420A New to DSM's

[Legendary GS]

Hello all you fellow DSM is it? owners. I like so many people here am new to the DSM world.
I just got my hands on a 98 GS, after trading my Honda Accord.
These cars have always grabbed my attention and now I'm happy to own one.

However I do have some concerns. First this car feels and rides nothing like a honda, which after owning nothing but for the last 6 years I found a bit surprising. Now for my concerns, I didn't know if these things were normal when I test drove it but I was excited to get a different car and didn't really take notice until I was driving home,
First, the car kinda shudders a bit coming out of first gear, maybe my fault? not used to the clutch, second, the car feels rough and sluggish, obviously it needs a major tune up, and there's a squeel from the power steering when I turn the wheel to far, I've never encountered these things before, Also I'm no mechainc but I have a knack for sensing detecting issues in a car right away.
If anyone can give me some insight, and what to expect from my car, that would be such a help, Oh and today after driving it around a bit, I parked it for a while, came back maybe 5 minutes later, and it wouldnt start! turned out to be the Starter Choke fuse, It was burned out?

 

[Abe'sGST]

First off, welcome to the forums! As far as your new ride, what i would do first off all is do a little maintenance, which includes changing spark plugs, wires, fuel filter and oil. How many miles? Check for any leaks, around the power steering lines and pump...You have the 420a engine in yours, I used to have a 96 RS and it was great to me, never gave me any trouble, just take good care of it and it will be good to you. good luck.

 

[Armbar]

Welcome aboard!

Definitely check the power steering fluid level, since that could be a nice, quick fix for the squeal. As far as the shudder out of first gear goes, the first thing that pops into my head is a torn motor mount. Give those a good look-over.

 

[Legendary GS]

Hey thanks for the supoort guys. As for the miles, it has 134K, and yeah the first thing that popped into mind with the shuddering was the motor/Tranny mounts, also no leaks of any kind, but the engine oil is pitch black, and almost all fluids were very low. The previous owner obviously neglected the engine bay, because the rest of the car looks amazing.

 

[ka24debt]

welcome! in regards to the shudder; the thing that sticks in my mind is the clutch. It may be an aggressive clutch or just the fact that you aren't used to it, unless it is a very violent shaking. This small shudder happened when to me when i changed to a 6puck in my evo8 and i wasn't quite used to it yet

 

[nickestes]

Welcome, I'm brand new also. When you say shudder do you mean the whole car seems to shake, or does it seem that it is more of a thump when you let off the power. also does it only do it when under a moderate amount of acceleration or does it do it all the time.

 

[liquidsilver]

Post a videeoo. Saves time and confusion.

You might want to take care of the spark/oil/filters first. Ahh I miss my RS....she had chrome wheels.

 

[Legendary GS]

Ok so, solved many of the issues already, my mechanic told me I need new motor mounts all around, topped off the PS fluid, squeal is gone, and the shudder was my error, I was letting of the clutch too late. Thanks again guys, I'll have pics and vids of my GS up shortly.