Frame-Off Restoration

Well, purchased a 69 convertible six months ago. Was not advertised as numbers matching car. After inspection, it has original block (don't know about heads yet), 4-sp transmission, and 3.70 posi rear end. After driving awhile, have concluded most everything in suspension and steering is original as well. Decided my retirement project is going to be a frame-off restoration in my home garage. Have not retired yet, but soon I hope. Any suggestions on the best way to plan for this endeavor?

The first thing that comes to my mind is to bag and label every nut, bolt, screw, etc. Take pictures and label each vacuum hose and wiring connections. Good luck.

A Frame restoration ?! I assume you have done this sort of thing before and are a confident mechanic?

As others have mentioned, that is a big project. I did a frame off on my 1980. I also went crazy and restored everything above the frame as well (inside and out). You definitely want a good space to work, where you have the ability to work on the frame separately from the body. Planning ahead for lifting and securing the body is crucial. Good Jacks, Jack Stands, and suspension tools for taking all of that apart. There are books on this endeavor and some of the corvette supply companies sell a sling meant for body lifting. I built my own supports and took my time. Photos are your friend!! Even if you think you won't touch an area, take many, many, many photos. Forensic maintenance is your friend. The assembly manual is a must, but a picture can save your bacon. Bag every little part, nut and bolt. Mark the bags well, and add notes on the bag if something was different, difficult, missing or just a few words to help with the re-install. One thing I found during this process is, one thing leads to another. Meaning, there are more issues lurking under the car that you are not seeing before you start. Do you have welding equipment? Body mounts will look ok, but once they are exposed, many need repair or replacing. Don't let the fiberglass fool l you, Corvettes rust! Hopefully your car has had a life in a drier climate. If the mounts are badly rusted, that could lead to rust into the birdcage. There are ways to repair everything, it just all takes time and unfortunately...money. I have done most work myself. This forum and youtube are your friends for information. So many great videos on youtube. After I repaired some body mounts, I was able to take the frame to be sand blasted and then powder coated. It sure was nice to have a brand new looking frame to work on. I'm sure you will have many questions as you move forward, keep us posted.