driver in endurance events (Sebring, Le Mans, and Petit Le Mans), and Jordan Taylor will join Corvette Racing for the three long-distance races.

"The level of competition in the 2011 American Le Mans Series GT category was intense, and we expect it to be just as fierce in 2012," said GM Racing Director Mark Kent.

"Corvette Racing has been working hard over the winter to develop a complete package of cars, drivers, team, and technology that will be able to win in this extremely competitive environment."

Jordan Taylor, a 20-year-old resident of Apopka, Fla., will become the 23rd driver to race in Corvette Racing colors. The son of championship-winning driver Wayne Taylor, this second-generation racer literally grew up at race tracks.

After progressing quickly through karting and school series, he made his debut in the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series in 2008.
Taylor and his co-driver piloted the Autohaus Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro to a runner-up finish in the 2011 Rolex GT championship, just two points short of the title.

He will continue to compete in the Rolex Series in 2012 with Autohaus Motorsports in addition to driving for Corvette Racing in endurance races.

"Corvette Racing is one of the most iconic names in motorsports, and joining this team is a huge opportunity for me," said Taylor, a student at the University of Central Florida.

"There are certainly going to be challenges as I learn the capabilities of the Corvette C6.R race cars, become familiar with the team, adapt to new tracks, and race with new competitors.
It's going to be amazing to race a Corvette at Sebring, Le Mans, and Road Atlanta, and I can't wait to get started!"

GM has a longstanding association with the Taylor family, reaching back to the Chevrolet Intrepid GTP, Oldsmobile Aurora WSC, and Cadillac LMP programs. Wayne Taylor Racing currently campaigns a Corvette Daytona Prototype in the 2012 GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series.

"We have watched Jordan develop as a fine young driver over the years, and when he had an opportunity to test for Corvette Racing, his performance was very impressive," said Kent.

"He is totally dedicated to racing, gives great feedback, understands how to interpret data, and knows how to make changes to the car and his driving style to suit the conditions.

He has tremendous potential and we see this opportunity as an investment in the team's future.

"I also want to acknowledge the contributions of Olivier Beretta to Corvette Racing," Kent continued.
"Olivier was a valued member of the team, and he played a key role in our success in the ALMS and at Le Mans. Although we have parted company with Olivier, we'll look forward to seeing him at the race track, and we wish him all the best in the future."

Corvette Racing will participate in the Sebring Winter Test on February 8-9 in preparation for the season-opening 60th Anniversary Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring on March 17.

With two automatic invitations to qualify for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the team will return to the French circuit for the 80th running of the classic endurance race on June 16-17, 2012.

"Corvette Racing's starts every season with the same objectives: to capture the ALMS GT championship and to win at Le Mans," said Kent.

"We've never worked harder to achieve these goals. The entire team is energized and excited, and the strength of the competition drives us to strive for continuous improvement."

Few difference between C5 and C6 gas tank layouts

Looks like the longer and bit wider footprint is fact but not much difference overall to C6 body looks.

Looking at the exhaust I suspect the tune stinks and begging to burn out some pistons




ZR1 taking care of business in Russia

United Auto Workers President Bob King told government regulators Tuesday that his union supports tough new fuel economy standards for cars and trucks in the United States even though it will cost taxpayers billions of dollars in higher gas costs, added costs to new cars, less fuel mileage ( since E15 was approved), degrading engine parts and producing less performance

Testifying before representatives of the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration here,
King said the new standards will lead to more jobs and cost-savings for consumers.
The standards would raise the average fuel economy of vehicles sold in the United States to 54.5 miles per gallon by 2025 and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

"We are excited about the new green technologies that are being developed in the United States and produced in UAW-represented facilities," King said.
"These proposed rules will reduce the pollution that contributes to climate change, significantly reduce America's dependence on foreign oil and save American families money at the pump.
They will also create jobs in the auto industry and throughout the economy."

Automakers also testified in support of the proposed regulations.

"Clearly, this proposal represents a dramatic attempt to advance the mutual goals of CO2 reduction and increased energy diversity," said Michael Robinson, vice president for environment, energy and safety at General Motors Co., reiterating GM's support for the new rules.
"We welcome the opportunity to work with the agencies as they finalize the proposed regulations."

