1978 Pontiac Firebird

I have been a Trans Am fan since 1978 when I saw Smokey and the Bandit as a kid. I had an opportunity to purchased this 1978 Trans Am in April 2001 from a gentleman in Woodbridge VA. It is number 181,777 out of 187,285 built in 1978.

The body was very rough due to rust-belt winters. The motor had spun crank bearings, and the interior showed it age. Restoration work was performed between May 2001 and October 2004.

I enjoy driving this Trans Am, and I enjoy working on it. Currently the engine has been pulled to have the heads redone by DCI Motorsports to stop valve stem leaks. While it is out, I will be cleaning the outside of the block and the engine compartment. New gaskets will be installed to help with the leaks that have developed in the 20 years since the engine was initially rebuilt. Also working on refreshing the interior with new seat foam and covers.

Restoration:
Rick Rusyn performed complete panel disassembly, rust repair and replacement, paint and panel assembly.

RPM Performance performed the engine tear down and rebuild. The block was bored .030. An Armasteel RAIII crank, Blue Racer RAIII cam and a 3 angle valve job and Rhodes lifters.

Awards:
2024 - 2nd place in class at GM Nationals in Carlisle
2022 - 1st place in class at Trans Am Nationals
2013 - 1st place in class at Trans Am Nationals
2012 - 2nd place in class at Trans Am Nationals
2011 - 2nd place in class at Trans Am Nationals
2009 - 1st place in class at Trans Am Nationals

I hope you enjoyed reading my story and looking at a few pictures.

• Pontiac 400 built to Ram Air III specifications

• PPG Single Stage Concept Black paint
• 1978 SE Stripes from Phoenix Graphics - because I like them