1991 Pontiac Firebird Project Lift Struts and Various Small Parts (Ep.2)

Since buying and looking over the car last episode, we identified a lot of small parts that could do with being replaced, and many of the usual things that go bad on aging cars. We will start with replacing the hood struts to make it much easier to work under the massive chunks of metal and glass that are the hood and back hatch, then we will look at tidying up and replacing some small parts in the engine bay.
Dates of filming: July 23rd, 2018 (Strut replacement, majority of work)
July 24th, 2018 (Check valve replacement, ignition checks)
Song List (Order of First Appearance):
0:01 In the Garden - Silent Partner
3:46 Surrender - Dan Lebowitz
8:41 Blue Creek Trail - Dan Lebowitz
15:56 On Our Side - Silent Partner
(All music provided by KZbin's Audio Library royalty free.)
Thanks for watching, and joining us on this adventure! Please let us know what you think! Consider supporting us via Patreon as well! / fuzzydiceprojects
Follow our Instagram for more pictures and teasers: / fuzzydiceprojects

[@tonsters525]

"Because he's the hero Pontiac deserves, but not the one it needs right now. So we'll bury him. Because he can take it. Because he's not our hero. He's a silent guardian. A watchful protector. A Broom Stick."

[@dutchbishop1192]

tonsters525 what is this from? It sounds familiar

[@tonsters525]

The Dark Knight

[@CarGroves]

Yes!

[@matts.8342]

I'm sitting here watching him bury the broom stick thinking what happens when he needs to sweep out the garage?!?

[@davisjames8484]

THE broomstick

[@Taov001]

sleep the sweet sleep , ever dutiful ever vigilant, broomstick. we salute thee

[@pcguy619]

*sweep the sweet sleep

[@user-pl7jr3rp1s]

rip

[@mrblicher835]

RIP

[@johndoe-rp4qb]

@@mrblicher835 hi

[@blueghost6288]

RIP *plays taps

[@Arthurzeiro]

Press F for the dutiful broomstick

[@markg.2501]

F

[@alexandercurtis4427]

F

[@gokeyinspections8552]

F

[@skipper3979]

F

[@tendymancommeth]

F

[@gtoger]

As the proud (?) owner of three 3rd Gen Firebirds, I must say nicely done. Something I'll pass along in case it's helpful: all my cars are TPI and not TBI, and there's a fuel pressure regulator at the very back of the engine. Over the years the seals dry up and get crunchy, which can lead to fuel leaking out, dripping on hot parts and catching fire. Don't ask me how I know. Whenever I get one of these cars with the LB9 or L98 that's one of the first things I do now.

[@rogerwilliams2042]

How do you know LB8 or L98 ? How can you tell? Asking for me

[@PSWeather19]

RIP Broomstick, you will be missed!

[@thepassionofthegoose5472]

He lives on in my Pathfinder.

[@jake_thomas9104]

You will be missed 😭😭😭

[@MrDemonchild71]

His name was broomstick

[@Gumgorrilla_]

💯

[@Gumgorrilla_]

Likes

[@zeth15943]

The chainsaw humor was a nice break from all the seriousness lol great video

[@CarGroves]

This car needs to go to Radwood

[@prince2lu-]

Definitely! Also the fresh drink joke

[@LegendStormcrow]

Got me to laughing. I was expecting it to come back for the thread locker bottle.

[@owngamesgamer4030]

plus the fueral of a broom stick

[@Toastman0071]

I'm 14, I think I'm turning into my dad already

[@piercerice1447]

TOASTMAN 0071 lmfao same

[@kondarras3266]

Dude I thought i was the only one😂

[@piercerice1447]

Kon Darras go to sleep

[@kondarras3266]

Pierce Rice its 11:32 in the morning

[@MilkManCaravan]

right? im 17 and i have started watching videos on classic cars and the whole time im thinking that im turning into my dad day by day

[@paulkane2391]

You are able to strike an almost-perfect balance between valuable how-to and humorous side-notes. Well done. Love your videos.

[@winnex317]

I'm not a car person, neither do I have any idea what's going on but I these are part of the rare pile of videos I actually watch from the beginning to end without skipping. The true power of good communication and editing keeping anybody interested.

