Did a search, couldn't find anything.

What are the problem areas of these cars? What do I need to look out for when trying to find one to buy?

Thanks!

 

you need to search again - or go onto the cars for sale site here.
and read about problem people have and what we do to solve them.

welcome to the first day of school. we will help everyone but we will not spoon feed you.

 

Can you suggest some keywords for me to type? lol

I have seen issues with rust on t-top cars, cracking spoilers, torn rooflines at the rear of the door window opening, and things of that nature. Nothing really about suspension, brakes, fuel system etc. issues.

 

that stuff you gotta determine on your own my friend.
I'll gladly give you any pointers you need!
I have a little knowledge on these cars.My last car was a b/c 89 gta pics below in the sig.

 

go here https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/cars-sale/

and i have owned 7 of them all bought new.

 

them centercaps holding up far ya Tony?

 

Here is my plan - I currently have an outlaw 10.5 racecar, but

I want to buy an '86-90 formula or TA. I plan on yanking the motor and building a FAST streetcar.

I want to build a 400+ CID stroker ls1 using either the ERL or LSX block and most likely some 6 bolt as cast or ported TFS ls1 heads. Induction will be a set of twin turbos, most likely 72mm or more. I want to rebuild the RAM dual disc clutch I have now and try to use it with a T56, though I have a pretty stout glide I can throw in if the 6 speed has problems.

I want to put global west or equivalent suspension on it so it handles well on the street... maybe there is better stuff out there now?

 

rust, it doesnt matter if its a hardtop or t-top or vert, check it VERY well fro rust issues. Check the wheel wells, inside and out, the lip and the inner structure behind the rear wheels. Get on you hands and knees and check the floor VERY well, all areas. The common spots are the foot well areas, where people feet would be, its the lowers spots and they start to rot there. Check the rear bumped and fram for rot, check the lower radiator support, inside the engine compartment around the the battery trays, both sides, and in the engine compartment behind the wheel wells.

After that make sure the doors close well, no major sagging or bumpy movement. Look at all the body lines and seams, make sure the gaps are even, if they are off it could be a sign of an accident.

Check panels for dents dings and such, as well as rust.

Thats the visual end.

After that, make sure it doesnt smoke when its started cold. Make sure it idles well, and the trans shifts smooth into all gears.

Above all else, dont be afraid to say no to a car. Dont feel entitled to buying anything, no matter the circumstances. And if you go to check out a car, io always like to be a half hour early, you can get a quick look at the car before the owner starts getting it ready.

 

sounds like quite a project.

check out Spohn, UMI and BMR for suspension and chassis parts.

 

Thanks guys!

Do these cars have problems with suspension points on the body side getting tweaked or torn from the body? I know mustangs have torque boxes where the control arms attach and if the car is abused they get torn.

 

check between the gear box and frame, the frame splits right between. it will give vibration problems.it can be fixed.