This procedure covers the removal and installation of the side mirror assembly on a 1966 Chevrolet Corvette, including adjustment and verification of proper operation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Side mirror assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent
• Mirror gasket or seal × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Mirror mounting screws × 3 — Use OEM specification if originals are damaged

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Roll down the window on the side where mirror work will be performed for easier access
3. Clean the mirror mounting area on the door exterior to remove dirt and debris
4. If replacing a damaged mirror, photograph the existing installation for reference

Procedure

1. 1

   Access interior door trim
   From inside the vehicle, identify the mirror mounting location on the interior door panel. On many 1966 Corvettes the exterior side mirror mounts to the door with hardware accessed from the inside of the door; verify the specific mounting method against the GM assembly manual or the mirror's installation instructions before proceeding. If a decorative trim cover is present over the mounting area, carefully pry it off using a trim tool or flat-blade screwdriver wrapped in a shop towel to avoid scratching.
2. 2

   Remove existing mirror assembly
   Locate the mounting screws on the interior side of the door that secure the mirror base to the door skin (verify the exact count against the GM assembly manual, as original units commonly use 2 screws). Hold the mirror head from the exterior with one hand to prevent it from falling. Remove all 3 screws completely and carefully withdraw the mirror assembly from the exterior, feeding the mounting studs back through the door.
3. 3

   Inspect mounting holes and gasket
   Examine the mounting holes in the door skin for cracks, elongation, or damage to the fiberglass. Clean away any old gasket material, corrosion, or debris from both the door surface and mounting holes. Check that the holes are properly aligned and not wallowed out from previous installations.
4. 4

   Prepare new mirror assembly
   Unpack the new mirror assembly and verify it includes the gasket or seal. Place the gasket onto the back of the mirror base, aligning it with the mounting studs. The gasket prevents water intrusion and provides a cushion against the fiberglass body. Verify the mirror head pivots smoothly through its full range of motion.
5. 5

   Position mirror on door exterior
   From the exterior of the vehicle, position the mirror assembly against the door in the correct mounting location. The mirror should sit approximately 1 inch behind the leading edge of the door window frame on the front fender-side corner of the door. Ensure the gasket seats flush against the door surface and align the mounting studs with the holes in the door skin.
6. 6

   Install mounting hardware
   From the interior, thread the mounting screws onto the studs protruding through the door (verify the exact count against the GM assembly manual, as original units commonly use 2 screws). Start all 3 screws by hand before tightening any of them. Tighten in a cross pattern (alternating between screws) to ensure even pressure distribution. Tighten each screw snug but do not over-torque, as the fiberglass door skin can crack. The screws should be firm enough to compress the gasket but not so tight that the mirror base deforms.
7. 7

   Adjust mirror position
   Sit in the driver's seat and adjust the mirror head to provide optimal rear visibility. The 1966 Corvette mirror is adjusted by hand; grasp the mirror head and move it to the desired position (the exact pivot mechanism should be confirmed against the GM assembly manual). Grasp the mirror head and move it to the desired position where it should hold with friction. If the mirror is too loose and will not hold position, the tension may need adjustment at the ball joint.
8. 8

   Reinstall interior trim
   If a decorative trim cover was removed in Step 1, press it back into position over the mounting screws on the interior door panel. Ensure it snaps fully into place and sits flush with the surrounding panel.

Reassembly

1. No disassembly of other components is required for this procedure
2. Ensure the mirror gasket remains properly seated during final installation

Verification

• From the driver's seat, verify the mirror provides clear rearward visibility without obstruction
• Gently apply pressure to the mirror head from outside the vehicle to confirm it is securely mounted and does not move at the base
• Check that the mirror holds its adjusted position and does not droop or move when the door is closed
• Inspect the exterior door surface around the mirror base to confirm the gasket is properly compressed and sealed with no gaps
• Close the door firmly and verify no rattles or looseness from the mirror assembly

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