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firebirdat
03-08-2014, 04:30 PM
Finally Starting a build thread, Started off with my 1984 Trans Am. Bought it off my parents in 2009 with 58,280ish miles on it the week before my senior prom at the age of 18. Bone stock LG4 with T5 drove it all summer back and forth to work and girlfriends house, even went drag racing at Island at the F-body vs Mustang night. Ran a pathetic 17second flat 1/4 mile. Week after that i started college, where the car sat parked for 4 and a half years because of a blown head gasket. In my down time at college i spent a lot of long nights drooling over LSX swaps on here, LS1tech, and thirdgen. Finally bit the bullet probably 6 months ago and bought a 5.3 from a 2003 Express Van. Halloween night i moved the car for the first time in 4.5 years to a rented garage to start the swap. Thats the story of my car. This is my first engine build, so be gentle and just looking for any help and advice from those who've done it before me. Heres some pics of the car when i first got it

Glen

firebirdat
03-08-2014, 04:57 PM
As previously said the 5.3 LM7 came out a 2003 Express Van with a supposed 5600 miles on it. got it cheap, tore it down after sitting outside for awhile, to find pitting and water in cylinder number 7. Sent it out to Haledon auto parts and waited for a month, got it bored out 20 over, hot tanked, new freeze plug.

Specs on the motor:
LM7 5.3 bored out 20 over
Sealed power Main bearings
Sealed power connecting rod bearings
Sealed power speed pro pistons
Hastings piston Rings
Factory crank just polished and cleaned
F-body Oil Pan, wind age tray, pick-up tube and dipstick
Factory 5.3 heads
Comp Cams Custom Grind cam of 226/226 with 111LSA
Texas speed Chromeoly Pushrods
PRC .650 Dual Valve Spring kit
LS6 Oil pump and Timing chain
LS7 lifters
Stock rockers with Comp Cams trunnion upgrade
SLP 160 Thermostat
All new sensors

As for installing the motor in the car i have
LS1 F-body Clamshells
Hawks Motor mounts
Hawks T-56 Trans mount
LS1F-Body Electric Fans
Hawks"Budget" Stainless steel swap headers

Have loads of crap for this swap just cant remember it all right now. Onto the pics... How does one imbed the pics rather than doing file attachments but not having to worry about photobucket saying ive used up all my space or whatever it is they say?

firebirdat
03-08-2014, 05:02 PM
more pics. Sorry for the crappy cell pics, i have to upload them off the camera which is sitting in the battery tray right now
Glen

V
03-08-2014, 05:32 PM
Let me know what you think about the Hawks parts. I'm doing an ls1 swap soon and I was considering some of their stuff. But i was gonna do the spohn k member just to make it a little easier.

sweetbmxrider
03-08-2014, 05:33 PM
Nice build. What are you doing for wiring and gauges?

Blackbirdws6
03-08-2014, 05:58 PM
Looks like a good time. Are you leaving it NA or looking to boost it down the road?

BonzoHansen
03-08-2014, 08:05 PM
cool swap and 84 was a good TA year. watch out for sinkholes lol

firebirdat
03-09-2014, 12:21 AM
Let me know what you think about the Hawks parts. I'm doing an ls1 swap soon and I was considering some of their stuff. But i was gonna do the spohn k member just to make it a little easier.

So far the motor mounts are spohn pieces, quality seems real nice, got the black powder coated ones. As for fitment have yet to install them. Gotta clean my dirty cross member and bay, then trailer it to work to chassis save the engine bay and undercoat it. Would have like to do the tubular k-member but to keep it more budget friendly sticking it out with the factory one.

Nice build. What are you doing for wiring and gauges?

As for wiring, been talking to the guys at PSI Conversion in Toms River. Haven't ordered the harness yet but plan to probably in the next couple of weeks.As for gauges looking at sticking it out with the factory gauges for the simple fact i like the looks of them but i know its probably going to be the hardest part of this build aside from finding a T-56

Looks like a good time. Are you leaving it NA or looking to boost it down the road?

Looking to leave it NA for awhile, just trying to keep it a clean daily driver that looks factory.

cool swap and 84 was a good TA year. watch out for sinkholes lol

ahaha thanks for the advice

sweetbmxrider
03-09-2014, 08:29 AM
Have you checked out speartech?

greenformula92
03-09-2014, 12:04 PM
Looks like a fun build. And it should be fun once she's up and running

firebirdat
03-09-2014, 02:01 PM
Have you checked out speartech?

