tdutton31

Hey guys and gals,

I am getting super close to finishing my '85 Berlinetta build (thanks Dad!).

It's essentially stock except for a built 350 with a few goodies thrown in.
It is also the Digital Berlinetta with all of the extras inside (t-tops, swivel radio, etc.). My dad also found a Contempo decklid when it was in his possession.

I'm wondering what mods or additions I can make with a relatively small budget. It doesn't matter if it's mechanical or aesthetic, I just want some suggestions on what to do next with my beauty!

I've been partial to some of the headlight mods (HID's, etc.), as well as the Wonderbar. Suggestions and links to threads are welcome!

Thanks!

MY87LT

iTrader: (2)

Like you mentioned, the wonderbar, serpentine belt system.

redneckjoe

cool looking project!

sofakingdom

iTrader: (1)

Springs, shocks, sway bars, wheels, tires.

eseibel67

Must assume you have a proper cat back exhaust already. If no, get one right away so your whole neighborhood can enjoy the sound quality of that SBC's 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2 firing order.

And let's see some pics of that 80's flavour digital speedo, radio pod and especially that dash mounted turn signal switch.

tdutton31

This was the only pic I had of the display.

I spent the day hooking up sensors/electronics just to check that they worked..snapped only one picture. Go figure.

It's way too cold here to work on her (heater went out in the shop) so it'll be a bit before I can snap more pics. I'll be sure to put them up when I do though. I'm glad you guys like my project!

John in RI

iTrader: (167)

+ 100000

Your Berlinetta has the softest suspension ever installed into a ThirdGen. I'd advise these parts first if you want the car to actually drive/feel like a sports car.

34mm front sway bar
23 or 24mm rear sway bar
IROC 'Wonder' Bar
Poly end links for all sway bars
struts/shocks


Another good idea to also ditch the original Berlinetta variable rate steering box and the 7 ply steering rag joint. The Berlinetta parts are the 'softest' steering system ever used so they should be replaced with IROC parts.

'quick ratio' steering box (from a car factory equiped with 16" wheels)
Z28 Steering Rag Joint (4 ply)


Installing better suspension parts first will allow you to get the most from your existing drivetrain. There are a million 'UPGRADES' you can make the the drivetrain to make more power - but none of that will matter if the car handles / drives like a sled.

tdutton31

Links to any good posts containing the installs for that?
Thanks a lot guys, keep the suggestions coming!
We're getting more snow here in NWA, but I'll get more pics ASAP!

MY87LT

iTrader: (2)

You may want to check the condition of your transmission crossmember and mount.

tdutton31

Any specific cues to look for, besides the obvious cracks, etc.?

tdutton31

Some more pics for your viewing pleasure.
Installing the engine and a pic of the Contempo lid. Also some of my dads old cassettes! Grew up on glam/hair metal! \m/

Keep the advice rolling guys, my list is growing!

MY87LT

iTrader: (2)

Twisting, rust, worn rubber mount. If the mount is original to the car, then replace it.

tdutton31

My fan shroud was lost/stolen sometime in the last 15 years of her sitting.

With that in mind, should I buy a new shroud (80-100 bucks) and stick the regular fan back in her. Or should I look into an electric setup? If so, some items/prices would be appreciated.

MY87LT

iTrader: (2)

Well if funds are low, you can go to a wrecking yard or find a used fan shroud on an internet auction site and stick with the regular fan untill you can get a really good electric fan set up.