A number of environmental organizations also spoke in favor of the new rules.

But not everyone who testified spoke in favor of the tougher standards.

"The proposals drastically underestimate the cost impact on new vehicles," said Don Chalmers of the National Automobile Dealers Association, adding that this will make it more difficult for customers with less cash or worse credit to afford a new car or truck.
"That's the reality of vehicle financing today."

While the government has said the new rules will add about $3,500 to the price of a new vehicle, Chalmers said his organization is preparing a report that will show that number is closer to $5,000.

Moreover, while GM endorsed the rules in its testimony, Robinson later told reporters that the company intends to point out "corrections that need to be made" to the proposal.

Corvette Racing will seek its ninth American Le Mans Series championship and its eighth victory in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2012.

With a win in the GTE Pro class at Le Mans and runner-up finishes in the ALMS GT team and driver championships last year, America's premier production sports car team has focused on improving all aspects of its performance as it prepares its Compuware Corvette C6.R race cars for the 2012 campaign.

Corvette Racing's revised driver lineup delivers a powerful combination of youth and experience.
Antonio Garcia joins Oliver Gavin, Jan Magnussen, and Tommy Milner as the four full-season drivers.
Richard Westbrook will reprise his role as third driver in endurance events (Sebring, Le Mans, and Petit Le Mans), and Jordan Taylor will join Corvette Racing for the three long-distance races.

"The level of competition in the 2011 American Le Mans Series GT category was intense, and we expect it to be just as fierce in 2012," said GM Racing Director Mark Kent.

"Corvette Racing has been working hard over the winter to develop a complete package of cars, drivers, team, and technology that will be able to win in this extremely competitive environment."

Jordan Taylor, a 20-year-old resident of Apopka, Fla., will become the 23rd driver to race in Corvette Racing colors.

The son of championship-winning driver Wayne Taylor, this second-generation racer literally grew up at race tracks. After progressing quickly through karting and school series, he made his debut in the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series in 2008.

Taylor and his co-driver piloted the Autohaus Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro to a runner-up finish in the 2011 Rolex GT championship, just two points short of the title.
He will continue to compete in the Rolex Series in 2012 with Autohaus Motorsports in addition to driving for Corvette Racing in endurance races.

"Corvette Racing is one of the most iconic names in motorsports, and joining this team is a huge opportunity for me," said Taylor, a student at the University of Central Florida.

"There are certainly going to be challenges as I learn the capabilities of the Corvette C6.R race cars, become familiar with the team, adapt to new tracks, and race with new competitors.
It's going to be amazing to race a Corvette at Sebring, Le Mans, and Road Atlanta, and I can't wait to get started!"

GM has a longstanding association with the Taylor family, reaching back to the Chevrolet Intrepid GTP, Oldsmobile Aurora WSC, and Cadillac LMP programs.
Wayne Taylor Racing currently campaigns a Corvette Daytona Prototype in the 2012 GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series.

"We have watched Jordan develop as a fine young driver over the years, and when he had an opportunity to test for Corvette Racing, his performance was very impressive," said Kent.

"He is totally dedicated to racing, gives great feedback, understands how to interpret data, and knows how to make changes to the car and his driving style to suit the conditions.
He has tremendous potential and we see this opportunity as an investment in the team's future.

"I also want to acknowledge the contributions of Olivier Beretta to Corvette Racing," Kent continued.

"Olivier was a valued member of the team, and he played a key role in our success in the ALMS and at Le Mans.
Although we have parted company with Olivier, we'll look forward to seeing him at the race track, and we wish him all the best in the future."

Corvette Racing will participate in the Sebring Winter Test on February 8-9 in preparation for the season-opening 60th Anniversary Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring on March 17.

With two automatic invitations to qualify for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the team will return to the French circuit for the 80th running of the classic endurance race on June 16-17, 2012.

"Corvette Racing's starts every season with the same objectives: to capture the ALMS GT championship and to win at Le Mans," said Kent.

"We've never worked harder to achieve these goals.
The entire team is energized and excited, and the strength of the competition drives us to strive for continuous improvement."