[@BustedClassicGarage]

Man, these videos make me want to buy another 3rd gen!

[@BustedClassicGarage]

@A GOOD BROWNIE I agree 100% at least the firebirds were a little better looking than the camaros in the 4th gen. Damn bubbles! Lol

[@numchacar]

I just got one and I'm in australia and I have strut problems as well haha

[@Northern_Farmer]

Me to

[@numchacar]

@@Northern_Farmer also i might make vids on my progression on my thirdgen haha

[@patluvsvettes]

Once was enough for me, but I am enjoying watching their videos.

[@RonaldFinger]

Whether these are exciting or not, it doesn’t matter. These are entertaining as heck (excuse my language) Looking forward to the next one!

[@jimloucks3111]

This guy has a gift at making these videos, such a great beginner tutorial video. Baby steps is the best way to get things right, all those parts in your view might drive you crazy, but step by step will be more satisfying rather then having your project in pieces for weeks or months at a time..

[@randomperson4318]

indeed plus its so satisfying to see new parts added on a old car. It slowly turns the car back to life.

[@jordanwiley4582]

I've got my hood stick (also a broom handle, named him Sticky) in my car still, even after replacing the hood shocks. Can never be too prepared.

[@digitalrailroader]

Jordan Wiley who knows, you might have to use Sticky to hold up someone else’s hood while helping someone on the side of the road.

[@egagarin17]

It's a strange thing a father and sons bond with cars. My wife doesn't understand at all. My dad is a car enthusiast. He is still with me and we are worlds apart about many things but good cars, Mustangs in particular we ALWAYS have love and common ground. He is getting up there in age and I am dreading the day I get "the call" until then I call him every week and ask his advice even though I don't need it all the time. I get complimented all the time on my actions, manners, attitude and outlook on life. I tell everyone, "I had a good teacher." Funniest thing is, he's technically my step father. It never mattered to me though. He is always my dad.

[@dogbounty6399]

You could make documentaries...good voice and narration.

[@poolboyinla]

This car is going to be something special. Whatever happened to your dad and his Firebird?

[@FuzzyDiceProjects]

He sold his Firebird to a coworker after daily driving it for a few years, it had a lot of miles on it by that time. He passed away suddenly in the early 00's and is still sorely missed.

[@jackrich8399]

Fuzzy Dice Projects do you know the vin?

[@FuzzyDiceProjects]

@@jackrich8399 Don't think so. It may well be on a piece of paper in a file somewhere, but it would likely be difficult to figure out.

[@jackrich8399]

If you do look for it man btw I just found your channel keep up the good work

[@kikohabacon2607]

Woah, tito travis, didn’t expect to see you comment here. Stay manacced

[@McRocket]

7:27 R.I.P. Broomstick. You will not be forgotten anytime soon, drumstick. Errr...broomstick.

[@HamsterWheelGaming]

RIP Broomstick, thank you for your service and the sacrifices you made.

[@gunsbeersmemes]

Thank you for appreciating this car.

[@scottboyer8450]

This channel is therapeutic. I like this channel way more than most you'll find on Motor Trend or Speed channel. The vast majority of them follow the same old and tired reality TV format of artificial drama, guys standing with sleeve-tattooed-arms-crossed while taking the credit for someone else's work. Shows like that hardly even show any actual work being done. You've got a great channel going here. Looks like you'll be hitting the 100k subs milestone very soon too! Congrats!

[@ronaldsantosjapan]

Agree. ( And an extra thumbs up for your UN SPACY avatar there.)

[@OnyxBlad3]

Nice to see a new video about the ol Pontiac

[@redbug3485]

Get the Steering wheel option with all the option controls on it! Its a GTP wheel but its awesome!

[@off-roadmechanic]

As someone who is trying to work on a 3rd gen Firebird in the back yard I would like to thank you for all this info it really helps me to figure out more about the car

[@nbowling10trio]

For some reason I've always liked this body style, actually every firebird ever made. Would like to see one with newer LS. I used to drive one with the 305 HO and auto. Even the V6 was pleasant to drive. I always keep tunes up loud so rattles and squeaks were no issue. Nicest I was in was the 89 indy turbo trans am. Guy at work was talking smack that his 94 V8 tbird could keep up on hwy. So we did a roll from forty to triple diggies. Needless to say he sold the tbird and bought a 96 manual V8 Z28 shortly after. Always loved the mustangs too.

