Before You Begin:
* Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery cable before starting any work on the fuel system. Fuel is flammable and potentially explosive.
* Gather Tools and Parts: You'll need a complete set of metric sockets and wrenches, a fuel pressure gauge (to relieve pressure in the system), fuel line disconnect tools, new fuel injectors (ensure they're the correct ones for your engine – 305 or TPI), new injector O-rings and seals (don't reuse old ones), rags, and possibly a fuel injector cleaning kit. A torque wrench is highly recommended for proper tightening.
* Consult a Repair Manual: A factory service manual or a reputable aftermarket repair manual specific to your 1987 Trans Am is crucial. It will provide detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams. Don't rely solely on online instructions; discrepancies can occur.
* Consider Professional Help: If you're not comfortable working on your fuel system, consider taking your car to a qualified mechanic. Improperly installed injectors can lead to serious engine damage.
General Steps (These are broad strokes; consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Relieve Fuel Pressure: Use the fuel pressure gauge to safely release pressure from the fuel system. Your repair manual will guide you on how to do this.
2. Disconnect Battery: Double-check the negative battery cable is disconnected.
3. Access the Fuel Injectors: This often involves removing parts like the intake manifold or at least some components depending on the engine (305 TBI or TPI). This is the most labor-intensive part of the job.
4. Remove Fuel Injectors: Carefully disconnect the electrical connectors and fuel lines from each injector. Use the appropriate tools to avoid damaging the connectors or lines. Pay close attention to the location and orientation of each injector for proper reinstallation.
5. Install New Injectors: Carefully install the new injectors, ensuring that the O-rings and seals are properly seated. Torque the injectors to the specifications in your repair manual.
6. Reconnect Everything: Carefully reconnect the fuel lines, electrical connectors, and any other components you removed. Double-check everything before proceeding.
7. Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative battery cable.
8. Prime the Fuel System and Check for Leaks: Refer to your repair manual for the procedure to prime the fuel system. Carefully check for any fuel leaks around the injectors and fuel lines.
9. Start the Engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Listen for any unusual noises and check for any leaks.
Important Considerations:
* TPI vs. TBI: The 1987 Trans Am could have either a Throttle Body Injection (TBI) or a Tuned Port Injection (TPI) system. The procedures will differ slightly depending on which system you have.
* Injector Flow Rate: Ensure you replace the injectors with ones that have the correct flow rate for your engine. Incorrect flow rates can damage your engine.
* Fuel Injector Cleaning: If you're only experiencing minor issues, a fuel injector cleaning might resolve the problem before resorting to replacement.
This is a complex repair. Do not attempt this unless you have the necessary mechanical skills and tools. A repair manual is absolutely essential. If you're unsure about any step, seek professional help. Improperly installed fuel injectors can cause significant engine damage or even a fire.
