General => Lounge => Topic started by: d-bird on May 14, 2008, 09:25:46 PM
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: d-bird on May 14, 2008, 09:25:46 PM
Hey my name is Daniel im 13 my dad owns his own dealership cherokeeautogroupdotcom anyway if i was spoiled i guess i could have the choice of any car on the lot but thats not how this is going to work. We recently purchased a rust free Georgia turbo coupe with just a hair over 100k. We are going to over the next 2+ years make this into one sweet ride. Here is the plan my dad has to mustang donor cars a 1992 lx 5.0 convertible thats where we will get the 5.0 fuel injected v8 for the engine swap second a 1989 mustang GT for the t5 5 speed swap! The car now has a good running engine and tranny but we rather do the 5.0 5 speed swap. I am sure i will have lots of questions for yall hope this is a good source for info. Thanks Daniel
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: SLEEPER T-BIRD 87 on May 14, 2008, 09:33:04 PM
keep the 2.3
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: d-bird on May 14, 2008, 09:37:27 PM
well we were considering that but id rather have something a little different. Whats is the best place to post pictures? Thanks
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: Carpimp1987 on May 14, 2008, 09:39:15 PM
Keep the 2.3 liter turbo it is different and spend your money modding it.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: kingcars on May 14, 2008, 09:40:48 PM
Welcome, Daniel. I'm going to go ahead and warn you of a possible and probable 2.3T vs 5.0 war in this thread. Just do what you want. I have a 5.0HO in my Tbird and it's so much fun to drive. Well over a year after the engine work, I'm still not tired of turning the radio down just to hear the deep V8 rumble, then feel the torque kick in when I get on the gas. With the 5 speed, it'll be even more fun. Just do what you want and enjoy it. I'm glad to see you're able to start nice and early on your car so by the time you get your license, it'll be waitin for ya :) .
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: d-bird on May 14, 2008, 09:58:05 PM
Thanks for the input i'm gonna try to post some photos.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: daminc on May 14, 2008, 10:18:47 PM
Welcome, you'll find all the answers to your questions if it's fox body related. from body to motor, it's in here somewhere
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: bhazard on May 14, 2008, 11:14:41 PM
Keep the 2.3 man. Theres absolutely nothing original or different about dropping a 5.0 in a turbo coupe. These cars are becoming more and more rare every time someone drops a v8 in one, especially a 4-eye car.
Besides, with gas getting only more expensive, wouldnt you rather have the economy of a 4 banger with that turbo power readily available for passing v8 cars?
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: GREYSHADOW on May 14, 2008, 11:38:23 PM
[COLOR="RoyalBlue"]Welcome!!!![/COLOR]
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: kingcars on May 15, 2008, 12:05:44 AM
Quote from: bhazard;218928
Keep the 2.3 man. Theres absolutely nothing original or different about dropping a 5.0 in a turbo coupe. These cars are becoming more and more rare every time someone drops a v8 in one, especially a 4-eye car.
Besides, with gas getting only more expensive, wouldnt you rather have the economy of a 4 banger with that turbo power readily available for passing v8 cars?
Well uh...the mpg isnt THAT much better...and a stock 2.3T def wont be passing a 5.0HO. However, since the engine and tranny are doin fine, I would actually keep the 2.3T. But if the OP wants a V8, then have at it. Can't really go wrong either way. I know I love my 5.0.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: ipsd on May 15, 2008, 12:22:09 AM
I love my t/c. If it were me I'd keep it 2.3T. I get 28-35mpg on the highway. That is a lot better than most v8 cars. Plus I'm passing many 5.0's, 4.6's, these are mostly stock or close to it. I haven't finished my tuning on my LARGE front mount Blow thru setup. But do as you want! Just keep in mind that when later down the road it is all sweat and cherry! It would be that much better if it still had a 2.3T. You'll love the look on the others face when you tell them Yes it is only a 4 banger. They look that the car and beg you to open the hood thinking you are lying! You run and pop the hood, open it up and you see there heart drop when they find you really have a 4 BANGER! And to think I just lost to this big ole car with a 4 banger! they walk away scratching they head like did that really just happen! I love it.