[@lb9gta307]

Everyone and their brother has done a cookie cutter LS swap to these cars.

[@nbowling10trio]

@@lb9gta307 5.9 cummins? LS just makes most sense. There's a reason it's most common swap engine. Although a L32 or L67 converted to twin turbo would be nice! I would make it super quiet with the TTV6 so all you could hear is turbo and blow off valve.

[@lb9gta307]

@@nbowling10trio a sbc makes most sense since that's what's suppised to be in them and they're only a few parts away from the power most people end up making with an LS swap.

[@Jerrypintoswe]

So nice to see someone else giving love to a thirdgen Firebird, i love driving and fixing with my Firebird Formula

[@gigglenhoot]

Great work mate, love how you talk and do the work at the same time unlike some you tubers that talk for 20mins and show you 5mins of work.

[@Impactjunky]

@Fuzzy Dice Projects I just finished watching the first two episodes of the Firebird project and I'm hooked. I rarely subscribe to other car channels as most of them rub me the wrong way for various reasons but I really dig this channel. I actually found the channel because I just bought a third gen Trans Am myself a couple months ago and have been watching a lot of vids on them. I'm doing videos of fixing my TA up as well, I only paid 600 bucks for the car but it wasn't running when I bought it. I got it running again the next day and have since done a lot to improve the car. My next episode is likely gonna be showing off the badass shift servo and poly. transmission mount I just installed, also going to put a 4.10 gear, mini spool, carb spacer and some other goodies on it soon too. The plan is to make the car look and be as stock as possible while squeezing as much performance out of it as I can. The first time I drove the car I was really impressed with the amount of power the little 305 had, it performed far better than it's reputation would suggest and was totally unmolested/original so I just couldn't resist making a stock looking sleeper out of it. I currently have just the shift servo installed and the car is a ton of fun to drive, it will do a nice one wheel peel just like yours and bark second gear too. I do paint and bodywork for a living and plan on repainting the car in it's original color and putting a new decal kit on it. After that I need to sell the car to fund some of my other projects, it has grown on me and I really wanna keep it but I bought it as an investment and need to get my return.

[@FuzzyDiceProjects]

Was it a "Corvette" servo you installed? I do like the feel those have, I have them in two of my other vehicles, wouldn't mind one for this car. I feel the same way about the 305, it doesn't feel slow to me! Good amount of torque, at least. Keep on making videos!

[@Impactjunky]

@@@FuzzyDiceProjects It's the Global Transmission Parts "Extreme HD Super Servo" I love it, it shifts super hard at WOT but has good manners when cruising. I honestly can't recommend it enough.

[@jessevongnaraj2276]

I was thinking we were going to miss a Friday episode 😱 Thank you for your consistency ☺️

[@FuzzyDiceProjects]

Had to re-render it a few times so it ended up being later than usual, but made it just in time! Probably will only be a video every other week for a while, but will try hard not to miss that schedule.

[@averageboi5195]

I bet this neighbors gonna be proud

[@N3M3S1S357]

No, they weren't massive things you did this time but.. They were satisfying to watch. Also love the little humor bits you threw in on this one. Can't wait for the next video on this old Bird.

[@billymania11]

Very noble to bring a car back from the grave and it’s a pretty cool car model to boot! Good job.

[@nitrokiller9959]

Hey man I want to send you something for this car. I make a custom light up panel for the rear of the car. The panel with the bird and “pontiac” logo. I use an oem panel and modify it to light up. In my kit I send sign grade waterproof red and white LED lights and splice connectors. I have sold one of these on eBay after making the first for myself. I want to send you a kit for free. If you are interested please respond to this and we can figure out a more formal form of communication.

[@timothymarland1151]

Nitrokiller 99 hope he does it, sounds awesome. Hope I get to see it

[@Guy.B]

I think you can E-mail him, so he'll read it.

[@nitrokiller9959]

What’s his email?

[@nitrokiller9959]

I got it and I’ve sent him an email.