Senators from both sides of the aisle are warning that looming EPA regulations on gasoline could impose billions of dollars in additional costs on the industry and end up adding up to 25 cents to every gallon of gas.

The senators, in a letter this week to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson, urged the agency to back off the yet-to-be-released regulations.

Citing the nearly $3.40-a-gallon average price of gas and the state of the economy, the senators said "now is not the time for new regulations that will raise the price of fuel even further."

They said it would be "expensive" for companies to meet the sulfur targets and cited a study that found it could add up to $17 billion in industry-wide, up-front expenses, in addition to another $13 billion in annual operating costs.

This could in turn add between 12 and 25 cents to an average gallon of gasoline "depending on the stringency of the proposed rule," they wrote.

"If the EPA does not proceed carefully with its regulations, the nationwide price of fuel could increase to the further detriment of consumers and businesses," the senators warned.

The lawmakers on the letter were: Sens. James Inhofe, R-Okla.; Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska; John Barrasso, R-Wyo.; Mary Landrieu, D-La.; David Vitter, R-La.; and Mark Begich, D-Alaska.

The EPA ignored and did not comment on the senators' complaints.

Asked Friday for a response to the concerns, the EPA said: "EPA is still in the process of developing the proposal."

An EPA official said publicly in November that the agency was developing the so-called "Tier 3" standards proposal during a House subcommittee hearing.

Margo Oge, director of the EPA's Office of Transportation and Air Quality, told lawmakers a bullshit story that the proposal would help the country meet its "clean air goals."

"Motor vehicles and their fuel are an important source of compounds that form air pollution," she said.

Oge said reducing sulfur in gasoline would make emission control technology more effective, and "the end result would be cleaner air. tho the feds have never tested this "

If the EPA formally issues the proposal, it would probably take more than a year for the agency to review public comments and finalize any plan.

A Senate Republican aide said the authority to tighten the sulfur standards comes from the Clean Air Act but noted that EPA has the discretion to either impose the standards or not.

The current sulfur standard is 30 parts per million in gasoline -- that's down from a prior standard of 300 parts per million. The new proposal could bring the standard down to 10 parts per million, according to the senators who wrote to Jackson
"They're extraordinarily expensive relative to the last round of sulfur reduction

America’s own Falcon Motorsports, has unveiled a new concept version at a special presentation in Detroit.

Falcon claims that its latest concept shows the look of the production F7 supercar due out later this year.

Falcon Motorsports, as some readers may recognize, is a company located in Michigan that specializes in building bodykits and other modifications for the Dodge Viper.

Now the firm has used its talents to build its own supercar, which will be priced around $225,000 and sell in numbers as high as 20 units annually if enough buyers can be found.

Finding buyers shouldn’t be too difficult for Falcon considering its F7 supercar packs a 7.0-liter LS7 tuned to deliver more than 620 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque.

The entire thing weighs just 2785 pounds so performance should be scintillating.

Drive is sent to the rear wheels only via a six-speed Ricardo transaxle, just like in the Ford GT, and acceleration for the F7 takes just 3.3 seconds to go from 0-60 mph.

Top speed is an estimated 200 mph.

The body is composed entirely of carbon fiber, while much of the internal structure is aluminum.

Falcon uses its own hydroformed tube chassis for the F7, with suspension components lifted from the Chevrolet Corvette.

Corvette Marks 60 Years of Performance with 427 Convertible

DETROIT – Chevrolet today unveiled the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition – the fastest, most capable convertible in Corvette's history – as well as a 60th Anniversary Package that will be available on all 2013 Corvette models.

"The 2013 model year will be historic for Corvette, marking its 60th Anniversary and the final year for the current 'C6' generation," said Chris Perry, vice president, Global Marketing and Strategy for Chevrolet.

"We couldn't think of a more fitting way to celebrate these milestones than bringing back one of the most-coveted combinations in the brand's history – the Corvette convertible and a 427 cubic-inch engine."

The 60th Anniversary Package and 427 Convertible will make their public debut at the Barrett Jackson collector car auction in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Jan 21, and will arrive at U.S. Chevrolet dealers early this summer.

Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition
The Corvette 427 Convertible blends elements of the Z06 and ZR1 models to create the fastest and most-capable convertible in Corvette's history.

Its heart is the 427-cubic-inch (7.0L) LS7 engine from the Corvette Z06. Rated at 505 horsepower (377 kW) and 470 lb.-ft. of torque (637 Nm), it is the most powerful engine ever installed in a production Corvette convertible – and, like the Z06, the 427 Convertible is only available with a six-speed manual transmission.

The LS7 was co-developed with the Corvette Le Mans-winning GT1 engine and features lightweight titanium connecting rods and intake valves, as well as racing-inspired high-flow cylinder heads and a dry-sump oiling system.

It is assembled by hand at GM's Performance Build Center, where customers who purchase the 427 Convertible Collector Edition can purchase the Corvette Build Experience option and assemble the engine that will power their new car.

Supporting performance elements in the Corvette 427 Convertible include the driveline and rear axle system from the Corvette Z06, a rear-mounted battery and standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control.

The standard 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels are wrapped in ZR1-style Michelin PS2 tires. Lightweight machine-face Cup wheels – introduced on the 2012 Corvette Z06 with Z07 and Corvette ZR1 with PDE performance packages – come standard and include unique gray-painted pockets. Black Cup wheels or chrome ZR1-style wheels are also available.

The 427 Convertible also features several carbon-fiber components that help reduce weight, including:
• Carbon fiber raised hood (introduced on the 2011 Z06 Carbon Edition)
• Carbon fiber Z06-style fenders
• Carbon fiber floor panels
• The "CFZ" carbon fiber front splitter and rocker panels are optional on the 427 Convertible, and included with the 60th Anniversary package

The weight reduction brings the 427 Convertible's curb weight to 3,355 pounds (1,522 kg). Combined with its 505-horsepower LS7 engine, it gives the 427 Convertible a power-to-weight ratio of 6.64 – or one horsepower for every 6.64 pounds of vehicle mass. That's better than:
• Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet – 6.90
• Audi R8 5.2 RSI Spyder – 7.58
• Aston Martin DBS Volante Convertible – 7.82
• Ferrari California Convertible – 8.31

The combination of low mass and high output will make the 427 Convertible one of the fastest convertibles in the world, delivering estimated 0-60 performance of 3.8 seconds, quarter-mile performance of 11.8 seconds, lateral acceleration of 1.04 g and a top speed of more than 190 mph.

The 427 Convertible is available in 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim levels and will carry a unique vehicle identification number sequence, similar to the Corvette ZR1.

Corvette 60th Anniversary Package

All 2013 Corvette models, including the 427 Convertible, will be available with a 60th Anniversary Package, featuring an Arctic White exterior with a Blue Diamond leather-wrapped interior with suede accents.
Convertible models will have a blue top.

Additional content includes a ZR1-style rear spoiler, special badging, gray-painted brake calipers and the "60th" logo on the wheel center caps, steering wheel and seat headrests. An optional graphics package adds full-length racing stripes in Pearl Silver Blue, including a tonal stripe stitched into the convertible top, extending the graphic theme over the roof.

For 2013, all Corvettes will feature 60th Anniversary badges on the fascias and the "waterfall" panel on convertible models, as well as 60th logos in the instrument panel gauge cluster and on the sill plates.

Charity Auction at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale

The first Corvette 427 Convertible offered to the public will go to the highest bidder at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale collector car auction, on Saturday, Jan. 21.

Chevrolet and Hendrick Motorsports are teaming up for the auction, including four-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion Jeff Gordon and team owner Rick Hendrick. Proceeds from the sale will benefit AARP's Drive to End Hunger initiative.

Drive to End Hunger is part of a multi-year sponsorship for Gordon's No. 24 Chevrolet which aims to address the growing problem of hunger among older Americans.

A legacy of 427-powered Corvettes
Early 427-powered Corvettes, particularly convertibles, offered from 1966 to 1969 are some of the most-coveted and collectible Corvettes ever produced.

The first 427-powered Corvette rolled off the assembly line for the 1966 model year.

