Comprehensive state safety inspection procedure for a 1966 Chevrolet Corvette, covering all systems typically required for vehicle registration and roadworthiness certification.

Warnings

Tools required

Preparation

1. Position vehicle on level, well-lit surface with adequate clearance on all sides
2. Apply parking brake and place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Start engine and allow to reach normal operating temperature for exhaust and emissions checks
4. Verify vehicle registration and VIN plate are accessible
5. Gather vehicle documentation including previous inspection records if available

Procedure

1. 1

   Exterior Lighting System Inspection
   Inspect all exterior lighting. Verify headlights (high and low beam), parking lights, turn signals (front and rear), brake lights, and license plate light all illuminate properly. Check for cracked or broken lenses. Test hazard flasher function. Verify headlight aim meets specifications using alignment tool on both low beams.
2. 2

   Horn and Windshield Components Check
   Test horn operation for adequate volume and function. Inspect windshield for cracks or chips larger than 1 inch in driver's sight line. Test windshield wipers for proper operation and blade condition. Verify washer fluid sprays adequately on windshield. Check windshield washer fluid level and top off if needed.
3. 3

   Tire and Wheel Inspection
   Inspect all four tires for tread depth using depth gauge; minimum legal depth is typically 2/32 inch but verify local requirements. Check for uneven wear patterns, sidewall damage, bulges, or exposed cords. Verify correct tire size and load rating. Inspect wheels for cracks, bends, or damaged lug nuts. Check tire pressure and adjust to the specification listed in the owner's manual or appropriate for the tire size (1966 Corvette has no door-jamb tire placard).
4. 4

   Steering System Evaluation
   With engine running, turn steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary and verify smooth operation without binding or unusual noises. Check for excessive play in steering wheel (typically no more than 2 inches of free play). With assistant turning wheel, inspect steering linkage, tie rod ends, and idler arm for looseness or wear. On 1966 Corvette, pay special attention to the recirculating ball steering box mounting and pitman arm connection.
5. 5

   Brake System Test and Inspection
   Test brake pedal for firm feel with engine running; pedal should not sink to floor under steady pressure. Measure brake pedal effort and travel distance. Test parking brake: vehicle should hold on 20-degree incline or parking brake should click 3-8 clicks with proper holding power. Drive vehicle at low speed and test service brakes for even stopping without pulling to either side.
6. 6

   Undercarriage Brake Component Inspection
   Raise vehicle with floor jack at factory jacking points (frame rails) and secure on jack stands. Remove all four wheels. Inspect brake rotors for excessive wear, scoring, or cracks. On 1966 Corvette (equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes), verify disc brake pads have adequate friction material remaining and rotors meet minimum thickness specification. Check brake lines and hoses for leaks, cracks, bulges, or chafing. Inspect brake calipers and pistons for fluid leakage. Reinstall wheels and torque lug nuts in star pattern.
7. 7

   Suspension and Chassis Inspection
   With vehicle on jack stands, inspect front and rear suspension components. Check ball joints, control arm bushings, and shock absorbers for leaks or damage. On 1966 Corvette independent rear suspension, inspect transverse leaf spring for cracks and trailing arm bushings for excessive wear. Inspect frame for cracks, rust perforation, or damage, paying attention to birdcage area at rear. Check exhaust system for leaks, loose hangers, or excessive corrosion.
8. 8

   Fluid Leak Inspection
   Inspect undercarriage for fluid leaks while vehicle is elevated. Check engine oil pan, transmission pan, rear differential cover, power steering pump and hoses, brake master cylinder, and coolant hoses for active leaks. On 1966 Corvette, inspect side-mounted exhaust if equipped for leaks near passenger compartment. Minor seepage may be acceptable; active dripping typically fails inspection.
9. 9

   Interior Safety Equipment Check
   Lower vehicle from jack stands. Verify driver and passenger seatbelts are present and function properly (front lap belts standard on 1966 Corvette). Test that all doors open and close securely from both inside and outside. Verify door latches engage properly. Check rearview mirror is securely mounted. Test that emergency brake releases fully.
10. 10

    Exhaust Emissions and System Check
    With engine at operating temperature, perform visual inspection of exhaust system from engine to tailpipe outlet. Verify exhaust exits behind passenger compartment and does not leak into cabin. Listen for exhaust leaks at manifolds and pipe connections. A 1966 vehicle predates emissions equipment and is typically exempt from tailpipe emissions testing; verify exemption status with local jurisdiction.
11. 11

    Final Instrument and Control Verification
    Start engine and verify the warning indicators (generator/ammeter and oil pressure) operate correctly — illuminated with key on/engine off where applicable and extinguishing once the engine is running and charging. Test speedometer for movement when vehicle is driven. Verify fuel gauge responds to fuel level. Test all dashboard lights for illumination. Confirm the VIN plate (located on the driver-side door hinge pillar on 1966 Corvette) matches registration and is not altered or tampered with.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all four wheels are reinstalled and lug nuts torqued properly in star pattern
2. Remove jack stands and lower vehicle completely to ground
3. Remove wheel chocks
4. Complete inspection documentation per jurisdiction requirements

Verification

• All exterior lights function correctly and lenses are intact
• Tire tread depth meets minimum legal requirements with no structural damage
• Brakes provide adequate stopping power without pulling or pedal fade
• No active fluid leaks present under vehicle
• Steering operates smoothly without excessive play
• Horn, wipers, and washers operate properly
• No exhaust leaks into passenger compartment
• All safety equipment functions as designed
• Vehicle meets all jurisdiction-specific inspection criteria

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