1990 200sx 1.8 T. Advice please :)

big_ginge21 · Jun 21st, 2006, 10:39 AM

Hello all! Not sure if i am posting in the right area, apologies if not.

My friend is looking to by a 200SX 1.8T 1990 with 78k on the clock. It is advertised as having a new turbo fitted. I am guessing that at 78k a new turbo is a fair sign of poor maintenance?

I have read that the oil lines run close to the manifold and therefore should be replaced along with the turbo. Is there anything else that should have been replaced alongside this?

Apart from the usual check's - general condition, CV joints, gear linkage, leaks in and around the engine etc is there anything specific to look at?

Is 78k a lot for these engines? i know a lot of cars are a no-go if they have not had the most regular services, even with a new turbo is this still something to steer clear of?

Sorry for all the questions, but any input would be much appreciated!

Cheers

2dr_Sentra · Jun 24th, 2006, 10:09 PM

the car should be good up to 200K if taken care off, nissan makes good reliable vehicles

mechanicsbybraille · Jun 29th, 2006, 02:01 AM

You know, my '92 Nissan pickup is still running strong at 240K and is still my main transport. I hate to admit it but I've neglected it pretty bad. As for the turbo, being replaced this soon sings to me that the driver/owner didn't understand how to operate a vehicle with a turbo. The turbocharger gets extremely hot, I've even seen them glow almost cherry red. If you don't follow the recomendation of allowing the engine to idle for a few minutes before shutting down, then what you end up doing is cooking the lubricating oil in the turbo's oil lines, passages, bearings, etc. This dramatically reduces the turbo's performance and life. If it were me, I'd want new oil lines too. As for whether or not to purchase it, have your friend spend a few moments alone with the car and let them talk. Do a good look over. Start the engine and listen. Drive it. Take a good look at everything you can see. Then trust your gut. It sounds goofy but the vehicle will talk to you.

big_ginge21 · Jul 2nd, 2006, 01:21 PM

Thanks for the reply’s, much appreciated

My pal bought the car before i got a chance to look at it! Well i have to say it is a shed, rusted rather badly, but the engine seems nice.

He paid a reasonable price for what it is and i have to say, i got a wee shot and thoroughly enjoyed it! Couple of donuts, it feels a very well balanced car with enough power to make it fun!

Thanks again for the help, no doubt as i do repairs on it, ill be asking a few more questions

Martin