First off, this might be in the wrong seccion ans I looked on the main page and could not find a "general questions" page. So if this is in the wrong place, please let no.

Second, I'm brand new to the third gen thing and I''ve always dreamed of have a Trans AM 3rd gen. I totaled my 96 explorer and I'm happy I did XD. Now travelers is send me a $3000 check!

Ok, now for the question, Im goin up to Cartersville GA to look at and maybe buy an '85 Trans AM. When I drive around before I actually buy it, What sounds, feelings, or other things should I look for?

I have a ride up to Cartersville but the person taking me does is not car literate, like me... haha

Its a 305 V8, the guy said it is undercoated, it has a 5 digit odometer and it reads 45k-55k I cant remember, but it most likely rolled over.

What things should I inspect with my own eyes? Under the hood etc...

I'm a very visual person, hence I majored in graphic design, I do better lookin at pictures than reading. So if y'all tell me to look for xyz under the hood, please at least try give an example pic or a link to one Or if you can't, be as descriptive as possible.

I will be joinin y'all in the "third" generation very soon

Thanks,
Alex

There are quite a few things to look at.

Look for a crack in the frame behind the steering box.
Unfortunately not uncommon, especially but not limited to, if the car was ever in a front end wreck.

Take a look in the vents under the wipers at the seam sealer inside.
It is getting to be a area of rust concern, as well as any and all seam sealer.
The sealer gets old and cracks letting water in behind it.

Modified or stock?
Auto or Manual?
What power equipment?
Tuned Port or Carbed?
Does your state require emmission testing?
Is ALL the emmission stuff there, if it is required?

Do thet-tops have ANY rust around them?
Does it have T-Tops?

Do you want it original or modified?

Take a lot of pics post them and let people look at them.

Are you going to do most/all of work needed to the car?

Thanks so much! Im gonna copy this as a document and put on my phone!

If you have any other things that come to mind, reply back.

Also, kinda off topic, but if / when I get this T/A what would you recommend for exhaust? I want something really loud!

Modified or stock? Stock with NASCAR tires...
Auto or Manual? Auto
What power equipment? Power windows and locks
Tuned Port or Carbed? Dont no.
Does your state require emmission testing? No, 25 years or more don't need emmissions.

You would have a 305, or as some would say a 5.slow.

Headers and a cat back exhaust would be fine.

As a example, flowmaster has a selection of different mufflers that deliver different sounds/noise.
Do some research.
There are an abundance of posts on exhaust on this site.
It is cheaper to learn from other people's experiences.

"NASCAR" Tires? look at the tread wear patterns. Has the car been racing lately?
SCCA style or otherwise.
Last time it had an alignment?
Play in the steering?

Hahaha never heard the 5.slow before. kinda funny...

Anyway, i have not looked at it yet. That's why I'm gonna go look at it.

The tires just say nascar in white bold on the sides. I think they are a signature tire. The craigs list ad expired so can't check right now.

Don't no when the last time its been aligned.

What do u mean by play in the steering?

thanks,
Alex

when you turn the steering wheel both tires should move, without delay.

3rd gens have a tendandcy to consume center links and idler arms

Or when you take it for a drive, does the car take a while to catch up with the steering wheel?

10-4... When I go up to look at it I check this.

Thanks again,
Alex