Upgrading from an ESI to a GSX

[socialoutcast84]

Hello. I am new to this whole web site and i have been browsing through the post and i have come to the conclusion that this is the place to ask DSM questions. Here is one of mine. I currently own a 1995 eagle talon ESI for which i paid approximately 3000 for after all applicable taxes, charges, etc. I put brand new calipers, rotors, and pads on all four wheels and it is in good running condition. However, i am looking for some more power and an AWD car because snow is sometimes a factor for me. I have been looking around autotrader and have found a 1995 Mitsubishi eclipse GSX for $6,000. It has been upgraded with a larger turbo, Evo III 16G turbo, HKS intake, and an aftermarket exhaust. In your opinion what should i be looking for when i go to look at this car. What are some problems with this car i should look for. Also, with the upgraded turbo is there a mod which he should have put on the car to keep running capability exceptional. Do you think this is a good deal? What kind of cash can i get if i sell my car? Any help greatly appreciated.

Thanks

 

[avw0516]

Just when you get it make sure you get a good tune up and do all the maintenance reccomended by Mitsubishi at whatever mileage it's at. Also, check what the boost is set at and make sure that it has a boost gauger so that you know the previous owner wasn't just going on what "felt right" (happened to me ). Make sure that the transmission doesn't grind and that the clutch pedal is not losing pressure. You definitely found the right site to ask questions (and search), you will definitely be able to find plenty of information on this board thanks to all the experienced tuners. Have fun, with your car, but I can not stress enough that dsm's are not cheap and need to be maintained properly. Guarantee that you love the gsx .
-Andrew

 

[majik2k5]

Here are a few things you could look for, depending on what you're intrested in.

1. When was the timing belt changed last?

2. Rust. If snow's a factor for you, and that car has any rust spots, a rough winter isn't going to help matters at all.

3. See when all the maintenance was done. I don't think this should be a huge factor, most people that spend the money to upgrade to a big 16g spend the time to take care of it as well.

4. If possible, ask him to take the intake off, and feel the turbine in the turbo for any shaft play. If you're dead set on having AWD and some performace, and blown turbo isn't too hard to fix, at least mine wasn't. But when you feel the turbine inside the turbo, there should be 0 shaft play. (make sure the car's cold when you do this, or else you'll feel the burn)

5. If for some reason it has to be inspected, make sure all the vacuum lines are ran properly.

6. Aftermarket boost gauge is a must.

7. Never hurts to check the tires if you're going to be driving it all over the place in the winter. Bald tires + winter = no no.


Lot's more stuff you could look for, but these were the top things I checked out when I bought my Talon. Good luck, let me know how it works out for you.

 

[socialoutcast84]

check what the boost is set at and make sure that it has a boost gauger so that you know the previous owner wasn't just going on what "felt right"

What should the boost be set at and if the boost was changed (the seller has not returned my phone call yet) what is an acceptable level? Also is this a decent price?

 

[majik2k5]

What should the boost be set at and if the boost was changed (the seller has not returned my phone call yet) what is an acceptable level? Also is this a decent price?

Without any supporting fuel mods and other things along those lines, I would make sure it's not boosting anywhere over 16 or 17 psi, if that.

 

[socialoutcast84]

Ok well the seller has just gotten back to me and this was his reply.

"There is a boost gauge on the pillar. I also have the turbo set at just a hair
over 10psi."

What are your opinions?

 

[toutsuu]

That sounds about right as far as the boost goes. I believe that you should have a larger turbo like that set lower than the stock turbo if you don't have fuel mods. The only thing is, just because he has it set to 10psi, doesn't mean he never cranked it up and there could possibly be engine damage he is not telling you about.

Only thing I would suggest is that you actually find a car that is all stock, and preferably from a dealer with a warranty, or save yourself some money and buy a 1st gen DSM like a 91/92. You should be able to pick up an AWD Turbo like mine for less than 3000, so you could do a straight trade at a dealership or something.

As long as it is in good shape and has only around 100,000 miles or less on it you won't be dissapointed since the 1st gens come with a better 6-bolt engine and a bigger turbo than the 2nd gens stock.