Just picked up a clean 85 z28. Its not the original engine so Ill have to run the numbers on the block to see whether its a 305 or 350 but its carbed and 700r4. A few questions-first off it runs w/o the key in the ignition-Im guessing its just a worn ignition switch?
Also its leaking power steering fluid but once refilled it drives fine. Ill have to get a better look to see if its just leaking but whats the usual remedy for this?-Bad pump?

 

congrats on getting that '85 right now my powersteering leaks from the o-ring between the pump body and the reservoir-easy fix,but pump will need removed for the repair.

 

Thats too easy-Ive changed on on my '88 Vette. This is my first 3rd gen in years-how much trouble is it getting parts at local auto stores?

 

Unless its some misc body clips or components I've always had good luck finding parts for my 87 sport coupe at parts stores. Hell, maybe more luck than the dealer since a majority of the stuff is discontinued.

As to the ignition issue, my first guess would be ignition switch.

 

Would it be a bad idea to use synthetic oil in this engine considering Im not sure whether the past owners have?

 

I think it's a personal preference. Every car that I've purchased for the last 10 years or so has been converted to full synthetic oil with no problems. I have one now that I bought with 60k miles and now has over 250k miles with no issues. It costs more initially but I think the benefits outweigh the costs. I wouldn't recommend it if you have major leaks or burn oil. Then I'd use an oil formulated for high mileage. Good luck with which ever one you go with.

 

Ive always used Mobil 1 myself-my main concern with this engine is whether it would start leaking assuming its had conventional in it until now but I dont have any leaks.

 

CONGRATS ON YOUR CAMARO!

Worn ignition switches are common for these cars. Every F-Body and GM truck I've had has required a replacement due to simliar reasons. They are typically $10 bucks at Kragens. The drivetrain is used in a lot of GM vehicles so parts availability will not be a problem. You can determine whether it is a 305 or 350 very quickly. A 305 of that year will be internally balanced and if you feel around the harmonic balancer, there will be no weights on it. A 350 is externally balanced so there will be weights attached to the balancer. Hopefully it's not the LG4 sittin' in there. :P P.S. Those power steering gear boxes have a tendancy to be leaky. Fortunately they are in many vehicles and are fairly easily obtainable new or used for minimal cost.