1981 Pontiac Firebird Performance Engines

Essential 1981 Pontiac Firebird Performance Engines

Mr. Gasket – Intake Gasket (Part No.143)

Intake Gasket

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$42.49
Mr. Gasket Performance Intake Gaskets are manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material. This is a low density material that conforms well to irregular surfaces and has very good crush resistance at high flange pressures. They provide excellent sealing and durability as the material is designed for sealing gasoline, oils, water and coolant in applications up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While die-cut for an excellent fit, they can be trimmed if necessary for modified port applications. 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
  • Die-cut for an excellent fit
  • Can be trimmed if necessary for modified port applications
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use
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Edelbrock – Engine Gasket Set (Head / Intake / Exhaust / Valve Cover) for Pontiac (Part No.7382)

Engine Gasket Set (Head / Intake / Exhaust / Valve Cover) for Pontiac

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$118.99
Product Features:
  • Head: 4.300″ Bore/0.038″ Thick/8.96cc Vol.
  • Intake: 1.18″x2.20″ Port/.060″ Thick
  • Exhaust: 1.880″ Port
  • 3/16″ Valve Cover
  • Multi Piece Configuration
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Competition Cams – Set of 16 Single Springs w/ 1.254" O.D., 1.254" I.D., 1.700" Installed Height (Part No.981-16)

Set of 16 Single Springs w/ 1.254" O.D., 1.254" I.D., 1.700" Installed Height

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$126.99
Single Outer Valve Springs from COMP Cams allow you to build the perfect spring assembly for your application. The valve spring creation process is far more involved than most people realize. Selecting the right metal stock and creating the best design is not done by chance. COMP Cams has developed a process that creates the highest quality valve spring available. The result is a product that meets and exceeds the expectations of today’s engine builders and racers.

Product Features:
  • Seat pressure: 105 lbs. @ 1.700″, Open Pressure: 273 lbs. @ 1.250″
  • O.D.: 1.254″, I.D.: .880″
  • Single valve springs with damper
  • Approximately .490″ max lift at recommended installed height
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Mr. Gasket – Intake Bolt Kit (Part No.5003)

Intake Bolt Kit

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$75.99
Finish your custom engine job with these show quality grade 5 chromed 12-point bolts, includes AN washers which have no exposed shoulder for a professional appearance. Includes (12) 3/8-16 x 1 inch bolts with (12) 3/8 inch AN washers.

Product Features:
  • Chrome plated
  • Grade 8
  • 12-point head
  • AN washers with no exposed shoulder for a professional appearance
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Edelbrock – Water Pump for GM LS Victor Pro (Clockwise Rotation) (Part No.8895)

Water Pump for GM LS Victor Pro (Clockwise Rotation)

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$524.99
Edelbrock #8895 Water Pump GM gen III ls1 & gen iv ls engines insert style ideal to prevent overheating in street rods and street machines, as well as in tow rigs and motorhomes. Using state-of-the-art racing technology, Edelbrock has designed these “supe

Product Features:
  • Standard Impeller Rotation
  • 0.750 in. Pilot Shaft
  • 0.750 in. Ball/Ball Bearing
  • 6.00 in. Block To Hub Height
  • Natural Finish
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Edelbrock – Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set (Part No.7828)

Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set

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$80.99


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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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Competition Screw-In Rocker Arm Studs (Part No.1075)

Ultra Seal: Competition Screw-In Rocker Arm Studs

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$94.99
Mr. Gasket competition screw-in rocker arm studs are manufactured from heat treated black oxide coated Grade 8 steel. Ideal for high performance street and race applications.

Product Features:
  • Black Oxide Coated Grade 8 Steel
  • Kit Contains 16 Studs
  • Easy To Install
  • Heat Treated Steel
  • Prevents Stud Flexing
  • Black Plated Finish
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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Screw-In Rocker Arm Studs (Part No.1076)

Ultra Seal: Screw-In Rocker Arm Studs

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$65.99
Mr. Gasket screw-in rocker arm studs are manufactured from heat treated black oxide coated Grade 8 steel. Ideal for high performance street applications. OE style press in rocker studs can actually pull out of the cylinder head when using high lift camshafts. Includes sixteen studs 3/8-24 x 1.47 inch long top x 7/16-14 bottom.

