Looking to Break-In

[U mirin]

Hey everyone, been here for a little bit now. I'm finally looking to get into the 240sx game. I've been a huge fan of them for many years now and I'm finally at the point where I am ready to take the plunge once I sell my current DD.

However, I do have a question or two and I've looked for the answers and I've found multiple ones. I'm also not the best with forum navigation despite being tech savvy. (screw me right?). Anyways, when looking at buying a 240sx (1989-1995 model years) is there anything major I should look for? I understand rust can be a problem for some of these older Japanese cars and i've been told to try to find a stock one in decent condition due to the issue of people with, say an SR20 swap done (i've also been told to be wary of KA motors) possibly not having done it correctly or having full documentation.

If i've left anything out feel free to fill me in on the information. I'm willing to listen and I'm willing to learn all that I can about these cars. Cars are a passion and I enjoy learning new stuff about them everyday! So please, understand that I am new to this genre of car and that I realize this. I don't need you to point it out to me!

So, without further ado.....DISCUSS! :drama:

[Kingtal0n]

I have a buyers guide somewhere if you search for it. Its in one of my car sale threads I sold a long time ago iirc. I get tired of typing the same things over and over.

just off the top of my head, you might wana bite the bullet and spend $4500 on an ALL stock 1997 240sx. that way you have a car that you can drive for as long as you want, and it will still be worth more than you paid when you want to sell it (provided you do not modify it)

also if you check my link in my sig it has a nice list of stuff to check/maintenance on these cars to give you an idea of what to expect if you buy one modified.

[jlopez7354]

Just buy anything clean with little to no modifications 240 people are known to be extremely cheap and doing half assed jobs on labor so look for an unmolested car don't be tempted for one that's sr swapped since most of them aren't done properly spend the extra money and get the cleanest car you can find. Can't think of anything you should look for particularly it's over 20 years old so expect normal problems just like any other car nothing special I can think of off the top of my head.

[simmode1]

There is absolutely nothing to be wary about in reference to either the SOHC or DOHC KA motors, provided they've been maintained like any other motor. Both are rock solid in stock form, they just don't make as much power as an SR does out of the box since its not boosted.

So while the KA's are plenty capable on and off the track, don't expect to be chasing down anything faster than an old v6 Mustang on the street. But if you properly prep a KA for turboing, it can easily outperform the SR and is capable of respectable hp on its stock block internals.

KA's are just ugly to look at in comparison to SR's. But keep in mind, its at the point that finding a low mileage, cared for SR is nearly impossible nowadays.

[AzS13hatch]

I could be wrong but believe who ever told you to look out for ka's might have been referring to any 89-90 that was swapped to DOHC or even 91+ that has blown a motor and replaced with another ka. As stated above, the cars are 20 ish years old and most will show signs of it. Take a good look at the wiring in the engine bay for any obvious signs of wear, especially if the car runs rough, might just be as easy fix as replacing a broken wire.

[Sleepiedaze]

i have a turbo KA for sale. PM Me for details.