Hello all, this is my first post here, I like the way this forum is ran, it really is refreshing. This weekend I’m heading to Ft Bragg to most likely pick up a 1987 GTA. I’m very knowledgeable about most cars types. That being said and this being my first 3g TA, is there anything in particular I need to look for on a 87 GTA? It has no T-tops,350 TPI all original not cut up at all. From the pics it looks very clean. Any recommendations on what to look for? That is particular about these cars?



Cheers
Ron

 

check to make sure the clown didnt cut a hole in the car to change the fuel pump. one of the first things i always check. also, if it has aftermarket radio, pull it, and see if they cut that up. Pay close attention to little things. If the engine looks really, really, clean, look for greaese in tight spots. This shows a car that was cleaned up really good for sale, not necessarily always taken good care of. Seen lots of poorly cared for cars sold as "always garaged and clean".

 

check the VIN number, verify the engine code from the VIN. Look for the SPID sticker under the console lid (I think it's there on T/A's same as Camaro) match VIN on SPID to VIN on dash. Also check the emission stickers under the hood for the engine size. This will help verify that it is in fact a 350 and not a 305 someone is trying to sell as a 350, or that it is the original motor, not a swap.

Check under the lip of the hood for rust, check the condition of the underside for rust/damage.

350 TPI will be an automatic tranny, no exceptions, unless there has been a swap.

Check the wiring harness under the hood..typical hacks will be in the area of the relays. AIR/Smog pump systems are often disabled or removed and this may be important for your home area. Look for cat under car. Make sure the popups work.

 

Thanks guys I'm on the way to look her through now. I'll let you all know how it turned out.

 

It also won't have t-tops or be a ragtop. All 350s were hardtop coupes.

Oops, after seeing that it's a GTA, I'm not sure on that statement. It does apply to IROCs though.