My 1980 Pontiac Trans Am

[Yukon Jack]

As of a couple days ago, I'm the proud owner of a 1980 Pontiac Trans AM. A prior owner swapped in a 455 Oldsmobile along with a TH400. The build sheet was sitting in the glove box along with the owner's manual. It originally had the 301 and I'm guessing that went to a TH350. The rear axle should be a 2.41 with a posi, but I haven't confirmed that it is still that ratio. My guess is that it is. The prior owner has installed new door panels and seat covers. It looks like the center console is not original. The vehicle does have a salvage/rebuilt title which helped me negotiate the price, but it drives straight and smooth and so far I'm very pleased with it.

I had a 1980 Camaro in the end of high school and have wanted another 2nd gen for many years.

Here are a few pics of the TA and the build sheet.









The larger engine sets the shaker a little off center - I imagine cutting the base of the air cleaner and shifting it over will get that taken care of.



I've got some plans for things I would like to do to the TA but they will have to wait for funds and time. I like the Weld wheels but am not a big fan of the big and small look. I think I'd like to even out the tire size. I noticed the 17" Honeycomb rims on Year One's site that are set for release - they sure would add the right classic look to this TA. Later on I'd like to drop the stance a touch also.

My first project will be replacing the passenger side exterior door handle, then both windows need to be adjusted. I've already seen the post on adjusting the windows so that will be helpful.

The heater box was cut out by a prior owner to fit the 455 so that is something I have to tackle. I can go without a/c, but gotta have heat!

Here's the build sheet.



And yes I've already been stopped in it - the prior owner let me drive it home with his tag, which happened to have a 2010 sticker on it. The Kansas Highway Patrol trooper didn't like that - I think it didn't help that the prior owner's tag was GOTFAST.