What should I look out for? - Going to test drive a 240sx coupe monday

[mik]

Im very interested in a 240sx coupe here. I believe its an LE (1992). It appears to be in very good shape, and the engine runs smooth, I just didnt have a time to take it for a test drive because the dealership was closing for the night when i got there. Its fully loaded (has HUD etc), automatic (please dont flame about this, its practically impossible to find any other 240s for sale around here) and has approximately 100,000miles (160,000km for those of us in canada ).

I was just wondering what sort of things I should check for and anythign I should know about before considering purchasing it. Thanks!

[Holisticbeatz]

"ka24(d)e thin body parts that dent so easily faded windshield wiper switch cigarette lighter that pops out power windows that stop working odometer that gets stuck leaky bushings uneven camber rear defroster that doesnt work clunky steering overheating blown speakers faded seatbelts faded temperature control automatic seatbelts great interior fabric schemes ****ty brakes great way of changing headlight bulbs trunk fabric walls that break off dropping a strut bar nut in the rear brake lights burn out leaky injectors leaky windows strange creaking noises awesome moonroof brittle interior cloth leaky injectors spot on the armrest that rubs away power antenna not working nasty shift boot that falls apart people capacity: 2 people and a midget with no legs wonderful black tape that wraps around the body no cup holders bad timing chain guides driver's side rear lean siezed transmission drain/filler plugs"

quoted from benson..

[Tweaky_Tom]

When you drive it listen for ANY noise that might come from underneath the car. Listen for clunking in the rear end under heavy breaking and between shifts as 240's are natorious for rear end mounts to go bad! Check out the spark plugs to make sure they're not chewed up or gunked up. This is a quick diagnosis for the condition of the engine. If they're chewed up FORGET IT unless you plan on doing the sr swop soon. a little char is "ok" but its gotta be minimal! Make sure the AIR BLOWS REALLY COLD for the entiraty of the test drive as used car dealerships are known for quick temporary fixes on older cars. When you start it up listen for raddling in the engine (sounds like marbels rolling around in the top of the motor) as this is the sound of bad chain guides and is pricy to fix because of labor. Check for rust EVERYWHERE, don't be affraid to get dirty....remeber.....this things gonna hall yer a$$ around town! And don't forget to check fluid levels! That's about all i can think of. Good luck on your purchase, <<<Tom>>>

[mik]

Thanks guys, I think I have a much better idea of what to look out for now. Much appreciated.

- Mike

[blue_hauder]

I don't know if it is a problem on the KA24DE but on my 90 the steering went out when I got home from buying it. While the car is parked move the wheel back and forth and listen for any noise. Also check out the brakes, I had my master cylinder go out. If your going to put a loud stereo in it, might as well get a new alternator. and like everyone else said, the timing chain tensioners. All of this went out on me between 137,000 and 147,000