Best modifications for Tuned Port Injection - Best mods for 3rd Gen Fbodies

[@wooldooriansokbatus5222]

I just got a 1988 Iroc Copper Red with the Irocz Red and Black stripping and gray interior with the 5.0L (305) with the T5. Dyno'd it, maxed out at 227hp and 289tq @ 4800rpm. It has a modded exhaust system but engine wise I have no idea what has been done to it. Nethertheless, here in Europe you hardly ever drive past 160km p/h (about 95Mph). These things are great fun from 30Mph to 80Mph. I find the power plentiful and good fun. I get about 29mpg (UK) at 70Mph @ 1600Rpm in 5th gear... I just expected it to be worse in performance and economy but since I don't know what's been done to it, I just don't think I'd change anything on it.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

These are great looking cars and must be pretty rare in Europe.If your happy with the performance I would leave it as is.The prices on these cars are increasing here in Canada and cars that have not been modified are the most valuable.Thanks for watching and commenting we really appreciate it.

[@wooldooriansokbatus5222]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 subscribed!!

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Thanks alot we appreciate it.

[@toddprater14]

The 89 was 230 hp /300tq..so your damn close and that’s dyno’d they say you lose at the rear wheels a bit… so your numbers prove gm, lied and downplayed the power number back then….they say the t5 only could handle 300 lbs of torque and that’s why the 350 was auto only this may be true as well - back then everyone said it’s so it would not cut into vette sales- well kinda true cause the 350 vette manual was a 4+3 until 89 when it got the zf6 speed ..they coulda at least dropped that zf a year later into the 90 iroc and the 91/92 z28’s

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Thanks for the info and thank you for watching and commenting we really appreciate it.

[@dougellis2027]

The best bolt on mod to me, was the mini-ram intake monifold. It essntially took the L98 TPI engine and made it an LT1 minus the opti-spark. I had a 1992 Formula 5.7L

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yep I absolutely agree.That would allow you to make more top end power.My idea on this video was for those that have a mint 3rd Gen and wanted to keep it stock looking while gaining a little performance.I could be wrong but I believe these will be collectable cars in the not too distant future so staying numbers matching will be important for their value.

[@gm-classics]

Mini ram takes away what it gives on hp vs big tube. The simplicity is hard to argue with.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yeah if I had one of these cars I would go mini ram for sure.But it does lower the value of the car.But it depends on your priorities.I have a 2002 SS that was completely stock and I have destroyed it's value.lol.

[@dougellis2027]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 I have an 2002 A4 SS myself, and am currently doing the same to it!! 😁

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yeah they are more fun when modified.

[@BlackRam17]

Headers are by far the best bang for your buck mod for these cars.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yes headers are always a great modification.

[@loong111]

True, but for me, you can't beat the factory exhaust note.

[@mistersecret88]

Good info. The best thing I ever did was a custom chip . Went from 14.7 to 13.9 really woke it up. I still have it and never get tired of it.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

That's a great gain with a chip.These really are great cars and the TPI looks very cool.I searched for a Third gen before I got my fourth gen.But the ones I found that were in great shape were out of my price range and a found a couple in my price range but the TPI engines were replaced with carbarated engines and I wanted the TPI.Thanks for watching and commenting we really appreciate it.

[@sergiocantu1000]

I got a 1989 formula 305 with the tpi and am intrested in a chip for the car. would appreciate any information that liberates me from my ignorance on the subject.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

@sergiocantu1000 Well they still sell eprom chips for these cars or at least they are still listed on Summit Racing.You have a choice of hypertech and Jet performance.They usually just add some timing and lean the fuel and requires a lower temp thermostat and at least 91 octane fuel.You would get a small but noticeable gain.Probably could get as much or more with headers and exhaust upgrade and a Cold air intake without a chip upgrade.These cars are pretty rich from the factory so you can usually get away with bolt ons without needing a tune plus I believe the 89 tpi still has a Mass air flow sensor so it will compensate for more Airflow.But some people like to keep their cars stock and if that is you and you just want a little more power then a eprom will get you a little more.

[@mistersecret88]

@sergiocantu1000 sadly the epa put out of business the guy i used almost immediately. Sad

[@MasterWitchDoctor]

ROFL @ a microchip. Until you go into the engine and modify it changing the timing curve or shifting points does little or nothing. Youd have been a lot better off putting orange springs on it and 1.6 ratio full roller rockers. The throttle body insert does ZERO for performance.

[@Brian10962001]

If you want to transform your TPI get a longer duration cam but keep the LSA wide (112 or 114, a forced induction cam is perfect for this) and siamese the base. You literally cut the dividing wall out between each runner several inches into the base. You still have the look of the TPI and you'll have more top end. You can also open the stock bases a LOT. I have one that here that is just ported but not siamesed, you can feel the weight difference in it.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Another great tip.

[@nick9006]

How do you do it?

[@Brian10962001]

@@nick9006 long die grinder cone bits. flap wheels, and glass bead through the bead blaster.

[@andysteele4056]

I was 14 or 15 the first time I saw a TPI engine. I was amazed at how cool it looked. My first car in 1998 was a '90 IROC 350, and I still have it. I have done most of the mods in this video with the exception of the internal engine stuff. I run a 14.1 @ 97 mph with a tired original engine and damp street tires (no way around the water box). Not that impressive, but no way I'm getting rid of the runners on this car. Too rare and too cool looking.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Well actually that is not a bad 1/4 mile time.And I agree these engines are very cool looking and the Iroc Camaros are extremely cool looking too.That body style has really held up well after all this time.