Two performance levels of the 427 were initially offered – an "L30" version rated at 390 horsepower and the "L72," which cranked out 425 horsepower. Both were rated at 460 lb-ft. of torque.

The range of 427 engines grew in 1967, with the addition of the "L71" and "L88" options.

The L71 added a unique triple-carburetor induction system that helped boost output to 435 horsepower. Known to collectors as "427/435" cars, these '67 models – especially the convertibles – are especially sought-after collector cars.

The "L88" delivered 430-horsepower (with a single four-barrel carburetor) thanks to racing-tuned aluminum heads.

Intended for customers who would immediately transform their new Corvette into a race car, the L88 was installed in just 216 production Corvettes between 1967 and 1969.

In 1969, a special "L89" 427 engine combined the L71's induction system with the L88's aluminum heads, offering maximum horsepower with an approximately 100-pound weight advantage over the standard iron heads.

Also in 1969, Chevrolet built two "ZL1" 427 Corvette coupes. The ZL1 engine was essentially an all-aluminum version of the L88, with the aluminum cylinder block and heads offering a tremendous weight advantage for racing. More of the engines were sold as crate engines to racers.

By 1970, the big-block engine grew to 454 cubic inches, just as the trend in high-compression, high-performance engines was beginning to wane. The four-year run of 427 Corvettes was already established as the golden era of performance

2013 Specs seen here :

2013 Specs

Culprit seems to be microbial growth on the evaporator core caused by condensation.
In humid parts of the country, the condensation doesn’t seem to evaporate on its own.
A plugged HVAC drain may create the same condition on the evaporator core.

Owners of 1993-present GM cars and trucks (including Corvettes), there is a Technical Service Bulletin (#99-01-39-004C) that remedies this condition.

It is a complex job, so it is recommended that a certified GM technician performs the work.

Bulletin No.: 99-01-39-004C

Date: June 12, 2009

Subject: Air Conditioning Odor (Install Evaporator Core Dryer Kit and Apply Cooling Coil Coating)

Models:
1993-2010 GM Passenger Cars and Trucks (Including Saturn)
2010 and Prior HUMMER H2, H3
All Equipped with Air Conditioning

Supersede:
This bulletin is being revised to add the 2009 and 2010 model years. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 99-01-39-004B (Section 01 – HVAC).

Condition

Some customers may comment about musty odors emitted from the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system at vehicle start-up in hot, humid conditions.

Cause

This condition may be caused by condensate build-up on the evaporator core, which does not evaporate by itself in high humidity conditions.
The odor may be the result of microbial growth on the evaporator core. When the blower motor fan is turned on, the microbial growth may release an unpleasant musty odor into the passenger compartment.

There are several other possible sources of a musty odor in a vehicle.
A common source is a water leak into the interior of the vehicle or foreign material in the HVAC air distribution system.
Follow the procedures in SI for identifying and correcting water leaks and air inlet inspection.

The procedure contained in this bulletin is only applicable if the odor source has been determined to be microbial growth on the evaporator core inside the HVAC module.

Correction

Many vehicles currently incorporate an afterblow function within the HVAC control module software.
The afterblow feature, when enabled, employs the HVAC blower fan to dry the evaporator after vehicle shut down and this function will inhibit microbial growth.

Technicians are to confirm that the customer concern is evaporator core odor and that the vehicle has the imbedded afterblow feature, as defined in the SI document for that specific vehicle model, model year and specific HVAC option.

Refer to SI for enabling the afterblow function. Vehicles being delivered in areas prone to high humidity conditions may benefit from having the afterblow enabled calibration installed prior to any customer comment.

Important
If the vehicle is not factory equipped with the imbedded afterblow enable feature, it may be added with the Electronic Evaporator Dryer Module Kit (P/N 12497910 or AC Delco 15-5876).

Important

When installing the Electronic Evaporator Dryer Module, you MUST use the included electrical splice connectors to ensure a proper splice.

Complete detailed installation instructions and self testing procedures are supplied with the kit.
If necessary, the Electronic Evaporator Dryer Module may be installed underhood if it is protected from extreme heat and water splash areas.

