3rd Gen Trans Am SUPER SLEEPER Build | The Plan of Attack

[@theANGRIERone]

Duralast - when you absolutely, positively want to do the job more than once!

[@90lxfox3]

car quest - do it once maybe

[@jsomething2]

hahahaha I laughed as I have their ball joints on my truck that need changed again.

[@lowslo9287]

Facts!

[@manbearpig2164]

It's gonna be awesome, Camaros are great, but there is just something about a Trans Am

Love your 3rd gen Trans Am. One of my favorite muscle cars in the 80s.

[@sedrickwells8545]

My favorite car in the whole world. I will be following this build step by step

[@das7091]

Man that thing starts flawlessly after that starter. I have to use the gas pedal to even get it to start. Love the videos man!

[@big_mc]

This is perfect. Just what I wanted to see. I'll be following this all the way.

[@pirateofms]

A year after, but just wanted to let you know you (inadvertently) talked me into buy a v6 firebird to do an LS swap on. I go pick it up Sunday.

[@6sixty1gixxer80]

Thanks for the content. The 88 5.7 is slow moving right now but you are definitely an inspiration for a strong streetable daily commuter

[@jamesobert8972]

I'm excited to see this go through it's transformation. Good luck Matt

[@a.j.s.8049]

Matt, love the sleeper theme on Trans Am. It's in a little better condition than my 85 IROC. I'm gonna go same way except I have a 6.0. Good luck and looking forward to videos on this build.

[@speeder36]

I'm also doing a 86Trans Am, I'll be following this!

[@TheCoster11]

I got an 84. Me too lol

[@cipilliano1728]

I’m just happy to see you doing exactly what I’m doing with my camaro. Turbo LS with 4l80 and AC. You’ll probably finish both your 3rd gens before I finish mine 😂🤣

[@hephaestus4587]

This is gonna be another great build to watch grow. Building an 83 sleeper myself so it'll be good to see what works and what doesnt.

[@89wm1]

I love it. I have a 1986 Trans Am, I have owned her since 1990, so I am trying to follow you as much as I can, getting ideas for my car which is basically stock. I want to see how much horsepower I can get out of the 305. Unfortunately I cannot work on it myself & I don’t want to invest massive money in a crate engine and transmission. So I’m watching and reading as much as I can. Your Trans Am is looking great. I am subscribed.

[@jaydubb71]

Your Duralast jingle made me bust out laughing at work! "Duralast! Its gonna **** your ***!" LMAO!!!!!

[@lagbait3076]

I know it's supposed to be sleeper, but an 80's era turbo badge decal on it would be funny as hell.

[@LTJohn]

Definitely keep the stock colors but everything is going to be awesome!! 😁

[@MotorScotti]

Nice man! Love the sleeper project! I love how you can just motify pretty much anything you like on your cars in the US.

[@modernvisionscc]

My dream T/A would be a 800+hp LS supercharged Knight Rider car.

[@sombeach2450]

Hey Matt! Great Vid! I know you have a plan for wheels and tires. I would love to see GTA style wheels on this car. I know there was a company, maybe still is, that made 17 inch and maybe 18 inch versions of the GTA wheels. Paint them Charcoal Grey. Would look killer on this car. Can't wait to start seeing this baby come back to life.

[@lsxmatt]

Eric Wilson I considered the 17’s but the main thing for me was the price. If I had no other option for a stock style wheel I would do it, but I found an even better sleeper alternative! Plus I’m going to try to stick to somewhat of a budget on this one, so the Hawks wheels aren’t really price friendly for everyone.

[@sombeach2450]

@@lsxmatt can't wait to see what you picked!

[@28tonrod]

Iconic Fbody! I cant wait to see how this beautiful classic will look in the end! Great choice for a build! I have an 84 z28, learned a lot from your Camaro build! Thanks for the videos!

[@alex16134]

Sleeper is going to be slick! Super Sneaky love it 🤘🏼

[@bellowsjeep3999]

Great plan! Sleeper is definitely the way to go!

[@m1a1hm]

Man I can't wait to see you start work on the Trans Am I got a 92 Z28 and I got to do some of the same work on my . Its going to be fun to see how the Trans Am turns out.

[@Eastendhunter9]

cant wait to see this build

[@motorola12slvr]

Bro I’m super exited to see your build!!

