Hey guys. I've always loved the 'Maro and am finally getting one. It's an 88 with the 2.8l and 5-speed. The body needs plenty of work, but the main issue is the engine. The head gasket needs to be replaced. I've worked on many cars, but never a Camaro. The engine bay looks amazingly good for a $400 car, but the motor sucks up the coolant. So how much of a PITA is this going to be? And what else should I take care of while I've got her ripped apart? I'm not looking to make her fast (that comes with an LS1 when I get lots more money!), just want to make her a little more reliable and if I free up some power, great! Thanks guys!

 

No different than doing any other engine. Just remember to depressurize the fuel system prior to opening up the lines. Also, there are many vacuum lines, so label everything clearly. Take pictures as well to help with the reassembly.

You didn't say how many miles were on the car, but if the body is as rough as you say, it suggests the car was abused. Depending on your budget, I'd be tempted to overhaul the entire engine.

 

Thanks. The car seems to be great mechanically (other than the head gasket of course), but the pass side is messed up from swerving into a ditch to avoid a deer. The owner then beat out the dents to give it that nice wavy look! The engine bay looks good for its age. All the normal maintenance items seem to have been kept up with and the only aftermarket parts are a skull shift **** and rearview mirror. I know it will take quite some time for me to get her where I want her to be looks and performance wise, but at least I have a start now!

 

I dunno how much your paying for the car, but replacing a head gasket is a project...

you can usually sit on the idea for a few months and find an f-body that someone just wants to get rid of for 500-1000 bucks...

my camaro was 500 bucks when I bought it running and drivable, and my firebird was 150 bucks, but that needed major work... still can't beat the price for a fully loaded formula 350...

you might want to ask yourself if it's worth all that work for what your paying for it (unless your already getting an unbeatable deal)...

I suggest checking www.craigslist.com

 

I'm getting the car for $400. I know the head gasket is gonna be time consuming, but I will need a second vehicle before the end of the year, I've always wanted a Camaro, and I don't work so I have plenty of free time! Plus, I like working on cars and our 4Runner doesn't afford me much opportunity to do that (damn reliable Toyotas!). I've been checking the craigslist here for an f-body for the past 5 months and you're lucky if you can get a beat up rolling chassis for $750 around here.

 

you could always check out further, this camaro I bought almost 2 hours from my house...

or clear a space in the garage, get a head gasket kit, and go to town...

it's allot of run rebuilding motors if you have the time...