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What car to buy?

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Old 12-19-2017, 02:12 PM
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Car: 1983 Z28
Engine: 305 TBI
Transmission: 700R4
What car to buy?

So, I've began my search for an Iroc. My end goal is to have the car I did in high school but now have the resources and space to complete what I wanted to 20 years ago. Ultimately, I want a 5spd with a 350. Any suggestions on what to look for on my initial purchase? I'm thinking I should get a stock 305 tpi 5spd and swap out to a 350 down the road. Will I run into any major issues with taking a 350 tpi and bolting to the 5spd? I'm relatively mechanically inclined but still a novice with engine repair. I'm looking for this to be a great learning experience for some future projects with my kids. I have no real time restraints and on limited budget.
Old 12-19-2017, 02:37 PM
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Car: 1984 Trans Am L69
Engine: Sniper EFI Powered 355
Transmission: WC T5 w/ Steel Support Plate
Axle/Gears: 3.42 10 Bolt Posi
Re: What car to buy?

No 350 ever came with a 5 speed. It would be easier tog et the 5 speed car you want then add a 350. Everything will bolt right up then you will need 350 sized injectors and a 350 programmed ECU.
Old 12-22-2017, 08:05 PM
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Car: 1987 IROC-Z
Engine: L98 5.7L
Transmission: MD8 700R4
Axle/Gears: G80 GW6 3.27:1
Re: What car to buy?

Welcome to Thirdgen. As noted the T5 5 speeds didn't come with 350s, which I think you know by the way you asked your questions. You get more of the needed parts starting with the 5 speed but I see it done either way. Consider having the T5 upgraded if you plan to drive it hard or maybe go T56 if that fits your project scope. Good luck, post some pics when you get one.
Old 12-23-2017, 06:41 PM
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Re: What car to buy?

If you don't want a 305, don't buy a 305. No offense to the T5 fans, but the T5 is trash. Notice that no one wants a T5 either. The only upgrade is to swap in a different transmission. At this point, if the plan is to modify the car, it doesn't really matter what you start with. A low mileage, original car, with the condition and price tag to match is a bad place to start if you plan to modify much. So at that point, what's left? Buy the best condition car with the best price you can find, and build it the way you want it.

This far out, as tore up as most thirdgens are, prepare for a lot of work if you want something nice.
Old 12-31-2017, 10:22 AM
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Car: 1983 Z28
Engine: 305 TBI
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Re: What car to buy?

Picked up this '83 Z28. Very solid car, runs and drives great. Has a posi rear end. Needs a lot of love cosmetically. All the gauges are only partly functioning. Was originally a crossfire, which was replaced with a 305 TBI at some point. I'm going to get a 350 TPI for it. I want to convert to a manual tranny, what should I be looking for?






Old 12-31-2017, 10:43 AM
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Car: 1983 Z28
Engine: 305 TBI
Transmission: 700R4
Re: What car to buy?

I know I need a T56 but is there anywhere specifically I should be looking. Out of a specific car? or just look for a low mileage working tranny?
Old 01-06-2018, 01:51 AM
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Re: What car to buy?

A 4th gen f-body is probably the easiest route.
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