Close to getting my 3K, and just had some questions
Well gentlemen, you're looking at a future owner of a 1992 base 3000GT. Pearl White with 74k miles on the odometer. Yeah sure yawn, probably nothing special, but I've had a fetish for these cars ever since I've seen my aunts 1st gen VR4 way back in the day. Anywho, I'm close to getting the car, and just had a couple questions and concerns before making the trek to go buy it.
1. It's a good 110 mile drive, about 2 and half hours out west from where I am to meet the guy for the car. (Maybe I'm exaggerating it a bit) A little background on the car when I test drove it : It's been sitting for 2 - 3 years with minimal driving.
Anything I should change or be worried about before I drive it home? Last thing I'd want is something to go bad on the way back. The only real problem with the car is that it shifts hard from park / reverse to drive (yeah, it's a slowmatic). Otherwise it's butter smooth. I believe the coolant sensor level is on the car but from what I've seen it may be a faulty sensor. Coolant level is fine and there's no leaks.
Oh and the gas too? The guy drives it occasionally to try and keep things moving so I'm not sure if it's super old gas, maybe he's filled up before.
2. What should I change AFTER I get it home? I'm assuming easy stuff like spark plug / wires, oil, maybe a trans flush with new filter. It will need a new battery as the old one doesn't keep a charge well. Before I went to go see it the owner had the flex pipe broke, and he replaced it. He's sure it was the motor mounts so maybe those could be changed too.
I appreciate the help guys, and hopefully I'll have it in my hands soon. I have some pics to post up if you'd like to see.
Re: Close to getting my 3K, and just had some questions
Well anytime I get a new car I do a tune up to it so I know what has and hasn't been done. I change spark plugs, wires, fluids, etc. It sounds a little sketchy for me. 3 grand for a 92 base auto? Seems a bit high but maybe that's just me. When you get to look at the car, check all the fluids and make sure they are full. Get under the car and check for dents in the oil pan. Check all power items like wipers, lights, signals, defrosters, etc. Take off the radiator cap and check for signs of oil. Remove the oil cap and check for white under the cap and also bad smells. Bad smells could mean the oil hasn't been changed regularly. If he lets you, do a compression test to (at the very least) the front three cylinders. You know what? Better yet... ask the guy if he would allow you to get the car inspected by a mechanic prior to the purchase. Let him know you will pay for it. It could cost up to $100 but trust me it's worth it. If the guy declines your offer then just walk. He's hiding something. It wont be the end of the world. I bought my 94 base like 4 years ago for 5K. With the economy being the way it is I couldn't imagine a 92 base selling for 3K unless it is in great condition.
Re: Close to getting my 3K, and just had some questions
nothing wrong with that. good condition 3/s's are getting harder & harder to find. if it's got the 60k done...it's probably worth every penny w/ only 74k miles.
Re: Close to getting my 3K, and just had some questions
@x2xtreme360 I don't see where I mentioned price
I was thinking of having it looked at by a mechanic, but I'd have to find out where to take it when I'm out there. Also, I'd say it's in pretty damn fine condition, you can see for yourself.
@TT4ME Alot of other 3K's for sale on craigslist around here, or cars popping up on the forum (that are in my area) have quite the mileage on them, and aren't in the great condition, and are asking more than for what I can get this one for. I need car with low miles, I'm not buying one that has only a few under the current Galant I drive. And whats wrong with a base model, Mr. 2 TT's
The timing belt was changed, but that's pretty much it. No more 60k stuff done to it, which I'm assuming I should get that taken care of. Here are some pics of the car
Re: Close to getting my 3K, and just had some questions
You know what? I'm an idiot... I looked at the title earlier and forgot that 3K meant 3000GT and I was thinking you were close to getting $3grand lol. My bad. It definitely doesn't look bad. How much ARE you paying for it if you don't mind me asking.
Re: Close to getting my 3K, and just had some questions
That's what I've heard, is that that color combo is rare. I didn't really think so but I guess it's true
Oh and trust me, it's being bought. Hopefully by the end of this month because the owner keeps pretty busy and is usually free only on weekends.
@x2xtreme360 We agreed on $3,850 for the car. I don't think it's a bad price.
Hopefully I'll have it soon, or by the end of this month. I'll definitely be posting up some more pics when I get it!
Back on topic...well granted x2xtreme made a good list of things to take care of. But just to be specific, anything I should change out or look at before I drive it home? That's the part I'm worried most about.
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