My girlfriend has a 1987 Firebird that has been parked for 7 years or so. It has the 305ci engine. Its not a transam I'm assuming since it doesn't say it on the bumper. Its black and it crying for me to get it running. Is it worth it? I don't even know where to begin or what to think. Got any ideas on what it would cost and what you would do?

I was told that the tuned port injection was giving her trouble when it was parked and that it would die all the time. A supposed mechanic friend said that these fuel injection systems were problematic. I've never done any research on these cars so I don't know and thats why I am asking. Any help would be appreciated.

 

The comment from the mechanic that the fuel injection is problematic is bs. If you want to get it going change the oil, add some fresh gas and get a battery. Then see what its doing. Most of the comon drivability problems can be cured easily.

 

How does one normally get the old fuel out of the tank? Knowing my girlfriend it was probably on E. I guess it hasn't been sitting as long as I thought. It was last driven in 2007. I did find out it overheated after a long drive.

 

If its got a lot of fuel in it you could siphen it out. Hopefully its on empty and then dump about ten gallons in.

 

Take Red86z28's advice and get it running. Then see what it's doing now and don't worry about what it was doing.

Overheating isn't a tough task to tackle though if it is. Check the fluids before you fire it up though because if it has a small leak it may have drained it's self over time. Check coolant, motor oil and trans oil before you fire it up.

And hell yes it's worth it.

 

One method is to disconnect the fuel line, jump the fuel pump relay, and pump it all out into a proper container. Turn the pump off immediately after the fuel stops flowing, though, or you'll burn out the pump (it'll take some time, but don't risk it).

Then, change the fuel filter, then add fresh fuel.

 

If the tank is near empty, I would just add 5 gallons of fresh fuel to it. Three years isn't too bad as far as sitting goes. It will probably start with the fuel thats in it, but 5 gallons will dilute it. A new fuel filter is a great idea.

If you can, post a pic of the engine bay. These cars are relatively simple, parts are cheap, and are also pretty reliable. Is it stick or auto? If its automatic, be sure to check the trans fluid before starting, it should be a little high when not running and I would also change that fluid before you take it for a drive. When you get it running of course!!! Have fun.