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Recommendations for Essential Fiero Tools by Dennis LaGrua
Started on: 10-26-2024 04:22 PM
Replies: 19 (261 views)
Last post by: Dennis LaGrua on 10-31-2024 01:46 AM
Dennis LaGrua
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Report this Post10-26-2024 04:22 PM Click Here to See the Profile for Dennis LaGruaSend a Private Message to Dennis LaGruaEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
Pontiac Fieros have reached the antique status with the oldest models going back 40 years. They are certainly collectible, have good styling and are fun to drive. However owning an automobile that old will require periodic repair and even some rebuilding.
This forum is a great resource for info and tech tips but they cannot always help provide real world diagnostic information.
Try as we should to help others with repair advise, without having the engine or transmission in front of us makes it quite difficult to solve problems that cause breakdowns or improper operation. Don't misunderstand me, the chat here can be very helpful but on an old classic you often need more.
I am always available here in Central West NJ to help Fiero owners with scans, smoke tests, cheap/free parts and diagnostic tests but that doesn't help those from locations far away. For this reason I would recommend tools that every Fiero owner should have.
1. Fuel pressure gauge.
2. Multi-meter/Volt-Ohmeter
3. Spark Tester
4. Scanner or Laptop program where you can read live OBD1 data.
5. Smoke Machine (easy and cheap to make item)
.........and when your drive don't forget the Fire extinguisher, tool box, tire plugs, duct tape, spare belt and small air compressor.
These are only recommendations and they are not very expensive but in the long run can save you money and a headache.

------------------
" THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Spintech/Hedman Exhaust, P-log Manifold, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, Champion Radiator, S10 Brake Booster, HP Tuners VCM Suite.
"THE COLUSSUS"
87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H
" ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "

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hyperv6
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Report this Post10-26-2024 05:58 PM Click Here to See the Profile for hyperv6Send a Private Message to hyperv6Edit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
Swivel head ratchet for the plugs on the back side. Makes changing the a breeze.

Otherwise the Fiero really has no real special needs outside a way to lift the body if removing an engine.
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1985 Fiero GT
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Report this Post10-26-2024 07:54 PM Click Here to See the Profile for 1985 Fiero GTSend a Private Message to 1985 Fiero GTEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
Penetrating oil haha, your standard socket set, and combination wrench set will get most things, a swivel head ratcheting combination wrench set, impact driver (even cheap Walmart garbage), and electric screwdriver (with bits and adapters for 1/4" sockets) for interior screws, and the plethora of 7mm bolts everywhere, really help a job go faster and easier.
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richard in nc
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Report this Post10-26-2024 08:02 PM Click Here to See the Profile for richard in ncSend a Private Message to richard in ncEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
id say a lift is the most important tool for working on fieros.and pb blaster.
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Vintage-Nut
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Report this Post10-26-2024 09:25 PM Click Here to See the Profile for Vintage-NutSend a Private Message to Vintage-NutEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
 
quote
richard in nc:
id say a lift is the most important tool for working on fieros.




------------------
Original Owner of a Silver '88 GT
Under 'Production Refurbishment' @ 136k Miles

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shemdogg
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Report this Post10-26-2024 10:48 PM Click Here to See the Profile for shemdoggSend a Private Message to shemdoggEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
Maybe and "Ultimate fiero tool kit" sticky? I know there have been threads on this in the past. Also a "How to jack up your fiero properly!" sticky w the factory picture for quick reference.

shem
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cvxjet
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Report this Post10-27-2024 02:07 AM Click Here to See the Profile for cvxjetSend a Private Message to cvxjetEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
The two critical "tools" I use to keep my Fiero running are a French dictionary and a 10 lb sledge hammer- No, I do not hit the car with the sledge hammer...I set the hammer next to the car and then point at the car, then at the sledge hammer- It's called "In-Timmy-dation"....the Fiero- and my jet boat- both run good 90% of the time!

[This message has been edited by cvxjet (edited 10-27-2024).]

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Kitskaboodle
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Report this Post10-27-2024 10:41 AM Click Here to See the Profile for KitskaboodleSend a Private Message to KitskaboodleEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
There are a few tools that are helpful.
I could go on and on but a few come to mind:
1) Rodney’s steering rack collar removal tool.
2) Misc. selection of pvc piping to drive in auto axle seals, control arm bushings, etc.
3) Specific inner sized bushing/collar to help remove e-brake cables.
4) Special flat wrench that Rodney provides with his zero lash end link kits. I had to grind his wrench to make it fit/nest in the lower control arm)
Here are a few pics to show what im saying.
Kit


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Kitskaboodle
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Report this Post10-27-2024 10:56 AM Click Here to See the Profile for KitskaboodleSend a Private Message to KitskaboodleEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post

Kitskaboodle

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Member since Nov 2004

More pics….
Kit
Also, there is the small bracket that holds the timing cover in place so you can remove the water pump.
Kit
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Patrick
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Report this Post10-27-2024 06:04 PM Click Here to See the Profile for PatrickSend a Private Message to PatrickEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
For 88's (only), an essential tool for setting the front end camber is the Kent Moore J-36419 Camber Adjustment Tool.







