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Long road trip checks

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Old 07-09-2014, 09:54 PM
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Car: 86 Trans Am
Engine: 305 LB9
Transmission: 700r4
Long road trip checks

I go to college 4 hours away and my 98 Volvo had done well with no issues. This is the oldest car I've driven. 86 ta with 305. I am driving 5 hours about 400 miles to go for my firefighter exam. What should I check or do before I leave a day during?

I have replaced/new:
Tires all around
Radiator and hoses
Thermostat
Iac
Windshield pump
Soon a new battery
New belts

The car does stall once in a blue moon. Probably because a cheap Iac but it isn't a real issue.

Just want to ensure my car and myself make it safe
Old 07-10-2014, 02:04 AM
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Car: 1988 GTA
Engine: LB9
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Re: Long road trip checks

Tires are the big thing, so you are good. For safety, I would also check front end for loose parts before a long trip.

Cooling system check. You replaced the high wear parts, but also make sure the fans are working in case you get stuck in traffic.

Check all the fluids for fill and cleanliness.
Old 07-10-2014, 04:57 PM
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Re: Long road trip checks

I forgot to mention I had the end link replaced and the mechanics said the suspension looks tight and new. New Monroe shocks all around and all new alternator. Will check cooling. I have a upper intake leak drops very little coolant but I should keep an eye on it
Old 07-10-2014, 06:36 PM
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Re: Long road trip checks

A quick tune up with plugs, wires, and a fuel and air filter might not be a bad idea. You have most of the important stuff. Are the brakes good to go?
Old 07-10-2014, 06:44 PM
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Car: 86 Trans Am
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Re: Long road trip checks

Complete tune up was actually done 3 months ago with a tranny fluid flush. Brakes seem pretty well. Still good meat on them. I'm really wanting to go over the top to make sure it doesn't have too many issues on the road
Old 07-10-2014, 08:39 PM
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Car: 1988 GTA
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Re: Long road trip checks

Seems obvious, but check all bulbs and wipers too.
Old 07-10-2014, 09:13 PM
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Car: 91 Firebird/88 Firebird/91 Formula
Engine: V6 3.1/V8 5.0/V8 5.0
Transmission: 4L60/700R4/4L60
Axle/Gears: 3.23/2.73/2.73
Re: Long road trip checks

All my long road trip issues have been with fuel flow. My '88's fuel pump went out at the end of an hour and a half trip after driving from the Texas gulf coast all the way to New Mexico and back without any problems. My '91's FPR/injectors went bad an hour into a four hour trip. I guess if you not having any prolonged starting issues or any intermittent misses you probably are okay. I'd probably ohm the injectors and make sure they have a good spray pattern. Good luck and have a safe trip.
Old 07-10-2014, 09:23 PM
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Re: Long road trip checks

A cell phone and credit card are all you really need.

Even though it sounds like you have most everything covered it may not be a bad idea to have an extra quart of oil, trans fluid, water and/or coolant, and a small tool kit. I've been able to pick up a decent and usable socket set for less that $20. Double check your spare and that you have what you need to actually jack it up. Could have the differential checked too?
Old 07-10-2014, 10:13 PM
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Re: Long road trip checks

What ever you do, don't forget to kiss the wife (or Girlfriend) Or both.
Old 07-10-2014, 10:46 PM
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Originally Posted by Scorpner
A cell phone and credit card are all you really need.

Even though it sounds like you have most everything covered it may not be a bad idea to have an extra quart of oil, trans fluid, water and/or coolant, and a small tool kit. I've been able to pick up a decent and usable socket set for less that $20. Double check your spare and that you have what you need to actually jack it up. Could have the differential checked too?
Ditto. Thats exactly what I was going to say. Also tire plug kit along with the fluids and a small tool kit. Extra fuses and bulbs are always a good idea.

Also don't forget zip ties, they come in real handy in a pinch.

I have taken my 89 RS (v6) to New Jersey and back to Florida 3 times now. 1100 miles one way and not a problem on any of the trips. As long as you take care of the car and stay ontop of your maintenance you should be alright. Definitely do a tune up before you go.

Lol at the girlfriend and wife comment, that was pretty witty ;p
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