[@andysteele4056]

​@@LSxMotorsports2021Here is a video of it if you care. kzbin.info_qpmPt71yyo?feature=share

[@mikee2923]

Probably hard to find today but a supercharger really wakes these cars up. I’ve had a Paxton on my 89 Formula 350 for about 20 years. The instant throttle response never gets old.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Oh yeah a supercharger on these cars would be the ultimate upgrade.

[@backyardbuck6362]

Nice 👍did you ever time it in the quarter mile and how was gas mileage?

[@mikee2923]

Never took it to a track to officially time it. A friend who built many cars and has a lot of 1/4 mile experience drove it and said he thought it would run high 12s. Gas mileage is basically unchanged unless you’re on it a lot. TPI cars make tremendous low end torque for a small block 350. Driving it like a normal car rarely requires much more than 2000 RPM even in a hilly terrain even in stock form.

[@backyardbuck6362]

@@mikee2923 Awesome. Sounds like the way to go possible for me maybe one day. Thanks and have a great weekend.

[@weaponri_]

I’m in the middle of restoring a 87 305 TPI in a 79 jeep CJ. This video was helpful, thank you!

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Thank you for watching and commenting we really appreciate it.Good luck with your Jeep.The TPI engine with its great low end torque should be great off road.

[@davidseitz3741]

I have the Heritage 92RS trying to keep its stock appearance. I put the 305 Vortec heads on it with the SCDC manifold and changed it to TPI from TBI. Have headers on it now and a FiTec tuner for its self tuning feature. This is the first video I have seen in a long time talking about the third generation not telling to swap to the LS.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

I really like the TPI. Not every car has to have 800 hp to be fun. As long as it sounds good and can smoke the tires once in awhile thats all you need and a TPI engine can do that easily.

[@bobcook8576]

My brother replaced his 305 with a gm target 350 truck engine. He added vortec heads and a one off base intake to fit the degree change of the vortec heads. Popular hotrod and car craft did articles on the swap so many years ago. Slp headers and cat back opened her up. He ran out of fuel in the top end but she was a screamer. Mind you this is a heavier auto forms conversion convertible car with a tpi. In fact it may be the only afc car that had tpi. He still has it in original condition with very low miles. The 305 is on an engine stand in the corner. Last year he added 1le sway bars and new bilstein shocks.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

These are definitely great cars.The vortec heads were a very popular and affordable upgrade for the Small block chevy back in the day.Thanks for watching and sharing we really appreciate it.

[@chrisyeahbuuwassrileegowyn9279]

I miss my 89 Formula 350 damn. I went through all the phases of modifications. Mostly studied TPIS and John Lingenfelter stuff back in the day. TPI makes so much low speed torque. The best gas small block truck motor never put in a truck! If you look at some of Richard Holdener's TPI dyno stuff, a modified TPI setup with heads and a cam, makes crazy torque, and then just 6-8 psi of boost makes insane torque numbers down at 2800-3000 rpms. Of course a short mid-short runner combo makes more on top every time. But where do you spend most of your time driving? How much does the vehicle weigh? If it's a race car, no question take it off. But a street car, or truck, you might be surprised how fun, and fast you can go, without a stall converter, steep gears, or turning 6500. It's just dramatically different power curves. I've had Lt1"s several carb set-up small blocks, and 5.7 LS1's that were easy too make fast. But they were all more or less the same power delivery and amount if the same size and comparable $$ in heads/cam ect. Probably be easier too just build a SBC from a cheap truck roller cam block with vortec heads, because nothing under that TPI intake is really going to help anything, unless it's a 87-92 vette then the L89 alum heads might be useful.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

The TPI was a great engine.Its too bad it didn't make its way into trucks.And imagine if it would have made into the engine bays of the G body cars like the Monte Carlo SS or olds 442.Those cars are extremely cool but only ever received the carb 305 HO.

[@ktthomas7714]

I have a 85 iroc with the 305 tpi and I'm swapping in a 350 with vortec heads from a 99 tahoe..

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

That should work great.The vortec heads were a great factory SBC head and a big upgrade over the factory TPI heads.Just need to modify the base of the TPI intake.

[@stanmack1]

The best mod I did was a 180 thermostat with a Hypertech early fan turn on switch. The cooler temps help the 700 transmission last longer. Add a B&M Transpak and now you got the reliability it should have got from the factory. The Southside Machine weld in subframe connectors stiffened up my 1989 350 Formula perfectly. A big improvement with those stupid lexan t-tops. Then box the trailing arms and add a polyurethane torque arm mount. GREAT launches. My TPIS adjustable fuel pressure regulator was set at 47psi. For exhaust, it doesn't matter what muffler, run a 3in pipe. 6200 rpm in 3rd gear equals 145 mph. Yes, it does spin that high.

[@mariocooldude9092]

Even mild camshafts wake these motors up...218/224 .480 lift

[@mariocooldude9092]

Set your tps to .067 as opposed to the .054 ...the throttle response is great 👍

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Thanks for the tip👍

[@WesZone-u6x]