I lent my set of two out to a friend of mine... three years ago. I'm hoping to get them back!

[This message has been edited by Patrick (edited 10-27-2024).]

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82-T/A [At Work]
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Report this Post10-27-2024 06:49 PM Click Here to See the Profile for 82-T/A [At Work]Send a Private Message to 82-T/A [At Work]Edit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
 
quote
Originally posted by Patrick:

For 88's (only), an essential tool for setting the front end camber is the Kent Moore J-36419 Camber Adjustment Tool.

I lent my set of two out to a friend of mine... three years ago. I'm hoping to get them back!



At least you have this picture to remind you of what it looks like! Haha...
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Report this Post10-27-2024 06:56 PM Click Here to See the Profile for PatrickSend a Private Message to PatrickEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
 
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Originally posted by 82-T/A [At Work]:

At least you have this picture to remind you of what it looks like! Haha...


Maybe I should send a link for this thread to my friend who has them.
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Report this Post10-28-2024 10:22 AM Click Here to See the Profile for cliffwSend a Private Message to cliffwEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
 
quote
Originally posted by Dennis LaGrua:
.........and when your drive don't forget the Fire extinguisher, tool box, tire plugs, duct tape, spare belt and small air compressor.

These are only recommendations and they are not very expensive but in the long run can save you money and a headache.


It is wise to have a spare GM Distributor Mounted Ignition Module while driving.
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css9450
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Report this Post10-28-2024 11:55 AM Click Here to See the Profile for css9450Send a Private Message to css9450Edit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
 
quote
Originally posted by cliffw:

It is wise to have a spare GM Distributor Mounted Ignition Module while driving.


I've been known to bring an entire complete distributor with me on long drives...... I haven't needed it yet (nor any of its parts) but you can bet the day I forget to bring it, I'll need it!

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Mickey_Moose
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Report this Post10-28-2024 12:36 PM Click Here to See the Profile for Mickey_MooseClick Here to visit Mickey_Moose's HomePageSend a Private Message to Mickey_MooseEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
The most over looked item is a copy of the factory service manual...
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1985 Fiero GT
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Report this Post10-28-2024 01:14 PM Click Here to See the Profile for 1985 Fiero GTSend a Private Message to 1985 Fiero GTEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
 
quote
Originally posted by cliffw:


It is wise to have a spare GM Distributor Mounted Ignition Module while driving.


Haha, yeah I should probably get a spare, just finished a 3000km trip a week back, probably good to have had haha.
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Vintage-Nut
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Report this Post10-28-2024 01:52 PM Click Here to See the Profile for Vintage-NutSend a Private Message to Vintage-NutEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
 
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Mickey_Moose:
The most over looked item is a copy of the factory service manual...


IMHO - The printed copy of the factory service manual is on the BASIC list or 'the starting point' of Fiero ownership!

I guess I'm an unconventional member.....
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Awalker W02
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Report this Post10-29-2024 07:22 AM Click Here to See the Profile for Awalker W02Send a Private Message to Awalker W02Edit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
I’m surprised no one has mentioned this yet but if you do any body work you have to have a plastic rivet gun.
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cvxjet
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Report this Post10-29-2024 11:02 AM Click Here to See the Profile for cvxjetSend a Private Message to cvxjetEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
 
quote
Originally posted by cliffw:


It is wise to have a spare GM Distributor Mounted Ignition Module while driving.


This is absolute; I carry one of the high-end Delco versions PLUS a tube of the grease that goes between the module and the distributor...And of course, carry some tools so you can CHANGE the module!

[This message has been edited by cvxjet (edited 10-29-2024).]

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Dennis LaGrua
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Report this Post10-31-2024 01:46 AM Click Here to See the Profile for Dennis LaGruaSend a Private Message to Dennis LaGruaEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
All good ideas but initial focus in many cases might be better served by first having diagnostic tools. Reading trouble codes can help but not always providea precise indicator. As for extras, on a trip, I carry an ignition module, coil (coils), cooling fan motor, belts, a small air compressor, two fire extinguishers and with my powertrain, a spare intercooler pump.

------------------
" THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Spintech/Hedman Exhaust, P-log Manifold, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, Champion Radiator, S10 Brake Booster, HP Tuners VCM Suite.
"THE COLUSSUS"
87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H
" ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "

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