Hey guys, I just joined today and I already have a question. I am looking at a 1987 Thunderbird 3.8 to use as my daily driver. I have seen the car and it runs perfect, the guy who is selling it to me is very buttstuff about the car so its near perfect. The car has about 140k on it and he wants $500.
I'm in college so I've been delivering pizza to help make ends meet and my current car is taking a beating, plus I want to get it off the road so i can start working on my engine swap. Will this Thunderbird be capable of handling the abuse of my job? Other then headgaskets (which i am prepared for), is there anything else i should be concerned about?
Btw, heres my other car...
(http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i99/redsand353/Thunderbird/nicebird3.jpg)
welcome
Well, in my opinion a t-bird has to have every part replaced before it is considered reliable. I've owned three birds, an 86 and two 84's. Everyone of them were s at first. But that's my just my two cents.
Very nice bird you have. What motor swap are you planning?
Im hoping for a 32v, but if not a PI will do. My current 4.6 is on it's deathbed at 89k...
I just need a car that will run, and for $500 bucks I'll be happy if she gets me through the summer. When it comes to the engine (my main concern), what else should i worry about besides HGs??
I'm all for getting it. Other than motor, tranny, and rearend. Everything is isn't a big concern.
If it needs a starter, fuel pump, brakes, or something like that, it's not going to put it down for more than a day.
would ask some people on TSTACC.com or TCCOA.com they are all newer t-birds
I would find out what has been replaced recently.
These cars are getting to that age for a lot of replacement parts, depending on how it was maintained.
If someone took good care of it, you shouldn't have a problem with it.
But like any 21 year old car, there will be the occasional repair with something.
Welcome,
If you do get it, you'll fit right in with us
I'd buy that for $500. Looks like a good buy, hows the interior?
Thats his other car, not the one he is buying....
Yes from the sounds of it the bird you are considering will be just fine. If he took that good of care of it then there shouldn't be any issues, unless you pound it. I bought an '88 XR-7 from the original owner last summer, with 235kms on it, it is now at 267kms with out any issues and I have taken it to the track and made 20 passes so far this year with it. (mind you the valve guides are starting to go, which is why my plugs are fouling up quickly...)
Check for rust in the typical areas... rad support, frame rails, under the doors etc.
Oh my bad. I got distracted from that nice pic you posted. You could need a head or something more than just a gasket on the 87 imo...
I think I would pass.
The gaskets haven't gone yet, so I think it's fine for $500.
If you buy it change the headgaskets asap.