I'm looking to get some respectible power out of my 87 trans am. Engine is a 305. Not looking for a 10 second car, just want engine to perform closer to it's potential (and still pass smog every other year without spending a week in the driveway switching stuff out). I want to keep the original engine in it because I would like to keep the car as stock looking as possible. I picked up another lt1 motor when I bought my 95 formula, but I really don't want to go that way. Car has aftermarket exhaust and k&n filter, what's the next step? What can I expect with a hypertech chip, fan switch, and thermostst? Any insight or advice would be greatly appriciated.

 

I'll tell you right now, dont waste your money on a hypertech chip... It is not worth it at all... pm Kevin91Z, he can custom program a chip for you. He did mine, and i am very happy with the results. As for the performance parts, contact Dyno Don or F1LS1. F1LS1 did my motor and he and Dyno Don both have a good amount of knowledge about these motors.

Happy hunting!!

-Tim-

 

Fan switch and T'stat will let the engine run a bit cooler. If it isn't overheating, don't worry about it. They will run cleaner if the engine is hotter. You won't get a lot of power out of a 305, but Don got over 30 mpg on the highway regularly with a 305 tpi motor with one of Kevin's custom chips.

 

A 350 looks identical to a 305 and no one will know until you tell them.

Define how stock you want it to look? An aftermarket intake manifold and runners will add some power and torque but they dont look stock. A lower temp thermostat and fan switch will help the engine run cooler and add power too.

 

Thanks Tim, you've saved me some money on the hypertech chip. Now Kevin: Not too concerned about looks as far as stock except for the smog guy. Don't think I want to go through an engine swap (spent too much money on my Formula already and am still getting heat from that, did I mention that I was married?). Would like to get 275 horsepower out of the 305 without going through a divorce. Is this kind of power a pipe dream from this engine. Thanks again for everyones input.
Earl

 

Plan on the divorce, it might happen before you'll get that much from a 305 J/K.

It will require a bunch, unless you are talking about flywheel power.

 

I love honesty (even though it's a kick in the ***** sometimes). Thanks Don.

 

275 flywheel horsepower out of a TPI 305 with bolt ons is not difficult. That's about 225 horsepower at the wheels. Getting 275 rear wheel horsepower is a challenge. The stock heads stink and most of the aftermarket heads are made for 350's or larger.