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In this Discussion
- 46HudsonPU September 2012
- Browniepetersen September 2012
- Tallent R September 2012
Help?
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Hey. I recently acquired a 1985 chrysler fifth avenue for a good price that runs great. The only problem I have is its lack of horsepower. I really want a muscle car but my 5th ave only has a 318 cc (I think) v8. Should I just get an actual muscle car and restore that or can I put a bigger engine in my 5th ave to give it more hp. Whats the better option? Also, I am by no means a gearhead but I would really like to learn how to rebuild cars. Whats my best bet? Tutorial videos? Online? I am a college grad and I am not dumb; I just dont have the know how or a dad that is around. Should I enroll at a community college to learn about cars. I really want to know how to work on cars and restore them but I do not know anybody to teach me. Please advise on any and all matters.
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As far as Chryslers of that vintage the 360 motor is basicly the same configuration and should be an easy swap. Providing you find one that is a close to the same year. If you consult a salvage yard with a "Hollander" book you can find out for sure.
RogerRetired Tech. -
For me, the best way to learn about cars is to start working on them. I grew up in my dad's gas station so I knew a gear shift from a dip stick from the get-go. When I returned from the military I enrolled in an autobody program at the local college. Two years later, going to school in the evening, I had a good background. Under supervision I had rebuilt five cars including mechanical, body, paint and interiors. It was a good start. Since finishing school I have cleaned up, rebuilt or hot rodded some 100 cars (11 being frame off restorations). I am not all that good at it, and some work is best left to the professionals, but I have had a ton of fun and there was a time you could make a little money at it. Now as an old "fart" I have retired from my career as an aerospace engineer and totally enjoy working on my cars. That is how I did it, but, there are many ways to get there...Brownie
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Brownie is absolutely correct. First off, you've got a car that is in good condition, and runs well.
- Find the manuals on it (technical manuals, not just the owners manual) - read & understand them;
- Look for and find a Chrysler Club (and possibly a local branch), and if it is active & you have common goals - become part of it;
- Do some research on that car, the engine & drivetrain. While the '85 version of the 318 engine may be lackluster, an earlier version of the engine may pack more of a punch, or there may be aftermarket parts for that engine to give a bit more 'pep' (It's been around a good long while - My mom had a '63 Dodge station wagon that had a 318 in it when I was growing up).
- Look at your rearend gearing, maybe it is not geared to be quick off the line (?);
- See what other optional engines/transmissions came with the the car. As has been indicated, there may be a much more 'hefty' engine that you can 'drop in' without too much additional effort or modifications;
