Georgia Fiero Club Forum

All Things Fiero => General Fiero Discussion => Topic started by: GTRS Fiero on May 27, 2019, 05:03:06 pm

Title: OK or uh-oh?
Post by: GTRS Fiero on May 27, 2019, 05:03:06 pm

I looked at a Fiero today.  It was not perfect, but I am seeking an opinion.

The good:
Runs and drives
Reasonable price
Starts right up
Power is good
Oil is so clean I couldn't tell how full it is
Auto shifts smoothly
Headlight motors work properly
Has LeBaron brake upgrade, and brakes work well
Has driving lights added

The bad:
Burning oil
There seems to be a tick in the engine.  I could not find any exhaust leaks.
There appears to be sludge in the engine.  When I removed the oil filler cap, it looked as if everything was covered with a thick layer of undercoating.
AC does not work
Cruise does not work
Steering column is VERY loose
No oil pressure on gauge, and oil pressure light is on
Fuel gauge is way off
The trunk had had rust, but most of this was cut out, and had plates put in.  I could not tell how the plates were secured.  It seemed that something like JV weld was used.
Ignition key lock had been replaced, along with door locks
Throttle body coolant lines had been looped together
Throttle cable seems to stick a bit
Interior is in poor condition
Something drags, apparrently the brakes
Needs tension on torsion springs adjusted to hold weight of spoiler
The interior needs to be restored (seats, all vinyl, dash, etc)
Of course, clear-coat is peeled off on all top surfaces

My concern was the engine.  What do you think?

Title: Re: OK or uh-oh?
Post by: GTRS Fiero on June 02, 2019, 02:18:33 pm

No opinions on this?

Title: Re: OK or uh-oh?
Post by: Fierofool on June 02, 2019, 03:53:06 pm

That would really have to be a personal decision.  It would depend upon what you plan to do with it and how much time and money you had and was willing to invest.  And of course, the initial cost.  Can you recover your investment if it's beyond repair and you have to part it out? 

For me, if this had been 10 years ago, replacing the engine would be no problem.  Replacing the interior, likewise.  But I would not buy a car that had any metal rusted through.  Repairing that portion is beyond my ability. 

Title: Re: OK or uh-oh?
Post by: GTRS Fiero on June 02, 2019, 03:56:28 pm

Well, there was obviously rust.  Portions had been cut out and plates put in.  I just wanted something to drive for a few months, and then get my momey back.  No interest in another engine swap.  No interest in parting out.

My thought was that sludge like that in the engine was bad, but maybe someone has a different thought on that.