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Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

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Old 07-03-2011, 12:22 PM
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Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Here goes, I am currently deployed and did not know much about Third-Gens until I purchased one while in Afghanistan, and joined this site. I thought I was purchasing a 1987 Iroc-z but I believe I actually may have an LT. The car has a mildly built 406 and an automatic tranny. After decoding the vin:(1G1FP21H1HN184555) I can tell that it originally had an LG4 305 in it, and 2:73 gears. What bothered me the most was the last six digits (184555) wouldnt that mean my car was the 184,555th car produced out of 137,760 total??? Also in one of the pictures I have, Im pretty certain that the third brake light is on the rear hatch window rather than the spoiler! Like I said, Im just learning, so any help would be greatly appreciated. Please do break the news lightly lol, I will be livid If I bought a wannabe Iroc. Ive always wanted one since I was a kid, and saved up my deployment money to finally buy a nice one (at least I hope I did)!!! Thank you.
Old 07-03-2011, 12:37 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

the numerical digits in the VIN have nothing to do with its production # if memory serves, also the 3rd brake light location varied, 85s and older don't even have them, some cars have them outside, some inside the rear hatch glass, and yet others have them in the spoiler(I do not recall if this is indicative of model or not) Also there is no such thing as a 3rd gen LT, there is SC(sport coupe, ie. base model) there is z-28, and there is RS in the latter years, as well as berlinetta in the mid early years for a short run, all IROC-Zs are z28s. Best way to tell, if memory serves the IROC-Zs should have all disc brakes, but don't quote me on that, also should have louvers on the hood, and fog lights on the grill, as well as 16" 5-spoke aluminum rims(single stripe for that year I think). personally I wouldn't care as long as its mechanically as good as an IROC-Z or better, ie. at least as powerful an engine, and has decent sway bars and brakes.
Old 07-03-2011, 12:52 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Originally Posted by Project 3.4 Camaro
the numerical digits in the VIN have nothing to do with its production # if memory serves, also the 3rd brake light location varied, 85s and older don't even have them, some cars have them outside, some inside the rear hatch glass, and yet others have them in the spoiler(I do not recall if this is indicative of model or not) Also there is no such thing as a 3rd gen LT, there is SC(sport coupe, ie. base model) there is z-28, and there is RS in the latter years, as well as berlinetta in the mid early years for a short run, all IROC-Zs are z28s. Best way to tell, if memory serves the IROC-Zs should have all disc brakes, but don't quote me on that, also should have louvers on the hood, and fog lights on the grill, as well as 16" 5-spoke aluminum rims(single stripe for that year I think). personally I wouldn't care as long as its mechanically as good as an IROC-Z or better, ie. at least as powerful an engine, and has decent sway bars and brakes.
Thanks for the info. It does have the hood lovers, fog lights and Z28 badge on rear bumper but the RPO code sticker is gone and I dont have the eigth digit 350 model, and I also have 4th gen wheels on it..... Its very frustrating, I have always wanted an "Iroc" because my father had one and always talked about it. I know that sounds stupid, but it means something to me.
Old 07-03-2011, 01:16 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

The 3rd brake light in the window was a result of government standards in 1986. In later years, it was moved to the spoiler. Keep in mind that for this generation, most any parts were interchangeable. When I bought my Iroc - which is an 87 - the hatch had been previously replaced and I had an 86 (with window brake light) hatch on it that I replaced. I also noticed that I have a 1990 drivers door on it (based on the vin markings for that door). Also of note, is that the RPO stickers usually were either attached to the console box or the bottom of the console lid. If a previous owner had replaced either, you may have a wrong sticker on it, or, none at all. Since you have a different engine in there anyways, do what you want with it. Either put on period correct parts or continue the process already started and custom tailor the car to your liking.
Old 07-03-2011, 01:28 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Here is a site that might help you http://www.prophetsofmadness.com/iroc-z/index.htm However it is going to be more difficult without RPO codes. What kind of emblems are on your rear bumper?
Old 07-03-2011, 01:31 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Here is a great vin decoder page http://www.chevy-camaro.com/chevy-camaro-VIN-decode.asp
Old 07-03-2011, 02:10 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

As far as I know, there is no way to tell if it is an IROC just from the vin. Sometimes under the rear seats, or in the hatch area is another rpo sheet. What does the dash emblem say? Also as far as the hatch goes alot of people swap them over the years. I switched my 86 hatch for an earlier model to get rid of the glass mounted third brake light. I've seen 86 hatches on 89's and 91-92 hatches on 82's. Without the RPO codes I can't think of any other way to tell if its a real IROC or not.
Old 07-03-2011, 02:19 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