To immediately remove the evaporator core odor on all suspect vehicles, it is necessary to eliminate the microbial growth and prevent its re-occurrence.
To accomplish this, perform the following procedure:

Vehicle and Applicator Tool Preparation 1. The evaporator core must be dry.
This may be accomplished by disabling the compressor and running the blower fan on the recirc heat setting for an extended period of time.

Note

Compressor engagement will cause the evaporator core to remain wet and will prevent full adherence of the Coiling Coil Coating to the evaporator core surfaces.

2. Verify that the air conditioning drain hose is not clogged and place a drain pan beneath the vehicle.
3. Place a protective cover over the carpet below the evaporator core.
4. Remove the cabin air filter, if equipped, and cover the opening prior to applying the Cooling Coil Coating, as the product may clog the filter. If the cabin air filter appears to have little or no remaining life, suggest a replacement to your customer.
5. If the HVAC module has a blower motor cooling tube, be careful NOT TO SPRAY THE COOLING COIL COATING INTO THE BLOWER MOTOR COOLING TUBE .
6. Attach the Flexible Applicator Pressure Spray Tool (J-43810-20A) to a compressed air line operating at 586 kPa (85 psi) to 793 kPa (115 psi).
7. Shake the bottle of Cooling Coil Coating well. Screw the bottle onto the cap on the applicator tool’s pick-up tube.

Note

The pick-up tube is designed for 120 ml (4 oz) and 240 ml (8 oz) bottles and should coil slightly in the bottom of a 120 ml (4 oz) bottle.

8. Use one of the following three methods to apply the Cooling Coil Coating.

Important

If the Pressure Applicator Spray Tool (J-43810-20A) is not available, the Cooling Coil Coating is also available in an aerosol can (P/N 12377951 (in Canada, 10953503)).

Application Through Blower Motor Control Module Opening – Remove the blower motor control module (blower motor resistor).

Refer to the applicable procedure in SI.
- Clean any debris or foreign material from inside the HVAC module and on the evaporator core surface.
- Apply the Cooling Coil Coating directly to the evaporator core through the blower motor blower motor control module (blower motor resistor) opening.

- Use the flexible wand to direct the Cooling Coil Coating over the entire evaporator core and surrounding gasket surfaces.
- When the application is complete, install the blower motor blower motor control module (blower motor control module).

Application Through Blower Motor Opening – Remove the blower motor. Refer to the applicable blower motor removal procedure in SI.
- Clean any debris or foreign material from inside the HVAC module and on the evaporator core surface.
- Apply the Cooling Coil Coating directly to the evaporator core through the blower motor opening.
- Use the flexible wand to direct the Cooling Coil Coating over the entire evaporator core and surrounding gasket surfaces.
- When the application is complete, install the blower motor.

Application Through a Hole in the HVAC Module – If neither of the two previous application methods are available, it may be necessary to drill a hole in the HVAC module.

- Locate an area of the HVAC module between the blower motor and the evaporator core. Drill a 10 mm (3/8 in) hole in the HVAC module. Use caution to keep the drill clear of the evaporator core and the blower motor fan.

- With the air distribution vents closed and the blower motor fan speed on HIGH, insert the applicator tool into the hole and spray the Cooling Coil Coating into the airstream toward the evaporator core.

- Use a GM approved RTV sealant to plug the hole in the HVAC module.

9. After the Cooling Coil Coating application is complete, start and run the vehicle for approximately 10 minutes, with the compressor disabled, HVAC mode set to Recirculate/Max, heat set to full warm, blower motor fan speed on high, and one window open approximately 12 mm (1/2 in).

This cures the Cooling Coil Coating onto the evaporator core surface.
10. While the engine is running, rinse the applicator tool with warm water to prolong the life of the tool.
Be sure to spray warm water through the nozzle to rinse out any residual Cooling Coil Coating still in the capillary pick up tube, otherwise it will dry and clog the applicator tool.

Also remove the small green valve from the bottle cap and rinse it thoroughly while rolling it between two fingers and then reinstall it. If this valve is clogged , the Cooling Coil Coating will not flow through the applicator tool.

11. Shut off the engine and enable the compressor again.
12. Verify proper HVAC system operation.
13. Remove the protective cover from inside the vehicle.
14. Remove the drain pan from underneath the vehicle.
15. Reinstall the cabin air filter if necessary.

