New DSMer looking at 96 n/t talon need help.

[fascinating]

So I'm new to the whole DSM scene and I was looking at purchasing a DSM to work on and hopefully drive. Long story short I found a 96 talon in the area with a dirt cheap price because it needs a new head gasket and a new cylinder head. I've checked on head gaskets and those seem reasonable in price but what should I be looking for on a warped cylinder head? One last newb question, 96 n/t talon should be a 420A right?

 

[habitatguy187]

Yes it will be a 420a. But I HIGHLY recommend buying a turbo car. Because you don't wanna be stuck with a n/t later down the road when you're trying to up your hp. I mean, I think the record for a n/t is like 203hp. Buy turbo, buy once.

 

[JusMX141]

420A's are notorious for head gasket leakage at the back of the head....oil instead of water. Mine's been leaking for about 35k, but still runs and drives fine. I'm simply banished to parking on gravel no matter where I drive it.

The only way to fix it properly is to use a Multi-layer Steel head gasket, and have the head resurfaced so assure that it's flat.

Why do you think it needs a new head? Is it cracked?


A 420A in a DSM will make a slow yet very reliable daily driver. I see 33-35mpg on a regular basis with mine, and the only thing I've installed on it to date were spark plugs and a new valve cover gasket.

 

[99 GST-R]

Welcome to the scene! I would hold off on getting it, you dont wanna buy one that already has problems, because our cars arent know for how well the hold up through the years. . I would do more research and see if a turbo-charged car is right for you. Since your wanting to work on a DSM think about finding a Eclipse GSX (AWD) or a Eclipse GST (FWD). Both have turbos stock, and are great little cars to work on. Or if you like the Talon, look for a TSi AWD. You wont regret the extra time you spent looking for one. Remember you get what you pay for.... If its really that cheap, I'd be willing to bet that theres something else wrong with it. Good luck!