Hi all,
I'm new to these forums so let me explain my quick story:
About eight months ago I bought a 2000 (110k then 116k now) red Grand Prix GT with GTP features minus the HUD, Heated Seats, Hard Shift button, engine and trans.
Recently I was told a family friend is selling a '98 red Grand Prix GTP with 37k and garaged/babied it's entire life. It hasn't seen snow or bad weather (I live in CT) and
as far as I know, hasn't been run hard. It also hasn't had any recalls done to it which is a concern of mine but I don't think should be much of an issue...or is it? Either case,
I will most likely be selling my current Prix and buying the '98 for the "family friend price" of only $3000.
A few concerns are these:
1) What causes transmission fluid to turn color/smell? If hasn't been touched in its 37k mile life, should I flush it or just change the filter (drop the pan)....Note: stupidly I didn't check the fluid when I was there so assume it's clean.
2) I know these cars are known for glass transmissions so to speak, and have read up on the TransGo shift kit which has seems to have solved a major issue people have been having with these cars later in their life. Would it be smart of me to install this early in it's life to preserve the transmission and prevent wear? Makes sense that it would, but just checking...has anyone does this with low miles and have high miles now?
EDIT: with this mind, what are people's thoughts about performance shift. Knowing the logic/benefits behind the TG Shift Kit, it seems it's better to have it engaged at all times. Do those with GTPs do this?
3)I have seen the list of mods and buyers guide on this site, but much of that seems to be for "after the fact" while I'm interested in options that could be implemented BEFORE it's too late and i'd have to pay out the ass for repairs. (One example I suppose would be resealing the taillights and lamp sockets to prevent the renown moisture build-up).
Actually, with that said, I just remembered that I saw this somewhere "The infamous "Water in Passenger Floorboard" for 1997-2003 body style. http://www.grandprixforums.net/water_floorboard.php" but the link doesn't work. There another thread for this? Other than those what are other precautions/mods that can be implemented to keep the car running reliably?
I know there's quite a bit of questions in there but that's pretty much it for now. I think I have a rare specimen and would like to keep it in the best shape possible. Thanks in advance for the responses
