Hello everybody!!!!

Dr.Who · 10-07-2009, 10:39 PM

I'm new to MR 2's and to this forum. Recently got notice of a 1988 SC auto tranny for $1,000. Again I don't know much about this cars so I'm in need of guidance of this car in particular and MK I MR 2's in general. Anything wrong with this car that you guys can think of? For me the asking price is very low. How good is the auto transmission? Is it worth to switch to manual tranny? Besides the basics what else should I look for in this car? Another with solid top/sun roof new engine and manual trans for $800.The solid top model is obviously more rigid than the T-top one, pros and cons between them. SC or NA pros and cons. I've seen the prices of MK I's in decent, drivable conditions and they seem ridiculous (read bargain) that's not even fair. I have solid mechanical skills but always like hear from those who know more. I want to be part of the MR 2 family. Every help will be very much appreciated.

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Josh87 · 10-08-2009, 01:46 AM

I have a MK2, and have no real knowledge about the MK1 besides the fact that the 4ag/e seems to be a great engine and a manual is always better unless your riding with a student driver. WELCOME to the forum.

SW21T · 10-08-2009, 02:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dr.Who

I'm new to MR 2's and to this forum. Recently got notice of a 1988 SC auto tranny for $1,000. Again I don't know much about this cars so I'm in need of guidance of this car in particular and MK I MR 2's in general. Anything wrong with this car that you guys can think of? For me the asking price is very low. How good is the auto transmission? Is it worth to switch to manual tranny? Besides the basics what else should I look for in this car? Another with solid top/sun roof new engine and manual trans for $800.The solid top model is obviously more rigid than the T-top one, pros and cons between them. SC or NA pros and cons. I've seen the prices of MK I's in decent, drivable conditions and they seem ridiculous (read bargain) that's not even fair. I have solid mechanical skills but always like hear from those who know more. I want to be part of the MR 2 family. Every help will be very much appreciated.

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Theres nothing wrong with auto but I bet you would have more fun with a manual, and it's worth the swap. Will gain a bit of acceleration since you have control of the gears and the power. You got a great deal on that, I got my MKI for 400 with a blown bottom end.

LeePeyton · 10-08-2009, 02:28 AM

Hello and good luck. Sounds like you got a deal.

Dr.Who · 10-08-2009, 03:16 AM

Thank you guys. I've been on line for hours waiting for someone to reply,hahaha!!! I call the owner and set up a meet for tomorrow to see the car. If the mechanicals are good and the body is decent I'll buy it. I'm not to excited about the auto tranny and as YELLOW MR2 the manual is more fun!!!! Again any advice on what to check on this model?? Thanks again.

Dr.Who · 10-08-2009, 05:52 PM

Guess what people?! The car is mine!!!!!! Bought it this morning. On a quick visual there were no mods to the engine or anything that's a surprise to me. It needs a good dose of cosmetic work. No visible rust. It wasn't pampered but wasn't smoked either at least on the mechanical department. A few issues like a little hessitation at low revs but the auto tranny shifts ok. Being automatic whatever affects the engine affects the tranny, so a tune up is in order. The SC engages and pulls strong. Register and tag in a couple of days got to pay bills, hahahaha!!!!! I'll take some pics for you guys as soon as I can. Opinions welcomed and advice request and needed. I don't know much about this cars so I hope you can help me. Thanks!!!!

o6spdracer · 10-08-2009, 06:21 PM

Congratulations! Get your OEM parts from Aaron Willis (awillis@lithia.com), he also has an AW11 and will have answers to almost any of your questions (OEM or aftermarket).

traintech86 · 10-13-2009, 03:01 AM

aaron is a very handy guy to have around. also, if you ask him for a part that can be fixed for cheaper he'll let ya know. a good guy in my book.

muffinman · 10-13-2009, 02:46 PM

Welcome and congratulations on your new car.

What part of Miami are you in?

Dr.Who · 10-13-2009, 08:48 PM

I'm in Kendall.

Dr.Who · 10-13-2009, 09:33 PM

Thank you guys for the warm welcome. I'm driving the car everyday. Yesterday changed the motor oil and filter and flushed the cooling system (you have to see what came out of it aaggghhh!!!!) and still amazes me what some soap and water and a vaccum cleaner can do to a car,WOW!!!! Today replaced the spark plugs.The old ones showed signs of good combustion. Got to hit the cap, rotor and wires. Even though the auto tranny shift ok, I'm a bit concerned about how long it'll last. The car has a bit over 150k miles. I assumed the tranny is the original one so with that mileage I don't think it's a good idea to change the fluid but I want to replace the filter. I need advice on this point. Eventually I'll swap it for a manual but got to stick with auto for the time being. Some issues here and there but that's the fun of wrenching on a car isn't it!!??

