Hi,I just joined this site. I am considering buying a 1990 Camaro that is in very nice condition physically,the original paint and interior look great. The car has 99,850 miles on it. It's a 305 tbi,with 700r4. Has no leaks,however the seller told me it will once in a while "smoke a little" from the tailpipe. I had asked if it is only doing this upon startup and he said that no,it's not on startup,but occurs randomly when it wants too. I was told a compression check was done and that "all the numbers were good" but one cylinder was slightly lower than the others. I asked for the numbers and was told he would have to go to the shop that did the test and get them for me,but I shouldn't worry about it,the car just passed smog and runs great.
ive had other third gens in the past with over 100k miles and none of them ever smoked. what do you guys think? Does it sound like valve stem seals? Or worse. Hope some of you seasoned third gen experts might be able to give some advice.
this would be my first camaro

 

Wouldn't worry me a bit if the price was good and the body/ interior was nice. Most of the time valve stem seals are the problem and like u said that shows on startup. Id buy it and run some slick 50 through it awhile. You will eventually get bored of the L03 and want to replace it anyways probably. Mine smokes on startup with only 91??k mi but I plan to replace engine eventually anyways.

 

thanks for the input. yes,the price is quite fair. $3k. the compression was excellent in all cylinders. The car looks great. The dash isn't even cracked. I was thinking it was valve seals too.
Youre right,the tbi cars aren't quick. But I plan on using this one as a daily driver. No engine or trans leaks either. Interior is excellent. I'll share some photos tomorrow.

 

Sounds like a great car. This is my 1st TBI car and the most reliable, gas friendly, maintenance free 3rd gen I've had. You should have a great driver there.