Looking at a 98 GSX Eclipse

[2000SilverGTS]

I have a few questions to post. I currently own a 2000 Celica GT-S 6 speed and am looking at a Red 98 GSX Eclipse w/ 91K Miles Basically stock except for SRI and some custom 2.5" Exhaust. Few concerns. The turbo and transmission seem to be running in good working order but there are a few things that need to be replaced. First previous owner did a 2' drop and becuase of this the suspension is starting to go, ride is getting bouncey so that would need to be replaced.. How much typically does it cost to replace everything back to stock or would I be better off going with a full coilover systsem and just getting that over with. Also the stick is insanely loose in Neutral and the exhaust needs to be replaced. I'm giong back to look at it in a couple days since it was dark and I didnt get to check for rust or anything on the body. I talked the guy down to $8,000 from $9,800 becuase of the problems I noticed and was wondering with the work that would need to be done is it worth the price? Also anyone in the Central WI area who would be willing to come look at the car with me either Wednesday after 3:30pm or Friday after 1:00pm?

 

[2000SilverGTS]

Doesnt anyone have ANY imput??

 

[ZachM31]

91,000 miles is kinda high for a 98, but it aint bad, what do u mean the stick is really lose in neutral? anyways, look at the engine and take ure hand underneath all the stuff u cant see and find oil or something...if the engine is dirty and stained, its a good chance that it was beat on...there was a 98 GSX in sioux falls that looked clean and everything, but they cleaned the top side of the engine really good with a degreaser and whatnot, and if u stuck ure hand down further, u got a dirty hand... that isnt exactly saying it was beat on, but its a good possibility, ummm..... the suspension could cost you around $500 or so...depending on what you are replacing....i havent been in the DSM scene for more than a month, so i am not sure on prices and what stuff would cost....but i would see if u could talk him down some more.... if the car has problems, then dont get it, simple as that, you dont wanna spend 8,000 on a car and put 2,000 into it and always worry about it breaking down on you, search around and find the perfect one... anything worth having is worth waiting for, i am sure this car is nice and whatnot, and i havent seen it so i cant say get it or dont get it, but ask the guy about the car, find out everything that was done to it. I hope i helped out a little bit.

 

[Ryan86]

The loose shifter problem seems to be pretty common with the DSMs I've seen. Really, all you gotta do is take a look at it then figure out how it works and what exactly is making it loose... usually its just some screw loose or a bushing is worn out. Shouldn't be over a couple bucks to fix

As for the suspension, ask if he has a camber kit installed and check for uneven tire wear. If it was me, I'd replace his current set up with Prokit springs and KYB adjustables... stock suspension sits too high

 

[2000SilverGTS]

Actually he is getting a camber kit installed in the next couple days! Anyone close in Central WI that would like to look at me?? This is the first DSM I've looked at since I've owned nothing but celicas since I was 18! Should I spend the 60$ to have him take it to the local shop and get it checked and comression tested or can you tell enough just by looking closely at the engince and checking for leaks? I've already talked the kid down $1800 to $8000 but maybe.. just maybe I can get it another $500 off!

 

[Ryan86]

When I bought my DSM, I had the guy buy a CarFax and get it inspected at AAA first. If he has nothing to hide, he should do the same

Be sure to do a "left turn crankwalk test"

 

[Nerfherder]

Finding a GSX for 8k is a good deal if the body/interior is in good shape. Suspension stuff is generally cheaper than drivetrain mods, so I wouldn't worry too much about it. Just drive it around for while and get a feel for it. You'll know if you want it or not.

 

[darkness_fallz]

Actually he is getting a camber kit installed in the next couple days! Anyone close in Central WI that would like to look at me?? This is the first DSM I've looked at since I've owned nothing but celicas since I was 18! Should I spend the 60$ to have him take it to the local shop and get it checked and comression tested or can you tell enough just by looking closely at the engince and checking for leaks? I've already talked the kid down $1800 to $8000 but maybe.. just maybe I can get it another $500 off!

ALWAYS get your new rides checked out by a mechanic... It's worth the 60 bucks to possibly save you 600 or 6000 down the line.