well im only 16(and just starting to get into cars/engines, im a newb) so im on a very small budget with my stealth. Anyway this is gonna be my budget stage log I guess you could say...

Stage O: as purchased(for $3,000)


Stage 1: K&N FIPK, Spark Plug Cover, Intake Pipe, Oil Cap, and a little cleaning(approx $295.00)




after stage one i noticed more power off the line, better sound, and a nicer cleaner look. For stage 3 I plan front and rear struts, and HKS Muffler(a whole exhaust system isnt in my budget...i wish), and im still deciding what else. Anyone have any ideas that arnt gonna cost me to much?

 

How many miles are on your car? Sounds like a pretty good deal, $3k for a 94. The first things I would do would be to make sure it is in top running condition. Change the plugs/wires. Perform the 60/120k tune-up if needed. Check the vacuum hoses. Check compression. Purchase a mechanics manual, one of the best purchases you can make. Check/replace your ground wires. Purchase basic tools to work on your new ride.

 

its got around 124k miles. he was asking for 3800 and we got him down to 3300 but didnt have the money that day. came back the next day and pulled out 3000$ cash and said its all i had and he couldnt pass it up. so far its seems to be running great, my grandpa owns a carlot so soon im planing on taking it there and hanging out with the mechanics and helpin em do a full check over and tuin up. Ive also purchased some tools so i dont have to always borrow my dads. ive been looking at manuals, ive noticed ones on CD are much cheaper but are they any good? Where are the ground wires on the car? would it improve anything to get new ones? thanks for the tips

 

Sounds like you got a pretty good deal.

I like the book manuals better personally, mostly because I can have it right there with me as opposed of having to print off whatever section I need at the time. Most CD manuals are scans of the book manuals, so you will get the same information.

Hanging around the mechanics is a good idea. Hands on has always been the best way for me to learn.

If you are unsure of the 120K service, get it done. Tbelt, waterpump, pulleys, tensioner are included in this. If your timing belt breaks, you are almost guaranteed to bend the valves and damage the pistons. The DOHC 6g72 is a zero tolerance engine. Basically that means is there is no room for error (malfunction). Better to spend a $1000 now on maintenance than spending $2500+ because the Tbelt broke. I think of it as piece of mind money (insurance).

Borrowing tools is a pet peeve of mine. I don't like to borrow OR lend them. If you borrow one, please make sure you return it (put it up) as soon as you are done with it. You'll almost guarantee yourself that when you need one in the future, you'll be able to borrow it.