1987 Pontiac Trans am problems
The Pontiac Firebird is an American automobile built and produced by Pontiac from the 1967 to 2002 model years. Designed as a pony car to compete with the Ford Mustang, it was introduced on February 23, 1967, five months after GM's Chevrolet division's platform-sharing Camaro. This also coincided with the release of the 1967 Mercury Cougar, Ford's upscale, platform-sharing version of the Mustang. The name "Firebird" was also previously used by GM for the General Motors Firebird series of concept cars in the 1950s.
First generation (1967–1969)
The first generation Firebird had characteristic Coke bottle styling shared with its cousin, the Chevrolet Camaro. Announcing a Pontiac styling trend, the Firebird's bumpers were integrated into the design of the front end, giving it a more streamlined look than the Camaro. The Firebird's rear "slit" taillights were inspired by the 1966–1967 Pontiac GTO and Pontiac Grand Prix. Both a two-door hardtop and a convertible were offered through the 1969 model year. Originally, the car was a "consolation prize" for Pontiac, which had desired to produce a two-seat sports car based on its original Banshee concept car. However, GM feared this would cut into Chevrolet Corvette sales, and gave Pontiac a piece of the "pony car" market by sharing the F-body platform with Chevrolet. The listed retail price before options for the coupe was $2,666 ($24,361 in 2023 dollars) and the convertible was $2,903 ($28,519 in 2023 dollars).
The 1967 base model Firebird came equipped with the Pontiac 230 cu in (3.8 L) SOHC inline-six. Based on the architecture of the standard Chevrolet 230 cu in (3.8 L) inline-six, it was fitted with a one-barrel Rochester carburetor and rated at 165 hp (123 kW). The "Sprint" model six came with a four-barrel carburetor, developing 215 hp (160 kW). Most buyers opted for one of three V8s: the 326 cu in (5.3 L) with a two-barrel carburetor producing 250 hp (186 kW); the four-barrel "HO" (high output) 326, producing 285 hp (213 kW); or the 325 hp (242 kW) 400 cu in (6.6 L) from the GTO. All 1967–1968 400 CI engines had throttle restrictors that blocked the carburetors' secondaries from fully opening. A "Ram Air" option was also available, providing functional hood scoops, higher flow heads with stronger valve springs, and a hotter camshaft. Power for the Ram Air package was the same as the conventional 400 HO, but peaked at 5,200 rpm.
The 230 cu in (3.8 L) engines were subsequently enlarged for 1968 to 250 cubic inches (4.1 liters), the base version developing an increased 175 hp (130 kW) using a one-barrel carburetor, and the high-output Sprint version the same 215 hp with a four-barrel carburetor. Also for the 1968 model, the 326 cu in (5.3 L) engine was replaced by the Pontiac 350 cu in (5.7 L) V8, which actually displaced 354 cu in (5.8 L), and produced 265 hp (198 kW) with a two-barrel carburetor. An HO version of the 350 cu in (5.7 L) with a revised cam was also offered to start in that year, which developed 320 hp (239 kW). The power output of the other engines was increased marginally.
There was an additional Ram Air IV option for the 400 cu in (6.6 L) V8 engines during 1969, complementing the Ram Air 400(now often colloquially but incorrectly called the "Ram Air III," a name never used by Pontiac). The Ram Air IV was rated at 345 hp (350 PS; 257 kW) at 5000 rpm and 430 lb⋅ft (583 N⋅m) of torque at 3400 rpm; and 335 hp (340 PS; 250 kW) respectively. The 350 cu in (5.7 L) HO engine was revised again with a different cam and cylinder heads resulting in 325 hp (242 kW). During 1969 a special 303 cu in (5.0 L) engine was designed for Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) road racing applications that were not available in production cars.
Modifications for 1968 included the addition of federally-mandated side marker lights: for the front of the car, the turn signals were made larger and extended to wrap around the front edges of the car, and on the rear, the Pontiac (V-shaped) Arrowhead logo was added to each side. The front door vent-windows was replaced with a single pane of glass and Astro Ventilation, a fresh-air-inlet system. The 1969 model received a major facelift with a new front-end design but unlike the GTO, it did not have the Endura bumper. The instrument panel and steering wheel were revised. The ignition switch was moved from the dashboard to the steering column with the introduction of GM's new locking ignition switch/steering wheel.
