what to look for when buying a GN

[sonofernest]

Hi, I'm 17 and always wanted a GN but never thought I could afford one. However, I recently found an 85 GN with 160k miles in the autotrader for $2800. I realize this is very cheap for a GN and I'm expecting it to be pretty rough so I'm being cautious. When I go to look at it, what specifically should I look for, what problems will cost me a lot of money, and how long can stock engines last?
Thanks for the help

 

[quikv6]

85 GN

85' are a lot less desireable than 86 or 87's due to no intercooler. Id keep saving for an intercooled turbo regal. Just my .02

 

[sonofernest]

I figured it would be easy to find a used intercoller assembly from someone who upgraded theirs on an 86 or 87.

Any tips or problems i should look for?

 

[jastrckl]

the intercooled cars are setup much differently. cooling fan, shroud, turbo, turbo plumbing, etc is all a lot different. Converting is a major project. I personally would recommend waiting for an intercooled car.

 

[kh440]

Unless the owner can provide documentation as fas service/repairs, be cautious. The 84-85 cars can be converted to the i/c setup or otherwise modified to run as well as the 86-87 models, but for what you would spend in the long run you would doing just as well to hold out for a decent 86-87. If the car has been well maintained they will run almost forever, main problem area are brake powernasters, oil leaks from the rear main, valve covers and intake, timing chain (nylon gears that can disintegrate) and smoke anywhere except the tires is not a good sign.

 

[gnkid1987]

they are prone to rusting in the rear quaters, rocker panels, inside the bumpers and the rear frame rails. but you are better off saving for an 86-87 i almost bought an 84 for 3500 and i waited a few months and found and bought 87 you are better off you will find one and you will be more happy with an 86-87 to

GOOD LUCK

 

[MistaScott]

Get a hold of the gnttype guide to buying a Turbo Regal. Hopefully the site will be back up soon, but I found that invaluable.

 

[WH1Driver]

I wouldn't rule out an 84-85 or hot air car completely. They can be had more cheaply if your on a budget and still offer the great driveability and fun of an intercooled car. You will not make a hot air car run into the 11's and low 12's aren't easy but they are very upgradeable. Intercooled setups can be had for about $1200 later on if you'd like. I couldn't afford a decent 86-87 when I bought my hot air. I'm still very happy and I'm looking to make it intercooled in the near future.