[@FuzzyDiceProjects]

Thanks for reaching out! I received your email, I will get back to you about it as soon as possible! Sounds like a pretty cool idea

[@302hobronco]

I've been a mech for 18yrs and I still find your videos interesting to listen to lol thank you

[@stickit2theman1]

First a Junkyard Digs vid, now a FDP vid IN THE SAME DAY. Somebody pinch me.

[@ptb3937]

Same

[@Ingens_Scherz]

Really enjoying these. Thanks. I actually drove a 1989 Firebird Trans Am that a friend of mine owned back in 1996 - in the UK! It was like a rocket ship. Scared the hell out of me - but I instantly fell in love with its beauty - I still think its the most beautiful car I've ever see - its comfort, its engineering and that incredible engine. 5.7 litres is a number in England that you associate with attic water tanks, not cars. The sound it made - a kind of deep-throated, multi-levelled, silky roar - is not something you ever forget the first time you hear it.

[@deany2much]

Found your channel a week ago. I've watched all of your videos since then. You have such a good range of projects and it's so calming to watch and very persuasive to get me working on my cars. Keep it going and I can't wait for more videos.

[@officialclownbusiness7788]

Just came from episode one. Between the cool rides, the wrenching tips, and the humor, you have earned my subscription.

[@THEFlea1991]

RIP Mr. Broom S. Tick ... great video, love the color on the car!

[@DFX2KX]

Such a fine broomstick, in the mold of all those broomsticks that held up the hoods, trunks, and liftbacks that have come before.

[@dillondavidson4399]

thanks for sharing this video! i am currently working on an 85 trans am and this definitely gave me some insight.

[@lordofrims]

Between your Firebird and Ronald Finger's Fiero I find it interesting that you both choose to restore cars that represented your fathers, both stopped, both in red colour and both in the Pontiac sports cars of the 80's line

[@sixpacksandsrts9122]

Your videos are a treat bud. You do a fantastic job

[@DeeYarEss]

Have be honest... these videos are great. No annoying voice or trying to be overly cool. Just a dude working on a car we can all relate to. You should find a local detailing youtuber and have them full on buff and polish that thing. I bet the paint would come out fantastic.

[@elijah1374]

Sweet vidoes bro keep up the great work!

[@angryxinch8812]

My first car was an 87 trans am gta with the 350 tpi, i loved that car and just these videos alone bring back many fond memories.

[@anthonyhunt701]

Fuzzy Dice, you are good AND funny and informative. Keep it up, "everyman" projects like this..........

[@BrassBuilder]

I had a black one. My coworkers named it KITT. Sold it. Miss it.I could watch you spinning the washer reservoir cap on all day. That was so soothing.

[@jstardhami9958]

😂 the chainsaw had me dying

[@kallianz]

What do you mean: "Not very exciting."? The whole process is the whole point, all these bits and pieces add up to a nice journey, very relaxing and wholesome.

[@doubleutubefan5]

Just this morning I found the first episode so I subscribed and to my surprise the second one comes out today. I'm very happy to see this restoration going on on this car but I would like to know if you're doing a full factory restore or just doing general maintenance to bring it up to drivability standards not show room standards

[@GeminiWoods]

Check out his other projects. Will give you a good idea of the type of work he does. I'd recomend the blazer build first.

[@doubleutubefan5]

@@GeminiWoods i will thanks

[@FuzzyDiceProjects]

Yep, as Robert Breeden suggested I don't really do full restorations or anything. Basically just want to get it mechanically sound and drive it!

[@doubleutubefan5]

@@FuzzyDiceProjects thanks for the reply! Shucks that It won't be restored to factory condition but what's that really matter? Especially when you're going to be driving it

[@gokeyinspections8552]

@@FuzzyDiceProjects same here. Except my 89 Jag Majestic is so rare I'm rebuilding the car in my garage. You should see my channel pop up soon I'm gathering content!

[@613Builds]

the hoods on these cars are like a mile long and the hood lifts are mostly 30 yrs old. its one of the first things i replaced on the 1983 LS swap project also. makes it easier to work on the old car when the hood stays open lol. definately one of the best first things you can do on a project car like these. thumbs up

[@joshuabrown5137]

I started to cry when he said goodbye to the broomstick 1like 1 prayer for broomstick Rip

[@kimchipig]

The combination of stone age GM emission gear and the TBI is really interesting. Thanks for the video!

