Mid

Like the title says, a friend of mine is selling his '86 IROC.

The chassis has 125k miles, but it had the motor replaced 15k miles ago. It needs a paintjob, and maybe other minor interior work, but it seems to be running good. He's asking price is $3000.

Is there anything in particular I need to watch out for on these 3rd gen cars? Does it seem like a fair price? Comments?

StealthFormula

iTrader: (35)

When I was briefly looking at 3rd gen Iroc's, I noticed many of them have rusted to hell right in the trunk area so you may wanna pull that carpet and take a look. Iroc's are sweet, good luck to you.

Mid

Hmm....I didn't know about that...I'll take a look next time I see the car.

Thanks for the tip

Mid

anyone else know anything i should watch out for?

2K2WS6TA

iTrader: (2)

Check the Emergency brake to see if it works
Alot of the normal f body stuff, t top leaks, heater core leaks (wet carpet on pass side) try www.thirdgen.org for more specifics on 3rd gens

6SPEED84Z28

check out the entire suspension. the ball joints and tie rods may need to be replaced with that mileage. also check out the door hinges they wear out over time and need to be replaced or have new bushings installed.

Camaroguy18

unless the motor is something with a little power, 3k is getting into the 'almost not worth it range'.....just being honest here as the body has some mileage and the paint is no good. As for looking out for things, check to see if there are any stress cracks in the frame (especially if it has t-tops)....you'll want to put a set of subframe connectors on as soon as possible....also check to see if you have a decent sized wallet and any problems with addictions....because thirdgens love to nickle and dime you in every corner lol....good luck

DocT

Go over it with a fine tooth comb! Look in wheel wells, under the carpet, the engine bay. Open/close the doors several times to check for drag. As someone else stated, these older vehicles will nickle and dime you, but the good side is that most parts aren't that expensive to replace. Also, even the simple crap, like check the oil; look and smell. 3rd Gens are beautiful cars when they're cleaned up! There are tons of places to find aftermarket parts too. For the price though, you could almost get a 4th gen LT1 (if you're interested) If you're really hung up on this car, offer him less (difficult since he's your friend, but cash is cash!) If you can get it for $2500, you'll have $500 to start your modding. Let us know how it goes, and what you decide.

DubyaSsixTA

iTrader: (1)

I just bought the RS in the sig about a month ago. The few things I'd look for if I bought another would be sagging doors, worn suspension, rust (depending on where you live), and general maintenance issue. Parts aren't as expensive and it might need little things, but If you're really into the third gens, it will be worth every penny

Orr89rocz

iTrader: (13)

body lines/panels.. helps hint if the subframes are straight or not. you can take measurements around the car too.

basically when buying any older car... you gotta check everything out. you can get a decent thirdgen for 3 grand. really good ones can be had for 5-6grand. all depends on location and shopping around to find the deals

davered00ss

iTrader: (4)

For $3K you should be able to buy an Iroc in mint condition. A friend just picked one up for $500 that has no rust but could use paint. Excelent candidate for an ls1 swap.

urbanhunter44

iTrader: (1)

$3k sounds like a decent price. The value of thirdgens is actually starting to rise, and will only continue to do so.

kyle91z28

iTrader: (1)

I've got a 91 z28 with the L98 and it is a very fun car to drive and everyone thinks third gens are complete dogs but with a few bolt-ons i am beating LT1s. I ran a 14.4 @ 96 mph bone stock. There's also just something about IROC-Z's that strike interest with me. If it's in good condition, pick her up for sure. Also, you might wanna check up for some nice LS1/T56 combo's to stick in there

seawolf18

iTrader: (18)

I have always liked the way the IROC-Z's looked. A good friend of mine has an 87. We run our cars against each other every summer for the fun of it. If I had the extra cash I would pick one up for a project car.

95formulalt1

iTrader: (13)

they look real nice cleaned up

demonspeed

iTrader: (7)

I think that is a little bit much unless it's really clean. I am having a feeling that it's not. Plus, IMO, 86 was the worst year (especially the ugly hatch mounted high-mount). What engine? Tuned Port or Carb?

hammerhead

iTrader: (1)

I had an 87 IROC back in the day and I beat the living hell out of it. The only problem I ever had with it was a blown rearend- undoubtedly from doing countless doughnuts and high RMP clutch drops.

HOTROD1974

Are you smoe'n your socks or what!! That sounds like you must want to buy a field car or maybe it's candy mints you're talken about for that kind of momey.

BenztechHbl

Grow A Mullet.