What to look for when buying a used Z28 ( 94,95,96,)

[Blaze One]

Hello I am new here and I am intested in purchasing a early fourth gen z28 t-top or conv. auto or manual.
I was wondering what are some things ( common problems ) that I should be looking for when I go looking at a car ?

[Christopherrr]

Check the Opti and see if it haven't been serviced or replaced...if it hasn't, better bet you'll stuck with the repair bill when it fails.

Bad window motors is a lot a highlight in F-bodies...

Can't think of anything else as of yet...I know members will list more, but I got a TA...so headlights for you isn't an issue.

Happy hunting...come on to the dark side.

[FormulaSlickG94]

Make sure it starts ok, watch out for any sputtering upon acceleration (opti)

Make sure that the transmission is shifting smoothly

[Blaze One]

What is an OPTI ??? and how much does it cost to replace?

[TraceZ]

Re: What to look for when buying a used Z28 ( 94,95,96,)

Originally posted by Blaze One
Hello I am new here and I am intested in purchasing a early fourth gen z28 t-top or conv. auto or manual.
I was wondering what are some things ( common problems ) that I should be looking for when I go looking at a car ?

What are you looking to spend? I was in a similar search last year. I took 6 months to find my car, with only 53K on it with the original owner.

I would recommend finding one with less than 60K on it. I got my ragtop 6-speed for $8,000 delivered to my door in Wisconsin all the way from Texas. I look every day now, and havent seen a 6speed ragtop 1994-1997 with less than 60K sell for under $12,000. Prices have gone up alot on 6speed ragtops.

Maybe a 6speed t-top?? really nice minty ones can be found for 8,000.

6speed cars are a little more expensive, but IMHO well worth it for daily fun. If this is going to be a drag race car, get an auto.

[Blaze One]

I am from Canada so I will be spending about . 8000-11000 american $$ or 10-15000 canadian $$

Why should I get a auto if it is going to be a drag ?
What is an OPTI ?????

[TraceZ]

Originally posted by Blaze One
I am from Canada so I will be spending about . 8000-11000 american $$ or 10-15000 canadian $$

Why should I get a auto if it is going to be a drag ?
What is an OPTI ?????

The auto is more consistant in a bracket racing situation.

The opti is the Optispark distributor for the ignition spark. They are prone to failure. If they get wet, the problem is bigger.

the 93 and 94 optis were worse, because they were not vented. In 95 they were given a venting system that helps a little. I've had 3 LT1 cars, and never had one fail. Many people have not been as lucky. I dont really think it is that big a deal.

I bet, for $11000 you could find a nice 6speed ragtop. I'll take a look around for you, but it'll probably need to be shipped... they are rare, and you kinda have to take what you can find, regardless of location.

[TraceZ]

Here is a good deal!!

6 speed ragtop

[NorthernSS]

Originally posted by Blaze One
I am from Canada so I will be spending about . 8000-11000 american $$ or 10-15000 canadian $$

Where in Canada are you from? I am in Vancouver. Did you try www.canadatrader.com or www.buysell.com They have most of Canada covered.