Well I found a good SC 400 92 red with 160k miles for 3.2k, just need to know what are the common issues with the sc and when do they need to be addressed ? Also just wondering how fast is the car compared to say a gs 400? Thanks looking forward to this project car.

 

Common failures for the SC400's are : Power Steering, Idle Air Control, Engine ECU, HVAC Display...

 

I second that...

burnt out needles
cracked vents
black lcd display
worn control arm bushings
window regulators
popping door hinges
sway bar links
struts

Compared to the GS, I would say close on the bottom end, but on the top, I would say the SC. I believe its a bit lighter.

I would also check to see when the timing belt, cam seals, crank seal, water pump, hoses, radiator flush, plugs, rotors, caps, and wires were replaced. JMO.

Good luck with your purchase. PM me for any problems. Welcome to CL!

 

I'd be looking for whether the starter has been replaced or not too.

 

For this same year car with 95k miles, would i be looking for the same problems, or just the 90k service?

 

Pick the car up! dont be afraid of the common problems...its a Toyota! fixing it is cake

 

I take it you've never worked on a 1uz?

 

+1

Look at the starter LOL.

 

Check Trans mounts and flexible couplings on drive shaft

 

Go to a Lexus dealer with the VIN and they can tell you what service has been done at the dealer and when.

I picked up a well maintained '92 with 174k miles this spring and the only problem I've had so far is with the pwr antenna. I do have a spare engine and trans sitting around just in case. Got that off ebay for $500. 1UZs can be found pretty cheap.

 

Wow. You hit the nail on the head!

Especially the full tune-up i highlighted above. There are kits available on eBay for around $300, which will include most of the mentioned (minus the rotors/wires). BUT, its an 8-hour job to replace all of that crap.

 

A.....MEN!

Jonny