Let's get down to business.

I'm bored of my gti. It's nice, but its Front wheel drive, i'm too worried about it blowing up(volkswagen!), and most importantly I need V8 in my life.


I'm thinking of going back to the combination I used to have because I miss it so much. I'm thinking of selling the gti and buying a pos beater jeep (like ragged out 1996-98) and an LS1 Camaro or trans am.

My question for you guys is what are the main common problems for the 98-02's and what to look for and look out for. I knew everything about the lt1 so I know there aren't many problems with the body and suspension etc.

thanks in advance, Phalen.

 

lol, got to have power,,, good to hear from yah. same problems you would look for in any used car of that age. ls1 is a great motor if cared for. i would say the trans and rearend would be areas of concern.

 

10 bolt. If you get a M6 you are set; A4 will be fine until you start doing some H/C work. There are no real problems with the LS1 besides piston slap, which you don't really have control over. Try to get a 2001-02 LS1 as they had LS6 intake manifolds and no EGR. 10 bolt weakness lies in the axle shafts and ring gear. A 10 bolt can easily bust under stock LS1+M6 power, and there is no sense in trying to beef up the 10 bolt either.

 

I agree. LS1 doesnt really have the chronic issues like the LT1. I would stay away from the 98's though as I learned they had some PCM issues. You could go with the 99 and do your own LS6 intake swap/egr delete. its one of the most popular mods and well documented. i did it on my 98 and was very happy. the only thing besides the LS6 intake itself you need is the coolant crossover pipes which can be had for around 50 bucks or less on fleabay.

 

I would be bored of FWD too. If I was to buy a V8, I would hold out and get a Trams Am. The styling IMO is much better, but that's up to you really. Also getting an LS1 leaves you with so many aftermarket upgrade options.

 

I never had a problem with my 98. But good luck trying to find a ls1 at a decent price that hasn't been beat to death. I had to see 8 of them before I found mine. Most where had the smell of burning oil coming threw the vents or funny sounds. But if you can find one that was cared for it can last you 300k+ If you treat it right. im at 155k now

 

The roof panel and halo on '98 and up f-bodies were put on with a different adhesive that releases gases through the panel and causes small bubbles in the paint.

 

Thanks for the replies.

I talked to the family and due to the fact that we owe more on the gti than i thought this won't be happening until a year or so from now so I sort of jumped the gun... I get a bit excited.

There was an interesting settlement made though, while I still have the gti, if I keep my grades at a B or above and pay in full for it (no money help just like my first) I'm allowed to buy another project car. It won't be finished quickly, but it'll always be there for me to work on and I believe that is what I miss most about my 93.

Currently I am looking for a moderately crapped out 2nd gen (1970-73 only, no engine no trans you get the picture) as that has always been my "dream" car. But I still plan on getting another camaro to complement it, kind of taking the route that camaroboyss has haha.


so basically it's going to be

1. (hopefully) find a project car within my standards
2. work on it slowly while getting 32+ mpg from the gti
3. sell the gti and no longer have to deal with ridiculous expensive insurance and buy a 4th gen, hopefully have some money left over
4. eventually complete project
5. have 2 awesome cars!
6. (should be #1) work my butt off this entire period to actually be able to accomplish this at my age.

And I'm not sure how familiar the forum is with me now since I've been inactive, but I am only 19 and I am very thankful for the support my parents give me to allow me to use their garage and tools, these cars are not being bought for me if I come off as a punk kid. I'm so glad I have free college, I hate being a broke person, although with project cars I will be once again.