In March 1969, a US$1,083 ($8,998 in 2023 ) optional handling package called the "Trans Am performance and appearance package", UPC "WS4", named after the Trans Am Series, was introduced. A total of 689 hardtops and eight convertibles were made.
Due to engineering problems that delayed the introduction of the new 1970 Firebird beyond the usual fall debut, Pontiac continued production of 1969 model Firebirds into the early months of the 1970 model year (the other 1970 Pontiac models had been introduced on September 18, 1969). By late spring of 1969, Pontiac had deleted all model-year references on Firebird literature and promotional materials, anticipating the extended production run of the then-current 1969 models.
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Common 1987 Pontiac Trans am problems
The 1987 Pontiac Trans Am, a classic sports car, is known for its power and performance. However, like any other vehicle, it is not without its problems. Based on complaints from Trans Am owners, some of the most common issues with the 1987 Pontiac Trans Am include engine problems, electrical issues, and fuel system issues.
Engine Problems:
One of the most common engine problems with the 1987 Pontiac Trans Am is that the engine turns over but won't start. This issue can be caused by various factors, such as a faulty ignition system, a bad fuel pump, or a clogged fuel filter. It is essential to diagnose and fix the problem as soon as possible, as it can lead to more severe issues if left unattended.
Electrical Issues:
Electrical issues are also common in the 1987 Pontiac Trans Am. For instance, the ses light may flash, indicating an electrical problem with the vehicle. This issue can be caused by various factors, such as a faulty ignition system, a bad alternator, or a blown fuse. It is crucial to diagnose and fix the problem as soon as possible, as it can lead to more severe issues if left unattended.
Fuel System Issues:
Fuel system issues are also common in the 1987 Pontiac Trans Am. For instance, the carburetor may spurt fuel everywhere when starting the car, indicating a fuel system problem. This issue can be caused by various factors, such as a faulty fuel pump, a clogged fuel filter, or a damaged carburetor. It is essential to diagnose and fix the problem as soon as possible, as it can lead to more severe issues if left unattended.
In conclusion, the 1987 Pontiac Trans Am is a classic sports car known for its power and performance. However, like any other vehicle, it is not without its problems. Engine problems, electrical issues, and fuel system issues are some of the most common issues with the 1987 Pontiac Trans Am. It is crucial to diagnose and fix these problems as soon as possible, as they can lead to more severe issues if left unattended.
What is the best year of Trans Am?
- 7 1993 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 7.5/10. ...
- 6 1997 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 7.5/10. ...
- 5 1999 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 7.5/10. ...
- 4 1988 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 8/10. ...
- 3 1989 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 8.5/10. ...
- 2 2000 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 8.5/10. ...
- 1 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 8.5/10.
What engine does a 1987 Trans Am have?
5.0-liter V-8
Standard Trans Am powertrain consisted of a 165-bhp four-barrel 5.0-liter V-8 with five-speed.
What does GTA mean on a 1987 Trans Am?
Trans Am GTA (Gran Turismo Americano) was introduced, available with the LB9 305 TPI engine (which was returned to 205 hp) or the L98 350 TPI.
How much does a 1987 Pontiac Trans Am cost?
1987 Pontiac Firebird Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| Formula | $11,843 |
| Trans Am GTA | $16,373 |
| STD | $10,773 |
| Trans Am | $13,673 |
What engine is in a 1987 Trans Am?
5.0-liter V-8
Standard Trans Am powertrain consisted of a 165-bhp four-barrel 5.0-liter V-8 with five-speed.
What is the best year of Trans Am?
- 7 1993 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 7.5/10. ...
- 6 1997 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 7.5/10. ...
- 5 1999 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 7.5/10. ...
- 4 1988 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 8/10. ...
- 3 1989 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 8.5/10. ...
- 2 2000 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 8.5/10. ...
- 1 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 8.5/10.
