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  • Engine life expectantcy

    Hello

    I'm looking at a 1989 Firebird Formula with the 305 TBi and 140,000 miles. The miles concern me a bit. Assuming it's been well maintained, How many miles might I expect out of the engine before rebuild is necessary?

    TIA!!

    ^JR^

  • #2
    Originally posted by jimrage
    Hello

    I'm looking at a 1989 Firebird Formula with the 305 TBi and 140,000 miles. The miles concern me a bit. Assuming it's been well maintained, How many miles might I expect out of the engine before rebuild is necessary?

    TIA!!

    ^JR^
    Thats a question that doesnt have a real answer. You may get another 100k out of it, but it may die at 140,001 too......you never know. The only way to get even a rough idea on internal condition is to do a compression test, leakdown test, and oil pressure test.....but, even if it was like brand new inside, a rod could snap tomorrow.
    96 WS6 Formula: Ram Air, 383 Stroker, Ported LT4 Heads and Manifold, 1.6 Crane Rollers, 58MM T.B., AS&M Headers, Borla Exhaust, Meziere Elec. H2O Pump, Canton Deep Sump Oil Pan, 100 HP OF TNT N2O!! , T56 Conversion w/ Pro 5.0 shifter, SPEC Stage 3 Clutch, Hotchkiss Subframe Conn., Lakewood Adj. Panhard Bar, Spohn Adj. LCA's, BMR Adj. T.A., Custom 12 bolt w/ 3:73's, Moser Axles, Eaton Posi, Moser Girdle
    11.6 @ 123mph (1.6 60' - getting there )

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    • #3
      I have over 210K on my 87 L98 WS6. but like Sean said, ya never know when it will come apart.

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      • #4
        depends on the previous owners. theses were 80s under powered over emissioned cars. so most of the time they've had a ruff life. its buyer beware kinda thing
        2009 Honda Civic EX- the daily beater

        old toys - 1983 trans am, 1988 trans am, 1986 IROC-Z, 2002 Ram Off-Road, 1984 K10, 1988 Mustang GT, 2006 Silverado 2500HD

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        • #5
          i have a 87 350 tbi that has over 300k on it the only thing done was vlv train burn no oil out lasted 2 trannys and 2 vehicles but like what was posted earlier u never know when it breaks no two engines are built the same they all make different power
          but back then engines were good for 75k- 100k miles and came with 50k warrenty not the 100k now

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          • #6
            Thanks for the input. Yeah, I know there is the possibility random mechanical failure. But I figured there was specs on how long the engine is expected to last. 140k is pretty decent for milage given the model year, though, I think.

            I used to have an 85 Z-28. I loved that car. It had it's issues, but it was fun to drive and I've always wanted to get back into something like that. The guy who's selling the Firebird has taken good care of it since he has owned it. I'm pretty sure he's got a carfax report on file for when he bought it so I'll be checking that out. He's selling it for $2000 and at this point, I think it's worth it given the work he ahs put in to it. So, If I buy it I'll be posting in here more often

            Thanks again
            ^JR^

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