1981 Pontiac Firebird Performance Engines

Essential 1981 Pontiac Firebird Performance Engines

Edelbrock – Performer EPS Intake Manifold for 1955-86 Small-Block Chevy, Polished Finish (Part No.27011)

Performer EPS Intake Manifold for 1955-86 Small-Block Chevy, Polished Finish

from

$504.99


Product Features:
  • Polished Version Of Edelbrock PN[2701]
  • Polish is Hand-Buffed for Brilliant Shine
  • Maximizes Performance with Edelbrock Carburetors
  • Maximizes Peak Torque Around 3500 RPM
  • Excellent Throttle Response and Mid-Range Power
  • Prod. +5 HP and +9 ft/lbs. of Torque Over PN[2101]
  • For Idle to 5500 RPM Street-Driven Performance
  • Dual-Plane Low-Rise Intake w/180 deg. Firing Order
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Weiand – Team G; Water Pump Spacer Kit (Part No.8207)

Team G; Water Pump Spacer Kit

from

$112.99
Use with a short water pump to convert to a long water pump.

Product Features:
  • Water Pump Spacer Kit
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Spectre – Chevrolet Small Block V8 Harmonic Balancer Bolt Kit (Part No.4699)

Chevrolet Small Block V8 Harmonic Balancer Bolt Kit

from

$7.99
Spectre’s Harmonic Balancer Bolt Kit is designed to fit Chevrolet Small Block 265-400 V8 engines. This grade 8 bolt is 2-1/2 inches long, and features a plated finish for corrosion resistance. This kit also includes a security lock washer.

Product Features:
  • Fits Chevrolet Small Block 265-400 V8 engines
  • Features a corrosion resistant plated finish
  • Gold iridite finish
  • Grade 8 bolt, 7/16 inch-20 by 2-1/2 inches
  • Includes security lock washer
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Edelbrock – Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for Buick 231-252 V6 Even Fire (Part No.5487)

Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for Buick 231-252 V6 Even Fire

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$367.99


Product Features:
  • Designed for Optimum Torque and Acceleration
  • Maximum Performance From Idle through Mid-Range
  • Matched To Performer Intake PN[5486]
  • Includes Hydraulic Lifters and Assembly Lube
  • Major Improvement in Throttle Response and Torque
  • Use For Daily Drivers/Trucks/Vans/RVs/4x4s
  • Take The Guesswork Out Of Camshaft Selection
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Edelbrock – Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set (Part No.7813)

Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set

from

$97.99


Product Features:
  • Solid Bushing Chain Resists Stretching
  • For Use with Stock or Edelbrock Camshafts
  • Stressproof Steel Crank Gears
  • 3 Keyway Setting Points To Ensure Accurate Timing
  • True Bearing Surface Rolls with the Sprockets
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FEL-PRO Performance – Cylinder Head Gasket: Multi-Layered Steel, Without Head Bolts (Part No.1003)

Cylinder Head Gasket: Multi-Layered Steel, Without Head Bolts

from

$39.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • PROPRIETARY COATING – Nonstick anti-friction coating seals small surface imperfections
  • NO RETORQUE DESIGN – Steel core helps eliminate the need for retorquing head bolts
  • SUPERIOR SEAL – Precise embossed Printoseal sealing beads at all vital areas to eliminate leak paths
  • STRONG AND DURABLE – Features graphite or reinforced fiber facing material and steel armor for strength and durability
  • DESIGNED FOR IMPERFECT SEALING SURFACES – Engineered and manufactured specifically for the repair environment to help seal imperfect sealing surfaces
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Weiand – Supercharger Remote Thermostat Housing (Part No.7134P)

Supercharger Remote Thermostat Housing

from

$184.99


Product Features:
  • Remote Thermostat Housing
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Edelbrock – Pushrod Set for S/B Chevy (Part No.9646)

Pushrod Set for S/B Chevy

from

$203.99
Edelbrock part #9646 Pushrods are designed for small-block Chevy V-8 engine applications. These one-piece pushrods are manufactured from high quality 4130 Chromoly steel tubing that has been surface hardened for maximum durability. They have precise forme

Product Features:
  • 7.25 in. Length
  • 0.312 in. Diameter
  • 4130 Chromoly Steel Material
  • Black Oxide Finish
  • Made In The USA
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Edelbrock – Front Timing Cover Gasket Set #6997 For Small-Block Chevy, With Front Seal (Part No.6997)

Front Timing Cover Gasket Set #6997 For Small-Block Chevy, With Front Seal

from

$17.99
Product Features:
  • For Small-Block Chevy
  • One Piece Configuration
  • Includes Front Cover Gasket & Front Seal
  • Includes Necessary Gaskets & Crankshaft Oil Seal
  • For Replacement Or Installation
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B & M – Torque Converter, Nitrous Holeshot 3600 (Part No.20482)

Torque Converter, Nitrous Holeshot 3600

from

$665.99
Nitrous Holeshot Converters are Built with the same features as the other B&M Holeshots, with the addition of anti-balloon plates. The anti-balloon plates will allow these converters to stand up to the instant horsepower nitrous delivers.