The best way in my opinion to rock your i-rock. Some good mods there buddy. First off a third gen z28 305 TPI Z28 auto runs 15.4 bone stock 1/4 mile and is a small v8 so keep that in mind and a hi out put 305 can breath so don't believe that intake runners and porting are going to get you huge gains, that's more for the 350's as they need more air for there displacement, and with thees mods you can run faster then a stock 350. To make it run like a 350 that we can with the original 305 engine and transmission. If it were me from my expr. over the years with corvettes and z28 305 TPI Camaro's and LT1's. The easiest and most sensible mods for a stock look and a bit on the cheap or if your so inclined are to open that exhaust for sure. Install air foil and high flow air cleaner for 10hp mostly top end, the air box may add at this point (5hp so I don't mess with it), an aftermarket air grab is a good idea for power but if your installing stuff in front of the rad not a good idea as thees cars over heat easy due to the shape of the front end, install 1.6 roller rockers good for 16hp on top end important. If your ok with getting rid of the emissions and have historic plates you can delete the Cat for 18hp, change the muffler to an unrestricted one like flow master 12hp with 3inch pipes cat back add another 8hp, change the torque converter gust under 3k stall or 1900-2800 is a good 3 tenths 1/4 mile with a slingshot effect, add a shift kit if your in an auto for the extra long life and a 1 tenth, change the rear end to 373 lock up if your doing the 1/4 mile and don't care about gas mileage dose drop off about 3 tenths and not good advice to stay with the higher gearing as the gears will set you free in the 1/4 mile (gears always make it easier for the engine to get more out or it in the 1/4 mile. Put on some NIto 555r's for tires or what you like for a soft compound tire to add a grip factor at this point or there is no point will add 2 tenths as well as grip the existing rear end change and shift mods.So lets add our numbers first on so for the power adders we are looking at 64hp gains and that translates on thees cars something close to 10hp for a tenth = easy 6 tenths making standing 1/4 mile time 14.7. Now with the drive train mods you can add 8 tenths all together making your ride run a consistent 14.0 1/4 mile if you want more then NOS is the easiest 100hp for the blue moon run against a WRX or modded cars put you at 13.0 1/4. I wouldn't do all this porting and stuff for the engine/ tuning and at that point you may want to just consider the engine swap for some serious power not the cam or the to get you in the low 12's. Also don't bother to get a manual installed your just begging for clutch problems on a TPI and not worth the inconsistency of a stick shift on 2 tenths faster or 3 tenths. They run faster on point with auto in most cases. so after all that your thinking why not just yank the engine in the first place will be easier and may even comparable to all the mods done in price, well you want a stock Z28 so it seems and numbers match, if you want speed all those mods with also transfer to the upgraded engine and you will scream fast and cool but for most of us we are not trying to sell these cars were trying to drive them again. (A stock 350 TPI ran 14.4-14.6 back factory stock, so with thees mods you did it beet a 350 TPI). And there you have it better then a stock 350 TPI or ready for some serious power. The best way in my opinion to rock your i-rock.

[@Space-Stuff]

Hey guys, Let's not forget about our 1985 to 1991 C4 Corvettes. These run the same L98 350 c.i. / 5.7 ltr TPI engines. I know the C4 started in 1984 but that was a cross fire EFI system and they were not that great. Anyway, I just thought I'd mention the C4 Corvettes since they are running the same 5.7 ltr. TPI engines as your Gen 3 Camaro, Firebird, etc. I hope I'm not stepping on any toes here by mentioning the C4 Corvettes. Thank you for the video. I really enjoyed it. Sincerely, Rich Williams Astor, Florida 32102 USA!

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Happy to hear from anyone who is into cars and the best working TPI engines come in the C4 Corvettes. All the same modifications also work on the Corvettes. Thanks for watching and commenting we really appreciate it.

[@Slowgroovin]

Simply adding a throttle body air foil and exhaust cutouts, allowing the TPI engine to breathe, makes a significant difference. This was done to an 85 Corvette 350. Through the mufflers there was a very noticeable decrease in power.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Thanks for watching and leaving a comment.

[@hipnoticheadnotic5631]

Thank you for the video. Straight to the point. I'm not a gear head but just a fan of classic cars in general. I've had fun bringing cars back to life visually but from what I'm told, doing upgrades can result in newer parts usually exposing or breaking weaker parts of a car specifically the engine which is an area I don't have much knowledge about hands on.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yeah sometimes that can be the case.Alot of times the manufacturer of these cars build them with weak parts.For example the 3rd and 4th gen cars have weak rear ends and transmissions.You can still add power but they will eventually break.But if power is not your thing bringing a car back to like new condition is still a great accomplishment.And is probably alot smarter than modifying for more power.Thanks for watching and commenting we really appreciate it.

[@jacobwarshaw393]

Good video. Very insightful. I have an 1983 el camino i swapped a 355 with tpi setup running slps and vortec heads. Had to swap injectors to 24lb and get a prom made for it .

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

That sounds like a really cool car.Those vortec heads are very good heads for the price.The TPI setup looks very cool.

[@scottstantz9520]

I've got a 92 T/A 305 TPI. Gonna LS this thing but would keep the original engine to put it back to stock when ready to sell it. Thanks for the ideas.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Thanks for watching and commenting we really appreciate it.

[@johnbaker3843]

My 91 z28 l98 with 3.73s, slp runners, bumped timing, gutted airbox, airfoil and coolant bypass went 13.55 @ 101.72 with a 1.98 60'

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

That's a great ET for what you have done.Thanks for watching and commenting we appreciate it.

[@bigboytoyz541]

Thanks for this video. I have a 85 z28 with the 305 tpi. It was the first year for tpi in the Camaro and the car is still 100% original. Still has smog pump, a/c , and everything. I would like to get a little more out of it, but I definitely don't want to change anything since it is a survivor.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

The 3rd gens are very cool.I agree you should keep it stock or at least stock looking.Thanks for watching and commenting we really appreciate it.

[@kamahoo451]

Have a few $$$ engines, but somehow just refuse to let my tpi 350 go,,,,and when I'm done with everything else I'm going to rebuild it! Thanks for the post!

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Regardless of power there is just something very cool about the TPI engines.

