Just bought a '94 Metro

[mik13usa]

keep us updated! good luck.

[chembrad]

The driver's side CV axle comes out surprisingly easy. The only prob I had was getting the axle nut off as the car was on jack stands... So I had my son stomp down on the brakes while I cranked the nut with a breaker bar. I was not able to break it free so I levered the breaker bar with a floor jack. That did the trick.

To pivot the suspension arm on this model metro all I had to do was remove the ball joint pinch bolt & nut (14mm) and the suspension arm rear bracket (also 14mm), then I was able to lever the suspension are down and the axle popped right out without a hassle.

I figured it was a good idea to give the axle a thorough going over. Also I replaced both CV boots after cleaning up all the old grease. With shopping around I was able to get CV boot kits for $9.49 ea from Kragen (they have the "We'll beat any price by 5%" deal). Everything about the axle looks good.

Next up: finishing unbolting the transaxle and having a looksy at the clutch and flywheel.

[chembrad]

I was dreading pulling off the passenger side axle nut because I had so much trouble with the driver's side nut. But I just used a breaker bar w/ the 30mm axle nut and a crowbar levered between two of the wheel bolts and it came right off.

The axle popped out just as easy as the drivers side. Now I just have to finish the CV boot job on the passenger side axle.

So for this car so far:

1. I bought it for $350
2. DMV charged me $101 for back registration
3. $100 for the clutch parts
4. $50 to have the flywheel machined
5. $45 for 4 CV boot kits

It looks like I will need to get a new pilot bearing because it had a rough feel when I turned it.

I'm probably going to need a new catalytic converter to get it to pass smog.

I wonder how much all this would have cost at the mechanic shop or the dealer?

[chembrad]

I'm picking up a pilot bearing ($15.99) and a pair of axle shaft seals ($6.49 each) for the reinstall.

So add $30 to the price tag of doing the clutch job. I figure I might as well do it now while I have it all disassembled.

The starter looks OK so I'm not going to replace it.

I'll have to wait until I get the car driving to evaluate the suspension accurately. But the Metro doesn't typically have a good "ride". So I am not too concerned about that as long as the parts function.

This has been a good "first time" clutch project. I'm still having fun and that is always a good sign...

[chembrad]

Oh and while I have the starter motor out, I'm going to wire brush off the connections to prevent the dreaded "no start" typical of Metro's with corrosion build up on the positive battery cable connex.

[chembrad]

All I have left to do is toss the transaxle back on and put the halfshafts back on, then reattach everything.

I might need some help adjusting the clutch as I have never done it before.

Anyone give me tips on how to adjust it right?

[chembrad]

Up and running!!! Easy money folks.

The transaxle took a little manhandling to get it into position with the help of my floorjack. Cranked everything to spec and turned the key... Nothing! Battery was drained. So I just popped on the battery charger and it turned right over.

Took it out for a spin and the clutch worked perfectly. No additional adjustment was necessary.

The engine idles a little slow. And I haven't checked the timing yet. So that is next on my list. Also sounds like the belt needs tension. No big deal eh?

Also when I'm up to speed on the freeway, there is a highpitched whistle associated with the gas pedal. Anyone know what that might be?

[Crvett69]

if you have a small vacuum leak somewhere it can cause a whistle, check all the small rubber hoses. might have knocked one off or maybe 1 has a crack

[chembrad]

Originally Posted by Crvett69

if you have a small vacuum leak somewhere it can cause a whistle, check all the small rubber hoses. might have knocked one off or maybe 1 has a crack

That is exactly what I was thinking: vacuum leak. So I'm going to replace all the old vacuum hoses anyway as well as check out the EGR valve. No big deal.

Loving my little ride.

[chembrad]

Originally Posted by chembrad

Also when I'm up to speed on the freeway, there is a highpitched whistle associated with the gas pedal. Anyone know what that might be?

This turned out to be the speedometer cable. Easily tested by disconnecting and test driving= no squeal.

Gonna try putting a couple drops of 3in1 oil down the cable and see if that does the trick. Otherwise it is time to get a new speedo cable. 10 min job to replace tops (and I go slow!)

[Ge0Sc0ut]

I'm a noob but im a noob who loves his Geo....Mmmmhhmmm I want to work try working on it and doing stuff myself so I can learn

[chembrad]

Originally Posted by Ge0Sc0ut

I'm a noob but im a noob who loves his Geo....Mmmmhhmmm I want to work try working on it and doing stuff myself so I can learn

Welcome to Geo lovers are us!

I think you will find that the Geo Metro is an excellent car to work on. The parts are relatively inexpensive and easy to find. This forum should provide you with a LOT of help as you get busy on your Geo.

[chembrad]

Originally Posted by chembrad

The parts are relatively inexpensive and easy to find.

Except for the FRIGGIN 2dr window regulator!!!! I'm having a witch of a time finding one for my '94 Metro.

FYI the 2dr window regulator is NOT interchangable with the 4dr window regulator.