1977 Trans Am - With Original 24K Miles

[metro Detroit TransAm]

Hello everyone, new member here.

I just got handed the keys to a 1977 Pontiac Trans Am with the original 24K miles.

I am told that the car (inherited from a family member) is original, with numbers matching, but there is no paperwork to back this up.

This is my first classic car, so please pardon all the questions im about to ask.

Can someone help me find the numbers on the transmission and engine to match the numbers?

There are a few paint imperfections on the car (see pictures). Would these be worth touching up at a classic car restoration shop, or should I just let them be? They are on the rear corner panel. It looks like sap or something, making it bubble.

There is no rust or missing paint, but it doesn't look great, but besides a few spots, the car is in excellent condition.

What is your general yearly maintenance for your classic car?

I know the basics of changing oil and whatnot, but what is your maintenance routine?

I am in Metro Detroit so winterizing will happen around Oct.

Is anyone else in the Detroit Metro area have suggestions for quality classic car shops in the area?

Besides the actual value of this car, it holds a lot of sentimental value, and I would like to keep it in the best condition possible.

Any tips and tricks would be appreciated on any aspects of owning a car such as this?

Next time I have her out, I'll post better pictures.

 

[Knightrider189]

Nice inheritance!


1989 Pontiac Formula Firebird, 5.7, all OEM

 

[Pontiac Trans Am]

What a find that is! ~

First, ensure all the fluids are fresh, and don't throw any of the factory parts away!

KEEP EVERYTHING AND DOCUMENT!

That is a real gem there!

Thank you,
PTA Staff

 

[Seventy6er]

Belated sympathies but congratulations nevertheless on continuing the family legacy with a TA!

Anyways, having gone thru my own 76 recently, I would strongly encourage you to purchase an endoscope camera (avail on Amazon) with which you can locate the casting numbers in hard places throughout most of the vehicle and confirm the original drivetrain, etc., as well as using it for close-up photos and download them for your records (and it will come in handy for general inspections as well).

Also, go to the Pontiac Historical Society webpage (http://www.phs-online.com/) and order the print-outs of what the excellent man managed to secure from Pontiac. You will get all available info taken from the company's microfiche files, last known to be for just $100 or so.

Otherwise, buy yourself a few manuals (e.g., Haynes Repair Manual and especially a Factory Assembly Manual) and get familiar with it and keep documentation/receipts on everything involved.

Remember that many places will not work on vehicles of this era (and probably shouldn't in this day and age) but don't get discouraged because most repairs and routine maintenance can be done in your garage.

Avoid leaving it unattended at the Zoo (WalMart, etc.) because some people are still wild animals.

 

[Seventy6er]

As to maintenance, if you are not in possession of the owner's manual (or corresponding receipts) you can find a reproduction one online.

Having said that, if you are also unsure when the last scheduled services were done then you should at least go ahead and change the fluids/filters in both the engine and tranny, perhaps even power steering and rear differential.

Yes, it's a little involved but then you'll know for certain, and even more, you'll know your car better for piece of mind and then follow the recommended intervals afterward.

Because she's worth it.

 

[79TURBO]

A very luck guy, even if it is not a numbers matching car.