Things to do before modding

[v01dy]

Alright, so I got my stock gst used from a used car lot. I've cleared a couple of cel codes by replacing an oxygen sensor. I'm going to get a emissions tuneup next week. So what else needs to be done before I start modding the car? I'm thinking that I have to get a boost leak test and an engine tuneup. Will that be it?

 

[-silencer-]

How many miles?

If you didn't already - do a compression test. If that doesn't show a solid engine do a leakdown test. Fix boost & exhaust leaks.

I just bought my car and will change all belts, pulleys, and timing tensioner, radiator hoses, fuel filter, oil filter & oil, transmission fluid, SS clutch lines, SS brake lines, and brake pads. Since I have the belts off I will go ahead and install the balance shaft eliminator kit, oil pump, water pump, ARP head studs. Flush the cooling system & clean the intercooler. I'll need tires soon but I won't be driving much so that'll give me a couple months to upgrade to some larger wheels/tires. I'm having an issue with the clutch so if new slave/master cylinders & fluid doesn't fix the problem, I'll drop the tranny and take a look. Possibly go with TRE for a tranny rebuild & new clutch/flywheel.

Careful with the car mods - it becomes a major addiction.

 

[dalatinromeo]

-silencer- pretty much sum it up all up for you

You'll also want to change out all filters, fluids, worn hoses, spark plugs/wires, worn/leaking gaskets

 

[-silencer-]

-silencer- pretty much sum it up all up for you

You'll also want to change out all filters, fluids, worn hoses, spark plugs/wires, worn/leaking gaskets

Spark plugs & wires.. knew I forgot to mention something I bought. There's a lot to do to make sure an old car runs as close to possible as new.

 

[GSXtreme0209]

I know it's already been mentioned but I can't stress enough timing belt!!!!! Too many DSM'ers can relate with me on how important the timing belt in these cars are. But everything has been mentioned, so I'm done

 

[its_hey_ma]

especially with a 2g

 

[v01dy]

oh... that's alot of things to be done... any idea how much it would cost to get a shop to do that? I'm afraid I'm not very mechanically inclined.

 

[dalatinromeo]

oh... that's alot of things to be done... any idea how much it would cost to get a shop to do that? I'm afraid I'm not very mechanically inclined.

well if you are not very mechanically inclined I would suggest just replacing hoses, wires/plugs, fluids, coolant, worn and leaking gaskets, and filters by yourself. Anyone with basic tools can perform these task. Also changing your brake pads and brake lines are nto that hard of a task.

So that leaves you with belts, pulleys, and pumps. Since you are not mechanically inclined I would suggest asking a relative or friend who might be able to help you out. You learn so much more about your car when you do the work yourself.

But if do plan on taking it to a shop for belts, pulleys, and pumps. I would say about 200-300 easily for the balance shaft & timing belt(labor), pumps & pulleys around the same. So you can expect to be around 600-800 . But if you look around you can find some deals. but my opinion would be find a friend, relative, or local tuner who might be willing to lend a hand. good luck

oh... that's alot of things to be doneQUOTE]

it does appear to be alot of things to do. but its better you do it now then to start modding and have all these pieces break on you slowing you down even more. and like GSXtreme0209 dont forget about that timing belt get it done

 

[orezbus12]

when i got mine i just checked the fluids......mine needed brakes ... err checked belts. and i just looked over the car to see if anything else looked old and needed replacing like hoses, plugs, wires . i mean u can go ahead and replace everything if u really want to but u might just be spending money u dont need to. i also did a compression test on mine... u can prolly borrow the gauge at autozone but i guess a shop woudlnt charge too much to do one. only takes a few minutes. i mean if ur gonna take it in anyways cant u just ask them to look it over for u and check whats needed ?