I just got my 1984 S/E, V8, which I ordered new, back from the person I traded it to in 1988. It has been sitting outside in the same spot since 1997. I am new to the forums and have some questions to ask those more knowledgeable about the Firebirds than me.

. This was my first new car, and I am going to restore it to like new. The things I am wondering about are---- should I restore it to the way it was when new, ie same color, wheels, trim? Or should I make it like a Trans Am or add ground effects? What would you do? I am looking for tips and suggestions! Is this the right thread to post this in? Thanks for your replies. I will try to post more pictures, and closer ones, as I go.

 

i have and 85 S/E and I was going to put a body kit from a parts car i have on it but decided against it for personal preference reasons. Since in 85 there were only 5k s/e's i want to leave it the same in appearance as it should be aside from wheels.... but again for me it was purely based on personal preference as i have no plans to get rid of this car made that mistake a few times now.

 

That is kind of what I am thinking. I have great memories of this car just the way it is. I always thought side skirts/ground effects would look nice though.

 

you will have to change both front and rear bumpers in addition to adding the side effects

 

because they are built into the bumpers, which is what kept me from doing it.

 

Wasn't aware of that. Thanks!

 

Welcome aboard kentadel. Cool story. I like at as an SE, but build what YOU want, and enjoy!

 

Welcome!

Personally, I'd restore it back to how it was, but it's your car, so do what ever makes you happy.


Lots of good guys here who are willing to help!

 

Thanks Guys! I am thrilled to get the car back. It brings back a lot of memories.
A little history, I traded the S/E for 2 mid seventies Corvettes and a jeep that all needed lots of body and paintwork. At the time I had just started a body shop and was doing builders and some restoration work to keep busy. I thought the chance to fix and sell the vehicles was too good to pass up. I did make some good money but always regretted getting rid of the S/E. I started lurking a bit on these forums about a year ago after visiting with my friend who had the car all this time. I had an idea that I might finally get it back and wanted to see what the forums were all about. I was amazed at the amount of dedicated Firebird and Camaro owners and the quality of their cars!

 

I would keep it stock...mostly.Definately like that interior color combo.Got larger pics?

 

I will try to post some larger ones.

 

Cool interior color combo. Looks in good shape for being outside that whole time.
I personally like the look of '84 Trans Ams with ground effects but it's your car. Don't base your decision on what people tell you to do. You'll be happier if you make the decision.
Also you don't need new bumpers to install the full aero package ground effects. You can just drill the required holes for the mounting studs. The side ground effects below the doors will require you to weld on a bracket to hold them. It can be done.

 

Have a few more pics and questions. The identification sheet is not in the console anymore, so I am not exactly sure of the interior code/colors. Seems like light charcoal or gray with silver inserts on the seats and not sure what the carpet color would be called.. Interior is in pretty good shape, will need a headliner, carpet, and rear seat repair.





A bit of rust to repair.


Nose is ok.

 

Looks great! Interior is very clean... good chance you'll find the build sheet under the driver's seat. Pull the seat out and flip it over!

Body looks incredibly rust free for how long it sat! And the interior is in fantastic shape!

Looking forward to seeing your progress! How far are you going? Bare shell and working from there?

 

Thanks aaron7. I will look under the seat for the build sheet! The car is solid under body wise. We will start stripping it down a bit next week to see what will be required and will post pics along the way.

 

Nice S/E. There are not many left. If it was me, I would restore it to its most original appearance as possible to make it a look very nice again.

You might find the build sheet a bit everywhere inside the car. I did found mine under the rear seat driver side.

 

Thanks Fireblood. I will look a bit everywhere to see if it is in the car.

 

I would keep it a stock SE all the way,86 was the last year for them
Good luck.

 

I would keep the body and interior stock. You can put larger 16" GTA black cross lace wheels but still keep the factory wheels in storage.

 

That's a good idea, thanks.

 

Love it! Its in NICE original shape! You're a paint and body guy so you know what lies ahead as far as that goes and are capable. The interior looks fantastic. This should be one GOOD LOOKIN ride when your done!
My two cents is to keep it bone stock original!

 

Thanks Don!