What should i look for???

[avenged5]

I was looking for a car that i can work on and keep me occupied for the summer while i dont have classes and i found this ad on craigslist.

91 awd turbo eclipse gsx

I was just wondering what are some things i should look for when i go check it out or what should i ask for in pictures because its 3 hours away.

I wanna learn to build and mod my own car and i figure gettin somethin to work on is the best way to do it. I just dont wanna end up with more than i can handle. I've had no problems working on my n/a dsm but i have no hands on experience with awd nor its components so i wanna be sure the car isn't trashed and gonna need more than im hoping to replace. Miracles happen right?

 

[xDEVOUTx]

I have a 93 talon and i just put $3,000 into it and it was running great and then last night it caught on fire on the freeway... Things happen so be prepared for anything! Now i gotta put more money into the car... follow your heart

 

[twalters09]

one thing i can definatly tell you to look for is to make sure the rear end isnt leaking, awd with rear leak just a time bomb, also make sure there is not a big oil leak from the turbo, other than that just check it out like you would ne other car

 

[LiquidX]

91 gsx eclipse with a real japan swap 4g63 only 40xxx miles runs great but no tranny this would be a easy fix i moved and can not take with me i have 3 cars already so if you want a fast car for little of nothing here it is you can find a tranny for it between 400 and 600 maybe even cheaper at a junk yard this car is fast new turbo on it if you have a dsm already and want a good motor its right here i paid 4700 for the motor and have over 1500 in bolt on parts that all go with it i need it gone asap first good offer will take it have title you can fix up this one for a drag car or a everyday driver can send pics if interested call any time 5o2-974-oo6o and YES it is a 5 speed turbo awd 1st gen gsx......

Tell him to get pictures of the car first as $800 is freaking cheap especially saying he got a motor for "$4700" . This guy is a tard to be honest as the motors are the same except for a couple things which would be replace if you build an engine up anyway.

Ask for a list of parts and to see the receipts of purchases and work orders. Tell him to get compression test numbers and are there any fluids leaking.

I find it funny that he said the motor runs great but there is no tranny on it. Ask for the paperwork that guarantees 40k miles on it. Get crank end play #'s from him too.

 

[avenged5]

Well it looks like he sold it 2 days ago. Oh well. The hunt continues!!!!!! Thanks for all input guys. I appreciate the responses. They'll really help in the future.

 

[ist dwa]

A dsm is not a summer project is a lifetime commitment. Take up tennis if you are looking to something for the summer that way you don't have to post up the car and all the parts you bought come sept when the car still doesn't run, and you have to go back to school.

 

[tragdor]

A dsm is not a summer project is a lifetime commitment. Take up tennis if you are looking to something for the summer that way you don't have to post up the car and all the parts you bought come sept when the car still doesn't run, and you have to go back to school.

^^^He is right-I bought my car almost a year ago and it broke down on the way home (alternator). I have put 2K into it plus my time and it still isn't solid. Not to discourage you, but know going it that 1)you will have a variety of problems and 2)you will spend money on the car to keep it going. Just getting all the maintenance done (timing belt, fluids, plugs, wires, etc) is going to be another 200-300 if you do it yourself. If you can dedicate the time and money, you will not regret it (okay maybe a little...)
Good Luck!

 

[thomcasey]

Any 12+ year old performance car is a hobby/lifetime project. DSM's are not unique in this area, but they are the most fun when running