I'm buying a Skyline... What should I look for?

[DAT510]

Very informative thread, thanks to all the contributors!

I am a qualified motor mechanic who has left the trade (now drive interstate freight trains), but never worked on skylines later than R31 (I currently own this model also).

I am currently looking to buy a R32 GTR, so this information as well as my background knowledge will help greatly, I also still have access to the hoist at my former employer's workshop, so I can (and will) get under any prospective vehicles before purchasing.

[YeloEvoIX]

yeah +1 found this incredibly helpful

[Ruxis]

hey i dont really know where or who to ask this info from and my post got blocked and was directed to this post so here goes.

im an interested buyer of a r34 gt-t and i was just wondering a few things such as, why is it said that skylines and all performance cars heaps to maintain and run? arent they the same as normal cars just different oils and what not? what is the average deflation on prices per year?

[defari]

hey i dont really know where or who to ask this info from and my post got blocked and was directed to this post so here goes.

im an interested buyer of a r34 gt-t and i was just wondering a few things such as, why is it said that skylines and all performance cars heaps to maintain and run? arent they the same as normal cars just different oils and what not? what is the average deflation on prices per year?

because they are... trust me..

No they aren't the same as normal cars.. yes they do take different oils etc... lots of other little things can go wrong.. remember that they are old cars now....

[Ruxis]

because they are... trust me..

No they aren't the same as normal cars.. yes they do take different oils etc... lots of other little things can go wrong.. remember that they are old cars now....

like what? got a few examples? my 88 camry runs like a beaut

[shaunus]

good read. very factful info too.

[Miguelone]

I totally agree with this point, it is impossible to drove 3000kms per year......

You haven't met my Gran, 5 year old Peugot 206 with 3300k's on the clock.

Edited December 29, 2010 by miguelegant

[Beelzeboss]

I've looked at a few skylines over the past week and spotted one which had obviously had rear end repair thanks to this guide. Cheers.

[Stienway]

Just recently started looking into getting a skyline so this thread has been a great starting point. Thanks!

[webbey]

Hey people's this is a great read, I am contemplating throwing in my EH Holden project and buying an R32 GTR, I will either be buying a completely stock standard GTR and modifying myself, or spending a lot more and buying a modified car that has had known modifications to it by the current owner (none of this "well the owner before the one i bought it off said he put forged etc etc") as i think a car that has "apparentaly" had half of australia's mechanics tinker with it seems like it will cost me more than its worth.

Anyways, with all this in mind can anyone point me to a thread which is dedicated to R32's or 32 Gtr's problems and things to look out for, I have used the search function and keep getting directed back here so maybe there is an old thread I can be pointed to.

Lastly if i bought a stock GTR that had NO major problems just 20year old wear and tear and Intended to replace suspension etc to get it back to driving almost like a new car using decent, but not top of the range componentry would $5000 be a safe budget to get it driving up to scratch.

Thankyou for reading,

nick.

[kevlar]

Thanks for all the information peoples!

I am currently looking for a R32 GTR and this sticky has been fantastic!

[wilderboy]

great thread it was a really good read

[Booki]

The BLUE Nissan Build Plate should have the details PRINTED on it... i.e. If you run your fingers over the details printed on it, it should be smooth. IT SHOULD NOT BE ENGRAVED... If it's engraved, it has a fake Nissan Build Plate with a fake Chassis Number. These are forged and put on stolen cars with a new and legitimate chassis number.

This BLUE Nissan Build Plate *should* also have two white plastic rivet-like fasteners holding it on... If they're missing, ask yourself why. The Build plate should NEVER be removed, unless perhaps for a full respray including engine bay...

I found a R33 GTR, but the plate was engraved. Like brail. It could be felt, Others i have looked at were printed on as stated.

So does having a engraved plate mean its 100% fake? The details on the plate match the car color...The only thing that i found a bit strange, is the color of the engine bay is Black. But the exterior is BN6 (Deep marine blue).

Should I consider this GTR or pass due to the engraved plate?

[Lanorizzle]

Thanks to this Info I narrowly escaped buying a write off, cheers

[jukic.j]

About to buy my first Skyline, don't suppose anyone knows the prices of the tests I should have done on the car?

I think a clearer idea of the specific tests recommended and prices would be handy to add to this thread.

Does stateroads have one price or a small range of prices?

[jukic.j]

When buying an unregistered car (i'm in VIC) why does it cost so much to get it registered? (Posted here, thought it would be good to add.

I used the calculator and it's telling me:

Postcode at which the vehicle will be garaged: Please enter the Dutiable Value of the vehicle:

(Formerly known as Market Value) Are you eligible for Pensioner Concession?: Yes No Do you have a Health Care Card?: Yes No Appointment Fee: Inspection Fee: Registration Fee: Transport Accident Charge: Insurance Duty: Number Plates: Motor Vehicle Duty: Total Fee Payable $:

$1,037.85 for rego?

Seriously?

Ah my bad double post

Edited July 13, 2012 by jukic.j

[mungy]

About to buy my first Skyline, don't suppose anyone knows the prices of the tests I should have done on the car?

I think a clearer idea of the specific tests recommended and prices would be handy to add to this thread.

Does stateroads have one price or a small range of prices?

if you can always do a comp test, wont take a huge amount of time but will really tell you what condish the engine is in and if the ODO has actually been played with

no real standard in prices unfortunatley, all skylines vary for instance ive just sold my auto skyline, an automatic one with a stuffed trans and super high K's for 3500, the body was perfect and chassis rails did not have a single scratch on them so it made it worth it just for the shell

you pick the price you want to pay and are happy to pay for the car you are viewing, there is no set price for this skyline in that year with that many K's

[darksky34]

for someone new to the whole world of cars (as a hobby), is there anywhere you guys can recommend for servicing/tuning in Sydney, NSW preferably around the northern areas (hornsby to parramatta) ? Haven't got a skyline YET but am gathering info.

[34GeeTeeTee]

for someone new to the whole world of cars (as a hobby), is there anywhere you guys can recommend for servicing/tuning in Sydney, NSW preferably around the northern areas (hornsby to parramatta) ? Haven't got a skyline YET but am gathering info.

There is a heap of places mate, it's good your doing your research... I personally use JEM for my work and tuning, I drive 3hrs just to use them as they have been awesome... With that being said there are heaps of success stories on here from tuners like Jez, Unigroup etc etc.... Servicing can be done by nearly any mechanic but find someone you trust and are comfortable with. Always get comparison quotes and details of what's being offered so you don't get stitched up!

[AshR34GTT]

Great thread.... Years old, but still a lot of good info for Newbies.