Too bad GM does not put the same effort into the old aged C6 Corvette !

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1's supercharged 6.2L V8 engine is SAE-rated at 580 horsepower and 556 lb.-ft. of torque, making it the most powerful production Camaro ever.

The 2012 Camaro ZL1 surpasses the advertised power of the legendary 1969 Camaro ZL1 427 cubic-inch big block by more than 150 horsepower -- while meeting modern emissions requirements.

The ZL1's outstanding power is complemented by advanced powertrain and chassis technologies, including exclusive Performance Traction Management and a third-generation Magnetic Ride Control system.

Track-capable standard equipment includes a high-performance fuel system as well as engine, transmission and differential coolers.

Supercharged V8

The ZL1 is equipped with a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine (RPO LSA) that is rated at 580 horsepower and 556 lb.-ft of torque and is available with the standard six-speed manual (RPO MG9) or optional Hydra-Matic® 6L90 automatic (RPO MYD) transmission.

This engine features an intercooled supercharger system and premium heat-resistant aluminum-alloy cylinder heads.

It also features hypereutectic pistons with forged connecting rods, piston cooling oil squirters, standard oil cooler and deep sump oil pan.

Its 1.9L Roots-style blower uses an efficient four-lobe rotor set and compact higher-efficiency intercooler to deliver boosted air into the high-flow cylinder heads.

An engine-oil cooler is identical to the system on the Corvette ZR1.

The integral liquid-to-liquid system is so effective that vehicles with either the manual or automatic transmission are deemed to be fully track-capable with the standard factory-installed cooling package.

TIP:

ZL1 performance parts have a break-in period. For the first 1,500 miles (2,414 km), avoid full-throttle starts and abrupt stops, do not exceed 4,000 engine rpm, avoid driving at any one constant speed, and do not drive above 80 mph (129 km/h).

Following these break-in period guidelines will result in better performance in the long run.

Transmissions

The standard transmission for the ZL1 is the latest TREMEC (TR6060) 6-speed manual, which offers 30 percent more torque capacity than in the Camaro SS.

The higher torque capacity results from a strengthened output shaft, high-strength rear housing, and additional roller bearing.

Similarly, the Hydra-Matic 6L90 6-speed automatic has been strengthened to handle the torque and horsepower produced by the 6.2L supercharged small block.

The 6L90 features a strengthened input gearset with two additional pinion gears, additional clutch plate, and a strengthened output shaft and gearset.

The 6L90 transmission features three distinct drive modes calibrated for optimal fuel economy (Drive), more aggressive driving (Sport) and true manual control (Manual) with no automatic upshifts.

Dual-Mode Exhaust

The dual-mode exhaust of the ZL1 provides refined tuning (optimal noise and vibration characteristics) at low engine speeds and a low-restriction exhaust (enabling peak horsepower performance) at high engine speeds in one exhaust system.

It utilizes a vacuum system similar to Corvette, coupled with twin valves located at the exhaust tailpipes.

Although both Corvette and Camaro use vacuum actuated exhaust valves, there are differences.

In the Camaro, the control software resides in the chassis control module that contains other software, to reduce the number of modules in the vehicle.

The Corvette is calibrated to open the exhaust valves only during aggressive driving, when engine rpm and throttle position exceed certain values.

The Camaro is also calibrated to be open during aggressive driving.

In addition, it is calibrated to open the valves at engine idle and up to 1,000 rpm.

High-Performance Fuel System

The fuel pump and tank have been modified to maximize the amount of fuel available during high performance maneuvers.

The system features additional fuel pickups on the primary side, and the secondary fuel pickup is moved outboard for continuous fuel access during high-G cornering under low fuel conditions.

TIP: Premium fuel is required.

Magnetic Ride Control™

The ZL1 suspension features the third-generation of Magnetic Ride Control (MRC).
MRC employs valveless damping and magneto-rheological (MR) fluid technology.
For the third-generation, MRC uses new twin-wire/dual-coil dampers at all four corners. The smaller dual-coil system -- with one coil at either end of the damper -- replaces the larger single-core design of the previous generation.

