So my 350 is almost finished (it'd be done if my truck hadn't blown the intake gaskets.... damn 5.3's) and I'm itching to get my 'bird back on the road. Can anyone give me a general list of things I'll need to repair/replace before I can drive again? It's been sitting a little over a year now, front brake rotors are rusted but all the wheels spin, but I'm sure I'd have to replace the shoes/pads and the drums and rotors, maybe the calipers too, as well as all 4 brake hoses. I gave everything a good look over before it got covered in snow, and everything seems good, exhuast is a bit rusty but nothing rotted, motor mounts look good but I'll probably replace them when I take the 305 out. Now, the transmission cooler lines leaked the last time I drove the car, needless to say they'll be replaced, but should that make me worry about the transmission? And what about the fuel pump, I never put stabil in the tank. Any suggestions will be appreciated.

 

When I got my RS it had been sitting for two years.I can only suggest that you check and/or replace the metal brake lines (as well as the hoses),the gas tank and fuel pump (as you mentioned) and ALL of your fuel lines.These were the big items on mine.I also replaced the radiator hoses and S-belt.You may want to take care of any transmission issues you have here.If you need to do the front brakes,get a pair of 'loaded' calipers.These have the pads already in them. It may cost a little more but you'll save yourself a headache down the road.You'll thank yourself later.Other than that, just check the common sense items (lights, blinkers, wipers), but you already know that.Good luck with your 'bird!!

 

Okay, all sounds good. Now can anyone tell me if I should machine the flexplate or not? Or is it just better to buy a new one? The stock drivetrain only has 85,000 or so miles on it.