Looked into speartech, pricing is the major concern. from research on LS1tech, both have good reviews. Any experience with them or is it the same stuff just more money?

Looks like a fun build. And it should be fun once she's up and running

i hope so, definitely wont be disappointing if its got the same oomph as my silverado if not more

sweetbmxrider
03-09-2014, 03:30 PM
Looked into speartech, pricing is the major concern. from research on LS1tech, both have good reviews. Any experience with them or is it the same stuff just more money?

I only know of speartech from my friend's swap. It was well laid out, labeled, looks like oem, and they label the leads for gauges and power.

firebirdat
03-09-2014, 05:33 PM
I only know of speartech from my friend's swap. It was well laid out, labeled, looks like oem, and they label the leads for gauges and power.

Didn't know that! Will definitely look into them a little more

firebirdat
06-02-2014, 09:33 PM
alright after months of little work here and there finally have some worthy progress. Engine is fully assembled minus intake. Finally got my hands on the Hawks budget stainless steel headers, battery tray cut-out and installed new sheet metal, as welll as painted, new brake lines run, chassis saved and undercoated underneath, bolted motor mounts in, and plopped an engine in. Progress is a little slow because of work, but mostly because of money, but you know what they say if you cant afford to do it right the first time you cant afford to do it a second time. Now onto the goodness known as pictures.

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20140415_214249862_zpsdca5e46b.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20140415_214249862_zpsdca5e46b.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2090_zpseb2f8643.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2090_zpseb2f8643.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20140412_140124957_zpsf0754f14.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20140412_140124957_zpsf0754f14.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20140412_151827392_zps64b1b4bd.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20140412_151827392_zps64b1b4bd.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20140412_151820610_zps5c634311.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20140412_151820610_zps5c634311.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20140412_151801405_zps6fcc8cc6.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20140412_151801405_zps6fcc8cc6.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20140412_153026790_zps521f9858.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20140412_153026790_zps521f9858.jpg.html)

firebirdat
06-02-2014, 10:03 PM
pictures continued...
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20140331_203232009_zps1ea3b717.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20140331_203232009_zps1ea3b717.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20140403_212023060_zps5ac44884.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20140403_212023060_zps5ac44884.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20140329_161801629_zpsaa36d808.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20140329_161801629_zpsaa36d808.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2094_zpsf482abe6.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2094_zpsf482abe6.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2096_zps3980501a.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2096_zps3980501a.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2097_zps232cbbd3.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2097_zps232cbbd3.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2099_zpsad16170e.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2099_zpsad16170e.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2106_zpsfce4672a.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2106_zpsfce4672a.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2110_zps8c0d36ab.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2110_zps8c0d36ab.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2108_zpse198cd53.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2108_zpse198cd53.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2109_zpsbe1ec6cb.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2109_zpsbe1ec6cb.jpg.html)

ar0ck
06-02-2014, 10:13 PM
What did you end up using to coat the underside? Progress looks great!

TAdan
06-03-2014, 07:45 AM
Nice looking 84, the body really reflects the low mileage. Glad to hear you'll be keeping the stock look.

Good job on the engine compartment and undercarriage. Cool project, I look forward to watching your progress.

greenformula92
06-03-2014, 12:51 PM
Looking good man

BigAls87Z28
06-03-2014, 06:03 PM
I know it's a big chunk of change, but the Speartech harness is really worth it.
I would also be careful in bolting the motor mounts down till you have the engine in there and sorted out. I have the problem where the engine is slightly angled which caused some issues with the ds and trans lining up.
I believe Firebirds have an electronic pick up on the trans earlier than Camaro, so it's easier to play with gauges than on Camaros.

firebirdat
06-03-2014, 07:47 PM
What did you end up using to coat the underside? Progress looks great!

I did it in two steps actually. i scuffed up underneath with a red scotchbite pad and wire wheeled any rusty looking spots,then used chassis saver(basically like POR-15, just a single application rather then a three step process), let that dry overnight and used Medallion Rubberized Undercoating. could get you more info on it if you wanted.

Nice looking 84, the body really reflects the low mileage. Glad to hear you'll be keeping the stock look.

Good job on the engine compartment and undercarriage. Cool project, I look forward to watching your progress.