Also don't just take my word for it look around and see what you can find about the 2.3t before you decide to drop in the 5.0. I suggest you look over at turboford. here is a link http://www.turboford.net/ubb/ultimatebb.php and over here. http://www.turbotbird.com/
PS WELCOME and Gotta have pics man! LOL
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: d-bird on May 15, 2008, 12:27:38 AM
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: kingcars on May 15, 2008, 01:00:06 AM
Quote from: ipsd;218944
I love my t/c. If it were me I'd keep it 2.3T. I get 28-35mpg on the highway.
I got 33mpg on my 200 mile highway run at 75-80mph. :nannerbang:
@d-bird: Thats an awesome hot rod platform no matter which power plant you choose. Everyone on this forum is gonna have their bias towards one or the other, but in the end, choose what's gonna make YOU happy, not anyone else.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: ZondaC12 on May 15, 2008, 01:13:37 AM
Welcome dude!
13 huh? Awesome. Dad's sure gettin' ya into the right hobby! Nothin better than dumpin' all of the modest cash you have as a kid into an effin chunk o' steel on wheels! :hick:
That thing is gorgeous, good luck waitin' to drive it!!! :flame:
Cool-lookin' garage! What's behind the bird? I'm thinkin' mid 70s GM barge, like a pontiac grand prix or something?
Cheers! Paul
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: bhazard on May 15, 2008, 01:26:50 AM
The only swap I would do on that is a 5 speed swap. Even then the C3 oughtta be better than an a4ld.
As far as 2.3 vs 5.0 goes, think of it this way. The 2.3t auto was rated at 145hp I believe, maybe 155. The 5.0/auto in 85 was at 175hp I think.
Get a big vam, browntops, la3, etc to update the engine to 88tc specs. Intercooler, 3 inch exhaust, k&n, etc. $10 boost controller set at 20 psi and bam youre at over 200hp and probably 300lb ft of torque, maybe even 250hp. All that can be had for well under $500 if you look in the right places. I paid $150 for my exhaust alone, from turbo to tailpipe. Other than a 3" downpipe elbow its pretty much maxed out as far as exhaust systems go.
Think of how much you would have to spend to get a similar increase in power out of a 5.0. Obviously you would have to spend twice as much alone in exhaust parts.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: Ifixyawata on May 15, 2008, 03:10:05 AM
Ahhh, this gives me TARBO FEVAR again!
Welcome kid, you're definitely our youngest member, glad to see you're involved in a good hobby.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: shorangerbird on May 15, 2008, 08:31:32 AM
-welcome, very nice car. did you find it on craigslist???
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: oldraven on May 15, 2008, 09:16:18 AM
Very nice rig, in awesome shape. I'd say keep the 2.3L too, but that's not surprising anyone. Do what you want, but if you're looking for something different, the entire point of the TC was to be different. The most spec'd out model with the most power (we're talking T-birds here) had the smallest motor. That's different.
I sent these links to a co-worker after he gave me a crooked look when I told him that my car didn't have a 302, but a 2.3T. Make your own judgement, but putting a 302 in a turbo-coupe is about as obvious as a 350 in a hot rod. Besides, they made lots of 302 T-birds, if that's they way you need to go.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0QT7Pyme6g&NR=1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fv1-omYCb9c
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCmMTun1mc4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xZvhCSYIIjA That’s a sub 12 second pass.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: LJS30 on May 15, 2008, 09:22:25 AM
First off, nice way to welcome someone into the fold. :rolleyes: Well let me say welcome!!!!! You'll find alot of knowledge and passion on this board when it comes to Cougars, T-Birds, etc.... As for the swap, well unlike some other kid talking about his TT Supra swap, this kid has a good head on his shoulders. That is evidenced by his swapping in a 90's 5.0HO. I say encourage this kid to do a realistic swap. If tuned correctly with that T-5, he could easily get 22 MPG and still have that legendary torque and excitement the HO has to offer. No worrying about blown turbo lines, bad turbo, etc.... I like this kid already.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: LJS30 on May 15, 2008, 09:24:35 AM
Quote from: bhazard;218956
The only swap I would do on that is a 5 speed swap. Even then the C3 oughtta be better than an a4ld.