Product Features:
  • 3400-3800 RPM
  • Small And Big Blocks
  • Serious Performance
  • Furnace Brazed
  • Fully Balanced
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Competition Cams – Xtreme Energy 250/256 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit Chevrolet Small Block (Part No.CL12-254-3)

Xtreme Energy 250/256 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit Chevrolet Small Block

from

$321.99
SMALL BLOCK CHEVY HYDRAULIC CAM AND LIFTER KIT – Xtreme Energy: Pro Street/bracket, needs good intake, headers, gear and 3300+ stall.

Product Features:
  • Cam and lifter kit for Small Block Chevy engines
  • CL-Kit includes cam, lifters, assembly lube, instructions and decals
  • HYDRAULIC – Xtreme Energy: Pro Street/bracket, needs good intake, headers, gear and 3300+ stall.
  • 294/306 Advertised Duration, 250/256 Duration @ .050″, .519″/.523″ Lift, 110 Lobe Separation
  • Valve spring upgrade required
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FEL-PRO Performance – Performance Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.1623)

Performance Valve Cover Gasket Set

from

$23.29
Fel-Pro® Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions.

Product Features:
  • Blue Stripe® performance cork-rubber gaskets use cork particles evenly distributed throughout a rubber binder resulting in a compressible gasket without leak paths.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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Competition Cams – VALVE SPRINGS, 1.310" BEEHIVE 1 ST (Part No.26918-16)

VALVE SPRINGS, 1.310" BEEHIVE 1 ST

from

$594.99
With a .625″ maximum lift, these Beehive Valve Springs were designed for hydraulic roller cams in LS1, LS2 and LS6 engines. COMP Cams Beehive Valve Springs deliver increased valve train stability and a much lighter valve train. This is achieved with less spring pressure for better valve control and reduced weight of both the spring and retainer. The unique Beehive shape handles valve train stress more efficiently to eliminate damaging harmonics and increases high RPM horsepower and durability. The oval/multi-arc wire shape places the maximum area of the wire at the point of highest stress to handle valve train stress more efficiently and allow better heat dissipation for longer life. Because of the unique Beehive design, the valve train can handle more RPM and more aggressive cam profiles.

Product Features:
  • Seat pressure: 125 lbs. @ 1.800″, Open Pressure: 367 lbs. @ 1.150″
  • O.D.: 1.075″ (Top) 1.310″ (Bottom), I.D.: .650″ (Top) .885″ (Bottom)
  • Designed for hydraulic roller cams
  • .625″ maximum lift, 1.310″ O.D.
  • Originally designed for LS engine applications but will work in 5.7L Hemi engines and many others
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Competition Cams – VALVE SPRING KIT, FOR LS 1.310" BEEHIVE 1 KT (Part No.26918CS-KIT)

VALVE SPRING KIT, FOR LS 1.310" BEEHIVE 1 KT

from

$592.99
This Beehive Valve Spring Kit for LS engines is designed for hydraulic roller cams and includes carefully matched Beehive Springs, steel retainers, locks, seals and spring seats. With a .625″ maximum lift, these Beehive Valve Springs deliver increased valve train stability and a much lighter valve train. This is achieved with less spring pressure for better valve control and reduced weight of both the spring and retainer. The unique Beehive shape handles valve train stress more efficiently to eliminate damaging harmonics and increases high RPM horsepower and durability. The oval/multi-arc wire shape places the maximum area of the wire at the point of highest stress to handle valve train stress more efficiently and allow better heat dissipation for longer life.Kit Includes:26918-16 Beehive Valve Springs774-16 Steel Retainers623-16 7° Steel Valve Locks511-16 Valve Seals4705-16 Spring Seats

Product Features:
  • Kit includes part #26918-16 Beehive valve springs and matching steel retainers, 7° valve locks, valve seals and spring seats
  • Kits designed for hydraulic roller cams
  • .625″ maximum lift springs
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Mr. Gasket – Rear Main Seal Gasket (Part No.1960)

Rear Main Seal Gasket

from

$23.99
This Mr. Gasket Rear Main Seal is made from silicone to allow the seal to handle extreme engine oil temperature. It also provides for an upgrade for that leaky rope style seal and is a direct replacement for a rubber main seal. It’s also injection molded for a precise fit.