[@ManMountainMetals]

how r the door hinge bushings? I only ask cause I remember they wear quickly cause the doors were so long. ( I had a 79 TA and later a 8? FB)

[@FuzzyDiceProjects]

Not bad actually, they may have been replaced at some point. There is a very small amount of play but the doors don't droop noticeably and they open and close nice and easy.

[@RPMX4]

Oh my you're reminding me of my ole '80 Z-28. Those long and heavy doors provided to beat those bushings to death in no time. were hard on those weren't they? LOL

[@Varmint260]

Your sense of humour is on point! I'm currently replacing a lot of parts on a 99 Camaro that was parked for a year next to a chicken coop, so this is resonating with me a lot.

[@thomaslangy3964]

I miss the stik

[@michaelstasyszyn8857]

Replacing all those lines and "cheap" parts is a total throwback to my 3rd gen. Damnit, I miss that thing.

[@yazpowy5957]

RIP Sir Broom .S. Tick. drop a like for his rememberance!

[@BanglishBoy]

I'm 100% into tuner imports and euros, but something about the way you've produced your work and developed your love for this car.. just fun to watch !!

[@wheelerstow9615]

Hey Fuzzy Dice Projects. You didn't happen to hold on to those old hood struts did you? I've got a fiberglass hood that's too light for regular strength supports and think those weak ones might do the trick

[@FuzzyDiceProjects]

I'm pretty sure they are in the scrap bin around here somewhere if you really want them! Shoot me an email at [e-mail]

[@randomperson4318]

I got some Monroe struts for my 300M and they fuckin bent the hood. Now they are good and some say they are the longest lasting struts but fucking hell I have to get a new hood lol

[@jacksonstephens9772]

I really like that you cover loose wires with split loom, Its a great idea At keeping those old wires safe

[@tenfoothobo7822]

you need to ChrisFix this engine bay.

[@DarthSega]

Great work, I have owned various 3rd gen Firebird's since before I even had a license (I bought an 83 Trans am for my 1st car when I was 15). My current autocross/road racer is a 1990 Formula 350. Enjoying watching another 3rd gen get some love. Keep it up!

[@businesscatlimbo]

This video was "definitely not" sponsored by WD-40 ;)

[@Ibarakify]

It definitely wasn't. WD-40 is not a lubricant, it's a cleaner. You don't want to use it as a lubricant, ever.

[@riobonito]

Sensational work! These details make a difference. This third generation is my favorite.

[@Northern_Farmer]

No nice throaty sounding dual exhaust?

[@GeminiWoods]

I'm sure that will be in a future episode.

[@lb9gta307]

The top models got a 3" single pipe exhaust with a 1 in 2 out muffler. Most aftermarket performance systems for these cars are a similar layout.

[@Northern_Farmer]

@@lb9gta307 didnt know that...would still sound pretty good

[@lb9gta307]

@@Northern_Farmer that's the set up I have on my GTA and I love how it sounds. Very deep tone.

[@Northern_Farmer]

@@lb9gta307 nice

[@brandonb5298]

I personally like how you voice over, to bad you didn’t make those lesson videos they played back when I was in school, it was always some boring old guy. This is good info plus humor without the added background bs. Great videos

[@hasbeengood]

Very nicely done. Thanks. I love bringing new life into old cars.

[@energyboy5696]

I absolutely loved the humor in this episode. Epsecially with your cadence and delivery being the way it is. Keep it up!

[@omarflores323]

When i had the time to do this kind of stuff i didn't have the money. Now that i can afford it i dont ha e the time. I'm only home one week out of the month and by time i get to go home my wife has a list of things that need to be done around the house. All i can do is watch people like you sir doing it on KZbin. Life just sucks sometimes.

[@tonybusch2564]

man, i love this channel. the illustrated step by step verbal instruction and dialouge is pretty cool. im sure its a great assist for those who arent mechanically inclined. ive been in the automotive building and repair industry for about 20 years so i personally have a good grip on day to day dealings with vehicles but for the average joe watching this, looking for some straight forward instruction on the many avenues of repairing and fixing a daily driver, this is just what they need. great job dude. love the videos, love the series, and thank you for all your time and effort you put into these videos.

