Hello all,

I'm about to order parts for a tune-up and want your advice on my choices & whether or not I'm lacking something or should choose a different brand of something:

This is from www.parts123.com but PLEASE let me know if there is a better/cheaper place to purchase from.


304782 COOLANT BYPASS KIT, LT-1 Kit --- 17.95 0
304710 IAT/MAT SENSOR RELOCATING KIT Kit --- 34.95 0
302275 OIL DRAIN PLUG, MAGNETIC WITH GASKET Each --- 6.25 0
304786 OIL FILTER, K&N HIGH PERFORMANCE Each --- 10.95 0
304577 PCV VALVE, LT1 Each --- 8.95 0
304537 SPARK PLUG WIRE SET, TPIS LT-1 Set --- 89.95 0
304754 COMPUTER CODE READER, GM Each --- 34.95 0
354244 INLINE FUEL FILTER, ALL CANNISTER TYPE GF-481 Each --- 16.95 0
654175 TRIPLE EDGE WIPER BLADE INSERT Pair --- 4.95 0
114107 HAYNES AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR MANUAL Each --- 18.95 0
304700 SPARK PLUG SET, BOSCH PLATINUM EXCEPT ZR-1 SET OF 8 Set --- 31.45 0
304716 ENGINE OIL, MOBILE 1 5W30 SYNTHETIC (ND) Quart --- 6.85 0


I was thinking about buying the distributor cap but it's pretty expensive. Is there a way for me to look at mine to see if it needs to be changed? Or can they be cleaned up? If it's important enough, I'll just buy it.

Thanks tons for your help! I'm usually one to make purchases without consultation and learn from my stupid mistakes but, for once, I'm actually forcing myself to be patient and seek advice ("Hi, my name is Mark... and... I haven't shopped spontaneously for 1 week" *applause*)

Mark

 

Mark,

Welcome to the addiction. You have a good start going. A few things jump out about your list.

304782 COOLANT BYPASS KIT, LT-1 Kit --- 17.95

You can get the same things in the "kit" at your local Autozone, Advance Auto, etc. for about 1/3 the price.

304754 COMPUTER CODE READER, GM Each --- 34.95

Not needed. You have an OBD I system. On a 92, you can get the digital dash to display any codes with a paper clip. Just unbend the clip and short A and G openings on the ALDL (upper right to lower left). Turn the key to the On position-do not start- and the dash will display whatever codes are stored.

114107 HAYNES AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR MANUAL Each --- 18.95

This will get you started, however, if you are going to be doing any of your own work, I recommend the Helms shop manual. Check in the C4 part for sale section and Ebay. This is the bible.

I can't help on the cap. Your LT1 has an Optispark and my L98 has a regular HEI. Perhaps another member will chime in on that.

Again, welcome and good luck

 

I'd think about 2 new O2 sensors.

I'd skip the d-cap until my opti died, then replace it and the plug wires at the same time.

I'd also flush the brakes, coolant and the power steering. Replace the rear diff and trans fluid. If I had an A4 trans, I'd flush all the old stuff out and replace with Mobil1, new fliter too. If I had an M6 trans, I'd use Castrol and flush the clutch.

Haynes manual isn't bad for the standard repairs, nothing beats the Factory Service Manual (Helms), I have both.

Eric

 

Also, the K&N air filter with the lid opened up is a good idea Enjoy

 

I'd skip the bypass-most say it's not worth it, I'd also not go with the platinum plugs, some guys have complained about the pellets comming off, and a consensus taken about a month ago came up with AC Delco being the most popular. The Haynes is ok, but like everyone above said the Helm is really the way to go. Welcome and good luck.

 

Champion plat. plugs were only $1.50 at Fleet Farm with a $5.00 mail in rebate. I was there for some other things and they didn't have AC/Delco plugs so I decided to try the Champs for that price. You may already have a magnetic drain plug and spark plug seperators. On my car the spark plug seperators are stock and I didn't buy new ones since I didn't break the stock ones while changing the plugs. Check some prices out at Summitracing.com. Moroso wires were $50. My tune up parts list, a lot of it is done...

Timing chain
MAF
MAF burn off and power relays
Distrib cap and rotor
plugs and wires
trans fluid and filter
oil filter and synth oil
time
fuel filter
break fluid
PS fluid
rear fluid change
thermostat and new coolant
lube
PCV
o2 sensor - getting intermit code
helminc.com manuals
inspect car for old hoses, rust, leaks, etc etc.

Stock air filter looks brand new so I just cut the air box lid back to expose more of the filter. Hope this helps!

 

Thanks a lot for all of the helpful info. I ordered the Helms & am looking forward to getting it (got the Haynes too for a 2nd perspective on the basics).

silver & red CE: Are you suggesting that I wait to replace the spark plug wires until I have to replace the Optispark or just that, when the time comes to replace the Opti, I should change the wires then again as well?

I ordered the open air-filter lid. I'll have to read Helms before I change the trans fluid & filter since I've never done that before.

Thanks again,

Mark

 

You can get a Bosch PCV valve from AutoZone for $1.99. Eight bones is too high.

 

If you have a Sams Club nearby and a friend who has a card - Mobile 1 - 6 pack - about $24

Or check Wal Mart - they have specials and their normal price is a lot less than 6.85 a quart.