Product Features:
  • Repairs That Leaky Rear Main Sail
  • Silicone Rubber to Withstand Extreme Engine Oil Temperatures
  • Upgrade for Rope Seal Equipped Cars or Direct Replacement for Rubber Main Seal
  • Injection Molded for Precise Fit
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FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE REAR MAIN SEAL SET (Part No.2912)

PERFORMANCE REAR MAIN SEAL SET

from

$36.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Fluoroelastomer compound combines optimum resistance to heat, oils and abrasion for longivity.
  • Optimizes performance under high crankcase vacuum conditions, elevated temperatures and high RPM levels.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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Mr. Gasket – Intake Manifold Bolts (Part No.6091)

Intake Manifold Bolts

from

$32.09
These special Grade 8 intake manifold bolts feature a 12-point smaller-than-standard head and flange, and include special extra thick flat washers for optimum clamping pressures. They’re ideal for use where space is minimal, typical on larger runner race manifolds. These bolts and washers are bright zinc plated for protection and good looks.

Product Features:
  • Features 12-point Smaller-than-standard Bolt Head
  • Thick Flat Washers Distribute Optimum Clamp Load
  • Ideal Use Where Space Is Minimal On Race Manifolds
  • Bolts And Washers Zinc Plated For Protection
  • Zinc Plated For Protection
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FEL-PRO Performance – Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 3 Piece Set (Part No.1200)

Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 3 Piece Set

from

$31.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • DESIGNED FOR IMPERFECT SEALING SURFACES — Engineered and manufactured specifically for the repair environment to help seal imperfect sealing surfaces
  • SEALING TECHNOLOGIES — Exclusive sealing innovations and technologies with proprietary materials and unique design features to ensure a superior seal for your repair
  • ENGINEERING EXPERTISE — Parts are designed, reviewed, validated and approved by Fel-Pro engineers through rigorous research and development
  • REAL-WORLD TESTED — Parts are tested on-vehicle and validated to ensure optimal performance on the road
  • EVERY PART FOR THE REPAIR — Fel-Pro gasket sets include every part needed for the repair unless otherwise noted
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Mr. Gasket – Intake Gasket (Part No.502G)

Intake Gasket

from

$30.19
Mr. Gasket Performance Intake Gaskets are manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material. They provide excellent sealing and durability. Can be trimmed if necessary for modified port applications. Complete with manifold end seals and distributor gasket (where applicable). For original equipment replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material
  • Provides excellent sealing and durability
  • Can be trimmed if necessary for modified port applications
  • Complete with manifold end seals and distributor gasket where applicable
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use
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Competition Cams – CAMSHAFT, SBC 249 XTREME ENERGY COMPUTER CONTROLLED HYDRAULIC 1 EA (Part No.12-249-4)

CAMSHAFT, SBC 249 XTREME ENERGY COMPUTER CONTROLLED HYDRAULIC 1 EA

from

$276.99
Featuring a quicker valve opening, the Xtreme Energy camshaft profile provides increased responsiveness and more area under the lift curve than older, slower grinds. Designed to increase performance without sacrificing driveability and creature comforts, the Xtreme Energy grind family offers gains in torque and horsepower while still delivering adequate vacuum for power brakes and other vacuum dependent accessories. Xtreme Energy camshafts work great in carbureted applications, but offer the best performance with aftermarket intake manifolds, lower gear ratios, headers and free flowing exhaust.

