My friend blew a rod in her 85 Firebird a few years back, wasn't there to hear the whole story, I just got bits of what the mechanic told her. It was a 2.8 L and I'm trying to figure out where to to go from there because I am going to HATE to see that car go. I was hoping I could get some suggestions on what would be the smartest choice from there, money is pretty tight.

 

Call around to all your local salvage yards. and '85-'89 Camaro 2.8 will work, and you should be able to get the short block assembly for under $150. Or a long block assembly for under $200. Including taxes and other little fees. Considering the price of head gaskets, and the challenge of adjusting the rockers, I'd go with a long block assembly if at all possible.

 

Alright, so say we get the long block assembly, what has to be done before the engine can be dropped in?

 

You just transfer everything else from the ruined engine to the replacement. The manifolds, the water pump, the front accessories, it's all very simple.

 

Awesome. I just worry about the other engine also going because it'll be just as old.

 

Age isn't a killer of 2.8 rods. Excessive RPM is, and detonation is, but not age.

 

Should I worry about gaskets+seals?

 

If they look like they've been leaking, replace them.

The later 3.1l V6's were a little more stout. Still can't put it in 1st, floor it, and see how fast it will go down hill, but they are less likely to develop cracks with "normal" use.

 

If you're gonna buy a long block, I see no outstanding reason to think about the head gaskets so long as the head bolts have never been loosened with tools. But expect to replace every other gasket.

 

I really appreciate the help. How much could you expect to pay to replace the gaskets?

 

Use Fel-Pro or you WILL have leaks. Don't use any silicone either. If you want to use some chemical, use Edelbrock's Gaskacinch.