New Member with a GS300
03-17-14, 05:21 PM
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New Member with a GS300
Hey guys. First off, thanks for all the info that I got off this site. I just picked up a 2001 GS300 with 160k on the clock. After owning 8 VWs, I decided to go the Lexus route when time for a second car arose. I got it for $5000 (decent price for Chicago). Overall it's in really nice shape with a few minor blemishes, it is a 13 year old car after all. There is no evidence of a timing belt job, so, I am not driving it too much until all the parts come in. I ordered the timing belt kit off Amazon with a water pump and hydraulic tensioner. Also ordered a new serpentine belt (why not change that out while they are at it) and cam/crank seals along with a thermostat. I have a friend who's father owns a shop and will do the labor for $300. I also said what the hell and ordered a set of ball joints and tie rod ends for good measure. I will need new tires sooner than later as well as the door actuators on the passenger side. I should be able to tackle the suspension on my own and maybe have someone else do the door locks. There is also a rust bubble on the rear wheel well that I want to get taken care of before it spreads too far. Here are some pics.
03-17-14, 08:57 PM
#6
I think that's the first time I've heard of rust on a GS, I've noticed I almost never see any even on older models, must be the paint or something, I'd check out getting some leatherique, it's spendy but will make your leather look and feel like new
03-17-14, 09:22 PM
#7
Welcome to the club. Btw, If you can do the front end work, then the door actuators should be a piece of cake for you. If you didn't know, there are plenty of DIYs on this forum about actuator replacement.
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03-17-14, 09:55 PM
#9
Wow, you really did your homework! Glad you got right to the maintenance, I did the same. All my ball joints and belts, etc are up to date, with the exception of my timing belt. Which is due as soon as i get my tax refund. Lol.
03-18-14, 06:15 AM
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Thanks guys! No plans to mod it with the exception of tinting windows. I really like the stock look and feel of the car; why ruin a good thing? Having owned VWs, I know all about the importance of maintenance. I stalked the hell out of this forum over the last few months and searched all over for the right car. I got this one at a dealership about 75 miles south of Chicago. If you're looking (mkpoto) I would suggest craigslist, cars.com, and autotrader. The ones that I found on this site as well as other Lexus sites were too spendy for me. Mine was listed for $6k and I got them down to $5k after pointing out everything I needed to do to the car. It worked. There are a couple paint chips here and there, but, its a 13 year old Illinois car. All in all I am happy with the condition. After maintenence is done, I will focus on the body touch ups as well as buffing the headlights.
03-18-14, 06:28 PM
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Here is a closeup of the rust spot. Hopefully won't cost an arm and a leg.
03-19-14, 04:36 PM
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