As far as 2.3 vs 5.0 goes, think of it this way. The 2.3t auto was rated at 145hp I believe, maybe 155. The 5.0/auto in 85 was at 175hp I think.
Get a big vam, browntops, la3, etc to update the engine to 88tc specs. Intercooler, 3 inch exhaust, k&n, etc. $10 boost controller set at 20 psi and bam youre at over 200hp and probably 300lb ft of torque, maybe even 250hp. All that can be had for well under $500 if you look in the right places. I paid $150 for my exhaust alone, from turbo to tailpipe. Other than a 3" downpipe elbow its pretty much maxed out as far as exhaust systems go.
Think of how much you would have to spend to get a similar increase in power out of a 5.0. Obviously you would have to spend twice as much alone in exhaust parts.
Didn't he mention his donor 5.0HO is from a 90's Mustang? That is rated at 225HP at the crank with ALOT more torque. The 5.0HO is cheap with all kinds of parts availability.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: oldraven on May 15, 2008, 09:49:14 AM
Is there anything unwelcoming about our posts? I see a lot of 'Welcome's, 'Nice car's, 'you're getting into a great hobby's, 'good on your dad's, etc. :dunno:
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: 5.0willgo on May 15, 2008, 10:01:04 AM
Wecome Aboard! Did it ever occur to anyone that maybe the kid wants the rumble of the 5.0? You know, something that the 2.3 just can't produce. ;) At 13, I know I wanted a V-8 over a 4 and if I was in his shoes, I'd probably swap it as well. :flame: Nice car Daniel, enjoy it. You definitely came to the right place. :D
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: BCA on May 15, 2008, 10:31:31 AM
Quote from: 5.0willgo;219013
Did it ever occur to anyone that maybe the kid wants the rumble of the 5.0? You know, something that the 2.3 just can't produce. ;)
I agree the rumble of a V8 is hard to beat; but for me, hearing the turbo spool up is music to my ears. :D
Welcome aboard Daniel, it's your car so you should decide what's best for you. I looks like a nice car to play with.
Brent :cougarsmily:
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: oldraven on May 15, 2008, 10:32:35 AM
I can understand that. Like I said, there are a lot of 302 T-birds out there as a starting point. With the 4-eyes, there's not enough of a difference to need to tear up a TC when you could find one already equipped with what he's looking for. Swapping an SO out for an HO would be easier than in a TC.
He came here for info, right?
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: Clayton on May 15, 2008, 11:08:44 AM
Quote from: kingcars;218904
With the 5 speed, it'll be even more fun.
x2
I was there once... i had this car of mine since i was 12 or 13, i lost count.
Best way to start is young. Welcome.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: LJS30 on May 15, 2008, 01:38:45 PM
Cool pics!!!!! I'm really impressed with this kid guys. It's rare you find a youngster truly into these kinds of cars. It seems like rice or the quick fix off the new car lot is what every kid really wants. Tons of memories are going to be attached to his car.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: t3skidoo on May 15, 2008, 02:33:54 PM
I wish I had TC when I was 13. Not jealous, not even a little bit.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: kingcars on May 15, 2008, 02:41:17 PM
We had my Tbird when I was 14 iirc and it was passed over to me when I was 15...but even then I wasn't really able to drive it till I was 18 :( .
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: daminc on May 15, 2008, 06:56:01 PM
I feel like I had my cougar since I was 14. I say keep what you got until it doesn't work. If I didn't need to replace mine, I'd keep the 3.8 in it.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: daboss351 on May 15, 2008, 07:31:36 PM
lucky man you are!!! My first car was supose to be a 1988 turbo coupe with a 5 speed, god that thing SCREWED. I dont know what was done to the car before we bought it, but the car would get into boost, and it would just SCREAM. Dump the clutch and youd be roasting the tires. But I know how awesome the 5.0 is, I have a h.o in my mark. Awesome motor, sounds great with an intake and exhaust on it! cant go wrong either way! But at least you got a rust free car, my 88 bird rotted out before I could drive it, and my mark isnt much better!
