Thinking about getting a GN, have a turbo question.

[MrRush28]

My dad and I are looking at an 85 Grand National. Car is in great shape, no rust issues or anything like that. My dad has always said he wouldn't mind owning one one day. Just the obvious needing of a paint job and some motor work needed. My dad has plenty of muscle cars and knows a lot about GM cars, not so much about turbo Buicks. He's got a need for speed and was wondering what kind of bigger turbo's would one get? He would like to get one that would bolt straight up without having to mod/convert anything and what not. He's never owned a car that had turbo's or ever had a turbo, period.

Any help appreciated. If we get the car, I'll post some pics. And probably drop in and ask a few more ?'s haha.

 

[V6POWER]

I suggest you look for a 1986-1987, instead of the 1985. The 1985 does not have an intercooler, 1986-1987 do. I believe changing the turbo on the 1985 can be a problem, also.

 

[MrRush28]

I suggest you look for a 1986-1987, instead of the 1985. The 1985 does not have an intercooler, 1986-1987 do. I believe changing the turbo on the 1985 can be a problem, also.

An intercooler doesn't mean much to us. Like I said, it needs motor work. So we'll end up pulling it out and rebuild it. We could easily add an intercooler then. So to sit here and say I'll hold off so we can pay x2 as much for an 86-87GN for the intercooler seems silly to me. Not like I'm looking to buy to resell anyway.

 

[jpwalt1987]

If you have the "need for speed" get an 86-87 car or you are wasting your time. Its not just the fact that it has an intercooler. It is a completely different set up. much more options to go fast on the 86-87 cars. I suggest you start reading alot about these cars and educate yourself on them before you spend any money. But hey, its your money, do what you want.....

 

[MrRush28]

I'm getting the car really cheap, even for it being a less desired 85. You won't find a 86-87 anywhere near the price of the 85 GN. I could get a 86-87 GN motor and put in it for alot less than getting an "intercooled" car. We don't even plan on adding an intercooler. So let's just stop there...

Ok ok...Lets see if I can at least get my question answered or get pointed in the right direction...

Are there any turbos that line up with the original motor configuration? If so, who, what, when, where. I will admit, we are a bit "un-knowledged" on these turbo 3.8s, but ask me anything regarding Camaros, Impalas, Corvettes, Chevelles and I bet I have an answer for you. Thanks guys.

 

[Underboost]

I would just run the car the way it is until you have enough for a 86-87 swap don't waste your money on that motor. Just my 2

 

[Quick6'n'-K.C.]

Yes you can buy a larger turbo, but the problem is working on them sucks. If you get a 85, just convert it to the newer 86-87 as everyone here has said.

Double edge sword if you spent 1000.00 on buying the 85 and spent 5000.00 to make it "right" you would have been more ahead buying a 86-87 in the first place stock would run fine and you could enjoy it , not have to worry about making it "right"

 

[Quick6'n'-K.C.]

Mr GTQ , hows the turbo hanging?

 

[Underboost]

Not one problem Bryan

 

[Quick6'n'-K.C.]

:biggrin:

 

[charlief1]

Ok ok...Lets see if I can at least get my question answered or get pointed in the right direction...

Are there any turbos that line up with the original motor configuration? If so, who, what, when, where. I will admit, we are a bit "un-knowledged" on these turbo 3.8s, but ask me anything regarding Camaros, Impalas, Corvettes, Chevelles and I bet I have an answer for you. Thanks guys.

The current option is to take the stock turbo and turn it into a TA33. This is an increased compressor wheel and turbine. The next option is to switch the compressor wheel (a TO4E 60 WHEEL) to a larger one. The larger wheel is a TO4B 60-1. There are other options out there and some will be coming out soon.:biggrin: Sorry but I can't tell yet, I promissed.:smile: Don't be discouraged by the nay sayers here. In the last year a HA car has been in the 10's and is hoping to get into the 9's soon. It does take a little more work and a much better understanding of how the car works but it can be done.:smile:

 

[JOHNDEEREGN]

Contact board member Jlat.. he can help you.:biggrin:

 

[Underboost]

or http://www.turbobuick.com/forums/members/boost231.html

 

[SHADOWII]

Welcome pilgrims!

You've come to the right sight for help. If you have time and would like to see a bunch of these cars and the older brothers in action, come down to Bowling Green, Ky between the 19th to the 22nd for the GS nats. You will be able to talk to the guys and see the many options and ask questions. There will be several of the venders there as well as a swap meet. There will be a car show on sat. and test & tune from tues. to sat. Racing for the prizes will begin on fri. and end on sat.
Again, hope to meet you out there and Welcome!

 

[tzque]

Mr Rush It might not be your intent but your response sound snippy . I would give some of the same advice but that is not my first point . Don't let the upfront price of the car be the reason you get the car . Parts and repairs s for these cars are very expensive . I bought what I thought was a great car and I have been dumping money into since . Price out first what it will cost you to do what you want the see what that much money will buy you .
Please be respectful the member of this coumminty are very nice and most will give you the shirts off their backs . They are all just trying to help .might not be what you want to hear but sound advice .