Inspecting an Engine - Help!

Help! I have the chance to buy an S13 Blacktop set from a local seller for a really good price. I don’t want to just go for it sight-unseen, so I need some advice as to things I can look for when checking out the engine. I won’t be able to take the head off, or anything involved like that. What are some things to check out? Free-spinning turbo? Intact oil pan? The shop might also be able to do a compression test for me, but I don’t know. According to the seller, this engine set has about 30,000 miles on it, one of the reasons why I’m interested.

I hope I don’t sound too Noobish, I’ve been reading and trying to soak up everything I can about SR’s, CA’s, Silvia’s etc.. I just don’t want to get burned on this deal. Thanks in advance for the help.


C

Sorry, forgot to mention - it's a private party seller. That is, someone who has lost interested and is trying to get rid of the engine.

Cheers,

C

Well, check for leaks around the rear of the engine. Thats the rear main seal. Japanese engine seem to leak a lot, probably the main reason for the trip to the Junk yard. Pull the compressor inlet off of the turbo and spin the blade, should spin easily. also wiggle it side to side while spinning it, if it has a grinding feel, the turbo bearings are going out. If there is a way to turn the motor over, check the compression. Should be about 120-150 with no more than 5% variance between the cylendars. Not much else to check.

is it me or does it seem like everyone says there sr20 has 30,000 miles on it?????