[@hipnoticheadnotic5631]

I'm restoring a 1991 z28 Camaro and a 1995 Corvette. I have Edelbrock lower intakes and high flow runners and ported intakes/throttle bodies for both cars. Like you mentioned, I'm looking for a factory engine look with a little more power. I don't plan to race, just cruise with a little extra power.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

A 91 Z28.......One of the best looking Camaros ever made.Most people have no interest in racing.Just to have a nice car to cruise around in.Sounds like your going to have some very nice cars.I like the corvette too but the 91 Z28 is definitely the one I would want.lol.

[@hipnoticheadnotic5631]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 I wanted one since junior high and I found one. Mine had the 305 which I swapped for the 350 tpi. I had people saying I should have went LS but once again I don't really plan on racing beside I really love the look of the tuned port intakes.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yes I agree not everything needs to be LS swapped.I actually looked for a 3rd gen before I got my 2002.But everything I found had the TPI removed and replaced with a carberator.And the couple I found that were completely stock were way out of my price range.I think the TPI engines are very cool.

[@jeffkildow9917]

A short video on the 305 TPI Throttle Body Coolant Bypass would be great. I have just recently learned that the throttle body is liquid cooled and want to bypass mine.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Sorry I don't have a video of that but there are some videos on KZbin.Just search TPI throttle body bypass.Thanks for watching and commenting we really appreciate it.

[@cheaptick]

Actually the throttle body is liquid HEATed. to keep it from icing up in cold damp conditions

[@Airwolf1971]

The throttle body coolant bypass mod is absolutely useless as is the 160 degree thermostat mod. The 160 degree thermostat mod is absolutely useless on every single engine its ever been recommended for.

[@frankartale1026]

Throttle Body Airfoil makes difference ! not really in power but you feel it in smoothness in the pedal. Air intake is a big help. Don't use under drive pullies. Exhaust is a big difference if you use headers. 160 therm don't work well. 185 and a custom fan switch. 160 will go through the radiator to quick and not get cooled enough. These are 1single core radiators. The tpi 5 spd cars are the fastest. I had an 88 Formula with 5 spd and the stock 3.45 borg warner rear with 130k on it. Stock with a dual cat and k&n air filter. The car ran 14.3 @ 94 at the track. These cars were rated at 215 hp. There is no way it could run like that with that little power. Probably more like 265hp.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Thanks for leaving a comment and sharing your experience with these cars.

[@mikescott3928]

I'm thinking about going too in a 87 C10 so yeah keep it coming 😊

[@andymac5324]

I have a TPI setup in a 1980 Corrvette. Stock 30 over with flat tops. Eldebrock heads. I am controlling fuel and fire using a 0411 LSI ecm. The low end and top end gains are certainly impressive because it can be tuned very easy. With the individual coils, and no distributer it fools a lot of people. Yes, it is not the cheapest mod, but for me it has been by far the best

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

That has to look pretty damn cool under the hood.

[@andymac5324]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 I wish there was a way to post a pic here

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

You can email it to the channels email and I will post it on my community post. [e-mail]

[@andymac5324]

Sent you an email. I used the one you have here

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Got them.Goiing to post them.Very very cool

[@jdogmcnasty1980]

Gotta disagree on the pass on the rear gear swap. I have a 91 GTA with the 3.23 stock, I put in 3.73 and what a difference. Off the line is a huge improvement, in my case I don’t run wide open on the highway so take off was beneficial

[@devoncoolman88]

3:73 is a huge improvement in these cars. With overdrive the car is still gonna be drivable on the highway just fine. Just not gonna be doing 90 for long periods of time anymore. But cruising 70/75 is no issue. I agree passing on a gear upgrade is a bad idea. Prob would be one of the best upgrades for the money.

[@ryanwilliams3369]

In 83 the firebird t5 standard option was a 3.73 end. Of course thats a carb car.

[@imjustanobody1233]

I disagree on the tuning part. I think it’s a MUST! Pcm of nc will absolutely tune your vehicle AND send you mail order tunes. I have a 1990 corvette with the tpi engine. Full exhaust with headers back, built trans, free/cheap mods, plus a tune. The tune helped me VERY much as well as making it run cooler. My plan is to get a ported first tpi intake. That, with a full exhaust and a tune, is really all you need. They’re soooo much fun and are pretty damn quick! Ofc if you want real power I’d recommend building the entire engine etc. I would recommend doing really DEEP research on the forums to really get an idea of builds. I think most of what you said is pretty damn good and is a great help. I will say tho.. the comment about 2800 stall well.. I don’t think I’d go that high either. My last converter was 2400-2600 and I have a HORRIBLE time with traction and that’s will good tires! I’d recommend something like what I have now which is about 2000-2200 stall. I’ve been researching my vette extensively and I’ve done a little bit of modding myself so I’ve been able to see firsthand how this all affects me. Also, last note.. I would not go with a 160 thermostat. 180 is PLENTY good! Plus, if you get your car tuned by pcm of nc they will make your fans come on sooner so you won’t have to worry about it being too hot. Great video! I enjoyed!

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Thanks for the info.This is why I made the video is so owners like you can give your first hand experience with these cars.I have always liked the tuned port engines but it's getting harder to find info on them.