traintech86 · 10-14-2009, 02:07 AM

your tranny can't be in that bad of shape. my 2 has 200k and the car fax is up in the vin section. it was a whore with multiple owners and i can tell she's been abused. well unless auto's aren't as indestructable as mannys? O_o

muffinman · 10-14-2009, 09:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dr.Who

Thank you guys for the warm welcome. I'm driving the car everyday. Yesterday changed the motor oil and filter and flushed the cooling system (you have to see what came out of it aaggghhh!!!!) and still amazes me what some soap and water and a vaccum cleaner can do to a car,WOW!!!! Today replaced the spark plugs.The old ones showed signs of good combustion. Got to hit the cap, rotor and wires. Even though the auto tranny shift ok, I'm a bit concerned about how long it'll last. The car has a bit over 150k miles. I assumed the tranny is the original one so with that mileage I don't think it's a good idea to change the fluid but I want to replace the filter. I need advice on this point. Eventually I'll swap it for a manual but got to stick with auto for the time being. Some issues here and there but that's the fun of wrenching on a car isn't it!!??

hit up Aaron at Lithia for the ignition parts you need. the prices can't be beat for OEM parts and they arrive quick plus he's a good guy who won't steer you wrong.
Lithia Toyota of Springfield - Toyota MR2 Message Board

i haven't seen too many MK1's down here so i'm glad to hear another one was saved.

Dr.Who · 10-14-2009, 11:15 AM

My dear friend I never said the tranny was in bad shape at all I only expressed my concern about the durability of these A/T's. I don't think this car was abused (raced, dead stop launch, burn outs,etc.) the tranny shifts ok. I just want to make the most of it given the mileage. I never owned a MR2 before and of all my previous vehicles (all sport compacts and a mini truck) the first with A/T is my beloved and trusty 2006 F 150. That's the reason to request advice on these great little cars especially the A/T ones. BTW thanks muffinman for the link and I'm happy with my car. Maybe we can start a program something like "Adopt an MR2 First Gen",hahahaha!!!!

o6spdracer · 10-14-2009, 12:09 PM

I've seen the auto trans go strong at 250k miles. As long as you don't abuse it and do the regular maintainence, you should be good to go.

10-07-2009, 10:39 PM	#1 (permalink)
Dr.Who No Skills Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Miami,FL Posts: 14 Thanks: 2 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts iTrader Rating: (0/0% )	Hello everybody!!!! I'm new to MR 2's and to this forum. Recently got notice of a 1988 SC auto tranny for $1,000. Again I don't know much about this cars so I'm in need of guidance of this car in particular and MK I MR 2's in general. Anything wrong with this car that you guys can think of? For me the asking price is very low. How good is the auto transmission? Is it worth to switch to manual tranny? Besides the basics what else should I look for in this car? Another with solid top/sun roof new engine and manual trans for $800.The solid top model is obviously more rigid than the T-top one, pros and cons between them. SC or NA pros and cons. I've seen the prices of MK I's in decent, drivable conditions and they seem ridiculous (read bargain) that's not even fair. I have solid mechanical skills but always like hear from those who know more. I want to be part of the MR 2 family. Every help will be very much appreciated. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

10-08-2009, 05:52 PM	#6 (permalink)
Dr.Who No Skills Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Miami,FL Posts: 14 Thanks: 2 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts iTrader Rating: (0/0% )	Guess what people?! The car is mine!!!!!! Bought it this morning. On a quick visual there were no mods to the engine or anything that's a surprise to me. It needs a good dose of cosmetic work. No visible rust. It wasn't pampered but wasn't smoked either at least on the mechanical department. A few issues like a little hessitation at low revs but the auto tranny shifts ok. Being automatic whatever affects the engine affects the tranny, so a tune up is in order. The SC engages and pulls strong. Register and tag in a couple of days got to pay bills, hahahaha!!!!! I'll take some pics for you guys as soon as I can. Opinions welcomed and advice request and needed. I don't know much about this cars so I hope you can help me. Thanks!!!! Last edited by Dr.Who; 10-08-2009 at 06:06 PM..

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10-08-2009, 01:46 AM	#2 (permalink)
Josh87 Jabberwocky Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Colorado Posts: 33 Thanks: 6 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts iTrader Rating: (0/0% )	I have a MK2, and have no real knowledge about the MK1 besides the fact that the 4ag/e seems to be a great engine and a manual is always better unless your riding with a student driver. WELCOME to the forum.