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: d-bird on May 15, 2008, 10:25:50 PM
First off thanks guys a hole lot for all your input. Yes i found the car on craigs list only 550 bucks it had to be a deal or my dad would not have gotten the car since he is a dealer :burnout: Hey nice white Ranger is that a Ranger GT? I know most of you think i should keep the 2.3 but i like the platform of the tc for the 5.0 swap i know there are plenty of v8 fact birds but not close to the same as she will be with the tc goodies and a true HO 5.0!
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: bhazard on May 15, 2008, 10:40:56 PM
I would recommend that you at least TRY out the 2.3 first. Throw a little money into in and see how it is.
....I just remembered you arent even gonna be able to drive this thing for at least 3 years....
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: SLEEPER T-BIRD 87 on May 15, 2008, 11:09:00 PM
Quote from: bhazard;219174
I would recommend that you at least TRY out the 2.3 first. Throw a little money into in and see how it is.
....I just remembered you arent even gonna be able to drive this thing for at least 3 years....
in 3 years gas will be so dang high!:flame:
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: d-bird on May 15, 2008, 11:09:09 PM
Well actually it is less than two year in Feb of 2010 i will have my learners permit then i can drive. I have had some experience with driving cars i learned to do a stick when i was 8 and a buddy of my dads has 40acrs just down the road and my dad and i have done a lil redneck budget racing with some sleds and i raced go karts for 2 years.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: d-bird on May 15, 2008, 11:11:50 PM
Well actually it is less than two years in Feb of 2010 i will have my learners permit then i can drive :D . I have had some experience with driving cars i learned to do a stick when i was 8 and a buddy of my dads has 40acrs just down the road and my dad and i have done a lil redneck budget racing with some sleds and i raced go karts for 2 years.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: oldraven on May 16, 2008, 07:28:07 AM
I know next to nothing about 1st Gen. Turbo Coupes. What were they equipped with that LX 302 cars weren't, other than an optional 5-spd and a bumper that holds fog lights?
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: shorangerbird on May 16, 2008, 08:19:57 AM
Quote from: d-bird;219165
Yes i found the car on craigs list only 550 bucks it had to be a deal or my dad would not have gotten the car since he is a dealer :burnout: Hey nice white Ranger is that a Ranger GT?
-thought that looked like the same car. i found the ad week before last, called on it but he said it was already sold. yes, my Ranger is a GT. good that you do know of them at your age. if you want one, i have 2 that have no engine or trans in them(great for V8 conversions) i'll glady trade you for the 'bird! :hick:
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: daboss351 on May 16, 2008, 02:49:49 PM
Quote from: shorangerbird;219219
-thought that looked like the same car. i found the ad week before last, called on it but he said it was already sold. yes, my Ranger is a GT. good that you do know of them at your age. if you want one, i have 2 that have no engine or trans in them(great for V8 conversions) i'll glady trade you for the 'bird! :hick:
O shiznit! no way! How much!
And man you will love the 5.0, but about half the members on here have TRUE 5.0 HO's, or 351w, 306 strokers, 347 strokers, theres some serious birds on this site.
Title: Do you mean 83s-84s or 83s-86s?
Post by: t3skidoo on May 16, 2008, 04:28:35 PM
Quote from: oldraven;219216
I know next to nothing about 1st Gen. Turbo Coupes. What were they equipped with that LX 302 cars weren't, other than an optional 5-spd and a bumper that holds fog lights?
Mostly suspension, in either case. And the stick was standard, haha.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: LJS30 on May 16, 2008, 04:45:19 PM
Quote from: daboss351;219268
O shiznit! no way! How much!
And man you will love the 5.0, but about half the members on here have TRUE 5.0 HO's, or 351w, 306 strokers, 347 strokers, theres some serious birds on this site.
Yes, the 5.0HO in 88-up form is alot more potent then either the standard 5.0 or those before 88.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: turboranger91 on May 16, 2008, 05:12:35 PM
that's a GREAT looking car to start your project with!!! i'm one of the ones that is very pro 2.3turbo. however, like many have said, it's your car and you're entitled to do with it as you wish. have fun!
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: daboss351 on May 16, 2008, 08:13:18 PM
Quote from: LJS30;219289
Yes, the 5.0HO in 88-up form is alot more potent then either the standard 5.0 or those before 88.
