bitsbucket

Hi all,
Well I have searched for a FAQ on the LS400 and can not find one,so please don't flame me if there is one, just let me know where to find it.......I bought a 97 LS400 last week, did a carfax on it, and it showed clean....65K miles is all that is on it. I took it to a 13 year veteran Lexus Mech. (does not work for Lexus anymore) and he told me "you have a salvage title on that car?" I just about hit the floor!!! He told me it had been hit hard, well, I guess they did not use insurance to fix it so it never showed up on carfax! Well it runs good, a few noises that are driving me crazy but other than that it appears OK, does have a leaking power steering pump, and that leads me to a question, on the 97 does the pump leak onto the alternator? Next question, what years are 1st gens and what are 2nd gens?
As for the noises, I har a rattle in or around the passenger door, also some noises from right rear...any ideas? I don't think I have air suspension as the front strut towers have 3 bolts just like my maxima and looking I don't see anything that looks like airbags.....
All help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks a million,
John

sha4000

iTrader: (1)

you shouldnt have the pump leaking onto the alternator problem.the 1gen. is the 89-94 and the 2gen is 95-00

bitsbucket

Thanks for the info......now if I could just find the source of the noises. Could I need new struts at just 65K miles?
Thanks again!
John

RA40

iTrader: (6)

Welcome to the lexus family and CL.

A leaking PS pump is a concern and the alternator is below that pump. Fluid may still find it's way there and cause problems, get that fixed ASAP.

bitsbucket

He didn't say, except that it's been painted about 3/4 of the way around the car. as far as the leaking power steering pump. I looked at the rebuild section on another recommended site, appears to be fairly complicated. Should I replace the pump or rebuild the one I have? also what about the hi pressure hose? should I do that too?
Dadgum I hate to already have to start spending the big bucks on this thing.....I just paid for it! Anyway all info is GREATLY appreciated! and thanks for the welcome. I also own a 2K RX300 so I will be around here often.....
Thanks,
John

93LS

You said you got the carfax report ..... aren't they (carfax) suppose to pay you up to 5K or buyback the car if the report is not correct?


93LS

GRAND_LS 4

iTrader: (2)

yeah, until you read the fine print.

ychachad

guys, guys
every panel on a lexus has a VIN number. they should all match!!! If a body panel has a VIN number sticker missing, or painted over, politely decline to buy the car. It has been in a wreck.

That's why it's best to stay off ebay when you buy cars. Can't see it in person, then don't buy it.

RA40

iTrader: (6)

Was just going to post this as well.

It sounds like a done deal so at this point think of it as an education and you'll be wiser on the next car purchase. That said, enjoy and we'll do what we can to answer any questions about your car.