Product Features:
  • HYDRAULIC – Xtreme Energy Computer Controlled: Great in throttle body, crossfire or carbureted engine and 305 TPI.
  • 249/260 Advertised Duration, 206/212 Duration @ .050″, .434″/.444″ Lift, 112 Lobe Separation
  • Quicker opening lobe profiles deliver increased responsiveness and more area under the lift curve.
  • Best performance with aftermarket intake manifolds, headers, lower gear ratios etc.
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Competition Cams – Xtreme Energy 218/224 Hydraulic Flat Cam for Oldsmobile 260-455 (Part No.42-222-4)

Xtreme Energy 218/224 Hydraulic Flat Cam for Oldsmobile 260-455

from

$548.99
Featuring a quicker valve opening, the Xtreme Energy camshaft profile provides increased responsiveness and more area under the lift curve than older, slower grinds. Designed to increase performance without sacrificing driveability and creature comforts,

Product Features:
  • Excellent performance in street carbureted applications.
  • More vacuum allows an increase in duration for improved performance and assists power brakes.
  • Quicker opening lobe profiles deliver increased responsiveness and more area under the lift curve.
  • Best performance with aftermarket intake manifolds, headers, lower gear ratios etc.
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Mr. Gasket – High Performance Thermostat (Part No.4365)

High Performance Thermostat

from

$27.49
Mr. Gasket High Performance Thermostats are designed to resist large variations of coolant pressure at high RPM (revolutions per minute). This allows them to fully open at correct temperature consistently regardless of engine RPM. The design also provides the high flow that engines operated a higher RPM need. This thermostat also features a copper/brass construction to further resist corrosion. Mr. Gasket High Performance / High Flow Thermostats are suitable for street, drag race, or oval track applications.

Product Features:
  • Opens At 195 Degrees
  • Designed to Resist Large Variations of Coolant Pressure at High RPM
  • Fully Opens at Correct Temperature Consistently Regardless of Engine RPM
  • For High Performance Street, Drag Race, and Oval Track
  • Copper & Brass Construction – Resists Corrosion
  • High Flow
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Mr. Gasket – Tstat (Part No.6368)

Tstat

from

$31.99
Designed to open at 180 degrees every time, regardless of engine rpm, and it’s high-flow design and brass and copper construction eliminate the damaging effects of cycling when you’re stuck in stop-and-go traffic. It includes the rubber gasket and has a pressure relief valve.

Product Features:
  • Opens sooner than stock at 180 degrees
  • High flow design for performance applications
  • Includes rubber o-ring seal/gasket
  • Incorporates pressure relief valve
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Competition Cams – Ultra-Gold ARC Rocker Set w/ 1.6 Ratio for Chevrolet Small Block w/ 3/8" Stud (Part No.19002-16)

Ultra-Gold ARC Rocker Set w/ 1.6 Ratio for Chevrolet Small Block w/ 3/8" Stud

from

$412.99
These COMP Cams Ultra-Gold Aluminum Roller Rocker Arms with a 3/8″ stud diameter and 1.6 ratio are designed for Chevrolet V8 265-400 applications. The new modern design features of these Ultra-Gold Rockers are proven to withstand extremely aggressive spring pressure and valve lift. Designed specifically for high performance street and race engines, the Ultra-Gold Aluminum Rocker Arms are precision CNC-machined to strict tolerances. Developed to meet the demands of professional engine builders, these rockers include features never before possible in an aluminum rocker arm.

Product Features:
  • CNC-machined, lightweight design removes weight and yields unrivaled quality and ratio accuracy
  • Designed for high performance street and race engines
  • Precision-sorted trunion bearings withstand elevated valve spring pressure and valve lift
  • Additional clearance, up to 1.650″ O.D. valve spring
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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Sure-Lock Rocker Arm Nuts (Part No.923G)

Ultra Seal: Sure-Lock Rocker Arm Nuts

from

$87.19
Designed to keep the rocker arms positively locked for precise and critical valve train adjustments. Manufactured from quality grade steel, then heat-treated for extra strength and plated with a durable finish. Kits include 16 rocker arm nuts with socket head set screws and one hex key wrench.

Product Features:
  • (16) Rocker Arm Nuts w/ Locks 3/8″-24 Threads
  • Shank O.D. .540″
  • Includes Locks and Hex Wrench
  • High-Quality Grade Steel
  • Heat-Treated For Ex Strength
  • Plated With Durable Gold Tone Finish
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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Oil Pan Gasket (Part No.5884)

Ultra Seal: Oil Pan Gasket

from

$36.49
Manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material. A black latex rubber coating is applied to outside of gasket to help seal minor oil pan rail irregularities and eliminate the possibility of oil leakage. Provides excellent sealing and durability. Complete with molded rubber front/rear oil pan seals where applicable. For original equipment replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from cellulose/nitrile rubber composition gasket material
  • Provides excellent sealing and durability
  • Complete with molded rubber front/rear oil pan end seals where applicable
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use
  • Graphite Non-Wicking Rubber
  • No Cork Particles
  • Easy Removal For Disassembly
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FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET (Part No.1814)

PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET

from

$30.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Felcoid/Plus gaskets have a fiber sheet core and a latex rubber coating to eliminate potential leakage paths. The core material resists crushing and splitting, while providing excellent blowout resistance.
  • With steel core to provide ultimate excellent blowout resistance.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET (Part No.1819)

PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET

from

$31.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Felcoid/Plus gaskets have a fiber sheet core and a latex rubber coating to eliminate potential leakage paths. The core material resists crushing and splitting, while providing excellent blowout resistance.
  • With steel core to provide ultimate excellent blowout resistance.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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1981 Pontiac Firebird Performance Engines

Maybe you’re in the middle of a full rebuild of that 1981 Pontiac Firebird. Maybe you just need a couple of Performance Engines. Either way, Advance Auto Parts has 74 different Performance Engines in our inventory ranging from $7.99 to $825.99. That means you can find the exact parts or products you need to keep that 1981 Pontiac Firebird running smoothly.

Performance Engines are only as good as their brand. We stock 7 different brands to make sure you have plenty of trusted parts to choose from for your 1981 Pontiac Firebird. Edelbrock, Mr. Gasket, and FEL-PRO Performance are just some of the brands we stock. Search for brands you know or compare prices and reviews to help you decide!

We know you’ll find the perfect Performance Engines for your 1981 Pontiac Firebird, but don’t take our word for it – read our customer ratings and reviews and buy with confidence. Out of the 385 reviews in this category, some of the top rated parts include Intake Manifold Bolts with 4.6 stars and Action Plus Water Pumps with 3.7 stars.

So if you’re in the market for aftermarket Performance Engines to keep your 1981 Pontiac Firebird rolling for years to come, look no further. Shop online and have your products shipped direct to your door, or pick up at the nearest Advance Auto Parts location today!

Performance Engines Brands To Make Your 1981 Pontiac Firebird Last

Simple repair, complete replacement, or a full rebuild. No matter the job, your 1981 Pontiac Firebird demands trusted brand parts and products to keep it running. Many trusted brands of Performance Engines make up Advance Auto Parts’ inventory, and all are ready to help make your Firebird the best it can be. Be sure to browse some of our top Performance Engines brands and parts.

Popular B & M Performance Engines

We carry B & M parts in our stock across Performance Torque Converters categories, plus more. For a 1981 Pontiac Firebird, our most popular B & M Performance Engines include:
Tork Master 2400
from $339.99
(1)
Tork Master 2400
Performance Torque Converters

Top 1981 Pontiac Firebird Performance Engines from Edelbrock

Edelbrock products are another trusted brand when it comes to Performance Engines for your 1981 Pontiac Firebird. Popular Edelbrock parts include:
Intake Manifold Gasket for 1958-1986 Small-Block Chevy
from $26.99
(12)
Intake Manifold Gasket for 1958-1986 Small-Block Chevy
Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gaskets
Performer EPS Intake Manifold for 1955-86 Small-Block Chevy
from $195.99
(7)
Performer EPS Intake Manifold for 1955-86 Small-Block Chevy
Performance Intake Manifolds
Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set
from $62.99
(3)
Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set
Performance Engine Timing Sets and Components

FAQs for 1981 Pontiac Firebird Performance Engines

What are the most purchased Performance Engines for the 1981 Pontiac Firebird?

Out of 74 Performance Engines for the 1981 Pontiac Firebird, the most popular in our inventory are:
High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow
from $26.99
(20)
High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow
Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats
Cylinder Head Gasket: Multi-Layered Steel, Without Head Bolts
from $39.49
(1)
Cylinder Head Gasket: Multi-Layered Steel, Without Head Bolts
Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gaskets
Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts
from $52.99
(1)
Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts
Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gaskets

What are the top-rated 1981 Pontiac Firebird Performance Engines?

Top-rated Performance Engines for your 1981 Pontiac Firebird based on customer reviews/ratings are:
Intake Manifold Bolts
from $32.09
(5)
Intake Manifold Bolts
“Excellent product.”
Action Plus Water Pumps
from $215.99
(3)
Action Plus Water Pumps
“I bought this item for my 1979 Camaro SBC for Street/Strip application. Water pump weighs 4 LBS less than factory, comes with its own cork gaskets. N”
PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET
from $18.29
(3)
PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET
“This part is incorrectly listed as fitting a 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix. It’s not Advanced’s fault as EVERY shop and site has this part listed for that v”