I know my HO absolutely TEARS my 245's apart like nothing!!
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: LJS30 on May 17, 2008, 01:30:33 AM
Quote from: daboss351;219323
I know my HO absolutely TEARS my 245's apart like nothing!!
Yes, alot of guys talk about the HO without knowing the difference in those motors from 88-up.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: d-bird on May 18, 2008, 10:25:57 PM
Quote from: oldraven;219216
I know next to nothing about 1st Gen. Turbo Coupes. What were they equipped with that LX 302 cars weren't, other than an optional 5-spd and a bumper that holds fog lights?
quite a bit differences such as interior, wheels, suspension, gauge cluster, paint sceem and a few other
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: d-bird on May 18, 2008, 10:30:12 PM
Quote from: shorangerbird;219219
-thought that looked like the same car. i found the ad week before last, called on it but he said it was already sold. yes, my Ranger is a GT. good that you do know of them at your age. if you want one, i have 2 that have no engine or trans in them(great for V8 conversions) i'll glady trade you for the 'bird! :hick:
Hmm i will have to think about that but thanks anyway i think im better off with my t-bird it was a score
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: SLEEPER T-BIRD 87 on May 18, 2008, 10:37:16 PM
BTW is this the car that was on atlanta's craigslist a few weeks ago?
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: d-bird on May 18, 2008, 10:50:29 PM
Yes it was here is the link it is still up
http://atlanta.craigslist.org/car/641266891.html
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: SLEEPER T-BIRD 87 on May 18, 2008, 10:56:48 PM
Quote from: d-bird;219721
Yes it was here is the link it is still up
http://atlanta.craigslist.org/car/641266891.html
Thats what i thought good score for the money
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: d-bird on May 18, 2008, 11:03:26 PM
It was just up the road from us and we did not rush after it was on there for a week plus CL sells stuff but sometimes give away deals are the only stuff that moves fariley quick on there!
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: oldraven on May 18, 2008, 11:56:36 PM
A much better father-son team in this thread. This gets results.
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: shorangerbird on May 19, 2008, 03:39:11 PM
Quote from: d-bird;219716
thanks anyway i think im better off with my t-bird it was a score
:( ...lets:deal:.....:D
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: d-bird on May 19, 2008, 10:15:20 PM
well guys tonight we had some fun taking the passenger door panel off my lord it was difficult oh well its good we have that nice insulation for a smooth ride. hey does any body no if they make outer door belt moldings aka due wipes if so let me no. well we took the door panel off to get to the window motor the gears are stripped so we got to put a new motor in it UGH!!!
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: cougarXLS on May 20, 2008, 11:09:30 AM
Welcome d-bird!
I just checked out that craigslist link.... what a nice car and for the price! Wow!
No matter what you decide to go with under the hood, this car will still be awesome (hehe... I confess, I am partial to the V8).
Enjoy this pursuit, work on the car, spend the next couple of years doing everything you want and everything right and when you start driving this car will mean even more to you than you could even know now.
At least that is how it started for me... I spent about two years working on Cougar A before I even got my licence... I already loved the car... then I started driving it, and I loved it even more... then I blew the V6 and I cried all night. Working on that car was also a father-son team. This started me right off... hehe, last year I bought a 88 XR7 (with my V8! :D ), did all the work myself and I didn't know it was possible, but I love that car more than love itself (okay, I'm just a little wierd :hick: )
My point is... welcome aboard, you gotta great car there... enjoy it and do what you want. Everybody here has an opinion, but where it gets good is most of us here actually know alot of stuff about these fox cars! I owe this site quite a lot with all the tidbits of info I've picked up.
:mercury: :cougarsmily: :ford: :birdsmily:
CougarXLS
Title: Newbee with 1985 t-bird turbo coupe project
Post by: BlackCardinal on May 20, 2008, 11:38:40 AM
Quote from: d-bird;219721
Yes it was here is the link it is still up
http://atlanta.craigslist.org/car/641266891.html
:hick: :hick: HA! I almost considered picking that one up myself! I found an '86 closer to home for $800 instead!