[@imjustanobody1233]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 for me, I have found that places like forums and facebook groups still have active people who have this knowledge. Of course on the forums there is SO MUCH Information that you could be getting the wrong info. The info IS out there you just have to look hard enough. People crap on these cars all the time. The fact that I’m keeping up with a lot of cars newer than my 1990 vette has to say something 💀 literally just full exhaust, built trans with slightly higher stall than factory (stock was 1400 now I have 2000-2200) and shift kit, and a tune and I’m RIPPPPPPINNNNGGGG it!!! The stock intake manifolds really aren’t the best. Even if you added aftermarket runners and ported it I would still choose first tpi intake because it’s literally twice the size of it and you can even MORE power with porting. It looks just like the tpi engine and it’s what it SHOULDVE been right from factory but ofc emissions.. lol you gotta really love these cars to keep them and modify them. I do and that’s why I continue doing stuff to mine haha

[@jasona1685]

Finally! A good video straight to the point! Thank you!

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Thank you for watching and leaving a comment it really helps the channel and we appreciate it.

[@ScottBoggsgratefuldude77]

Dang, possibly the most informative vid for the 3rd gen in terms of bolt-ons I've come across. I've had a fairly decent 89 iroc sitting in the driveway for a couple of years and am ready to start on it this winter. Not looking to pull the motor or anything for performance do this is right up my alley. Thanks!

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Thank you. These 3rd gen cars are growing in popularity and in my opinion anyone who has one should hold onto them.

[@Brian10962001]

Best "free" or cheap mod possible, 6 degrees base timing, bump the fuel pressure to 50psi off vacuum, port the plenum, runners, and base. There are two brick walls in the plenum entry you can totally grind out. Bone stock 89 engine picked up 4 tenths with the porting.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Great advice.Thats what I wanted with this video is guys like you with experience with these cars to help out people who are just getting one of these cars and maybe they want a little extra power while remaining stock looking.I hate when you find one of these cars in good condition only to find out they removed the TPI and added a carberator.

[@Brian10962001]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 I passed on a handful of these cars in the early 2000s for just that reason. Carb swapped, hacked up wiring, and I'll bet a dollar slower from it.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

I agree.

[@HunterDillabough]

From what I heard, the 1990 gta 305 tpi was a mapped car and doing mods past the cold air intake and exhaust opened a Pandora’s box of problems and made the car run like crap

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

This is true. The early TPI cars have a MAF and the later cars are Speed density. So after some bolt on parts you will need tuning before going any further on the speed density cars but even the cars with a MAF should have tuning. That is just a fact for all Fuel injected cars. But even carberated cars require tuning when doing any major upgrades it is just done differently.

[@artalcantar]

Picked up an 1989 IROC. Loved the video and information. I’ll be starting with these mods you went over for sure. Build on a budget. Had the same thoughts. Mild build to keep it stock but w some power adders.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

89 IROC is very cool.I love these cars but never got the opportunity to get one.These cars I think will shot up in value in the coming years so any changes you make keep the original parts because you never know might be worth something someday.Thanks for watching and commenting we really appreciate it.

[@ayo_k32]

I just picked up a 87 Iroc Camaro for $5000. I got lucky. Can’t wait to fix it up!!

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Awesome I am a big fan of the Iroc Camaros.Always wanted one but a waited too long and the prices are pretty high around here for one in good shape.Sounds like you got a good deal.

[@Partnerthedog]

You're all paying way too much. 3rd gen camaros are cheap in Oregon

[@ayo_k32]

@@Partnerthedog I live in California

[@Partnerthedog]

@@ayo_k32 so you only had to drive a state up to find better deals

[@Astrosisphere]

No mention of a manual transmission conversion for the 350?! The manual on the 305 Pontiac is basically the reason it can sell for more than a 350 of the same year. I'm planning on putting a straight-cut dogbox transmission in mine - it ought to free up some space under the car for some proper dual exhausts too - and there's a whole conversation to be had about that and what's involved in doing that. The Detroit Speed Camaro's probably the best example I've seen of duals on a 3rd gen.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yeah that would be a great upgrade for a 350 car for sure.

[@m1a1hm]

Cool video!! Thanks for the info I own a 92 Z28 TPI and its no show car but fun to drive.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Oh the 91-92 were very cool looking cars with the high spoiler and revised ground effects.Thanks for watching and leaving a comment we really appreciate it.

[@artalcantar]

Keep coming w the 3rd Gen videos!! Loved it.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Thanks.I actually don't have access to a 3rd gen at the moment but alot of the 4th gen stuff can be done on a 3rd gen.Hopefully we will be able to find someone with a 3rd gen around here that will be willing to let us do some videos.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Awesome I will go it out

[@jeffkildow9917]

Thanks! I like my 86 IROC (305 TPI) but am just wantin a little more Torque. You have given me a great place to start

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Glad the video gave you a few ideas.Those Irocs are extremely cool cars.Thanks for watching and commenting.If you do any mods come back and let us know how you made out.Could help other TPI owners that come across this video.

[@zhpopreaction8566]

Bro, I have a 1991 pont firebird formula 305 tpi. Trust me on this one... Buy yourself a sportline eibach lowering springs. Just only install the front springs and bro you'll beat just about anyone (excluding them exotic ass cars) from the dig. Hold down on the brake and rev it up to 1500 and fly when it turns green !!! I havent installed my rear bc i feel it'll take away that crazy grip at the rear. If you want more torque this is it. I got 245/50/16 wheels btw :)

[@chicagosfinestmoment4896]

This video is speaking my language I have 2 camaros with the tune port

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

The 3rd gen Camaros are great looking cars.The tuned port engines look very cool too.

[@LeoM-zt3pl]

I love the ultimate warrior wwf type intro music

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yeah it is very similar to the Warrior intro song.

[@sportsmansparadice42]

Guys if you don't install camshaft don't get headers. I would use just go with LT1 exhaust manifolds instead.

[@loong111]

Good advice, as long as they fit, especially for the 305's. Headers are a pita , noisy and leaky, for little benefit on an otherwise stock motor.