Product Features:
  • Black Oxide Coated Grade 8 Steel
  • Kit Contains 16 Studs
  • Easy To Install
  • Heat Treated Steel
  • Grade 8 Steel
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Edelbrock – RPM AIR-Gap Dual-Quad Small Block Chevy Endurashine Intake Manifold (Part No.75254)

RPM AIR-Gap Dual-Quad Small Block Chevy Endurashine Intake Manifold

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$536.99
Air gap cooler and denser mixture for more power. Street and high performance compatible. Available in cast, polished and endurashine finish.

Product Features:
  • Finish-Bright Silver Chrome That Will Not Discolor
  • Based on C26 Low Profile with Unique Air Gap
  • Air Gap Cooler and Denser Mixture for More Power
  • 1.625 in. Taller Than Low-Profile PN[5425]
  • Also Available As Complete Kit PN[2025/20254]
  • Best When Matched with Edelbrock 500cfm Carburetor
  • Use Fuel Line Kit PN[8088/8091]
  • Use Progressive Throttle Linkage Kit PN[7094]
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Edelbrock – Performer Intake Manifold for 1965-79 Pontiac 326-455 Non-EGR, Polished Finish (Part No.21561)

Performer Intake Manifold for 1965-79 Pontiac 326-455 Non-EGR, Polished Finish

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$718.99
Product Features:
  • Idle-5500 RPM Range
  • Dual Plane Type-4150 Style Flange
  • 5.5 in. Front Height, 6.05 in. Center Height, 6.6 in. Rear Height
  • Polished Finish
  • Non-EGR
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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.5869)

Ultra Seal: Valve Cover Gasket Set

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$36.49
Ultra-Seal is Mr. Gasket premium valve cover gasket material. It’s manufactured from a high density cork and rubber blend with a black latex coat applied to the outside to help seal minor flange irregularites and eliminate oil leakage. It creates a positive seal by controlled swelling of the gasket material when exposed to hot oil. For original equipment replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use. Sold as a pair, these gaskets are .187 inch thick.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from high-density cork /rubber blend gasket material
  • A black latex rubber coating is applied to outside of gasket to help seal minor flange irregularities and eliminate the possibility of oil leakage
  • Creates a positive seal by controlled swelling of the gasket material when exposed to hot engine oil
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track
  • .187″ thick
  • Handles Ex Flange Pressure
  • Forms Leak Proof Seal
  • Black Latex Coating
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.1603)

Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set

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$23.49
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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Mr. Gasket – Tstat (Part No.6368)

Tstat

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$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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Mr. Gasket – High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow (Part No.4364)

High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow

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$26.99
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 180 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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Edelbrock – Replacement Timing Cover Gasket #4243 For SB Chevy, Fits 2-Piece Part #4242 (Part No.4243)

Replacement Timing Cover Gasket #4243 For SB Chevy, Fits 2-Piece Part #4242

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$41.99
Product Features:
  • Replacement Gasket Set For PN[4242]
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Timing Cover Gasket (Part No.2335)

Engine Timing Cover Gasket

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$20.29
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Steel core gasket construction
  • Exclusive design permits significantly faster gasket installation while eliminating potential sealing leak paths.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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Edelbrock – Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for 1976-95 Small Block Chevrolet (Part No.3702)

Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for 1976-95 Small Block Chevrolet

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$306.99


Product Features:
  • Designed for Optimum Torque and Acceleration
  • Maximum Performance From Idle through Mid-Range
  • Matched to Edelbrock Performer Intakes
  • 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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Competition Cams – High Energy 212/212 Hydraulic Flat Cam K-Kit (Part No.K51-230-3)

High Energy 212/212 Hydraulic Flat Cam K-Kit

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$622.99
Ideal for use with mainly stock components like rocker arms, intake manifolds, cylinder heads, compression ratio, torque converters and rear gear ratios, the High Energy camshaft grind family is a great choice for street performance applications.

