adventures in firebird ownership - the little things

I've been trying to spend a little time each weekend working on the Firebird. For the moment I am putting off fixing the bigger problems and have been tweaking annoying things.

I spent $75 on new lift supports for the hood and hatch from a man called Mr. Lou. I was concerned they wouldn't fit, but the real issue turned out to be the existing supports. The rear hatch was held in place by a massive TORX (star) bolt, on the order of what is used to hold seatbelts in place. The couple of TORX bits I had were nowhere large enough, and I couldn't get any torque just wedging a flathead in there. In the end I had to go to Home Depot and invest in new tools, but the end result is that all TORX bolts in the future are fair game. I am thrilled to be able to open the car up without wedging a big stick in somewhere.

I also ordered a t-top bag from eBay, which just arrived today. I think the previous owner spilled his beer on it. Fortunately I have some time to clean it up before nice weather returns.

Finally, I had the paperwork filled out several months ago but just yesterday I got around to submitting an application for custom plates. It's completely unnecessary but I think it will look good. I may have skipped a meeting called by a girl at work to go to the DMV instead.