From 85-87 the Iroc could be had with an LG4 engine.That was the base model and TPI was the upgrade
Old 07-03-2011, 02:24 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Originally Posted by jhp73
Here is a site that might help you http://www.prophetsofmadness.com/iroc-z/index.htm However it is going to be more difficult without RPO codes. What kind of emblems are on your rear bumper?
Thanks, unfortunately the website is blocked here. I have the Z28 logo on the rear bumper and the Iroc emblems on the doors. I just know how easily these are changed out. I guess I will have to wait to get home and look through the car thoroughly!
Old 07-03-2011, 02:32 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Originally Posted by 87IROC198Z
Thanks, unfortunately the website is blocked here. I have the Z28 logo on the rear bumper and the Iroc emblems on the doors. I just know how easily these are changed out. I guess I will have to wait to get home and look through the car thoroughly!
well acording to our website that motor was only availible in a LT, a Z28 or a IROC. LTs are very rare so i doubt its one, so that leaves a Z or a IROC.
Old 07-03-2011, 02:33 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Originally Posted by Project 3.4 Camaro
the numerical digits in the VIN have nothing to do with its production # if memory serves, also the 3rd brake light location varied, 85s and older don't even have them, some cars have them outside, some inside the rear hatch glass, and yet others have them in the spoiler(I do not recall if this is indicative of model or not) Also there is no such thing as a 3rd gen LT, there is SC(sport coupe, ie. base model) there is z-28, and there is RS in the latter years, as well as berlinetta in the mid early years for a short run, all IROC-Zs are z28s. Best way to tell, if memory serves the IROC-Zs should have all disc brakes, but don't quote me on that, also should have louvers on the hood, and fog lights on the grill, as well as 16" 5-spoke aluminum rims(single stripe for that year I think). personally I wouldn't care as long as its mechanically as good as an IROC-Z or better, ie. at least as powerful an engine, and has decent sway bars and brakes.
Actually GM made 7XX LTs in 87. i dont remeber the number right off my head but ya they exist.
Old 07-03-2011, 02:44 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Originally Posted by Project 3.4 Camaro
Best way to tell, if memory serves the IROC-Zs should have all disc brakes, but don't quote me on that...as well as 16" 5-spoke aluminum rims(single stripe for that year I think).
IROCs were equipped with both discs and drums. Check the driver's side door tag. If it indicates 16" wheels, which only the IROC was equipped with in 87 (and some other years, of course), I'd guess you have an IROC--unless someone went to more trouble than most to disguise the car.

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Old 07-03-2011, 02:55 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Thanks everyone for the great input. I will see what I come up with when I get back in the states, before I jump to conclusions. I'm sure everyone here knows how annoyed one can become when they realize they may have bought something that was different than what they were told it was!
Old 07-03-2011, 09:30 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Ok, let's get a few details straight here. First off, don't respond without "knowing" the answers!! There is so much misinformation listed above that the guy will never know what's going on.

87, thank you for your service. It's greatly appreciated.

Project3.4,
1. There was an LT in 1987. It was a replacement for the Berlinetta.
2. The VIN numbers started at 100001 for the first car built, so this cars sequence is the 84,555 car built.
3. The 86 cars had the 3rd light outside the window. The 87-90 cars had the brake light in the spoiler, except for 1987 cars that didn't have a rear spoiler. The 91-92 cars had the brake light up high in the rear window, inside.
4. The Berlinetta was not a limited run. It ran from 1982-1986 in the 3rd gen models.
5. Not all IROC-Z had disc brakes and not all IROC-Zs had the louvered hood. There was a 1985 California IROC-Z that did not have a rear spoiler or hood louvers.
6. Not all IROC-Zs had 16" rims. In 1987, this car, yes, but 1988-1990, the 16" was optional. They were standard from 1985-1987.

jhp73, do not reference prophetsofmadeness.com or iroc-z.com. That website has many inaccuracies and the by looking at what prophetsofmadness is, do you really want to rely on their information as correct?

The car is probably an IROC-Z. The 1987 cars had Z28 emblems on the side rockers and the rear bumper. Check the door sticker for tire size. If it specifies 245/50 -16 for an 87, that's an IROC-Z. No question about it. The LG4,H code, you mention was available as the base engine for the IROC-Z in 87. The TPI 305 and 350 were optional and would be designated by an F or 8 in the 8th position. As far as the 3rd brake light on this car, the glass was probably swapped and being overseas, there probably wasn't alot of selection. Enjoy your car when you can, and again, thanks!!!

