Sad story - friend can't smog his car

[Mat M]

Now his apartment complex is threatening to tow it on Friday the 13th because the registration has lapsed.

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/car/715624547.html

He's selling cheap.

[DougN]

He might get more interest if he listed a price...

[Bruce Palmer]

If he knows what is needed to fix the problem, why doesn't he spend the money to fix the problem?

[sblake01]

I'm not sure he knows based on that brief description. Sounds like the typical 'guess and throw parts at it until you get it right' syndrome. If an 'ECM and a couple sensors' would fix it, why not get them and do it. Afrer replacing the alternator, catalytic converter and fuel pump an buying an alarm system for it why stop there?

[Mat M]

Thanks for the replies, guys.

I believe they mis-chose the mechanic they took the car to, and the mechanic was playing the swap out parts that may-may not be the answer game. They were believing him when he told them 'it's probably this part' and when that didn't work, 'it's probably this part..." etc. expenses rack up fast doing that.

Right now they are out of expendible income, and this car is not on the priority list like buying food and paying rent. 3 months ago the car was fine (ignorance is bliss), and the car still runs fine, the emissions aren't quite right. The pressing thing is that the apartment management will tow his car tomorrow if it's not registered. They would rather not have to pay fees on towing as well.

I have an N/A 82ZX parts car, will that ECM swap over?

[sblake01]

I have an N/A 82ZX parts car, will that ECM swap over?

Nope.

[Mat M]

didn't think so

[Bruce Palmer]

.... not much more than parts changers.

Anyway Matt, what's the asking price of that Z?

[Mat M]

Asking $1000, but HIGHLY motivated and willing to negotiate.

[AndysPlit]

Have him try Z31.com.

[AndysPlit]

I'm not sure he knows based on that brief description. Sounds like the typical 'guess and throw parts at it until you get it right' syndrome. If an 'ECM and a couple sensors' would fix it, why not get them and do it. Afrer replacing the alternator, catalytic converter and fuel pump an buying an alarm system for it why stop there?

In regards to "why stop there?":

I've been advised to sell my Z31 because of the tranny. However, one of the reasons I won't is because I have alreday done the timing belt, water pump, cat convertor, etc. Otherwise, it'll be a waste of time and money. I might as well rebuild the tranny and keep her on the road.

[Mat M]

Have him try Z31.com.

THANKS! I will let them know. I haven't heard of that one before. I have sent them zxman.com, though.