[@sportsmansparadice42]

@@loong111 Yes they wlll fit no problem.

[@franksrok5843]

Original owner 1985. Did a Dynamic efi swap. Vortec block. Everything is roller 383 CNC afr heads scat bottom end. Re pin some ecu connector pins. Ditched the maf. Its map based fueling now.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Sounds like a serious performer.Thanks for watching and commenting we really appreciate it.

[@johncoffey8645]

Tuned port was the first sexiest engine 🤙

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

I agree.

[@johncoffey8645]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 putting one in a buggy currently. Several stepping stones, but working.🤙

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

That should be pretty cool when it is finished.

[@nookbandit]

My best mod on my 86 305 tpi was trading it in on a 90 5.0 LX, back in the day dollar for dollar the Ford would always be quicker. I wish I still owned both

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yeah the 5.0L Foxbody's definitely were quicker that the 305 TPI cars.They both were and still are pretty cool cars.

[@kimnach]

Back in 2017 I pulled the LB9 of my '88 IROC. I thought about a swap, but decided that after 30yrs of ownership, it was best to keep it essentially stock. I had a "performmance" ROM and K&N since the 90s and my "mods" in '17 were installing Dyno Don headers, 3" exhaust (including GMMG "muffler"), porting & polish plenums, lowering springs, and both inner and outer subframe connectors.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Sounds like a great car.Keeping the car stock is a good plan.These cars are very cool and it sucks whenever you see one of these cars and the TPI has been removed and replaced with a carberator.A LS swap is ok but I prefer the TPI.

[@ShawnStafford-1978]

I still have my 89 GTA. The throttle bypass helps a lot. It's all original. Think 160 thermostat is too low

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

The GTAs are very cool cars. I have never run a 160 thermostat in a TPI but I have run one in a 94 Z28 with the LT1 and I currently run one in my 2002 SS with the LS1 and no issues. The cars still run in the 185-200F range but when combined with a manual fan switch you can usually get the temp down to 185-190 range before doing a 1/4 mile run which from my testing does improve the 1/4 mile times especially in the LT1. I don't drive in the winter so it is not an issue.If you did drive in winter then a 160 would be too low for sure.

[@ShawnStafford-1978]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 Awesome you have a few different kinds of F-Body cars. Yeah I live in Iowa and drive mine all seasons. Think 180 is probably the best thermostat choice from stock. I remember trying a 160 it was too cold. Like ot wouldn't ever warm enough.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yeah when the temperature gets low a 160 is not good. I really wish we had a TPI car for the channel. Someday maybe.

[@ShawnStafford-1978]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 Yeah that's too low. It runs worse like it's not warm enough. The only issue I have is the starter solenoid always gets heat soak. Think it's a bad design with the catalytic converters and everything too close there

[@joesausage4639]

Stock look with a little more power just for my 92 Z28. Thanks

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Thanks for watching and commenting we really appreciate it.

[@coryholbrook4643]

The TPI is a fun street engine.

[@mrc5425]

And excellent on fuel highway mileage.

[@CleanSlate612]

I have a tpi 96 suburban 2wd. I definitely would like more knowledge on how to make hp

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Well an engine is just an air pump so the more air you can get in the more fuel you can add and the more power you will make. A Suburban is a pretty heavy vehicle so that TPI engine makes alot of low end torque which is good for acceratating heavy vehicles. If your on a budget basic bolts ons that increase Airflow in and out of the engine will help. Of course if budget isn't an issue more cubic inches is what you want for a Suburban.

[@mrdarkwolf5504]

My father sold me his Tpi 350 camaro most of these mods are already done minus the newer intake runners are they really worth the money to change?

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Probably not unless you have a cam.They are getting harder to find and expensive.If I owned a TPI car in good shape I would only do modifications that can't be seen.What I mean is I would want the car to appear completely stock because I believe they are going to be valuable one day.On the other hand if someone didn't care about that and just wanted to go as fast as possible I would either ditch the TPI or LS swap it.But again I think these cars are cool and should be left stock if they are currently in good condition.

[@ShtickysMethstang]

Looking into a 1987 Firebird trans am on Friday. 350 tpi if I’m not mistaken since it’s listed as the 5.7

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

That would be a great car. Hopefully it still has the TPI. Good luck hopefully it will be in great shape at a good price. Come back and let us know if you got it.

[@ShtickysMethstang]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 66k miles, listed for 9,900 I absolutely will! Would love to hear your advice on how to vamp her up!

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Sounds good.The TPI engines are very torquey and respond well to all the usual bolt on parts. The only tricky part is when you get into heads and Cam finding a good tuner is definitely needed. But you may be happy with it completely stock or just a few bolt ons.

[@ShtickysMethstang]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 any brand recommendations? I’ve seen a lot of recommendations for holley, but it was on a regular small black 350 with a carburetor so I wasn’t sure if those pieces like the headers were universal Appreciate the advice! Definitely gonna subscribe

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Hawks motorsports is a good place to look for 3rd gen parts.A cold air intake and cat back exhaust is where most people start. And in most cases you don't need the most expensive parts often times the cheaper parts will perform just as well when it comes to your standard bolt on performance parts.

[@corykelley796]

Anyone know the name of that BBK SuperRam looking intake manifold? Never seen that before.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

I have seen pictures of it but not sure if they ever actually produced it. It was similar to the stock TPI but with shorter runners to increase top end power. They called it BBK SSI Performance Intake Manifolds 5014. They have a picture of it on Summit racing.

[@corykelley796]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 thank you! Looked very similar to a SuperRam but never seen this particular product. Good info!

