1969 PONTIAC TEMPEST

Typical onset: 80,000-120,000 mi on original unit, or immediate if neglected

Symptoms: Slipping between gears, especially 1st to 2nd, Delayed engagement when shifting to Drive or Reverse, Burnt transmission fluid smell, dark red or brown fluid, Whining or grinding noise in gear

Fix: Full rebuild with clutch packs, bands, seals, and torque converter inspection. TH400 is more robust but both need proper cooler lines. Expect 12-16 hours labor for removal, rebuild, and reinstall. Many shops send the trans out, adding turnaround time.

Estimated cost: $2,200-3,800

Typical onset: 100,000-150,000 mi, or sooner with oil neglect

Symptoms: Heavy knocking from crankcase, especially on cold start, Low oil pressure at idle (under 10 psi), Metal shavings in oil or on drain plug magnet, Blue smoke from exhaust under load

Fix: Main and rod bearings are the usual culprits on the 326 and 389. Machine work for crank journals if scored, plus new bearings, gaskets, and oil pump. Some shops go straight to short block replacement if wear is severe. Engine-out job: 20-28 hours labor for bottom-end rebuild.

Estimated cost: $3,500-6,500

Symptoms: Hard starting when cold or hot, Rough idle, stalling at stop signs, Black smoke from exhaust, poor fuel economy, Hesitation or flat spot on acceleration

Fix: Ethanol fuel destroys original rubber and cork parts. Full rebuild kit with modern materials is mandatory. Experienced carb techs can turn it around in 3-5 hours including removal and tuning. DIY-friendly if you have patience, but many shops sub this out to specialists.

Estimated cost: $400-750

Symptoms: Fuel smell in cabin or garage, Engine stumbles or dies after sitting, Visible fuel weeping from rubber lines, Fuel pump clicking but engine starving for fuel

Fix: Original rubber fuel lines, hoses, and sending unit seals fail with modern ethanol. Replace all soft lines from tank to carb, install inline filter, and check mechanical fuel pump diaphragm. Tank may need cleaning or replacement if rusty inside. 4-6 hours labor for full fuel system refresh.

Estimated cost: $500-1,200

Typical onset: any mileage on original rubber

Symptoms: Clunk when shifting from Park to Drive, Excessive driveline vibration at highway speed, Transmission tailshaft sitting low or cocked, Shifter linkage binding or hard to shift

Fix: Rubber trans mount deteriorates over decades even if mileage is low. Crossmember can rust where it bolts to frame. Replacement mount is cheap, installation is 1-2 hours with proper jack support. Inspect all four engine/trans mounts while you're under there.

Estimated cost: $150-350

Symptoms: Running hot in traffic or on hills, Coolant boiling over after shutdown, Heater blows lukewarm at idle, Sweet smell from vents or under hood

Fix: Factory cooling was marginal on A/C cars. Original radiators corrode internally, restricting flow. Upgrade to three-row core or aluminum radiator, verify fan shroud is present, and check water pump impeller for corrosion. Flush block and replace thermostat. 3-5 hours labor if radiator needs replacement.

Estimated cost: $600-1,400