What to look for in a SC300

[Memphis]

Before I start, I must admit that I am a well seasoned domestic guy that has always had an eye for imports (the non-rice models, that is)
And since Im in the market for a SC300, I was wondering what kind of problem areas to look for when puchasing one of these bad boys...
such as known drivetrain issues, problem rust areas (if any), and cosmetic woes. Since the one I purchase will be a driver for a few months -- before the mods! :yumyum:
And also, how many miles on the enngine are considered too many before adding 8-10lbs of boost.

Thanks

Jason

[Brown Duckz]

Suspension bushings, ac compressors, audio systems including the antenna, trunk lift shocks, etc. Just minor problems, nothing serious, motors last a long time if well kept.

[Bean]

Yeah when you testdrive it, check the compliance of the suspension... if its jolts around pretty good or makes noise then chances are you'll need to replace some of it...

its not a big deal, and 99% of the time aftermarket parts are cheaper than OEM anyways...

only cosmetic woes I usually find are the condition of the interior usually... just check the leather, etc... it too can be replaced rather easily (little expensive, but not too bad)

check the audio too as brown duckz says, sometimes it works great (the cd changer i mean), other times it hardly works at all...
I'd take a look at some of the SC300 resources over at clublex, and get yourself acquainted with what options were available when...

[Brown Duckz]

Also, on the exterior, the front & rear bumpers tend to fade.

[ki_soarer]

check for minor leaks... valve cover gaskets, dist. O-ring, rear main.

interior... blacked out AC display, cracked door pannels by window switches, and speaker grill, crack on window trim, burned out needles (or flickering)

LCA bushings go a lot.

anything under 200k miles should be ok with a little boost, as long as its in good shape. we have a member with 190ish running lots of boost on his NA-t SC300.

make sure you get a 5speed.. its just more fun! good luck with your search. :thumbup:

[Brown Duckz]

make sure you get a 5speed.. its just more fun! good luck with your search. :thumbup:Cough.Bullshit. :thumbup:

[Memphis]

Thanks fellas,
Im currently looking at a '93 5spd (grey w/ just over 115k on it) The old guy is asking $8k for it but he claims hes not that flexible on the price. ( we'll just see about that!)
Its good to see that the drivetrain in these cars are known to be sound.

What about the rear diff?Are these pretty solid units also or do they have a short lifespan above 400rwhp?

[Bean]

Thanks fellas,
Im currently looking at a '93 5spd (grey w/ just over 115k on it) The old guy is asking $8k for it but he claims hes not that flexible on the price. ( we'll just see about that!)
Its good to see that the drivetrain in these cars are known to be sound.

What about the rear diff?Are these pretty solid units also or do they have a short lifespan above 400rwhp?

I've never known someone to blow out the stock Diff (or any of the SupraTT LSD variety) under 700-900whp or so

The axles seem to go out faster than the actual differential when drag racing with slicks and big power (IE. 700-900whp+)

[Memphis]

Well when I finally get one, It will definitely be a street/corner carver car. It seems that after my continuing research on these cars, they seem to be a promising platform for what Im trying to do. Which is a car w/ about 400-500rwhp, a built suspension, and the ability to go to Road America on track days w/o disapointing me! (After all, drag racing is what I pull the GN out for! :thumbup: )

[dejacky]

Simple List:

Lower Control Arm Busings
Water Pump
Alterantor (if the distributor o'ring leaks oil continuously onto alterantor = bad)
Valve cover gasket leaks
Distributor O'Ring leaks
Rear Main differential leaks
5 speed transmission Synchros and overall condition
Any blacked out displays
Trunk shocks definitely...
--> I have ~87,000 miles on a 1995 SC300 and it needs new trunk shocks
AC Compressor
Alignment
Brakes
Frequency of oil changes and type of oil used
Cracks on the interior trim surfaces are not uncommon w/ these cars.


Just do yourself a favor before you buy it, take it to a reputable Independent Lexus service shop or Lexus Dealership and pay them to perform a "Pre-Buy Inspection" for you. They guarantee their work and can tell you the precise condition of the car or if it's been in any accidents, etc. This saved me from buying many piece of shit sc300s.

[brian_k03]

thats actually a well put together list of common things that can wear out.

[Brown Duckz]

Also watch out for the modifying addiction... I can't seem to find a damn cure. :roflwerd: