gmb04

I thought I heard somewhere that you earlier model TPI engines had some reliability issues? Is this true. I am looking at a 1986 5.0 TA and was curious if they had worked out all the bugs yet with the engine. Or is it better to get a 88 or 89 TPI engine? What are the main differences between all these years. Thanks for any help.

Cheers

darbysan

Not sure if this is what you are looking for, but the '85 model year was the first for TPI, and it had a "modified" ECM to make it work. By '86, the ECM was integrated, and I have not heard of any issues. My research said to avoid the '85 if I could. No reliability issues on the 305 that I'm aware of.

The early years were MAF controlled. Later years went to Speed Density control ( I think this started in 90/91?). MAF cars are more tolerant to changes in the engine without ECM reprogramming, but the MAF is not a cheap part if it needs replacement. SD is easier to "plumb" the air intake, but you may need help getting it tuned properly.

There are supporters on both sides ( SD vs MAF). My conversion was based on the '86 MAF system- just happened to be what I found on CL.

If you get the '86, be sure to get the Alternator brackets ( unless you are going Serpentine).

gmb04

Thanks for the great info!

NowhereFast

I have exactly zero issues with my motor as far as reliability goes. The car runs like butter.

I would advise against buying one though, unless you want to tear it apart. They're total dogs, 86 TPIs (and auto trans 87 TPIs) have an unbelievably small cam. They have the least grunt out of all the TPI thirdgens.

gmb04

Thanks Nick. I really like the look of the TPI engines and hear they have awesome torque. Which year do you recommend 89 or later?
Cheers

NowhereFast

I wouldn't recommend a 305, that's for sure. If you're gonna go through the trouble, do it right the first time and get a 350.