I searching for a new car, a 98-02 camaro or firebird with a ls1 and t56 trans for around $7000. But as it turns out that is near impossible. Ive been searching for 3 months and have nothing to show. I have found this car; 2001 Camaro z28 SS t-tops cold AC but kept ignoring it because it has 137,000 miles on it. I guess what im wondering is, is that such a bad thing? I love the was it looks and that its a true slp ss but how reliable would it be? And if I bought and put 3000 miles on it and wanted to sell in the spring how hard would that be? Any advice would be really nice.

 

I have a 1995 z28 that needs the transmission rebuilt for sale. $2000 gets it out of my way. The 4l60e gets a little weak around 130,000, and that is with regular maintenance. Just put $2000 into motor tune up and water pump and such. Know that being said did I break any rules, I am sorry if I did. Nick if the car has had it's 100,000 mile tune up and the tranny feels strong you could take a chance. Just check it out real close.

 

The transmission is a 6 speed, which is really what im after. There are lots of autos in my area but very few sticks. When someone looks at a camaro with that many miles what should be inspected closely? What are some signs it has been beaten on and it is getting weak (engine wise)?

 

I would recommend taking any car that youre buying used, especially from a private seller, to a shop and having them give it a once over. You might spend $100 and find out theres a problem and save yourself a couple grand on repairs later.

 

That's way too much money for a high mileage fbody. Offer 5 or walk.

The LS1 itself is strong and real reliable even when mildly modded. However, you can never be sure of its past problems and maintenance. Generally the first thing to go drivetrain wise is the 10 bolt rear. Ask questions about it; have you replaced any axle bearings, shafts, the differential itself? If you drive it, listen for howling, high pitched whining or grinding; the rears are noisy even when in 100% working order though. Piston slap is what you need to listen for when the engine is running. It is something that can be present on every ls1 car; mine has it at startup with only 50k on the clock. When the engine is cold, the slap is more noticable but it SHOULD subside when the engine is at operating temp; if it still persists, that is something of concern.

 

Ok i just found.out that car is an auto. But i found a different one. Its a 98 SS with 67,500 miles for around $8300. Black with tan leather, new tires, days well maintained and all stock other than air filter and msd wires. Is that a good price? He is pretty firm on that.

 

thats not bad. 01-02 cars are preferable as they do have the LS6 intake and no EGR, but for a 98 thats still not too bad of a price. Try getting it for 7-8k and you should be good

 

I would always pay a little more for a car that has been well maintained.

 

You said 7 or 8k but the guy is firm on $8300. would it still be a good deal at that price? Or should I keep looking. This is the ad http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/ws...204796640.html
He would sell it for 8300 with out the stereo stuff.

 

i hear people talking about piston slap with the LS1.... how come i do not hear ANY with mine...and it has 203,700 miles on it....