Product Features:
  • Good blend of efficiency and performance.
  • Perfect choice for performance street rebuilds.
  • Work well with mainly stock components such as rockers, manifolds, heads, compression, torque converters and gears.
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Edelbrock – Pushrod Set for S/B Chevy (Part No.9646)

Pushrod Set for S/B Chevy

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$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 – Pushrod Set for S/B Chevy (Part No.9629)

Pushrod Set for S/B Chevy

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$187.99


Product Features:
  • Case-Hardened Tubing
  • Surface Hardening
  • Welded Ends
  • 0.3125 in. Diameter
  • Use with or without Hardened Steel Guideplates
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Competition Cams – CAMSHAFT, SBC 284 XTREME ENERGY HYDRAULIC 1 EA (Part No.12-250-3)

CAMSHAFT, SBC 284 XTREME ENERGY HYDRAULIC 1 EA

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$258.99
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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Competition Cams – Xtreme Energy 218/224 Hydraulic Flat Cam (Part No.42-222-4)

Xtreme Energy 218/224 Hydraulic Flat Cam

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$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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B & M – Holeshot 2400 (Part No.70419)

Holeshot 2400

from

$609.99
HoleShot 2400 for GM 1993 to 1996 TH700R4 (30 spline) and 1984 to 1993 4L60E (30 spline) Application: HoleShot 2400 for GM 1993 to 1996 TH700R4 (30 spline) and 1984 to 1993 4L60E (30 spline) A higher than stock stall speed as delivered by the Holeshot converter will provide several advantages and benefits in vehicles with modified engines. Many modifications, particularly big cams, tend to reduce low end power and torque. The high stall converter allows the engine to launch the car at higher rpm where more torque is available. The Holeshot is generally a very good choice for the typical street machine that is looking for better launch capability and more strength. Street rods with modified engines will also benefit from a Holeshot converter. If your vehicle is equipped with a plate type nitrous system, you will need a Nitrous Holeshot!! Stall speed listings are based on engines producing 230lb. ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm. More torque at 2,500 rpm will give you more stall speed, less torque at 2,500 rpm will give you less stall speed than the stall speed ratings indicated. Furnace brazed impeller. New precision steel alloy pump drive tube. New heavy duty needle bearing between stator and impeller (not a thrust washer). Needle bearing between stator and turbine. Furnace brazed turbine. Dual pattern drive lugs on some GM Holeshots. New turbine hub. New springs and rollers in stator.

Product Features:
  • Furnace Brazed Impeller
  • Steel Alloy Pump Drive Tube
  • Heavy Duty Needle Bearing
  • Between Stator and Turbine
  • Furnace Brazed Turbine
  • New Turbine Hub
  • New Springs/Rollers In Stator
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B & M – Performance Torque Converter for GM TH400, 350, & 375 Transmissions (Part No.20400)

Performance Torque Converter for GM TH400, 350, & 375 Transmissions

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$299.99
Torque Converter – Tork Master 2000 for GM 1965 to 1991 TH400, 425, 375 and 1968 to 1981 TH350, 375B (not 350C) APPLICATION: Tork Master 2000 for GM 1965 to 1991 TH400, 425, 375 and 1968 to 1981 TH350, 375B (not 350C) The Tork Master is B&M’s lowest cost

Product Features:
  • New Precision Pump Drive Tube
  • Pressure Tested
  • Fully Balanced
  • Needle Thrust Bearing
  • New Thrust Washer
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FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET (Part No.1819)

PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET

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$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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FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET (Part No.1886)

PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET

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$63.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Rigid core, molded silicone rubber gaskets utilize the one-piece molded rubber technology for a perfect fit, ease of installation and include compression limiters to prevent overtightening.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit (Part No.2908)

Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit

from

$45.99
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.
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit (Part No.2919)

Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit

from

$37.49
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.
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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 78 different Performance Engines in our inventory ranging from $17.49 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. Mr. Gasket, Edelbrock, 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 361 reviews in this category, some of the top rated parts include Action Plus Water Pumps with 3.7 stars and PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET with 1.0 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
Tork Master 3000
from $499.99
(1)
Tork Master 3000
Performance Torque Converters

Top 1981 Pontiac Firebird Performance Engines from Mr. Gasket

Mr. Gasket products are another trusted brand when it comes to Performance Engines for your 1981 Pontiac Firebird. Popular Mr. Gasket parts include:
High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow
from $26.99
(20)
High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow
Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats

FAQs for 1981 Pontiac Firebird Performance Engines

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

Out of 78 Performance Engines for the 1981 Pontiac Firebird, the most popular in our inventory are:
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
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:
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”
Action Plus Water Pumps
from $215.99
(2)
Action Plus Water Pumps
“The twisted neck comes to far up on the hub. For a 2 groove pulley it causes the pulley to hit the water pump. You will also need new bolts for the”