[@jayadams5529]

Gonna be a fun project. Good luck on the 4l80 swap. I'm currently in the middle of that swap with my 91' , not a lot of options out there for trans crossmembers , But the trans went right in with little modification to the trans tunnel.

[@ajdilullo903]

Im currently building a Turbo LS 88 Formula 350 with a 6.0 and a 4L80e. Cant wait to see how your swap goes !

[@jonathonhanssen5638]

I would like to see this project, do you have any videos or are you on any forums?

[@matthewreedy2174]

Have the same year same color, currently fixing it up.

[@GroundhogzGarage]

Don’t feel bad. I bought a brand new Powermaster starter for my 74 Grand Am and it lasted about 2 weeks. Opposite problem of yours. The bendix wasn’t coming out all the way.

[@davebarron5939]

This will be a hoot! look forward to following. I am not sure a 4L80E will fit very well, just larger. And "T" Tops! Woo Hoo hello summer!

[@sydneyposey2522]

Same issue with my Duralst Autozone starter for my SBC in my 74 nova, had to replace it 3 times before i got an okay one.

[@BigZabowski]

Love the build plan for the 86 Matt. Got an 85 myself (Red but also a 305/700R4 car stock). Your Camaro was why I subbed and as such I'm going T-56 because I need to row gears in my life. Plan to carve corners too so I await the results from the suspension upgrades! Also feel ya on the T-Top bar, mine is swiss cheese as well lol.

[@jsomething2]

for a mountain road car. the eibach progressive springs, some tokico adjustable shocks/struts with sticky 17in tires. depending on what sway bars you have, I have the oe thick ones, I think 1 1/16th inch? these cars hold their own with anyone I've found to run with.

[@nedalrabadi1]

Good job . . . keep'em coming

[@michaelcsete9201]

The 17" repo crosslace wheels in black would look great on this. Would allow for much bigger brakes as well.

[@AmericanMade00]

I’m doing the exact same project as you. I’m a bit farther along but I still gotta figure out the transmission cross member. It might be cheaper for me to fabricate one

[@tjs_welding_and_fabrication]

Cool project Matt.

[@jamesjohnson9668]

I feel for u bud had the same thing happen to me on my square body 6starters later finally went to thejunk yard got a good one been on thier for 4years now with out any problems

[@callsignsleepwalker7231]

I had two birds before, yesterday I got an 89 formula , I’m ready to give it TLC

[@mtran7908]

Where you get the lift ? Never seen 1 like that before and I like it

[@lsx3701]

Good video and great project plan

[@markst.germain9286]

I bought a formula for my 50th birthday February 14, 2020 , doing many of the same things.

[@ariyanadumon4549]

I wouldn't leave the old bushings, I think that's a big mistake my guy. I would honestly build up the suspension better since you're going to put so much power into her. Subframe Connectors, Tubular Panhard Bar, Torque Arm and Lower Control Arms. All of those things were shit in 86, and they haven't aged well at all lol. TTop Cars have a history of Frame Flex, and that's a gorgeous car, put the damn connectors in, I'd hate to see a grown man cry. Spohn is your friend, so is Polyeurethane and Derlin. The little things matter on these builds, and best part is, none of that will be visible whilst she's on the ground. So, Sleeper Status Maintained whilst also improving driveability.

[@lsxmatt]

Its getting frame connectors, just forgot to mention it. Most I’ll probably do would be replace the rear rubber stuff with new. I hate the poly in my Camaro. The rear squeaks and I haven’t been able to stop it yet.

[@mikejohnson9118]

@@lsxmatt Isn't there Poly-Graphite bushings. Which tend to be less squeaky.

[@michaelhanewich245]

It's the jingle..... "duralast...... Doesn't last..... " I got an IAC from there years ago that looked to be made in kindergarten art class instead of a production facility.

[@philipnelson1104]

You should check out huntertuned and his budget ls swaps

[@jarrodsmith6890]

Hey Matt I have a 86 TA as well and love your series as it s giving me ideas. You said your gonna replace the steering wheel. How much would you want for the old one? I’ve been looking for one like that.

[@3KidsinAustin]

@LsxMatt What are your thoughts on the pinch blocks form the Quickjack? Saw your comments earlier in TGO about not using the QJ to lift the TA because of the lack of subframe connectors. I have been wanting to buy one of those lifts but holding off because I cannot figure out how to lift my 85 TA. Can't wait for more of this series!

