Hello all,
Bought the car in 2022 with 155k on it and been running since, no issues. Yes, I neglected maintenance since I probably have driven it 200 miles since then (every other weekend type), but I am about to give it into a shop for "deep" maintenance. Can ya'll help me with the things I need to do so I can give the shop a list of items from the start?

Also contemplating making it EFI at the same time.

(1983 Trans Am)

Thanks!

 

Here's a place to start:

*Engine compression test (have this done before any other work proceeds)
*Change ALL fluids and associated filters.
*Replace ALL hoses (including brake and power steering hoses, all vacuum lines) and fan/accessory belts.
*Complete ignition tuneup: cap, rotor, plugs, plug wires.
*replace PCV valve
*Front-end alignment

Other items to inspect:
*Oil/fluid leaks
*Brake pads/shoes
*Shocks/struts (If the originals are still on there, just replace them)
*Tires for wear/date of manufacture.
*Exhaust system
*Door, T-top, hatch weatherstrip



Be aware that having a "shop" perform all this is going to cost you a pile of $$$. Also be aware that most of it is relatively simple to do yourself with the aid of a Factory Shop Manual that can be found used on ebay for reasonable cost.

As an aside, you may have trouble finding a shop willing to install any aftermarket equipment such as the EFI you mentioned. If you're determined to go this route, be sure to talk it over with the shop owner ahead of time.

 

Fitting efi under the hood of a trans am is not easy. The units w a 4 barrel throttle body won't fit under the hood w a full size air filter. The pro Flo xt will fit. That's what I have on my 82. Unless people want to keep a car all original I don't see why more people don't make the conversion to EFI. That said, doing it on a high milage older engine may not make the most sense. I'd think about long term goals a the car. The efi swap is time consuming but not difficult. It's really just a time in/planning thing. Removing the stock engine harness and fuel system is simple enough. Then you simply run the new efi harness where the old one was and work on the efi/fuel sys after. The gauges all come from a c100 connector on the driver side. That will all continue to work.

 

Nice! I am about to pull the trigger on an EFI or a 5.3 swap. What kind of motor is that?

 

A zz430 clone

 

Great feedback, thank you!
I've decided to get my quadrajet carb rebuilt and revamp the engine.

From the notes above:
(recap 155,000 mile 1983 305 LG4 motor with a Quadrajet) - very stock. If there is a good stock "upgrade" below, I'm all for it!

1. What kind of engine oil do yall suggest? (Weight and Brand)
2. Ignition tune up - Any recommended brands/models for plugs, cap, rotor, coil and plug wires?
3. PCV valve - a GM part replacement?
4. Rear brakes need to be changed, any recommendations on brand/part numbers?

Thank you

 

Install new valve guide seals. The.mileage and age suggest oil usage will be higher if they're original.

Go basic on rear brakes parts if rebuilding. Rears do less work. The 82-88 discs and 82-97 drums are nothing great. Update to 89-up rear discs later on.