So I did a Google search and couldn't find a "Buying" guide on MSO. I did find a few suggestions on some other websites, but I didn't find anything that was very thorough. I'm going to post what I have found so far and please feel free to add more.
* If it has mods it better have an upgraded fuel pump (not sure can check at the dealership)
* Pass a compression test (around 170-180 psi with < 5% variance in the values)
* No smoke at idle after car is warm (indicative of bad turbo)
* No popping out of gear while driving (indicative of bad synchros)
* No clutch slippage
* Drives straight with no noise from the suspension
* Clean sounding idle with the normal ticking from the fuel pump
* No vibrations in the clutch pedal (bent rod)
* Clean coolant
* Normal spark plug wear
* No leaks from the engine (this in my experience is a leak free engine, maybe slight oil residue near the valve cover)
* Watch out for timing chain rattle - (on driver's side)
* Check when shifting between 2nd and 3rd gear (mounts)
* If it has mods it better have an upgraded fuel pump (not sure can check at the dealership)
* Pass a compression test (around 170-180 psi with < 5% variance in the values)
* No smoke at idle after car is warm (indicative of bad turbo)
* No popping out of gear while driving (indicative of bad synchros)
* No clutch slippage
* Drives straight with no noise from the suspension
* Clean sounding idle with the normal ticking from the fuel pump
* No vibrations in the clutch pedal (bent rod)
* Clean coolant
* Normal spark plug wear
* No leaks from the engine (this in my experience is a leak free engine, maybe slight oil residue near the valve cover)
* Watch out for timing chain rattle - (on driver's side)
* Check when shifting between 2nd and 3rd gear (mounts)
