Hello all. I know I have been absent here for a while. I posted a couple of times and disappeared. What can I say, the Army keeps me busy. Anyhow, I am probably going to buy a 85 SS today and sell my 74 Monte. The 85 has a B&M shifter, edelbrock carb and manifold, dual flows and all the fun stuff. She sounds like a beast. Well now there are 2 things I need advice on. First, whats so good about a B&M shifter, and 2 I saw some oil pooling on top of the exhaust manifold just below the air cleaner. Should I walk away? I'm not the most car savvy guy around and a valve cover gasket job seems a little too daunting for me. Any suggestions? Thanks

 

the 'ol B&M is just as good as the stocker, just a little fancy. did they take out the factory console and replace it with a B&M unit? or just put a B&M handle on the factory shifter? the valve covers are easy. 4 bolts hold the cover on. the passenger side takes a little more work because, as I recall, I had to loosen up and move the A/C compressor a bit, or maybe it was the alternator. if you have any doubts about your ability have somebody else change it. those cars are fun as heck! have a blast if you pick it up

 

I had every intention of buying the 88 Monte, and then I saw a 2004 Camaro on Craigslist for $1000. The MC he's only asking $2000. Oh decisions decisions. Don't know much about the maro yet, still have to go see it. I know it runs and drives and passes a state safety inspection.

 

The oil could be something as simple as a bad valve cover gasket. Or it could be something major like the oil seals are gone on the valve stems and oil is blowing out the exhaust.

THE B&M shifter is probably a bit better then the stock Monte shifter. They are known for performance in the aftermarket and a very good reputation. I personally like the stock shifter in the car. But that's just my $0.02 worth.

 

Thanks for the help guys. I decided that the oil leak scared me too much, so I went with the camaro. Shucks, I really liked this forum too. But no more Monte's for me for a while.