[@OldManFrank]

*Watching these videos always makes me itchy to start working on more performance on my 1976 Camaro!* @camaronado

[@mikejohnson9118]

Matty, To be honest I wouldn't do the turbo. Between the heat and component stress it might be a can of worms $$. Remember that vehicle is almost 35yrs old. I would bet if you put a solid 400hp/400ft-lbs 5.3L engine in the Trans-Eenni. You will be very happy. Happy in the power, cost saving and mostly reliability. That thing will scooooot! But hey...it's your project bro, Wrench on.

[@kitt28]

what is the very best OBD 1 scan tools for a 3rd Gen Firebird?

[@KN1GHT2000]

Nice one! By the way whats the song called on 7:15 ? i love the new retrowave they playing nowadays very 80s :) thanks!

[@Thirdgen83]

What size is the small stud on the front of the starter that goes to the bracket that bolts to the engine block? I am trying to find the correct size nut for mine.

[@Turbogto_guy]

Matt, i build 4l60’s as a side gig. I’ve built ALOT of them and experimented a good bit. I know what works and what don’t. Had done cars in the 9’s with my transmissions. If you like, I can send you my recipe and hook you up with a good source for parts including the sonnax billet shafts and a drum that holds th350 clutches for the 3-4. He will likely give you a discount too. I’ve moved on from the sonnax input drum to this drum (4l79) because it’s better. Also, there’s another guy I can hook you up with that makes a very cool and easy to use and stone reliable electronic boost control. It does true boost by gear, fail safes, meth control....all kinds of shit for under $400 retail. I know he will hook you up too. If you are interested, let me know.

[@ryanwilliams3369]

I know it's too late but I'd love to see a LFX manual.

[@zachjohnson6445]

I feel like you might as well give it a cheap paint job and make it look nice (but still factory) since you already have to replace pretty much the entire interior and the wheels too.

[@blessed1754]

Where do you think i can find intetrior parts any tips....i have a 1988 trans am

[@davidrutledge6033]

Cheap part but a warranty worth having.i got three free replacements because I paid for the extra warranty

[@StraightLineCycles]

Good ole chevy

[@sheylaramirez5442]

I know you won’t probably read this. I have a 95 trans am an it was doing the same noice as yours. Do you think it’s the same thing?

[@kemicalx17]

Matt, let’s do a tri state third gen meet up this summer. I’m in NJ.

[@johnn9583]

Had that same car and changed the starter too but NOT with duralast

[@ryankursehuston]

I’d leave the exterior in its current condition and not change a thing, something about that with an ultimate sleeper set up... just my opinion.

[@Toast355]

Dura last = doesn't last haha. Get a LT1 (93-97 Camaro/ Firebird) starter they are smaller and bolt right up.

[@Dubiels]

Cheap parts strike again! Happens to me all the time

[@sergiocantu1000]

i am working on a 1989 firebird formula need all the advise i can get. I have a problem with the rear main engine seal leaking, already paid three times to get it fixed, but it is still leaking. I am thinking maybe of buying a rebuilt engine or rebuilding the engine but do not know what is the best option

[@lsxmatt]

Are you sure its the rear main, how much does it leak? The design of the oil pan gasket is notorious to leak from the back and look like the rear main.

[@sergiocantu1000]

@@lsxmatt yes, it's the rear seal for sure. I watch it leaking. It does not leak too much but it's still a big problem. The engine is a 305 5.0 tpi need good advice as to where to buy a rebuilt engine. My concern is with the bore size on rebuilt engines.

[@rjherman2011]

Our cars are step-twins. Mine's a red 86 with hardtop

[@DELTRANIO99]

You could build the 700r4 to handle the power and weld the lever arm on the throttle body like I did with my 5.3, Did it so it would have the same throw and geometry as it had on my TPI

[@lsxmatt]

I ran a 700r4 behind the 5.3 in my old Monte and I could never get it to work right for me, even with the bowtie overdrive kit. I’d prefer an electronic trans anyway for the tune-ability.

[@DELTRANIO99]

@@lsxmatt Yeah I see what you mean ,What are you going to do for the speedometer?

[@DELTRANIO99]

@@lsxmatt Im curious what your plans are for the mechanical speedo ? So you can give me a idea if I wanted to go that route

[@dalejrfan820002000]

It's the way the make the nose cones on the starter now.

[@tonybologna6585]

Where did you get the quick lift from?

[@Yomarshell]

Aye, what are those stands the car was on?