Ehh pictures tend to hide alot. Its definitely in pretty decent shape for the most part, being garage kept for 18 years definitely has its perks, but its definitely not a virgin car, drivers door was reskinned years ago and driver fender painted at the same time, that door has some bubbling going on that will probably get re-skinned or junkyard door possibly, and the passenger quarter was repainted as well. but like i said overall its definitely a good looking car not show quality but in good shape. As for the stock look its going to stay that way with maybe bigger wheels and just maybe a little lower, gotta keep it tasteful

Looking good man

Thanks!

I know it's a big chunk of change, but the Speartech harness is really worth it.
I would also be careful in bolting the motor mounts down till you have the engine in there and sorted out. I have the problem where the engine is slightly angled which caused some issues with the ds and trans lining up.
I believe Firebirds have an electronic pick up on the trans earlier than Camaro, so it's easier to play with gauges than on Camaros.

I have noticed the engine is slightly angled little worried about that but like you said nothing is bolted down permanently until i get my hands on an overpriced T56, almost as if the engine is tilted in the cross member, took a bit of a struggle to get the passenger side bolt through, might be cause theres no transmission on there but i shall see eventually. What type of issues did you run into with yours that i should be on the look out for? gotta find your thread on here if its still around. As for the gauges i believe i am SOL, if i recall that magical goodness started in 87 correct me if im wrong, not 100% on that i recall reading it somewhere

BigAls87Z28
06-05-2014, 05:30 PM
I have noticed the engine is slightly angled little worried about that but like you said nothing is bolted down permanently until i get my hands on an overpriced T56, almost as if the engine is tilted in the cross member, took a bit of a struggle to get the passenger side bolt through, might be cause theres no transmission on there but i shall see eventually. What type of issues did you run into with yours that i should be on the look out for? gotta find your thread on here if its still around. As for the gauges i believe i am SOL, if i recall that magical goodness started in 87 correct me if im wrong, not 100% on that i recall reading it somewhere


You are going with a T56, so I don't know of anything down that road, but the issues I have are gauges and exhaust.
1: You have two ways to go about doing the gauges. One is to get a box that converts the electrical signal from the output to mechanical so you can connect it to the back of the tach. The other is to go to a digital tach. How you do that is entirely up to you. Maybe see if you can buy a dash from a later TA so you can use the electric tach. I picked up an Auto Meter one that looks similar to the factory Camaro face.
2: I'm not familiar with your headers, but if they are long tube units, you might run into y-pipe issues. I've seen some crazy ram's horn-esque designs for y-pipes.

Also: Fuel system. I'm not sure of the LM7, but LS1s don't have a return line and since the pressure is regulated differently from cars to trucks, you might have to go with an in-line AFPR or do what I did and put in a C5 Corvette fuel filter that self-regulates and does not have a fuel return line.
If using the factory fuel tank, upgrade the pump. If you decide to go to an 4th gen unit, there are several modifications you have to make to get it all to work. I went with the factory tank and upgraded the pump.

sweetbmxrider
06-05-2014, 06:59 PM
Your corvette fuel filter has a return line. You put them on backwards first go around.

firebirdat
06-05-2014, 09:37 PM
You are going with a T56, so I don't know of anything down that road, but the issues I have are gauges and exhaust.
1: You have two ways to go about doing the gauges. One is to get a box that converts the electrical signal from the output to mechanical so you can connect it to the back of the tach. The other is to go to a digital tach. How you do that is entirely up to you. Maybe see if you can buy a dash from a later TA so you can use the electric tach. I picked up an Auto Meter one that looks similar to the factory Camaro face.
2: I'm not familiar with your headers, but if they are long tube units, you might run into y-pipe issues. I've seen some crazy ram's horn-esque designs for y-pipes.

Also: Fuel system. I'm not sure of the LM7, but LS1s don't have a return line and since the pressure is regulated differently from cars to trucks, you might have to go with an in-line AFPR or do what I did and put in a C5 Corvette fuel filter that self-regulates and does not have a fuel return line.
If using the factory fuel tank, upgrade the pump. If you decide to go to an 4th gen unit, there are several modifications you have to make to get it all to work. I went with the factory tank and upgraded the pump.

From my understanding and research the headers are the same as the stainless works units just not as expensive and not as great quality; but ill find out in the long run with them i guess. The y-pipe is going to be ball-buster, Ive looked on thirdgen.org and everyone has done it differently so I'm not sure which way that's going to go.