Last edited by scottmoyer; 07-04-2011 at 07:44 AM.
Old 07-04-2011, 08:25 AM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Originally Posted by scottmoyer
Ok, let's get a few details straight here. First off, don't respond without "knowing" the answers!! There is so much misinformation listed above that the guy will never know what's going on.

87, thank you for your service. It's greatly appreciated.

Project3.4,
1. There was an LT in 1987. It was a replacement for the Berlinetta.
2. The VIN numbers started at 100001 for the first car built, so this cars sequence is the 84,555 car built.
3. The 86 cars had the 3rd light outside the window. The 87-90 cars had the brake light in the spoiler, except for 1987 cars that didn't have a rear spoiler. The 91-92 cars had the brake light up high in the rear window, inside.
4. The Berlinetta was not a limited run. It ran from 1982-1986 in the 3rd gen models.
5. Not all IROC-Z had disc brakes and not all IROC-Zs had the louvered hood. There was a 1985 California IROC-Z that did not have a rear spoiler or hood louvers.
6. Not all IROC-Zs had 16" rims. In 1987, this car, yes, but 1988-1990, the 16" was optional. They were standard from 1985-1987.

jhp73, do not reference prophetsofmadeness.com or iroc-z.com. That website has many inaccuracies and the by looking at what prophetsofmadness is, do you really want to rely on their information as correct?

The car is probably an IROC-Z. The 1987 cars had Z28 emblems on the side rockers and the rear bumper. Check the door sticker for tire size. If it specifies 245/50 -16 for an 87, that's an IROC-Z. No question about it. The LG4,H code, you mention was available as the base engine for the IROC-Z in 87. The TPI 305 and 350 were optional and would be designated by an F or 8 in the 8th position. As far as the 3rd brake light on this car, the glass was probably swapped and being overseas, there probably wasn't alot of selection. Enjoy your car when you can, and again, thanks!!!
You're very welcome! Thank you for the help. I feel alot more otimistic about my buy now! Just wondering but is there a for sure way to find out if i have the stock 2:73 rear end on this car or to know if that was swapped as well? Reason I ask, aside from wanting to know wahst gears I have is that I have 4th gen 02 ss wheels and am getting 2" spacers for the car. I will check the RPO codes and the door stickers once I get back, like everyone suggested. Thanks again!
Old 07-04-2011, 09:13 AM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

get both rear tires off the ground and rotate a wheel and count the DS revolutions. Or it might be the other way around, can't quite recall, also if both wheels turn it means you have posi.
Old 07-04-2011, 11:28 AM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Their also should be a tag on the rear housing that would tell you what size rear you have,if it wasn't removed.
Old 07-04-2011, 10:54 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Originally Posted by scottmoyer
Ok, let's get a few details straight here. First off, don't respond without "knowing" the answers!! There is so much misinformation listed above that the guy will never know what's going on.
While I appreciate all our members trying to help, I was really pulling my hair out (and I don't have that much!!!) reading the misinformation. I was worried 87IROC198Z might get the wrong impression.

We need to make sure we do our research before responding with "info" and be able to back it up. Or, if you only have a hunch, always feel free to throw it into the conversation or ask about it, as long as it's clear that that's what it is.
Old 07-06-2011, 04:12 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Originally Posted by 90 camaro cj
Actually GM made 7XX LTs in 87. i dont remeber the number right off my head but ya they exist.
794 LT's (531 V-8's & 263 V-6's) according to GM. And a small amount of convertible LT's (all V-8's)
Old 07-08-2011, 05:46 AM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Originally Posted by Iroctopless
While I appreciate all our members trying to help, I was really pulling my hair out (and I don't have that much!!!) reading the misinformation. I was worried 87IROC198Z might get the wrong impression.

We need to make sure we do our research before responding with "info" and be able to back it up. Or, if you only have a hunch, always feel free to throw it into the conversation or ask about it, as long as it's clear that that's what it is.

Old 07-10-2011, 10:41 AM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Does your title just say camaro? Mine says camaro z28
Old 07-10-2011, 05:31 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Originally Posted by jaysfs
Does your title just say camaro? Mine says camaro z28
This is all it says. Thanks!

1987 CHEVROLET CAMARO
VIN: 1G1FP21H1HN184555
COUPE
5.0L V8 4BL OHV 16V
REAR WHEEL DRIVE
Old 07-10-2011, 08:53 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

What the title says means nothing.
Old 07-13-2011, 07:05 PM
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Re: Help, I think I was lied to! May have bought wannabe IROC...

Mine just says its a chevy and a coupe, lol. I feel ripped off somehow..
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