[@RonSavage01]

Link to that car lift shown in first 30 sec please!!!

[@motorola12slvr]

So the camaro is going to be manual ?

[@tinnelledwards1408]

I hope you don't get rid of those wheels I would put me some nice et drags on the back and I would have the car repainted same color that same 2 tone look and put a nice clean interior and nice gauges a nice dual exhaust with x pipes and you already know what to do so I like to see a clean stock looking but fast cruiser

[@lsxmatt]

I was going to save them as a drag setup if they clear the rear brakes.

[@tinnelledwards1408]

@@lsxmatt aawh ok yea I hope everything works out and I hope you do paint the engine same color blue as the car I havent seen a blue is engine yet I would definitely like to see 1 with the heads being chrome and the valve covers blue with the bird logo on the valve covers in silver!!!

[@kitt28]

you said you going keep it auto, but you changing it, the 700r4 is a great trans, i think it can handle up to 400 horses, not 100% sure.

[@lsxmatt]

Im aiming for 800 so I’ll probably go with a 4l80e

[@vanessanancarrow8860]

Hopefully the camaro is staying manual?

[@lsxmatt]

I’m not saying anything yet😂

[@luuuke2484]

Get rid of the head lights and put in really slim leds in between the hood and the bumper. You would need a new hood maybe a camaro hood?

[@neilbrown82]

Um no!

[@luuuke2484]

Neil Brown trust me it looks really cool, look it up

[@jsomething2]

pop-ups are back in style now. definitely don't change them out.

[@luuuke2484]

john somethin name one modern car with hideaway headlights

[@jsomething2]

@@luuuke2484 exactly. don't fuck up old school cool for new fading plastic junk.

[@johnsnow1355]

My trans am has a slick cup holder that just hangs off the ashtray to the passenger side

[@tj_gsomething_]

Get some large custom made wheels that look like the diamond spoke GTA wheels! If you just want GTA wheels Summit racing sells them for $150 a piece.

[@petersingh4825]

Hey Matt When you do the swap Are you going to try and re use the factory gauges? I want to do that to mine. Do you know if it is a possibility?

[@lsxmatt]

Oh yea the stock gauges are staying!

[@samleo6784]

What kind of jack stands are those? 0:14

[@jond1965]

Stuff, extra parts, tools and junk in the back seat while fixing the car...yup same with my 89 Formula 350.

[@capricepower1343]

Yea you never know...I get my stuff from Napa...I had a starter that wouldn't stop spinning.. burned it self out...crazy s&#t lol

[@fsddfdafdsfs8008]

I swear you were that dude from donut media

[@patrickm1711]

What type of Jack's are those?

[@lsxmatt]

Quick jacks. I got mine from home depot.

[@patrickm1711]

@@lsxmatt thank you 👍

[@chaddoyle9639]

Sleeper that whistles from a turbo? 🥴

[@lsxmatt]

Shhhh

[@Lee-rc5en]

LsxMatt Did you ask him to be quiet or was that the blow off valve? Lol

[@ariyanadumon4549]

I stopped using the Fat Boy Starters. They aren't nearly as reliable as the smaller ones like my Suburban had. They're lighter, higher Torque, and smaller.

[@Mario-us3bi]

My duralast starter hasn't failed me yet

[@John-jr1si]

put a corvette servo in the 4l60e

[@ronb113]

Entire comments section doing the same swap lol

[@pigrond]

flyhwheel bent too

[@lsxmatt]

Oh yea it is😂

[@trentdawg2832]

My cheap Chinese parts work great

[@AndrerileyLSX]

Do 4l80 don’t put a 60 in it

[@misterrobato8270]

Auto Zone is a joke. So are a good amount of people who work there. Me: I need brake pads for a 1993 Mustang 5.0 GT. Auto Zone Experts: Does it have Air Conditioning and power windows? Every time they ask crap like that I wanna throw a wrench at them.

[@pigrond]

ebay mini hi tork about the same price.

[@lsxmatt]

I just need the junk to keep running until the interior and suspension is done!

[@LTJohn]

Advance Auto parts is better!!

[@zackatron925]

Fix the rust!!!!!!!

[@6sixty1gixxer80]

Lol its 2020 and you can say everything under the sun but &+>%.

[@mrphiscal]

First

[@moriquendil]

if you buy shit parts from autozone you will have this. they sell garbage + rebuilt parts

[@jeffcarr2652]

F body's really