Ten Questions
Today we interview Jerry Walkins the Corvette Specialist at Velocity Corvette Club.
- How did you get started working on Corvettes?
Jerry: We had 27 cars when I was growing up and some of them were Corvettes. Many cars were in various states of condition, so the repair work never ended. Out of necessity we had to work on them. - Why the Corvette?
Jerry: Because even a five year old knows what a Corvette is. The Corvette is the premier American sports car and is usually the leading edge in terms of technology. I wanted a life long challenge and the Corvette seemed like the obvious choice. - How did you get started as a Automotive Technician?
Jerry: I got a job at a Chevrolet dealership working on tune-up and drivability. - How long have you been specialized in Corvette Service, Performance, and Repair?
Jerry: I have been working on Corvettes since 1984, so that makes it about 23 years now. Wow, now that I think about it…that is a long time. - What’s your favorite year Corvette?
Jerry: The 1963- 1967 Corvette! You just cannot beat the mid year shape. Pretty awesome looking ride. - How many Corvettes have you owned?
Jerry: So far I have owned two Corvettes. My first Corvettte was a 1987 and my current Corvette is a 1999 Coupe A4. - Did you modify either one of them or stay stock?
Jerry: You know me. I cannot leave anything alone. - What was the extent of your modifications?
Jerry: On the 1987 I did a complete engine overhaul including rotating assembly, cylinder heads, cam, full exhaust, and air induction. So far on the 1999 I have done cylinder heads, cam, full exhaust, and air induction. In the future I plan to change the stall converter, gears, and maybe a power adder. - As both a Corvette owner and Corvette Technician what is the most important tip you would provide to new Corvette owners?
Jerry: Oil is cheaper than parts. - Do you have any advice to people interested in a career as a Corvette Service Specialist?
Jerry: There are many automotive schools available, but I would highly recommend GM training. From my experience, GM training is the only way to go.
We appreciate your time Jerry, your good Corvette People.
If you know someone who should be featured on Corvette People, please send your nominations for Ten Questions to mike@velocitycorvette.com.
I have a problem with my 2003 C5 coupe with a 6-speed. It sometimes leaks tranny fuild while be driven and leaves the rear of the car black the car is yellow. The transmission inspection cover gasket has been replaced once already this year car has been driven 3000 miles since it was replaced. any suggestions? car only has 21600 miles on it it is not driven extremely hard Thanks Roger
It sounds like you might have a differential leak and not a transmission leak from the sounds of things. If the fluid is a dark color its most likely from the differential. The transmission fluid is Dextron 3 and is red when its fairly new. The only sure way to tell for sure is to put it on the lift, and take look at exactly where the leak is coming from.
I HAVE A 1984 CORVETTE THAT WAS A PROJECT GIFT CAR TO MY HUSBAND AND WE ARE HAVING A HARD TIME FINDING PARTS OR ANY PLACE THAT WOULD EVEN TOUCH IT TO DO THE REPAIRS THAT MY HUSBAND CAN’T DO. ANY ADVICE