I found someone nearby selling a good looking 3rd gen firebird. He claims its a formula, and it definitely looks it, but i have a few questions to know what im getting.

1. He says its the factory 350/700r4. Any rpo codes/vin indicators that will let me know?

2. He also says that is was a TBI, that he swapped to carb. I will want TBI back for its reliability, and he says he has all the stuff from it (intake, throttle body, distributor, coil) Would this be just a matter of taking it apart and putting it back together, and plugging in some stuff?

3. What kind of engine is it exactly? If this is a "L98" engine shouldn't it be TPI? I thought the only TBI in 1989 was the 305 in f-bodys, and 350 in trucks. This is what i have found in some wuick research and i haven't seen a TBI 350 in a f-body anywhere.

4. He says 197k on the clock. Time for a refresh/rebuild? My 94 Z has 194k and it seems to be strong besides my electrical problems which are being fixed. I have always loved the 3rd Gen firebird looks more than anything.

If no one has definite answers, i can post to 3rdgen forum i know i'll get some there. Figured i would try here first

 

There were no TBI 350 cars ever built for a camaro or firebird. If my memory is correct you want to look at the 8th didgit in the vin number. If it's an 8, then it was a TPI 350, an F would be a TPI 305, and finally an E would me TBI 305. Hope this helps.

 

I may be going to check it out tomorrow. Will get a close look at that VIN. My guess is it was originally a 305 TBi, that they swapped for the 350, and then a carb for some reason. I hope its not as chopped as i think it may be. It's being sold by a pretty reputable race shop around here. I know once they put a built 350 in a bmw bet it mad some beamer fans mad. Either way i like my 4th gen LT power so im not sure about yet.