Things to look at when buying an F-Body

**Dave-TransAm** · 03-31-2012, 12:21 AM

The '97 Firebird I got ended up being a pile so I'm looking at getting an LS1 WS.6 or SS. I just want to know from you guys, what are some things to keep in mind when looking at cars like these?

**98maro** · 03-31-2012, 01:27 AM

Rear end noise, oil leaks, make sure everything works. Usually window regulators are slow,
Check under the car for any visible damage, test drive it.
Make sure when u open the ignition switch to "on" the cluster lights work. Engine light. And other warning lights!
No smog coming out of the exhaust.
Other than that. Good luck

**Dave-TransAm** · 03-31-2012, 01:49 AM

Thanks! Appreciate the reply! Also, anything to look for with the transmission? I'll be looking at manuals and only manuals haha.

**FinZ28** · 03-31-2012, 05:51 AM

I'd say so long as the clutch feels good, the shifter doesn't grind when shifting or pop out of gear while you're driving, then you should be okay.

**flybird** · 03-31-2012, 06:15 AM

If your going all out, check for apperance details too! Rock chips, bubbling paint, crack dash, crack side panals, ect..

Make sure you got good voltage, the thormostat opens all the way(test drive) and oil prrssure is good.

Front turn signals seems what most fbody owners have problems with. Ive never had a problem with it, but make sure they work and dnt go out.

Goodluck!

**tatertot91** · 03-31-2012, 07:58 AM

If it's a ttop car check for stains in the carpet that would indicate leaking seals. Check under the car and see if the fender tabs are bent, this indicated the car was jacked up improperly. Just behind the door, a wrinkle towards the bottom of the quarter panel would indicate a rear end collision or that the car was towed improperly. If possible take it on the highway and take it up to speed, best way to recognize any vibrations. Besides that just go over the fluids, oil change intervals, any paperwork the owner has for the car, stuff like that.

Here's a thread with a list of stuff you might want to look at
http://www.ls1.com/forums/f6/guide-buying-fbody-118628/

**tatertot91** · 03-31-2012, 08:02 AM

Originally Posted by Dave-TransAm

Thanks! Appreciate the reply! Also, anything to look for with the transmission? I'll be looking at manuals and only manuals haha.

Check the reservoir for dirty fluid, go through all the gears thoroughly. Any grinding would indicate bad synchros, if you find it tough getting into 3rd it's most likely a bent fork.
Just make sure you get a good drive in it, I had one guy who took me for a test drive and i could tell right off the bat the trans was going out which he claimed was perfect.

**Dave-TransAm** · 03-31-2012, 12:27 PM

Originally Posted by tatertot91

Check the reservoir for dirty fluid, go through all the gears thoroughly. Any grinding would indicate bad synchros, if you find it tough getting into 3rd it's most likely a bent fork.
Just make sure you get a good drive in it, I had one guy who took me for a test drive and i could tell right off the bat the trans was going out which he claimed was perfect.

I had the same problem with the Firebird. I went to get the oil changed and trans fluid changed and they found a ton of metal flakes in the trans and wouldn't even change the fluid. And thanks for all the replies guys! I am definately taking my time going into this car! I love the look and stock performance of the 98-02 F-Bodies and I just cant stay away! Haha all my friends give me shit for it but I dont care! I will keep you guys updated on my search!