Trans Am & Firebird Restoration: 1970-1/2 - 1981

Trans Am & Firebird Restoration: 1970-1/2 - 1981

by Melvin Benzaquen
Trans Am & Firebird Restoration: 1970-1/2 - 1981

Trans Am & Firebird Restoration: 1970-1/2 - 1981

by Melvin Benzaquen

Paperback

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Overview

The Trans Am and Firebird were distinctly different than their cousin, the Chevy Camaro, and many Trans Am and Firebird models became stand-out muscle cars of their era. In fact, when the high-performance wars in Detroit subsided in the early 1970s, the Trans Am remained as the sole surviving muscle car. Some second-generation Pontiac F-Body cars are affordable while others are extremely rare and valuable. In particular, the 1970–1974 Pontiac Super Duty Trans Ams, 1970–1973 Firebird Formulas, and 1976 Firebird Limited Editions command high sale prices while the 1970s Trans Am 6.6 "Smokey and the Bandit" cars are still affordable and appreciating in value.

Melvin Benzaquen of Classic Restoration Enterprises has restored dozens of these cars. In this revealing guide, all crucial aspects of restoration are covered, including engine, driveline, interior, trim, electrical system, brakes, steering, and suspension. A special focus is placed on performing common body restoration procedures. Chapters also include VIN decoding, planning, preparation, tools, and painting techniques. Step-by-step photos accompanied by in-depth and detailed captions explain how to perform each stage of the restoration process.

Pontiac Firebird and Trans Am owners are loyal and dedicated to the preservation of these storied high-performance models and therefore demand an accurate and faithful restoration. The magnitude and variety of work in the restoration process can be overwhelming and that’s why a complete restoration guide by an acknowledged expert is so important. Now, in this authoritative and comprehensive guide, you have the tools you need to get started on your Trans Am or Firebird restoration.


Product Details

ISBN-13: 9781613251720
Publisher: CarTech
Publication date: 09/15/2015
Pages: 176
Sales rank: 418,210
Product dimensions: 8.50(w) x 10.90(h) x 0.40(d)

About the Author

Melvin Benzaquen started and operates Classic Restoration Enterprises, one of the largest restoration facilities in the country. He has performed many Firebird and Trans Am restorations and has guided his staff as they have performed dozens more. He has managed the paint, mechanical, electrical, and interior work of a body shop, along with the overall operations of systems. In addition, he has penned many articles for Hemmings Motor News and Muscle Machines.

Table of Contents

About the Author 4 Acknowledgments 4 Introduction 5 Chapter 1: Models and Numbers 6 Model Search 7 VIN Tag Decoding 11 Firebird and Trans Am Values 15 Chapter 2: Getting Started 21 Type of Restoration 22 At-Home or Professional Shop Restoration 22 Restoration Process in a Nutshell 24 Evaluating the Car 24 Buying Parts 25 Organize Your Parts 27 Tools and Equipment 29 Basic Disassembly 30 Chapter 3: Bodywork Part I: Body Panels 39 Safety 40 Preparation 40 Tools for Bodywork 40 Quarter Panel Patch 40 Trunk Extension 42 Rear Body Panel Sectioning 48 Patch Panel Fabrication 51 Fenders 55 1970–1973 Front End Removal 63 Engine Accessories and Related Component Removal 64 Basic Techniques 68 Sheet-Metal Stripping and Fiberglass Application 68 Fiberglass Resin Application 69 Shaping and Sanding 71 Chapter 4: Bodywork Part II: Doors, Spoilers, Bumpers and Wheel Flares 73 Door Panel 73 Door Glass 75 Interior Door Panel Installation 79 Endura Bumper 80 Rear Spoiler 86 Wheel Flares 87 Panel Alignment 92 Chapter 5: Painting 95 Environmental Laws and Safety Considerations 96 Paint Job Types 97 Painting at Home 99 Selecting the Right Shop 100 Panel Sanding and Cleaning 102 Masking 102 Paint Type and System 103 Prime Time 104 Color Coat Process 105 Clear Coat Process 107 Wet Sanding 107 Polishing and Hand Glazing 108 Chapter 6: Engine Rebuilding 109 Through the Years 109 Engine Identification 110 Rebuilding Considerations 111 When to Rebuild 114 Original Appearance Is Key 117 Procedure Overview 117 Chapter 7: Transmission Rebuilding 121 Manual Transmissions 121 Automatic Transmissions 124 Chapter 8: Drivetrain 126 Differential 126 Clutch 126 Driveshaft 131 Rear Axles 131 Chapter 9: Brakes 135 Front Disc Brakes 135 Rear Disc Brakes (1979–1981) 140 Chapter 10: Suspension 144 Inspection 144 Frame-Off Preparation 145 Front Suspension 145 Rear Suspension 151 Chapter 11: Electrical System 154 Electrical Harness 154 Chapter 12: Interior 158 Documentation and Damage Assessment 159 Interior Carpet 159 Dash 164 Chapter 13: Other Systems and Components 170 Cooling System 170 Fuel System 171 Wheels and Tires 172 Source Guide 176
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