Had my LT1 survivor out for a cruise today.

[njsteve]

Beautiful car! I have never found a reason why GM issued that "No black paint except for Cadillac" rule in 1972 and 73. (Unless you knew how to get around it with a special order fee, of course)

Anyone have any info?

I don't think there is anyway to make one of the hand grenade tires safe for display on the car. As I mentioned, I've had them blow apart while not on a rim (obviously with no air inside). And depending on how severe the belt rupture is, I could still hurt the fender or fenderwell.

Once again, that black 73 looks awesome and the green LT1, too. :-)

[firstgenaddict]

Originally Posted by njsteve

Beautiful car! I have never found a reason why GM issued that "No black paint except for Cadillac" rule in 1972 and 73. (Unless you knew how to get around it with a special order fee, of course)

Anyone have any info?

I don't think there is anyway to make one of the hand grenade tires safe for display on the car. As I mentioned, I've had them blow apart while not on a rim (obviously with no air inside). And depending on how severe the belt rupture is, I could still hurt the fender or fenderwell.

Once again, that black 73 looks awesome and the green LT1, too. :-)

They had a no black paint edict on Corvettes from 1970 - 1976 in response to many complaints about the wavy bodies. HOWEVER
I know of (2) 71's with original black paint LT1 coupe and LS5 roadster - (1) 72 base coupe and we know there were (30) 73's in L82 and LS4 one with a red and one with a blue interior. I have seen a 76 L82 in black as well.

If they can come apart without any air pressure or external forces besides 45 year old residual manufacturing stresses THE tires should be in a metal cage.