As for the intake i would like to get my hand on an LS6 intake but it all depends on price and availability otherwise its going to be a ye olde LS1 intake. And as for the fuel tank, upgrading it to a 1985-1992 sending unit(as long as there's no other unforeseen complications from it) and i think i am going to invest in the racetronix unit. What pump did you end up using? I already have the C5 filter so no AFPR unit for me i believe

Tachometer is another debacle, i would love to keep the factory one but that box is a 300 dollar piece, whereas a tach would probably be less.

BigAls87Z28
06-06-2014, 07:17 AM
Your corvette fuel filter has a return line. You put them on backwards first go around.

Sorry, let me clear that up. The engine doesn't have a return.

From my understanding and research the headers are the same as the stainless works units just not as expensive and not as great quality; but ill find out in the long run with them i guess. The y-pipe is going to be ball-buster, Ive looked on thirdgen.org and everyone has done it differently so I'm not sure which way that's going to go.

As for the intake i would like to get my hand on an LS6 intake but it all depends on price and availability otherwise its going to be a ye olde LS1 intake. And as for the fuel tank, upgrading it to a 1985-1992 sending unit(as long as there's no other unforeseen complications from it) and i think i am going to invest in the racetronix unit. What pump did you end up using? I already have the C5 filter so no AFPR unit for me i believe

Tachometer is another debacle, i would love to keep the factory one but that box is a 300 dollar piece, whereas a tach would probably be less.

LS6 intakes are pretty easy to come across as they were pretty much standard issue on LS1s after 01 IIRC. The issue is getting the lower plate that has the PCV tube.

Sounds like you are on your way. Good luck with it!

greenformula92
10-14-2014, 10:46 PM
Any updates on this one?

firebirdat
12-15-2014, 08:08 PM
We have updates!!! Its been long overdue but i have been busy at work and with other projects, F-body related and not related like a crotch rocket, quad, and an a 12 Valve Cummins into a 03 F250 6.0. Cant complain been pretty cool projects and they pay for my projects.

So i threw the idea of the LS6 intake out the window because their not as cheap as everyone makes them out to be, as well as getting harder to find. So i went with a BBK SSI intake because it was a steal of a price, still kinda skeptical of it. Also got the Professional Products fuel rail kit(skeptical of that too) and FAST 36lb Injectors as well as the HAWKS budget long tube headers. Car sat for awhile unloved while i saved for more parts and worked on the crotch rocket. Ordered all new stainless steel fuel lines, chinsy ass AC delete box, wiring harness, PCM, Walbro 255 fuel pump, new Dorman sending unit for 87-92. So i got to work on all of that stuff installed the tank with the sending unit and fuel pump, installed all break lines, popped the rear differential back in and bled the breaks. Started running my fuel lines all the way up to fuel rail in their factory location. I also ordered in the midst of all this battery relocation kit from summit to keep it NHRA legal, but the plastic box i received from summit was the right dimensions so now its just a really nice box in my garage since i made a fancy bracket/ shelf to hold the battery in the spare tire spot.
I then tackled the wiring, which after consulting with recommended manufacturers of harness i still went with PSI because they were able to ship my harness to me in 2 days. i spent about an hour labeling all the wires and then plugged them all into their proper location. Then i tackled what i thought was going to be the hardest part of the swap which was pretty easy with the help of a haynes manual, the C100 connector, deleted whatever wires i knew i no longer needed, after that i mounted my wiper motor back up along with the oil pressure sensor and fan motor. i then mounted my radiator and fans. Then probably around mid to late September i bit the bullet and bought LS7 flywheel and clutch through work. After that went through the slow process of double checking everything and filling up oil and coolant and making sure i had oil pressure, and late one night i fired it up for the first time!! after a solid 10 months i finally had a running non-driving LSX powered Trans Am!!!

Now onto my pics, sorry if their out of order or crappy some are digital camera some are cell phone.

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20140710_200634840_zpsce4f7658.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20140710_200634840_zpsce4f7658.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20140710_200637819_zps67183c18.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20140710_200637819_zps67183c18.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2120_zpsfc0ed1f7.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2120_zpsfc0ed1f7.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2121_zps07a60969.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2121_zps07a60969.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2116_zps77c04e86.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2116_zps77c04e86.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2112_zpsed65329d.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2112_zpsed65329d.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20141022_202955533_zps975979f5.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20141022_202955533_zps975979f5.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20141020_201403967_zpsa9bdba1d.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20141020_201403967_zpsa9bdba1d.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20141022_202916764_zps9e812a92.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20141022_202916764_zps9e812a92.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20140917_212801868_zps6e2eddd1.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20140917_212801868_zps6e2eddd1.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2119_zps810325cb.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2119_zps810325cb.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2117_zpsfb73c841.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2117_zpsfb73c841.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2113_zps0caeab43.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2113_zps0caeab43.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20140904_185720297_zpsebd7b5db.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20140904_185720297_zpsebd7b5db.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20141111_193455288_zpsb0c6b463.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20141111_193455288_zpsb0c6b463.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20141020_201429591_zpsf47c2ee4.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20141020_201429591_zpsf47c2ee4.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20140710_202235270_zpsdafe80b4.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20140710_202235270_zpsdafe80b4.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20141020_201528475_zpse4f87371.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20141020_201528475_zpse4f87371.jpg.html)

