Looking at a Supernatural 400 and the seller states that the conversion was done by "Corvette Mike's", as an authorized dealer for Callaway on the west coast at the time. States that his original engine was provided in trade for the Callaway motor, exhaust, coil-over suspension and run-flat wheel installation all done by Corvette Mike's ($20k conversion, but no paperwork). Engine has the Supernatural tag, but I thought all conversions were done in CT at the time. Does this sound legit? Thanks!
I just recently learned that there were some crate SNAT motors sold. Saw a car that had all Callaway parts but the VIN doesn’t show as a built car. Chris would have more info on this.
Thanks for the reply... interesting that crate motors were made available, and something that I had not been aware of before. I've tried to send two messages to Chris on this forum, but both messages are stuck in my Outbox for some reason. I sent him a PM at Corvette Forum but no reply there just yet. Hopefully, he can shed more light on what was made available and on this can in particular.
This particular car seems to have all the right pieces, but with the conversion having been done elsewhere (even by an authorized dealer), can this truly be considered a Callaway?
Sorry my delay in response. Past week has been flat-out.
On the VIN, ***649, that's not in the record of the "count" of vehicles which were converted. Corvette Mike was "Callaway West" in the early 90s, and was an authorized installer of SNAT crate engines. They sold a few, and perhaps Corvette Mike would have record of this one, if asked.
I'd have to see pics of the car to know the configuration, and know how it matches for consistency with the rest of those built.
FWIW, there is another SuperNatural for sale, which is in VA. Doesn't have the options you are seeing on the one in your description, but it's closer to you, once back home.
I hope this helps - and If I can provide addl. info, please don't hesitate to ask. Thanks,
Copy and thanks for the info! I'll send you some more info on this car so you can check out the details. It's interesting to hear about the crate motors, as I had never heard about that having been offered before. Such a benefit to be part of this community... hopefully I can contribute more in the future.
Getting it... now I just need to figure out where to park it! Heading back to Virginia next week for house-hunting and it's starting to look like I'll need my own warehouse soon.
Arrived in VA this morning, after a three day drive from LA... car performed well, except for running a little hot near St. Louis (lots of debris in the radiator that I cleaned out and it's running much cooler now). It's evident that the previous owner was not a fan of regular maintenance. The brake fluid looks like used motor oil, and lots of minor issues to clean up on this one. Here are a few pics from the journey.