[@greghansen8475]

TPIS did every conceivable test on these during the 80's into the 2000's. Them and Lingenfelter were the guys to go to, and they're still in business.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yeah I bought alot of catalogues from TPIS years ago.They don't show much for parts on their website these days.

[@greghansen8475]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 You are correct, they don't show much on their site but they are only a phone call away. Just had them overnight some parts that I needed.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

That's good to know.So anyone watching this video if you want to mod you tuned port engine TPIS is the place to go.

[@BlackRam17]

TPIS has a VERY long lead time from what I hear and they barely have any TPI parts in their catalog

[@greghansen8475]

@@BlackRam17 You're right about the catalogue, however, they were able to overnight a part to me that isn't in the catalog. I still have an old one. Feel free to contact me about part numbers and specs.

[@mariocooldude9092]

People are charging crazy prices for performance tpi parts on eBay glad i got mine back in the day...grabed a set of Arizona Speed and Marine from a Corvette forum for $250 ... people are changing $700+ now 😂

[@Airwolf1971]

AS&M are still in business and they still make their big diameter long tube TPI runners. $545.00 a set and the matching large diameter TPI runner gasket set is $47.50.

[@mariocooldude9092]

@@Airwolf1971 yeah I saw their website months back but the runners were sold out

[@shawnoleary2206]

Had a 91 GTA , 160 stat , chip and a 1000 cfm throttlebody , car flew compared to stock

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yeah these are still great engines and can be made to perform better with modifications.

[@rogelioperez1656]

Thanks!

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Thanks for watching and commenting.And thanks for the super thanks.First time that ever happened.We truly appreciate it.

[@scottcarson19]

Going to rebuild the engine in my 91 GTA 305 this winter, and although I've already got a lot of these bolt-ons done, we've talked about a lot of what you said re:internals. As far as gears, i always worry that going from stock 2.72 to 3.23 would hurt the mileage... but I've been in a car with them and it was like a different car how much it came alive. Can you offer any experience on the mileage? Thanks in advance!

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Well it will definitely change your fuel economy but probably not by much and the car would be alot more fun to drive.I personally think it would be a great upgrade and still offer good fuel economy.GM has used that exact gear in most of their 4th gen Camaros with an automatic.

[@scottcarson19]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 that's where I'm confused! I'm currently getting 22 US MPG (28 UK MPG) even with 289k kms but I've seen articles with guys who run LS's and getting 300+ hp & 30mpg! I know the 305 has tons of potential, just gotta find the magic formula. I want 300hp/30mpg and my mechanic says it's easy, just gotta increase efficiency: bigger roller cam, flat pistons, runners, head porting, and torque converter (aka a lot of what you said!). Lingenfelter always said, "air in, exhaust out ... fast" so I really appreciate this video but more importantly the fact that you reply to every comment (replying to viewers, what a concept!)

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

@scottcarson19 Yes making your intake and exhaust flow better will add power and better fuel economy as long as you're not into the throttle all the time.But changing the cam is probably not going to help.I put a small cam in my 2002 Camaro and while it drives like stock with more power everywhere in the rpm range the fuel economy went into the toilet.I saw a instant decrease in fuel economy and a pretty significant one at that.But 20 years ago a did a 94 Camaro with the LT1 and I did all the bolt ons including ported heads and planned on doing a cam but changed my mind at the last minute because of tuning issues.And while that car gained a fair amount of power it also increased the fuel economy.....again as long as I stayed reasonable with the throttle.So I really think if you want more power while also increaseing fuel economy you may want to stick with a stock cam.

[@scottcarson19]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 that's brilliant advice!!!! I did a cam on my 86 305 and saw power/mileage but that's because stock was so bad that anything helped. I still have to do the rebuild, though, because I've got blue smoke at start (valve stem) and during driving (rings), plus a leak at the front main ... all the usual stuff. So far, I've done thermostat, headers, ignition, ram air with k&n. What about the flat pistons? Seems like an easy pairing with the porting/efficiency...

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

well I would try replacing the valve seals first.If bad enough it could be the problem for all your oil burning.If it does turn out that the rings are bad then first see if the bores actually need to be bored out or just honed.If honing is all it needs then you can reuse the factory pistons,Rods and crank and just have the machine work that is needed.The TPI engines already have a good compression ratio for cast iron heads so the factory pistons are good enough.If the block needs bored oversize then you will need new pistons to match but factory style pistons are fine.The cylinder Heads is where you want to spend your budget.If you can get aftermarket heads that would be the best but if not porting the stock heads will still get you some extra power.Check out this channel for some real world testing of a 305. KMMR channel Whatever you end up doing let's us know in the comments section.

[@terrybaptist795]

What the 350 engine blocks in these trans ams how horsepower can the engine block with stand without catastrophic engine failure?

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

That's really tough to answer.Many will say somewhere between 450 - 600 HP.But there are lots of tricks to help them be stronger like converting to 4 bolt mains.More often then not the tune is very important because detonation is usually what kills an engine.RPM is also a big killer of engines.If your asking this you must be thinking of using boost or nitrous and when it comes to that the tune is critical.You absolutely need the air/Fuel just right and the timing backed off the correct amount.We are more of a budget channel so we have very little experience when it comes to extreme amounts of HP.Wish I had better answers for you but what your asking is a little more advanced then what we have experience with.Good luck and thanks for watching and commenting we really appreciate it.

[@kyle8380]

Best mod for the tuned port injection: get rid of the tuned port injection. Too bad they made such a good looking manifold with no top end.

