 | | When shopping for a conversion car, there are a few items that you should include in your considerations (all of these options can be later installed or removed in any 3rd generation Firebird):(RPO CC1)
Both KITT and KARR had T-tops. These are very expensive to later add to a hardtop, and after-market T-tops rarely look exactly the same as originals.
Power Windows (RPO A31)Power Locks (RPO AU3)Power Electric Mirrors (not on the original KITT and KARR, but a nice extra) (RPO DD9)Rear Cargo Cover (RPO D42)Rear Deck Spoiler Without Aero Wing (RPO D80)Remote Hatch Release (RPO A90)
These options can be more easily added, and are not absolutely required.
Round Gear Shifter Knob
These were standard and available only on the 1982 Firebirds.
PMD Seats (open headrest with PMD logo) (Camel Tan Parella Cloth)
They are standard in 1982 Firebird SEs and optional (RPO AR9) on other 1982 Firebirds.
They were also an option on Firebirds in 1983 (RPO YR2).
Contrary to popular belief, these seats are not Doeskin. Doeskin was a type of vinyl.
15 inch Turbo Cast Aluminum Rims15 inch Bowling Ball Hub Caps
These options are only found in the 1982 - 1984 Firebirds (RPO N89).
The actual
measurements of the rims are 16 3/8 inches (diameter) by 8 inches (depth) and the caps are 13 1/4 inches (diameter).
Contrary to popular belief, these rims are not "Turbo Finned Rims". Those rims have a small center cap and will not work with the bowling ball hub caps.
Rear Window without Defroster (without RPO C49)
Neither KITT nor KARR had rear window defrosters.
Rear Window without Wiper-Washer System (without RPO C25)
This option is best not to have (RPO C25). Neither KITT nor KARR had rear wipers, and a seal on the sprayer often allows water to leak into the inside of the roof, causing it to rust from the inside.
Interior Color (Tan)
The interior of both KITT and KARR is tan, so it is best to get a car with tan plastic.
However, the plastic can be painted or replaced.
Exterior Color (Black)
A new paint job will be required after
installing the custom front nose (and other body work), so paint color of the car should not really be a major factor.
Engine
It is generally a bad idea to buy an older Firebird with a 4 cylinder engine (except perhaps for spare parts). Even the best kept Firebird tends to be slightly abused, and the more cylinders the engine has, the longer
it will likely last.
Transmission (Automatic)
Both KITT and KARR had an automatic transmission.
Body without Rust
Even the newest 3rd generations are old enough to have accumulated rust
pockets. Inspect any car very closely (especially the doors and floorboards). The Regular Production Options (RPO) listed above are found on a body number plate located under the hood on the radiator cross support in 1982-1985, or on the service parts identification label located on the console door in 1984-1990, or inside the right rear quarter trim panel door in 1991-1992.Remember that your both your interior
and exterior will probably have to be redone, so don't concentrate too much on torn carpet or cracking paint. It is probably best not to buy a used car from a dealer, because included in their prices are charges for their services and guarantees. They might not honor these services specified in the contract if too many modifications are done to the car. If you do decide to go with a dealer, verify and get it in writing that they will still honor the contract if you replace major interior
and exterior components. Otherwise, there are several "secret" ways to find cheap cars: - Run an ad in your largest local newspapers that specify the type of car you want. This can save you a lot of time and effort, because they will be calling you, not the other way around.
- Check eBayMotors for Auctions
Check Yahoo for Auctions Check the Classifieds at ThirdGen Check the Classifieds at the National Firebird and Trans Am Club After finding and purchasing the car, make sure to register it and (if necessary in your state) have it inspected before you begin your conversion. Most states don't inspect the car after your first registration. Then, you can begin customizing the interior. Interior
should be done first, because while doing some interior work, you might scratch or dent the exterior. Continue to the Interior Parts for KITT and KARR | |
