I just picked up a '98 Camaro v6 5spd this weekend. It's got a couple of cosmetic things, but nothing beyond what I would expect on 81000 miles.

Just from driving it around this weekend, I'm noticing that the temp guage has buried itself behind a piece of trim in the cluster, I will dig into that later this week, I should be able to take the dash far enough apart to free it up.

I am also noticing a clunking type noise from the rear when I go around slow but sharp turns (parking, turning into my driveway, etc). Any tips on what could be there? I don't feel the suspension moving like it shouldn't, although I question how good the shocks are.

I've seen at least one recommendation for KYB AGX shocks/struts. I've got the KYB GR2's on my Fiero and they seem pretty good, so no problem with the brand there. I'm guessing I should also look into replacing the strut mounts at the same time. Probably wouldn't hurt to tackle the bushings and at least check balljoints/tie-rod ends while I've got things apart as well.

Are there any other little details that I should look for, or watch for?

 

i would guess that the clunking noise is your u-joints.

 

Hmm. I also had that thought, but wouldn't that noise occur every time I change the load direction on the drivetrain? Like going from on throttle to off, just to give the driveline a small shock, I would expect that loose u-joints would clunk there also. I'll definitely check them when I get under the car, but with only 81650 for mileage, u-joints is not something I would expect.

Thanks.

 

i would upgrade to polyurethane bushings in the front and back. it helps alot with the flex and with noises because my 91 rs would make noises like that and i replaced all the end links and torque bar. every bushing it polyurethane and it doesnt make a sound.

 

Sounds like a good plan for when the weather warms up. For now I'll just drive it.