I've come across a 1987 Chrysler Fifth Avenue that happens to be great shape, but I had a few questions in regards to the 5.2L LA engine and safety features of the car.

In 1987, to my knowledge, the Chrysler Fifth Avenue was still very much a carbureted vehicle, but I also understand various conversion kits exist to convert the engine from carburetion to fuel injection. What are the benefits of doing so? I'd expect a potential uplift in fuel efficiency and horsepower. is this a reasonable expectation?

Chrysler introduced an optional driver's airbag in 1988 and standardized this equipment in 1989. Would it be possible to equip the 1987 Fifth Avenue in question with a 1988 or 1989 steering wheel containing an airbag?

Lastly, did the Chrysler Fifth Avenue ever receive an ABS system? If not, are kits available for the car. Is the car fitted with four-wheel disc brakes?


Thank you in advance!

 

It can be converted to fuel injection. There are throttle body injection systems which are somewhat expensive but a bolt on option. The carb you would be eliminating is computer controlled in an early feedback system (uses an O2 sensor). The computer also controls the ignition and you would probably also want to convert that to an earlier mopar electronic ignition or an aftermarket. Some of the fuel injection manufacturers have an ignition system to compliment the fuel injection. You will see an improvement in fuel economy and power. The fuel pump for the carb cannot provide the pressure for fuel injection so would need a booster pump or replaced with a FI pump. Another option is multi-point injection requiring a change of the intake manifold. I think trucks and Jeeps had pre-magnum multi-point injection which could be transplanted. You may need to consider a better transmission and rear axle if the power increase is too much. The '87 2bbl 5.2 LA had about 140 HP while a '93 Grand Cherokee FI 5.2 LA had 230 HP. The HP gain is not just the FI though, better flowing heads and a different cam are likely part of the equation.

My 5th Ave experience only goes up to '87. But, I would think it would be possible to put an airbag steering wheel in the '87 from an '88 or '89. Your would also need to get an inertia sensor, maybe a controller, wiring, and maybe a speed sensor, and some other misc parts to make it work.

The 5th Avenues were all rear drum brakes. Disc brake conversions are available for many axles. The 5th Avenue standard rear axle is the 7.25" with 3" tubes on the wheel ends like many other axles. A change of the proportioning valve is a very good consideration for a disc brake conversion.

I don't think ABS ever found it's way to the 5th Ave. equipment list. It would be possible to add ABS but adding wheel speed sensors would be the tricky part.