SC- 1st Gen (1992-2000)

how reliable are sc300/400s?

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Old 04-17-02, 04:33 PM
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99YellowStang
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Question how reliable are sc300/400s?

i am looking for an sc300 or sc400, how reliable are these cars, are there any particular trouble spots to worry about? Most of the ones in my price range have around 70k miles on them, which one is more reliable sc300 or sc400, how long do the engines last, any help would be greatly appreciated

Krystian
Old 04-17-02, 04:46 PM
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RacerDex
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I am very happy with my '95 SC300.

At around 85K I chose to replace the stock clutch with a Centerforce due to some slipping.

The tranny (5-speed) is holding up great. I am totally impressed with it, seeing as I flat shift it the same as my Mustang drag-car when street racing (or when just feeling the need ).

The motor runs totally strong for nearly 100K miles now (bought it with 38K). I do have plans to supercharge it within the next year, which I would prefer to do on my straight-six vs. the v-8 of the SC400 (better physics on your crank and mains).

Only problem has been the radio (amplifier and CD-changer problems). The engineering is cheesy on the amp, as it sits right above the right-rear wheel well, where my moonroof drains lead to (and apparantly got backed-up, shorting 2 amps before I found water actually gathered there).
Old 04-17-02, 04:56 PM
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99YellowStang
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oh radio im not worried about, id probably replace that, or maybe just pay a shop to relocate the amps because i heard its a nice setup as is
Old 04-17-02, 04:56 PM
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SupraCoup3
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why not turbo for insane HP?

Yellow Stang, the SC300 5Sp is the best bang for your buck. It's the non-turbo version of the supra engine (fast & the furious) Because it's basically the same block (a very overbuilt & bullet proof one) It will last VERY long... about 400,000 miles w/ N/A. People on this forum turbo cars w/ 100,000+ mile cars with no problems. Really are great cars. Plus it's got great pimp factor... It's a Lexus .


Seach back thru the forum for any Questions you may have... the same questions have been answered many times here. But if you can't find an answer... ask. We won't bite

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Old 04-17-02, 05:10 PM
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RacerDex
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I actually have plans to roadrace this car, and prefer the instant charge of a blower.

It will also be cheaper for me to set up, at least initially. ATI has great products in the Mustang racing circuits (would you believe sub-7 second passes on small blocks with their big huffer?), and they also have a setup for my coupe.

My Stang (still street legal, minus those pesky converters), has 385 HP / 385 Torque, and if I could get my Lex's numbers close to those, she will absolutely rip (though not quite as well with her 3550 lb curb weight ).

I figure about 14psi and a good induction system and some head work should get her there with little problem.
Old 04-17-02, 05:18 PM
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SupraCoup3
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If you caught the little debate on Supercharger Vs. Turbocharger, the amount of lag a properly sized turbo has isn't that bad... You'd be making around 425 HP @ the rear wheels on pump gas w/ that setup, and You could upgrade a bit easier. CmputerWhiz was gonna supercharge, but decided to turbo, ask him (you out there whiz?).

My .02 is Turbo, but to each, his own.

Lex Luthor, care to add?
Old 04-17-02, 05:45 PM
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RacerDex
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I TOTALLY agree that upgrading a turbo system is easier and cheaper than that of a supercharged motor ("hello mr. wastegate").

Much of it depends on what will happen with me this year. I am in the process of building a house, therefore the Mustang racing circuit is on hold for now.

I would like to keep my Stang in the naturally aspirated class, but have really wanted a supercharger since about day 5 in the vehicle.

Though I do like the instant power of the blower, the turbo has that wicked quiet power, and I do love having a sleeper. I'd imagine the gas mileage would be better too, as I will be moving to a 45 minute commute each way if my coupe was to remain a daily driver. But, with the blower, I could get cute with the rear badge ... from "SC300" to "300S/C" .

And then there are the 2003 Cobra Terminators, and the much welcomed 2004 Mustangs on the Jaguar S-type platforms (good-bye Fox bodies). http://www.motortrend.com/sept01/ponycar/ponycar.jpg
Nearly 400HP with a dealer warranty for under $35,000? ... Quite tempting!!

So many options, and so many other (monetary) priorities ... too bad I missed that Big Game jackpot .
Old 04-17-02, 06:11 PM
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Originally posted by SupraCoup3
If you caught the little debate on Supercharger Vs. Turbocharger, the amount of lag a properly sized turbo has isn't that bad... You'd be making around 425 HP @ the rear wheels on pump gas w/ that setup, and You could upgrade a bit easier. CmputerWhiz was gonna supercharge, but decided to turbo, ask him (you out there whiz?).

My .02 is Turbo, but to each, his own.

Lex Luthor, care to add?
TRD is planning on releasing a supercharger for the IS300 which we all know is powered by 2JZ-GE motor. More power to SC300 if this supercharger can be installed in our cars and for a low price.
Old 04-18-02, 10:32 AM
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Bean
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my 95 SC3 5-speed is for sale if anyone is interested

best year to get for turbo
Old 04-18-02, 11:03 AM
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99YellowStang
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how much? and how many miles?
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