Did this a while back over on the other forum.
That all depends on what it is that you are looking for. If you don't work on your own cars and you want a fun weekend car that is reasonably reliable you will need a car that has been upgraded with at least some of the major known ZR-1 and C4 issue already addressed. If your like me you enjoy wrenching on the car and the challenge of fixing everything. I look for a solid car at a bargain price and do the work myself. To me that's a fun weekend.
I'm sure I missed few but here you go.
Known major issues ZR-1 some related to higher miles some not.
Injectors have they been replaced
Vacuum leaks
Secondaries operable, do you get full LT5 power
Ingnition coils and wires replaced
Timing chain noise (normal to a small degree on 90's)
Starter
Oil leaks especially the pan and oil cooler lines
Does the engine smoke or burn oil (normal to a small degree at startup on 90's)
Fuel pumps have they been replaced
Is it throwing any engine, abs or body codes (multiple possibilities here)
Are any DIC lights on. (Multiple possibilities here as well)
Is the adjustable shocks system working
Windshield delamination
A/C functionality (compressor is unique to the Z, cooling capacity lower)
Power switch functionality and keys (are there 2)
Transmission syncro's, (first gear is always noisy) shifter alignment can mimick synco problems.
Clutch functionality (they all let in high, was it ever changed)
Egr system on later models
Engine mounts
C4 Issues
Head lights operable
Radiator blocked or simply clogged, electric fans operable
Wheel bearings
Suspension bushings
Condition of all door, top and hatch seals
Glass roof cracking
Instrument cluster functionality especially the tach (tends to read high with age) also note the lighting of the cluster.
DIC button functionality
Steering wheel excessive movement
Radio functionality (especially speaker amps) and antenna
Sport seat functionality (transmission, switches, pumps and bladders)
Door window switches
Door window lifter and internal rattles
Fuel tank bladder collapse (results in small capacity)
Differential noise (whine)
Have fun...
H
