Restoration Guides

[Untamed]

I've found a ton of GTO, Camaro, Vette and Mustang resto guides, but nothing for the Firebird / Trans Am specifically. Would a Camaro guide work for everything but the engine and tranny for 1st and 2nd gens?

I have the Haynes and Chilton books.

[9secfirebird]

i dont think so. i could be wrong though.

[SpeakersGoBoom]

I dont think so either. From what I heard, back then they were pretty different cars, with only the frame in common.

[jims69camaro]

I dont think so either. From what I heard, back then they were pretty different cars, with only the frame in common.

you are so close... but since they are unibody cars, there is no frame (except for the front sub-frame). however, the rear body (firewall back) is consistent. there was some styling changes back then, and, of course, you know the motors were different. the firebird actually had five engines to choose from...

i got resto guides for both of my cars by contacting:
MSX International
Attn: GM Resto
1426 Pacific Dr
Auburn Hills, MI 48326

Phone: 800-222-1020
Fax: 248-475-7460

i would also try contacting the Pontiac Historical Society (i think that's their name) as i understand they have much documentation to help out with restorations. i'm pretty sure i contacted them online in order to get the guides. you'd be surprised how much information was in each, plus they sent along lists for specialty shops, clubs, museums, sanctioning bodies, performance publications and all shops broken down by state where you can get 100% GM restoration parts and accessories.

[Untamed]

Cool, thanks guys. I've been to PHS, but they mostly tout their info packets designed for each individual car, by VIN. Didn't know about mechanical guides and such, that would rock.

Pontiac Historic Services: www.phs-online.com

[jims69camaro]

how about MSX International? didja give 'em a call to see what they've got? i'd do it for you, but i don't know what vehicle you've got or what exactly you need as far as documentation.

[Untamed]

Not yet, mostly because, um, I don't have a car yet. :roll:

I'm in that "collecting the essentials while I can" mode until the vehicle lands in my lap. I won't need the guide of course until I know what I'm restoring. Places like MSX are what I need to know about for a quick turn-around to get started right away. Since it'll be some Firebird/Trans Am type, locating the guides is tougher. I'd hate to have to rely on some generic auto mechanics guide, adapting their examples to what I have.

Thanks for the MSX info - I'll keep that handy and call them when I have the car. Until then, I won't waste anyones time.

Shameless plug - anyone have, or know of, a rusting TA somewhere that needs a new home, for really cheap?

- Dave