[@oj_6757]

how much hp can you gain from these mods

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

That's tough to answer accurately.For a cat back exhaust expect 5-10 hp.Headers 10-20 hp.Ported stock heads 10-25 hp.Afermarket heads 15-40 hp.Air Intake modifications 5-15 hp.These are all estimations and alot really depends on weather you keep the stock TPI intake manifold.The long runners limit the HP potential but it is what makes the big torque.If I had one of these cars I would keep the stock TPI and just do some porting of the intake and heads and do all the bolt on mods and if it is not fast enough then run a good nitrous kit with all the safety add ons.

[@oj_6757]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 I mean these upgrades aren't bad, you're either pushing 300 or past 300 which is reasonable with the stock intake and then if anything you could add a cam

[@joshalbright4027]

Get a first thing with the new ecm computer set up

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yes that would definitely help with tuning.

[@DEONBIG]

The best bolt-on for tuned port injection Is nitrous oxide😂

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

This is very true.Set up properly it can really wake these cars up without doing any damage

[@dutchyjhome]

Yeah, nice video but... what's that all about the 305 and not wanting to spend any money on one..? And with all do respect, what is it all about the desperate aim to gain power, when there is already 215 Hp available in the all original 305 V8 -5 speed manual gearbox setting, and the Borg-Warner manual gearbox- drive train setup is not capable to handle much more than the standard 215 HP to begin with, witch basically is the very reason the 5,7 Liter V8 which comes with 225 HP was not available with this Borg-Warner drive train setup because this Borg-Warner Gearbox/drive train was not capable to handle the 5,7 Liter V8 225 HP. So trying to gain power actually really is not a very smart thing to do, unless you've got a automatic in there or you've got an entire upgraded drive train in there witch can handle all kinds of power upgrades to begin with. So if you do not want your all original Borg-Warner drive train to be chewed up by gained power...you better think twice. And one more thing: the cars that actually go up in value are the all original ones...so modifying really does not ad any value, in fact it will decrease value.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yes you are right.But you can do a few mods that add power without anyone knowing like ported stock cylinder Heads.Small cam.Roller rocker arms.But I agree if you have a mint 3rd Gen your probably better off just maintaining it and keeping it in perfect condition.I just wanted to make a video that included the 3rd gen guys and let them know that the TPI engines are pretty cool and that not everything should be LS swapped.And no disrespect for the 305 but it is hard to squeeze more power out of it.

[@joshalbright4027]

First tpi

[@codmsrpro]

👍🏼👍🏼

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Thanks for watching we appreciate it.

[@craterus-ii9im]

Your performance parts will amount to nothing on a TPI engine unless you have fuel. I spent thousands AFR heads , headers, $550 com chip, msd, siamised runners, ported intake, ect, while making a order for high dollar parts a tech wanted me to add in a cheap $ part i sais sure 40 bucks, it was a ( adjustable fuel pressure regulator } OMG it was like it woke up every performance part i ever put on my 350 tpi all at once. These cars tpi dont have strong fuel pumps, the name of the shop was called TPI spec out of minn, i guess their still around they had a catalog back then 25 years ago and no one knows TPI like these folks. simple too install also.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Good info.I wasn't sure what the fuel systems on these cars could support.Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@StevenHill-l6g]

These cars are getting old so replace distributor, plugs, wires (NO MSD Garbage!!!!!!!! If ya need a red cap get an MSD cap and rotor but thats it! Go Davis unified Ignition otherwise), coolant flush change thermostat for peace of mind, new injectors if you got multecs or originals, clean your EGR out or delete it with a tune (ensure its working the EGR solenoids are obsolete and usually burnt out from engine heat) A.I.R delete, move the HVAC bypass off the valve cover (longer coolant hose) along with throttle body bypass, throw some nice valve covers on, and headers absolutely. SFC's are a MUST if you MUST upgrade something!!!!!!Dont go anywhere from there in my opinion without considering tuning (TunerPro RT and MOATES is gone so chip burner and data logging equipment can be found at tunercat). Trust me on this guys..been through it all with mine. This will save you headaches and chasing your tail rough idles, start stall, etc. Also a good idea to get some new MAF relays on hand if its MAF equipped prone to failure due to age if yours is an oldy. DOnt run them with MAF codes, if the burnoff circuit isnt functioning you will destroy your sensor. ANd no chinese junk stuff or remans, you will think you changed a part and eliminate the issue and chase your tail again. Dont let this overwhelm you just study and get to know the car (TPI). They are picky but worth it in the end :) For help and advice thirdgen.org Have a good day

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Great advice. Thanks for sharing.

[@DragonHEF01]

Groove the throttle body( kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3m5XnSEorNjpNU ) and heads( kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4rFlIKentygoac ). Worth it!

[@locotrucker46]

The best mod for TPI is to replace it with a carburetor.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Well that is the easiest way to get more power out of these engines and many have done it but that's also what makes the cars that still have the TPI system more valuable. And the TPI just looks way cooler but you are right it is a lot easier to go with a carburetor setup.

[@locotrucker46]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 it does look way cooler for sure. The reason I'm going to a carburetor is because the previous owners butchered the wiring and it never ran right so it was the best thing to do

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yeah I can understand that. It is also getting harder to find people who can tune them.

[@locotrucker46]

@@LSxMotorsports2021 that's for sure. And I don't know how to work on it either.

[@76629online]

This video was helpful, but not very much.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

No it wasn't a great video for sure. More less for guys who have the TPI engine and just want a little more performance.

[@PAFORM350]

NOS 5151. Bolt on. Installed right it will not hurt engine.

[@LSxMotorsports2021]

Yes I agree that is a way to add big power if done properly.