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Old 06-19-2006, 11:56 PM
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Default Newb lookin at f-bodies

I know what I'm lookin for as far as options.
1. LS1 (of course)
2. 6 speed
3. T-tops
4. An SS would be preferable but a fully optioned Z28 would be fine if the price is right.

Couple ???'s
Any mechanical or other known problems to look out for when checking out available cars?

I know I'm probably gonna get mixed answers here but, should I look for a lower priced higher mileage car or spend a little more for a car with lower mileage? I'm not the type to leave anything stock so moding will probably take place in the future. Just interested to hear people opinions. Thanks.
Old 06-19-2006, 11:59 PM
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listen for sounds from the rear end. Look for signs of leaks from the t-tops. Check for smoke from exhaust when under throttle, and listen for clicking/pinging sound when car is started cold. If you don't notice any of these, you should be in good shape!
Old 06-20-2006, 12:11 AM
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Originally Posted by natronathon
listen for sounds from the rear end. Look for signs of leaks from the t-tops. Check for smoke from exhaust when under throttle, and listen for clicking/pinging sound when car is started cold. If you don't notice any of these, you should be in good shape!
So do some of the LS1's have the famous piston slap problem that I keep hearing about with the LS series truck motors?
Old 06-20-2006, 12:12 AM
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yes they do, and its nothing to worry about
Old 06-20-2006, 01:14 AM
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I thought it wasn't really piston slap but just a noise as high performane engines would make.

An easy check is to open the hood and see if the fenders both say "GM fender part # Made in Canada" blah blah blah. Then open the doors and see if the body tape looks the same on both sides. That covers most wrecks.

T tops are going to leak.

Only get the 6 speed if u dont plan on modding much.
Old 06-20-2006, 01:17 AM
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Originally Posted by 2002_Z28_Six_Speed
Only get the 6 speed if u dont plan on modding much.
wtf does that mean?
Old 06-20-2006, 02:11 AM
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jesus here we go again with the A4 vs M6
Old 06-20-2006, 05:59 PM
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Do all the checks stated above, and then pick what you want. If you want a 6 speed, then get a 6 speed. If its what you truly want then you wont be disappointed.
Old 06-20-2006, 06:15 PM
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Default 2001 Firebird Trans Am

I'm currently looking to purchase a low mile 2001 Firebird Trans Am Automatic,is there anything that I should look for about this year that might go wrong ????
Old 06-20-2006, 06:19 PM
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oil pump, window motors, light motors..
Old 06-20-2006, 06:35 PM
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No problems with mine except Rotors and crack door panel
Old 06-20-2006, 07:05 PM
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Originally Posted by Tainted
jesus here we go again with the A4 vs M6
Indeed. Get what you want. Im doing just fine and dandy with my 6-speed, thank ya.
Old 06-20-2006, 09:29 PM
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Originally Posted by 2002_Z28_Six_Speed
....Only get the 6 speed if u dont plan on modding much.
Damn, I wish somebody told me that before I got my 427! lol

I still have my stock M6 behind my 427, try that with a 4l60e.

Peace,
Craig.
Old 06-20-2006, 09:34 PM
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It should be fine, as long as it was taken care of. If the original owner beat the snot out of it anything could be wrong.

Another thing besides what these guys have mentioned is headlight motors, but they should be fine, just check them out before hand. Also run a Carfax on any car you plan on buying. Don't ask anyone here to run a Carfax though, we can't.


Peace,
Craig.
Old 06-20-2006, 09:47 PM
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Originally Posted by CRAGER
Damn, I wish somebody told me that before I got my 427! lol

I still have my stock M6 behind my 427, try that with a 4l60e.

Peace,
Craig.

amen brotha
Old 06-20-2006, 10:03 PM
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look UNDERNEATH the car for any kind of leaks. if you see the undercarriage or the oil pan is coated with anything, you may be buying a leak machine. the drier the bottom is, the better. i'll be more specific - CRAWL UNDERNEATH THE CAR AND LOOK. even if you're not a car guy, if something under there looks wrong (wet, cracked, etc.) it probably is (btw rust on your rear/differential cover is normal )

check the headlights for any kind of grinding/motor noise.

check the oil level/oil cleanliness. make sure the oil level is near normal. LS1' are known to consume SOME oil (it's unavoidable), but if you're like a quart and a half off pass on this one!!!

check to make sure your transmission fluid doesn't smell burnt.

make sure your coolant is red and not brown/rusty/thick.

check the hatch release control to make sure that it doesn't stick.

check for cracks in the door panels.

check your oil pressure and your battery voltage.

make sure the air conditioner/heater works. if either smells, you may have leaking antifreeze/a bad heater core.

make sure your rear defogger works.

check all the little dials and things you'd never think that could go wrong. it always seems like the one problem is the one you overlooked.
Old 06-21-2006, 07:20 PM
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yea check under the car for salt damage or any other crap
Old 06-21-2006, 08:23 PM
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+1 on the window motors. What a poor design.
Old 06-28-2006, 01:58 PM
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I would stay away from WS6 or SS. Becuase you pay more for them. And when you buy a car, most people do exhasut and shocks/sway bars so then its better anway. So thats my .02
Old 06-29-2006, 07:11 AM
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I still have my stock M6 behind my 427, try that with a 4l60e.

I think that was a burn to all of those M6 haters out there.


And when you buy a car, most people do exhasut and shocks/sway bars so then its better anway. So thats my .02
But WTF dude? I dont understand what youre trying to say here.



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