Spyder High Mileage '97 Eclipse GS Spyder | 4G64 reliability?

[opn0]

Hey, all! I'm thinking about purchasing a 1997 Eclipse GS Spyder as my first DSM car! I've done my fair share of research regarding the reliability of the 4G64 motor, and I'm wondering if this car is worth looking into... especially since it's at around 185,000 miles. It's a lot, but it seems to be in good working order. Besides, from what I've gathered, the 4G64 is more of a steady workhorse compared to the 420A and 4G63T.

I plan on inspecting the car myself, as well as paying for a more thorough inspection from an actual shop; can't be too safe with DSM cars.

Thoughts? Concerns?

Anything would be appreciated!

 

[BLACK'98DSM]

It's hard to say without extensive service records. If it hasn't been properly serviced and maintained, it will need a few seals and gaskets, belts etc. All the rubbers could be dry rotten and brittle. Before digging too deeply though I would test the compression. If the engine is worn it's best to tackle everything at once. Those engines can last 200k+, but it all depends on how it was treated and maintained up to this point.

 

[99eclipsegs-2t]

I just rebuilt my 4g64 and I've found it to be a very reliable motor for everyday driving/fun. not a powerhouse by any means, but I'm not stuck under the hood/ car fixing things. just smiles per gallon for the last summer. I think it's a good first for the dsm platform, before a turbocharged motor or the 420a motor. I rebuilt my car at 172k after I found it with a timing belt broken. rebuilt the head(sohc) and some new gaskets here and there, and I've had no issues in the last 1000 miles/few months of driving. the Spyder also paves a way to not only turbo the stock motor, but it allows you to swap in a 4g63 at your desire. Best of luck to you on the purchase!

 

[opn0]

I just rebuilt my 4g64 and I've found it to be a very reliable motor for everyday driving/fun. not a powerhouse by any means, but I'm not stuck under the hood/ car fixing things. just smiles per gallon for the last summer. I think it's a good first for the dsm platform, before a turbocharged motor or the 420a motor. I rebuilt my car at 172k after I found it with a timing belt broken. rebuilt the head(sohc) and some new gaskets here and there, and I've had no issues in the last 1000 miles/few months of driving. the Spyder also paves a way to not only turbo the stock motor, but it allows you to swap in a 4g63 at your desire. Best of luck to you on the purchase!

Awesome! And thank you! Definitely hoping that it'll be the one haha.

Also, just a quick question regarding your Spyder: how has the soft-top held up in the rain or harsh weather? I live in New England, so it can get hectic in the winter .

 

[opn0]

It's hard to say without extensive service records. If it hasn't been properly serviced and maintained, it will need a few seals and gaskets, belts etc. All the rubbers could be dry rotten and brittle. Before digging too deeply though I would test the compression. If the engine is worn it's best to tackle everything at once. Those engines can last 200k+, but it all depends on how it was treated and maintained up to this point.

Yeah, that makes sense. I'll talk with the seller and try to learn as much about it as possible regarding it's maintenance history. Thanks for the insight!

 

[99eclipsegs-2t]

Awesome! And thank you! Definitely hoping that it'll be the one haha.

Also, just a quick question regarding your Spyder: how has the soft-top held up in the rain or harsh weather? I live in New England, so it can get hectic in the winter .

works perfect, it's still the original top as well. I do keep my car garaged all year round, but I don't know how the previous owner kept it. driving a convertible is pretty epic in my opinion, the hard tops have their issues with leaky sunroofs too, just some food for thought.