Buying an aus 300zx, few minor problems (I think)

Discussion in 'Technical' started by Mattsaussie, Aug 17, 2009.

  1. Mattsaussie

    Mattsaussie Member

    I'm thinking of buying a 90 model 300zx and was wondering when you shift gears (just the press and depressing of the clutch) is there a small knock. Cause the Aussie ones I've looked at do but japs don't. If not what would the repair estimate be (my thoughts are the diff/shaft)?

    There is also a little shutter that comes and goes at around 4000rpm. It doesn't shake vigourously like one cylinder being completely screwed but I'm thinking the compression is a little low. If it sounds like I'm right what's your thoughts on the cost?

    Seems like a good buy bar those things which I've accomodated for about 1000 for repairs to above
     
  2. Mitch

    Mitch Has one gear: GO

    I would be looking at the centre tailshaft bearing, of not gearbox mounts.

    But would need looking at by a professional to diagnose. $1000 should do it.
     
  3. Chrispy

    Chrispy Pretentious Upstart

    If you are low on compression then it is more a $5k exercise than a $1k exercise :p

    When you say there is a small knock, is it on clutch in/out or actually changing gears with the shifter? COuld be the centre bearing. Bearing is about $60, two hours of labour to change.
     
  4. 300zxt

    300zxt Well-Known Member

    Gearbox, diff, low compression...

    RUN! lol
     
  5. ugame

    ugame user #1

    Factor in $1000 for repairs (just in case) reguardless of what ZZed you buy

    + $1000+ (not sure of current cost) for 100,000K service kit unless you are 101% sure this HAS been done, and done right by the last owner.
     
  6. zedboy

    zedboy Active Member

    Mines an aus-spec as well and seems to make a similar sound your describing when pressing down on the clutch, but its barely noticeable. You wouldn't know its there unless i tell you
     
  7. rollin

    rollin First 9

    he's guessing its down on comprssion, its probably going lean or something
     
  8. 300zxt

    300zxt Well-Known Member

    That's even worse! heh
     
  9. AndyMac

    AndyMac Better than you

    same engine, clutch and gearbox setup as jspec, so it would be more coincidence then an auspec related thing.

    To be honest, unless your paying around the 2.5-4K mark for the car, major problems like engine knock or any hollow knocking sound should be walked away from. On an NA in the 8-10K bracket, the mechanical side should be in good nick. Smooth quiet engine and no leaks. 5-8K you can expect some light maintenance work to be done or light body work, but no strange running noises.
     
  10. Mattsaussie

    Mattsaussie Member

    Well it's like Zedboy's 300. Hardly noticable only if everything is off and your listening for strange noises. Same as the vibration, only realize it when your looking for that stuff. This car I am planning on 8000. If something screws up I've got 2000 for repairs to get it spick
     
  11. IB

    IB ?????

    Maybe you could pay a mechanic to inspect and run a compression test? There are a couple of good ones on the forum that are Qld based.
     
  12. Mattsaussie

    Mattsaussie Member

    what would it cost to have someone look at the mechanical side of it. ie the compression, brakes and clutch wear etc. if possible ofcourse (i know that some parts wouldn't be able to be dismantled...easily and would cost heaps in labour). the car is in southport...if anyone has looked at it...vin is JN01Z32A0000300, its crisp white and has no tints.
     
  13. Brad22

    Brad22 New Member

    I wouldnt be too worried about brake or clutch wear, doesnt matter what zed you get they are going to wear out, brake pads are cheap, so are clutches when you put it in perspective. (i.e IF it did need replacing a $450 clutch will last you years and years).

    As for compression, all you can do is a compression test to see what its looking like, if it is low all you can do to fix it is rebuild really. Don't be scared if they are a little low, the car is 20 years old after all and it doesnt mean its about to fall apart.

    If your after a mech to check it out with you, Send 'rollin' a PM, He might be up for checking it out & he knows his stuff. Very reasonable pricing too.

    Goodluck.
     
  14. weeeeeeeZX

    weeeeeeeZX New Member

    man if u cant find anything worth wile here in bris/qld, goto other states in melb their are a few good cars for less than 8k and u shoudnt have to spend much on fixin. if the car has all kinds of problems the car ur intending on buying i wouldnt go near it. everyone knows these cars are money pits once u fix one thing something else gose wrong. i had one for 8years i spent over 10k in maintance over the years, but i just couldnt get enough of the car was such a dream, but i sold it to my mate.
     

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