The new dual-coil design enables faster response, with damping levels now adjusted up to 1,000 times per second - about one adjustment per inch of vehicle travel at 60 mph - making the system exceptionally responsive to changing driving and road conditions.

There are three settings for MRC in the ZL1: Tour, Sport, and Track.

Electrically Assisted Steering

Electrically Assisted Steering (EAS) is an innovative power-assist system connection between the ZL1 steering system and the engine.

The assist power is applied directly to the rack with a belt drive and a ball nut mechanism. This design allows for lower inertia, lower friction and more direct steering feel, as well as superior response.

Performance Track Management

Exclusive to GM and first introduced on the Corvette ZR1, Performance Track Management (PTM) is a feature that tailors the performance of the ZL1 to match the driver's skills and driving conditions.

This advanced system integrates Magnetic Ride Control, launch control, Traction Control and stability control. Five PTM performance levels or modes are available through the Driver Information Center.

To watch the development of the ZL1 launch control system, click here.

Brembo® Brakes

The ZL1 is equipped with a large, extremely robust, Brembo brake system with 6-piston front and 4-piston rear calipers and ventilated two-piece front and one-piece rear rotors.

TIP:

Due to the floating design of the brake rotor, the front brake rotor cannot be refinished. If the front brake rotor is found to be at or below the minimum specification, it must be replaced.

Wheels and Tires

The ZL1 offers two 20-inch wheel options. Both designs are 20x10-inch front and 20x11-inch rear sizes.

Both wheels have larger tires mounted to them that contain a special rim protector. The rim protector, built into each tire, puts rubber over the aluminum of the outer rim for protection when parking

The Goodyear Eagle® F1 Supercar® Generation 2 (G:2) tires have been developed and optimized specifically for the ZL1 to yield outstanding handling while maintaining requisite street-tire performance for wet handling, tread wear, noise, mass and rolling resistance.

It is not recommended to use the high-performance summer tires when temperatures drop to approximately 40 degrees F (5 degrees C) or below.

It is recommended these tires be stored indoors at temperatures above 20 degrees F (-7 degrees C) when not in use.

The ZL1 tires should not be rotated.
They are corner specific by design. These tires are unique in their wear patterns. The outside shoulder may appear worn as compared to other tires.

Underbody Belly Pan

The ZL1 underbody incorporates a belly pan that helps reduce front lift.
The shape was enhanced to draw air upward into the underbody area.
This highly energized air provides extra cooling for underbody components affected by the additional exhaust thermal energy of the high-powered LSA engine.

The underbody belly pan will need to be removed before performing service work, including oil and filter changes.

Exterior Design

The front view of the ZL1 is highlighted by an aluminum hood with functional carbon fiber "mohawk" extractors.

Carbon fiber provides strength, durability and low mass. The extractor is available in either black paint or exposed weave.

TIP:
The black painted carbon fiber "mohawk" requires unique care when cleaning.
Do NOT apply wax or polish to the flat black portion of the hood or extractors.
Applying wax or polish to this portion of the hood will result in a cloudy haze to the finish.
The optional exposed carbon fiber weave version can be waxed like the rest of the surface of the car.

The front fascia has a large lower splitter to reduce front lift and force air through the larger lower grille.

The larger openings, splitter and hood extractor all combine for a significant increase in cooling capacity for the powertrain.

The ground clearance of ZL1 is similar to a Corvette ZR1.

This requires care when lifting, driving on inclines and approaching curbs.

On 2012 and prior GM passenger cars and light-duty trucks equipped with a USB port, an MP3 player or iPod® may be inoperative when the vehicle is first started, or the radio may switch to the USB source after a few minutes of driving.

If the vehicle is turned off with the USB device (iPod or equivalent audio device) still connected, the device will continue to play until its battery goes dead.

TIP:

The device will not charge if left plugged in when the vehicle is turned off.

When the vehicle is started, the device will start charging. The device may need to charge for a few minutes before it will have enough power to turn on.

Once it turns on, the radio recognizes that a device is plugged in and automatically switches to the USB source.

Explain to the customer that this is normal operation.