[@borginator1493]

Okay so I've binge watched all of the Blazer series and now I am starting the Firebird series, great channel man.

[@dilutedverm]

That was a proper send off for such a hard working broom stick, Well done !

[@jeremiahcooko7580]

I just love this body style I know these aren’t the most sought after cars but I love them

[@markg.2501]

Nicely Done.......Already looking forward to the next installment of the resurrection of this F body!

[@Mr76Pontiac]

I had a 3rd Gen Camaro. 1st love of my life. I'm happily jealous that you've got your hands on this beautiful machine and planning on taking good care of it.

[@patluvsvettes]

Looking great, guys! Watching you guys fix up that old Firebird brings back a lot of great memories of my time restoring a 1983 Trans Am. Have fun!

[@eightyeight3694]

Thanks to you I found a new dream car and I can't wait to see more work on this car. Watching videos like this I learn there a lot more parts to a car than I could have ever imagined.

[@upcomingcloudrapperluca7645]

Instantly subbed when you gave the broom stick a funeral. Excellent comedy and you really know your stuff.

[@bighutch389]

Dang that broom deserves a medal of honor for his fight

[@1337fraggzb00N]

R.I.P. Broomstick. He was true friend. YOU WILL GET THAT BACK, STALIN!

[@ohhithereanimations5860]

Why is this so entertaining and satisfying

[@tommyboulet]

So satisfying to see an "old" car being worked on like this. I subscribed to your channel a while ago and never looked back. I'm always happy to see a new video coming out. Thanks!

[@nickreed1465]

Nice project series. I watch these when I'm working on my own car. Thank you

[@MsRay1985]

Good video, keep on sharing the progress. I specifically liked the relation to your dad`s old car. You are down to the point and thorough. Waiting for the rest of the story to unfold...

[@robertdamron898]

I love what you are doing. I am currently restoring completely. An 89 WS6 Formula. I am the only owner. My baby.

[@tonibarcelonaspain1764]

Don t say a such a video is uneventful. Detail mattters so much. I really enjoy watching it. Regards from Barcelona

[@pharrowman2780]

You do a great job. Lots of transparency while working. Step by step even with a lil enthusiasm. 👌👌👌

[@GrecoRoman123]

Loved my 3rd gen. Had a 92 Camaro RS with this power plant (5 speed manual) for over 10 yrs. Sold it in 2010 to get a 4-door. Never had problems with the engine or transmission. Thermostat had to be replaced a couple times.

[@dylanwelsh4111]

I had no idea I loved watching car restoration videos so much you've well and truly re-ignited my love for cars and mechanics

[@adamelwood7768]

This is cool to see, lots of good information here. Currently have a customers project in my shop with the same b&m 250ci blower setup with dual qft-850 carbs and has the matching b&m superCHILLER intercooler below it all on top of a 496ci stroker. Hearing the thing run for the first time was a treat! (Especially for myself, being a turbo LS guy.)

[@kirkgonzalez3163]

Damn, this guy is a good host. Keeping us entertained with humor through the process

[@andrewkeith1448]

I subscribed because of this car. My father helped me get my 99 running I love trans am with a passion.

[@arbys8878]

SMASHED THE LIKE BUTTON JUST BECAUSE OF THE WD40 PART

[@shawdcummings2160]

the humor through out the video is amazing

[@rafalkowalski5062]

Great video. 10 years ago i owned 92. firebird. But it was crapy v6 so i sold id. Now in abou 3 months i will be buing 3 gen pontiac and making it and me happy :) make mor videos of this car. Graet work!! I like very much watching you repair this bird:)

[@rijosigns]

owned 7 of em from 73-84.....still my fave affordable sports car in my mind

[@josephveselenik9446]

Love it had a 86 rotted out before I could drive it lucky you for finding one man hood luck love to see the progress of a good vehicle

[@skipper3979]

I am so excited for this series.

[@Canadiancarguy1987]

not sure if you want to try out this trick or not but as far as your coolant reservoir goes you could wrap the threat on the body of the jugg with electrical tape and it will allow you to tighten it up a but better and maybe seal it off better. sounds kinda goofy but it works.

[@mousetivity]

Watching these are very therapeutic