Hello.. I currently own a Supra but with your help, might soon own a firebird!

I'm going to check out a Firebird tomorrow. It's advertised as '91 Firebird TransAm Formula. With a 350 v8, automatic, 160xxx miles, for $1,850.

First off, what major problems do these cars have?
What major parts should I inspect tomorrow?
How can I tell the difference between a 5.0 and 5.7 visually? Or codes if any, and where? How much is a manual swap? Parts & labor! In SoCal
Anything else I should know?

Thanks!

 

Problems these cars have - Rust. If its been in southern california since new you might be lucky. Common spots for rust are the floor pans, rear wheel arch, and the T-top bar if it has t-tops. Also check the upper rear corner of the window area for cracking of the metal.

The only way to tell a 5.0 from a 5.7 is to look at the casting in the back of the block, I believe its on the drivers side. Its between the head and the firewall so its really hard to see, bring a flashlight. You may be able to tell from the vin number, but after 20 years and 160,000 miles it may have been changed at some point.

Manual swap - You should be able to get the parts for a T5 swap for $500-$800 bucks. If you want a T56 you'll be spending probably double that. Labor cost would be a case of beer, lunch for a buddy, and a weekend.

 

http://www.chevy-camaro.com/images/E...partialVIN.jpg
If you look in front of the passenger side valve cover, there will be some numbers. If the engine is the original, then the last few numbers of the VIN will be stamped there. If that matches and the engine is the original, check the 8th character in the VIN. E or F is a 305, T is v6, 8 is the 350.

Besides that, theres the numbers stamped on the block behind the drivers side head, right next to where the transmission bolts on. http://www.chevy-camaro.com/images/SBC-casting-date.jpg These give you a definite way of checking the engine, but you'd need to bring along a list of the numbers, or write it down and check when you get home. Also its very hard to see.

If the car has plastic ground effect trim, rust often forms under that. Also the bottom edges of the door. Cant see it with the door closed because the trim covers it.

 

I'm going to pass up. It ended up being a 305. The slower 305 @ 170hp. Maybe he swapped it out, but when I asked if it was really a 350- he didn't reply so I'll take that as a "it still has a slower 305" LOL

Thanks for the info anyway guys.