New T/A guy needs input from YOU
12-17-2007, 04:57 PM
#1
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New T/A guy needs input on ´81 Turbo Gentlemen.
You might be able to help a new Trans Am fan. On a 1981 Trans Am Turbo – what are the main things to check out when I go inspect the car I want to buy? (Engine, Turbine, Transmission...?)
And are there any essential (hopefully cheap) modifications you do on 81 turbo bird?
Your input is highly appreciated.
You might be able to help a new Trans Am fan. On a 1981 Trans Am Turbo – what are the main things to check out when I go inspect the car I want to buy? (Engine, Turbine, Transmission...?)
And are there any essential (hopefully cheap) modifications you do on 81 turbo bird?
Your input is highly appreciated.
Last edited by Burt Reynolds; 12-18-2007 at 02:19 AM.
12-17-2007, 05:51 PM
#2
The 301 in the turbo ta's had beefier main webbing than the std 301 engines, but they are still boat anchors IMHO. Also getting full boost was an issue with the throttle set up. The th200 tranny sucks.
If the rear didn't come with at least 2.73 gears you will need a spacer for gear swaps.
The hinges go bad and the doors hang real bad. The car rust at the base of the windshield specially in the corners. The rear valance or rear body panel under the bumper cover rusts big time, as do the rear frame rails and the dog legs of the fenders.
Any one else?
If the rear didn't come with at least 2.73 gears you will need a spacer for gear swaps.
The hinges go bad and the doors hang real bad. The car rust at the base of the windshield specially in the corners. The rear valance or rear body panel under the bumper cover rusts big time, as do the rear frame rails and the dog legs of the fenders.
Any one else?
12-18-2007, 11:09 AM
#3
Nothing really major to look for bedides the obvious stuff you would with any car. The only thing I would make sure is the turbo was working and the exhaust manifolds are not cracked.They are famous for that.Other wise check out this website.I get most of the info I need for my 81 here. http://www.301garage.com/
You might also ask on This website http://transamcountry.com/community/
You might also ask on This website http://transamcountry.com/community/
12-18-2007, 03:49 PM
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bottom of every quarter panel. check the trunk, and interior if it had t-tops for water damage or signs of covering it up. battery tray is obvious. base of windshield, all weather stripping, and frame rails. as for doing the engine, dont waste your time and money. it would be better well spent to restore back to factory stock and make it a nice shower/cruiser then to make it fast. that is unless you dont care about originality, and the only thing to do then is swap the motor.
12-18-2007, 06:01 PM
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Gentlemen.
You might be able to help a new Trans Am fan. On a 1981 Trans Am Turbo – what are the main things to check out when I go inspect the car I want to buy? (Engine, Turbine, Transmission...?)
And are there any essential (hopefully cheap) modifications you do on 81 turbo bird?
Your input is highly appreciated.
You might be able to help a new Trans Am fan. On a 1981 Trans Am Turbo – what are the main things to check out when I go inspect the car I want to buy? (Engine, Turbine, Transmission...?)
And are there any essential (hopefully cheap) modifications you do on 81 turbo bird?
Your input is highly appreciated.
12-18-2007, 09:35 PM
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Keeping it all Pontiac is not cheap. The 301 is a POS in my opinion of course you can throw enough money at something and it will be faster but those engines have big limitations. Also changing plugs in a turbo TA is a true joy. They do look really good though.