Another project i worked on for friend in the meantime
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2131_zpsd9ce03b7.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2131_zpsd9ce03b7.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2132_zps28c8938e.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2132_zps28c8938e.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20141110_191218482_zps13e1e40b.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20141110_191218482_zps13e1e40b.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/100_2130_zps0681d1e2.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/100_2130_zps0681d1e2.jpg.html)
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20141110_191159629_zpsd8395d7b.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20141110_191159629_zpsd8395d7b.jpg.html)

firebirdat
12-15-2014, 08:40 PM
Forgot start up video!!!

http://youtu.be/yriQBJwzCxY

http://youtu.be/ooUqGuKOGlA

not sure how to embed these...

evildante
04-12-2015, 01:51 PM
cool looks good

Punkmaster 98
03-06-2016, 08:33 PM
Looking good!

omarcamaro
03-06-2016, 09:03 PM
did this project get finished

firebirdat
03-08-2016, 10:15 PM
Totally forgot about this thread actually. Alot has happened since the last update. Bought a transmission, stupid money for one of them. Ended up buying a Tremec t56 Magnum with the 2.63 first and 0.63 sixth. Installed that with a LS7 Clutch and flywheel, and an American power-trains hydromax master set up. Car ended up sitting for a good solid 6 months after that was all installed because i started a restoration project on a 1978 VW Camper bus.

In between work and my part time job, and working for myself i purchased all sorts of suspension goodies that have been long overdue and some out of necessity. Got a Torque arm trans crossmember because its not an Fbod transmission, Bilstein shocks and struts, Founders rear control arms and panhard bar, Lower control arm relocation brackets, Eibach lowering springs, BMR Tubular front control arms, Moog Steering gear, Spohn wonder bar, all new polyurethane sway bar links and bushings. Got all new E-brake hardware, from the handle all the back got new cables.Got a new driveshaft, got the power steering line. Speedo cable, and shifter ball and stick etc.. Bought but havent installed the magnaflow cat back. I have been spending two nights a week on it after i get out of work doing little odds and ends, time gets harder and harder to find, especially with cold weather and moving the car around twice and working outdoors but the plan is to have it driving before May.

Biggest things right now are to fabricate the Y-pipe with oval piping, remount the master cylinder reservoir, and ive been going around and moving little odds and ends to make it that much neater. Like is said once daylight savings time hits i should be able to work that much more on it without being annoyed about working in the dark. As for pictures i'll have to find them and post them up within the week

firebirdat
03-08-2016, 10:49 PM
http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20141220_094329168_zps5bqhdnav.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20141220_094329168_zps5bqhdnav.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20150804_201334128_zpsxsf65wt3.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20150804_201334128_zpsxsf65wt3.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20160121_203347172_zpsvg702uif.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20160121_203347172_zpsvg702uif.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20160217_200222441_zpsaolwpvl1.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20160217_200222441_zpsaolwpvl1.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20150930_212133540_zpsmlkibsp0.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20150930_212133540_zpsmlkibsp0.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20150714_170447735_HDR_zpssw62qrsj.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20150714_170447735_HDR_zpssw62qrsj.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20150629_181336342_HDR_zpsfiqbipt5.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20150629_181336342_HDR_zpsfiqbipt5.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20150624_190556226_HDR_zps0qs4jyn7.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20150624_190556226_HDR_zps0qs4jyn7.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20150514_191154771_zpsl9s5snit.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20150514_191154771_zpsl9s5snit.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20160121_201949573_zpsbc0ja8ud.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20160121_201949573_zpsbc0ja8ud.jpg.html)

http://i1154.photobucket.com/albums/p530/firebirdat/IMG_20160121_202000515_zpsw9ghkvcy.jpg (http://s1154.photobucket.com/user/firebirdat/media/IMG_20160121_202000515_zpsw9ghkvcy.jpg.html)



Sorry about the quality cant find the digital camera right now, alot more are on that along with that bus. Also their in no particular order because its late at night and feeling super tired

Jersey Mike
03-09-2016, 06:28 AM
I love seeing that people are now putting money into these cars. Cool projects!