10-08-2009, 02:28 AM	#4 (permalink)
LeePeyton Building Motor from Hell Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Tennessee/USA Posts: 1,696 Thanks: 23 Thanked 67 Times in 61 Posts iTrader Rating: (2/100% )	Hello and good luck. Sounds like you got a deal.

10-08-2009, 03:16 AM	#5 (permalink)
Dr.Who No Skills Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Miami,FL Posts: 14 Thanks: 2 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts iTrader Rating: (0/0% )	Thank you guys. I've been on line for hours waiting for someone to reply,hahaha!!! I call the owner and set up a meet for tomorrow to see the car. If the mechanicals are good and the body is decent I'll buy it. I'm not to excited about the auto tranny and as YELLOW MR2 the manual is more fun!!!! Again any advice on what to check on this model?? Thanks again.

10-08-2009, 06:21 PM	#7 (permalink)
o6spdracer Nothing Clever Join Date: Jan 2007 Posts: 2,187 Thanks: 1 Thanked 112 Times in 107 Posts iTrader Rating: (1/100% )	Congratulations! Get your OEM parts from Aaron Willis (awillis@lithia.com), he also has an AW11 and will have answers to almost any of your questions (OEM or aftermarket).

10-13-2009, 03:01 AM	#8 (permalink)
traintech86 Cage Fighter Join Date: May 2009 Location: Yokosuka, Kanagawa Japan Posts: 1,802 Thanks: 27 Thanked 47 Times in 43 Posts My Google Map iTrader Rating: (3/100% )	aaron is a very handy guy to have around. also, if you ask him for a part that can be fixed for cheaper he'll let ya know. a good guy in my book.

10-13-2009, 02:46 PM	#9 (permalink)
muffinman U-P-G-R-A-Y-E-D-D Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Sunny South Florida Posts: 5,881 Thanks: 53 Thanked 283 Times in 272 Posts Blog Entries: 1 My Google Map iTrader Rating: (2/100% )	Welcome and congratulations on your new car. What part of Miami are you in?

10-13-2009, 08:48 PM	#10 (permalink)
Dr.Who No Skills Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Miami,FL Posts: 14 Thanks: 2 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts iTrader Rating: (0/0% )	I'm in Kendall.

10-13-2009, 09:33 PM	#11 (permalink)
Dr.Who No Skills Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Miami,FL Posts: 14 Thanks: 2 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts iTrader Rating: (0/0% )	Thank you guys for the warm welcome. I'm driving the car everyday. Yesterday changed the motor oil and filter and flushed the cooling system (you have to see what came out of it aaggghhh!!!!) and still amazes me what some soap and water and a vaccum cleaner can do to a car,WOW!!!! Today replaced the spark plugs.The old ones showed signs of good combustion. Got to hit the cap, rotor and wires. Even though the auto tranny shift ok, I'm a bit concerned about how long it'll last. The car has a bit over 150k miles. I assumed the tranny is the original one so with that mileage I don't think it's a good idea to change the fluid but I want to replace the filter. I need advice on this point. Eventually I'll swap it for a manual but got to stick with auto for the time being. Some issues here and there but that's the fun of wrenching on a car isn't it!!??

10-14-2009, 02:07 AM	#12 (permalink)
traintech86 Cage Fighter Join Date: May 2009 Location: Yokosuka, Kanagawa Japan Posts: 1,802 Thanks: 27 Thanked 47 Times in 43 Posts My Google Map iTrader Rating: (3/100% )	your tranny can't be in that bad of shape. my 2 has 200k and the car fax is up in the vin section. it was a whore with multiple owners and i can tell she's been abused. well unless auto's aren't as indestructable as mannys? O_o

10-14-2009, 11:15 AM	#14 (permalink)
Dr.Who No Skills Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Miami,FL Posts: 14 Thanks: 2 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts iTrader Rating: (0/0% )	My dear friend I never said the tranny was in bad shape at all I only expressed my concern about the durability of these A/T's. I don't think this car was abused (raced, dead stop launch, burn outs,etc.) the tranny shifts ok. I just want to make the most of it given the mileage. I never owned a MR2 before and of all my previous vehicles (all sport compacts and a mini truck) the first with A/T is my beloved and trusty 2006 F 150. That's the reason to request advice on these great little cars especially the A/T ones. BTW thanks muffinman for the link and I'm happy with my car. Maybe we can start a program something like "Adopt an MR2 First Gen",hahahaha!!!!

10-14-2009, 12:09 PM	#15 (permalink)
o6spdracer Nothing Clever Join Date: Jan 2007 Posts: 2,187 Thanks: 1 Thanked 112 Times in 107 Posts iTrader Rating: (1/100% )	I've seen the auto trans go strong at 250k miles. As long as you don't abuse it and do the regular maintainence, you should be good to go.