Dirt Dobber

[Malibu83]

Hey there, so I have a fresh, unmodified 83 wagon. The plan is to get it legal and safe to drive. New tires are on order, gonna get the tune up stuff this weekend. Any suggestions or tips is appreciated. Later down the road I’ll swap in a big inch small block or LS something.
Now it has a 305/th350 and a 2:43 gear. Thanks in advance.

 

[slpfeife9651]

It says you're in texas, so I'm guessing the frame rails are solid? I know that is where I started with my 79. Then it was new gas tank/ lines, tires, etc. I'm in the process of swapping the 305 for a 350 with all the little upgrades (intake, headers, HEI distributor, high performance wires, carb, etc.) As long as all your basics are covered, it should be a fine car to work on. I'm not the most mechanical person on here, but I saw no one had said anything yet! Good luck and make sure you give us updates!
-Spencer

 

[Malibu83]

It says you're in texas, so I'm guessing the frame rails are solid? I know that is where I started with my 79. Then it was new gas tank/ lines, tires, etc. I'm in the process of swapping the 305 for a 350 with all the little upgrades (intake, headers, HEI distributor, high performance wires, carb, etc.) As long as all your basics are covered, it should be a fine car to work on. I'm not the most mechanical person on here, but I saw no one had said anything yet! Good luck and make sure you give us updates!
-Spencer

Thanks for the reply. Yes in Tyler area.. was a Louisiana car.. solid yes.. I’m in the middle of a distributor swap.. removing computer control one for a regular HEI. Carb was already swapped out.. new plugs and wires at the same time.. plus everything else you mentioned..new tires on order as well..

 

[Malibu83]

Looking for a fuel tank for the wagon..
Anyone have one???

 

[sleepybu]

Do those side mirrors on your wagon have inside controls (adjustment)?

I'm looking for a pair that style but no inside control.

 

[Malibu83]

No inside adjuster on these mirrors.

 

[Malibu83]

We got the gas tank out and it’s not salvageable.

 

[Malibu83]

Much has happened since last on here. Got a new tank from Rock Auto. New carburetor, all new fuel lines , pump, new distributor, plugs ,wires ect ect… runs good, gets 16 mpg