I've been watching this board for a couple weeks, and have put a couple posts in the cars wanted section. Yesterday, I just purchased this car:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...&category=6420

1991 GTA w/ 350

Unfortunately, I'm having some insurance issues, so the seller is going to haul my new baby from PA to NJ tomorrow for me.

I had a couple questions. I've done some research (online and in your forum) regarding swapping in a 5 or 6 speed (in place of my automatic). I understand the T-5 isn't going to be my best choice for that motor, especially if I plan to add more horsepower. So, what transmission is my best bet? I'm definitely looking to modify the engine down the road.

I've also read that guys who have done swaps have lost speed and off the line power with the automatic to stick swap. I'm a bit confused, as it's been my experience that manual transmissions own (considering that the torque converters rob power and the maunual offers you control over your gears and your engine's rpms).

Second, the power antenna doesn't work. Not a big deal. The previous owner cut the wire to the motor so it always stays up and doesn't groan. The power antenna on my mother's toyota also went years ago. So I think that power antennas are prone to demise. (Please correct me if I'm wrong.) I have a feeling that if I replace the antenna, it will just break again. Should I swap it for a regular antenna and save myself the PITA of replacing it again down the road?

Finally, in regard to the panel between the two rear brake lights, is this swappable with panels from older 3rd gen firebirds/trans ams/gtas? I really loved the bird that used to be on there. The panel on my GTA is kind of boring (not that I can say anything about these cars is boring )

Sorry for the long post. I have more questions, but I didn't want to overwhelm the post. Any help you guys can offer would be greatly appreciated!


Thanks!
Bill

 

On the tailights, the 91-92 TA's had 2-piece taillights that were different than any other year. These are pretty well sought after and usually go for $250+ for the pair. If you look at the pics, you can see where it used to have PONTIAC painted in red in the middle. It fades over time, but you can now get reproduction vinyl letters to fill it back in.

Kevin D.

 

I noticed the Pontiac lettering, but I figured it came from the factory subdued like that. Where can I get quality letters? I dont want any cheap **** that will fade in a couple years or that wont look 100% right.

Thanks
Bill