Blackbirdws6
03-09-2016, 06:54 AM
Nice progress. What are you doing about the exhaust?

firebirdat
03-09-2016, 10:07 PM
Nice progress. What are you doing about the exhaust?

Originally the plan was send it out and let someone fabricate a y-pipe to the magnaflow cat-back, but i decided i haven't sublet-ed anything out this far so why not do it myself if i know how to tig weld and cut/grind. Got vibrant 3"oval piping, like 10 ft of so i can test it out and make the mistakes that i know are going to happen, oval reducers, and a Y-pipe, as well as a high flow catalytic converter.

I love seeing that people are now putting money into these cars. Cool projects!

yea its a shame there's not a lot of love out there for third gens, or the amount of aftermarket support compared to all the other generations. In due time i guess.

WayFast84
03-12-2016, 01:11 PM
Nice project! I've been saving up parts for a similar swap since November and the only thing I'm still confused about is the fuel pump since I had an Lg4 with a small pump in the tank and a pump on the block. All you did was get a new sending unit and swap in a walboro 250 and a corvette filter/regulator? Do you have the part numbers for everything you bought?

firebirdat
03-14-2016, 09:15 PM
Nice project! I've been saving up parts for a similar swap since November and the only thing I'm still confused about is the fuel pump since I had an Lg4 with a small pump in the tank and a pump on the block. All you did was get a new sending unit and swap in a walboro 250 and a corvette filter/regulator? Do you have the part numbers for everything you bought?

I did all new -6 AN fuel lines, with a whole bunch of russell fittings that i don't have part numbers off the top of my head. i could look around and find the diagram i made for that though.I also made myself a fuel pump harness. i bought the racetronix harness and never used it for some reason.

Dorman sending unit-http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TYTRWE?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00
Walbro-http://www.summitracing.com/parts/vpn-gca758-2/overview/year/1987/make/chevrolet/model/camaro
C5 filter-http://www.amazon.com/ACDelco-GF822-Professional-Fuel-Filter/dp/B000C9S33U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458008024&sr=8-1&keywords=19239926

I think i got the majority it through rockauto, but for some reason i have it listed under amazon.

WayFast84
03-27-2016, 07:59 PM
Thanks for all the info. I'm still not sure if I'm going to just go with a bosch 044 inline pump or a walboro pump and maybe later add another if I go FI.

conlinj
04-01-2016, 05:23 PM
What heater box did you use?

firebirdat
04-02-2016, 04:32 PM
What heater box did you use?

http://www.classicindustries.com/product/firebird/parts/14588.html
Piece of crap in my book, probably going to throw it out and get an original one off ebay.

Punkmaster 98
04-02-2016, 10:36 PM
http://www.classicindustries.com/product/firebird/parts/14588.html
Piece of crap in my book, probably going to throw it out and get an original one off ebay.

i used an ebay one. it fit quite well. It was fiberglass

firebirdat
04-04-2016, 06:35 PM
i used an ebay one. it fit quite well. It was fiberglass

i was just unimpressed for the price i paid, i expected a little higher quality. it was just a gel coated panel that had alot of strands all over the place. it does the job but just feel as though the price is unjustifiable.

Punkmaster 98
04-04-2016, 10:37 PM
i was just unimpressed for the price i paid, i expected a little higher quality. it was just a gel coated panel that had alot of strands all over the place. it does the job but just feel as though the price is unjustifiable.

strands all over the place? mine wasnt like that at all. Are we talking about the same one?

firebirdat
04-06-2016, 09:56 PM
strands all over the place? mine wasnt like that at all. Are we talking about the same one?

Oops sorry for any confusion, i was talking about the one from classic industries

PolarBear
04-12-2016, 10:51 AM
http://www.classicindustries.com/product/firebird/parts/14588.html
Piece of crap in my book, probably going to throw it out and get an original one off ebay.

Thats the American Graffiti box. It's pretty nice for what you pay for, but it does need some work. I have one for the second Gen. Maybe they don't do as nice a job for CI since they aren't making as much money off them, or the quality has just gone downhill. Honestly, that's a great price IMO even if it does need some work sanding all the stock metal ones I have gotten all have rust, I'd rather have the glass one