my 85 urQ

[Anton Gaidos III <anton_gaidos_iii@firepower.com>]

After having the car for four days I have begun compiling a list of
repairs. First off the car does not like to idle when first started.
This is the case regardless of engine temperature. Once the car is
driven a few minutes it will then idle OK. Not great but at least it no
longer dies. This may be related to altitude but I don't know enough to
be sure. The car comes from Boulder, Co. which is around 5000 - 6000
feet above sea level. I live at sea level so this could be a mixture
problem. Here at the office I'll hook up a Fluke and try to get some
readings.
 As I  pointed out both mufflers are history so I will need to replace
them. Knowing the cost of a factory system I will pursue replacing just
the mufflers themselves at this time.
 At around 1K rpm there is a whining sound which I believe I have
narrowed down to the water pump. I have checked all the accessories and
determined that they are not the cause but I have not taken the time (I
have not had the time) to remove the timing belt cover to get 100%
confirmation on this yet. It is easy to duplicate the sound once the
motor is warmed up so it is consistent.
 The side vents and the floor vents blow only hot air so it looks like a
heater valve replacement is in order. I have purchased one but haven't
replaced the old one yet. The A/C also needs a recharge.
 Mechanically that's about it other then a few odds and ends not
effecting the car's drivability.
Cosmetically there are a number of things to do. Both the plastic
headlight frames need replacement. The front air dam needs some cracks
repaired. The radio antenna needs replacement and the car does need
paint but that will have to wait a long while.
 The interior is nearly perfect. The driver's seat needs two panels
replaced and the passenger side door panel needs a little work but
otherwise the interior is great.
 In general I am very pleased with this car. It may be too soon to tell
just how good this car is mechanically but so far I haven't found
anything wrong I wouldn't expect from a 13 year old car with 140+k miles
on it and in fact it seems very solid.
If only I had time to dig into her! Things like weddings, kids, spouse,
work and home repairs are conflicting with my true desire. Oh well, this
is supposed to be a long term project anyway.....
Anton J. Gaidos, III
PC Design
Motorola Computer Group
"The fortunate man knows how much he can safely leave to chance"