How fast is the 1987 Pontiac Trans Am GTA?
1987 Pontiac Trans Am GTA World Record 267.618 mph
Clocking a 277 mph, mile and a 268 mph two-way record, Banks' 1987 Twin-Turbo, 1800 hp, gasoline-burning big block Pontiac GTA, set a passenger car standard that would stand for ten years.
Is a Trans Am a muscle car?
One of the most anticipated muscle car come-backs ever imagined, now on a modern platform… the rebirth of a muscle car legend. Reimagining the most popular American Muscle Cars of the past, Trans Am Worldwide is now taking orders on the most recent in their modern-day muscle car line up, the 70/SS.
1987 Pontiac Trans am car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Pontiac Trans am problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Pontiac Trans am vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1987 Pontiac Trans am complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Pontiac Trans am.
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-22
- VIN: 1G2FW21F1HN
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE BRAKE PEDAL SUDDENLY FELL TO THE FLOOR WHILE I WAS TRYING TO BRAKE THE CAR FOR A RED LIGHT AT 40 MPH WITH OTHER TRAFFIC DIRECTLY IN FRONT OF ME. THE BRAKE LINE TRAVELING ALONG THE BOTTOM OF THE CAR HAD RUSTED THROUGH DUE TO CORROSION CAUSING THE BRAKES TO FAIL. IN ADDITION, ALL OF THE FUEL LINES WHICH CARRY FUEL AT HIGH PRESSURE AT APPROX. 48PSI ARE ALSO BADLY CORRODED AND LIKELY TO FAIL WITH CATASTROPHIC RESULTS (E.G., FIRE, EXPLOSION, ETC.). THESE BRAKE AND FUEL LINE SAFETY DEFECTS STEM FROM THE FACT THAT GENERAL MOTORS USED INFERIOR BRAKE AND FUEL LINE PARTS (E.G., ORDINARY RUST PRONE STEEL) INSTEAD OF SLIGHTLY COSTLIER STAINLESS STEEL PIPING FOR BRAKE AND FUEL LINES. IN ADDITION, THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER LINES ARE ALSO BADLY CORRODING DUE TO GM USING ORDINARY STEEL INSTEAD OF STAINLESS STEEL FOR THESE LINES. NOW, I HAVE TO HAVE ALL OF THESE BRAKE AND FUEL LINES REPLACE DUE TO GM USING INFERIOR RUST-PRONE STEEL PARTS INSTEAD OF SLIGHTLY MORE COSTLY CORROSION RESISTANT STAINLESS STEEL BRAKE AND FUEL PIPE LINES. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE SINCE CORROSION OF BRAKE, FUEL, AND AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION PIPE LINES COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL RESULTING IN LOSS OF LIFE AND PROPERTY DAMAGE. *TR
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1987 Pontiac Trans am problems:
common 3rd gen problems - Third Generation F-Body Message ...
Mar 29, 2004 ... And what TA said, its not just Trans Ams.. all Firebird models can have that problem. GTATransAM's Avatar. GTATransAM , 03-30-2004 07:56 AM.
What to look for when buying a THIRD GEN FIREBIRD-If I Should ...
Feb 17, 2011 ... I have had my thirdgen 1987 Pontiac GTA for about 3 years. Common problem for the Pontiac Firebirds even the 4th gen Firebirds have this ...
1987 Pontiac Firebird Problems HELP!! - Third Generation F-Body ...
Dec 2, 2007 ... V6 - 1987 Pontiac Firebird Problems HELP!! - Hello, I have a 2.8L Fuel Injected Pontiac Firebird. It has an issue that really is killer, ...
Pontiac Firebird Problems and Complaints - 33 Issues
Top Pontiac Firebird Problems · Car Won't Start Because of Anti-Theft System That Uses Raised-Chip Key · Power Window Motors May Fail From Overheating · Head light ...
87 trans am, lots of problems, where do i start? - Third Generation F ...
Oct 17, 2011 ... Its for GM carburetors, and usually has a Quadrajet on the front. Also, your 82-92 Firebird manual has a carb section too. Pick up a rebuild kit ...
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