Buying A 97 Galant Es W 83k On It What To Llok For? Options

[rychehawk]

I am looking to buy a 97 Galant ES 2.4L auto with 83,000 miles on it, I know the timing belt was due at 60k and I will use this as a means of leverage to get a better deal if it has not been done. Is there any quick way to tell if the belt has been changed? Like is there a upper timing cover that can easily be removed so I can at least look at the belt? I have an 02 Lancer and my upper cover comes off easy.

Also are there any other issues to look out for on these, I've noticed a few posts about the auto transmission...

This seems like a good deal anyway it has leather, sunroof, PW, Locks, CD player and he wants $2500.00

Thanks in advance...

This post has been edited by rychehawk: Oct 6 2009, 10:02 AM

[chespa]

I am looking to buy a 97 Galant ES 2.4L auto with 83,000 miles on it, I know the timing belt was due at 60k and I will use this as a means of leverage to get a better deal if it has not been done. Is there any quick way to tell if the belt has been changed? Like is there a upper timing cover that can easily be removed so I can at least look at the belt? I have an 02 Lancer and my upper cover comes off easy.

Also are there any other issues to look out for on these, I've noticed a few posts about the auto transmission...

This seems like a good deal anyway it has leather, sunroof, PW, Locks, CD player and he wants $2500.00

Thanks in advance...

Did you end up buying this?

First off, I would find out if the owner has receipts showing the work was done and at what mileage. Also if any type of warranty can be transferred to you. Since this is an interference motor, the belt(s) change is a must. The second timing belt can not be seen from the top, but should also be replaced.

Okay so the belt wasn’t replaced or the owner has no idea. Plenty of owners stating the, “I don’t know.” dumb founded look. Perhaps you want to run if you witness that. You can elect to remove the upper timing cover via 4 bolts or just knock him down on price. Initially, you will only be able to see obvious edge and surface wear. The area is tight with the motor mount in the way. So bring your maglite. Perhaps you can see a few teeth at a time providing the owner allows you to rotate the motor via the crankshaft bolt. Plus do not forget to add-in the cost of a new water pump. I just replaced my pump and thermostat with a Napa unit for 90 bucks out the door. I am sure I could have done better on price on the net, but I wanted the job done that day.

As far as the tranny goes, I do not have enough experience to point you one way or another. However, my over-drive @ 120K+ doesn’t work and there are a few posts describing how weak the mechanical assembles are. So I will attend to what could be an end clutch problem on mine.

I have not noticed any other major problems that would prevent a purchase. Just like any car you will have the normal brake wear and cosmetic problems. Your miles seem low and perhaps the present owner took good care of it.

Good luck with your purchase.