Noob in San Antonio Options

[robidunno]

Hey everyone,
I just wanted to introduce myself to the forum. In the next week I'm starting to refresh my brother's 94 ST Coupe. As to my knowledge it's rust free as it's been in the southern portion of Texas all it's life. I started looking up things on ToyotaCelica.com site, but it didn't feel like a home. Too vague and general. I presently daily drive an 85 Supra that's been my pride and joy. I've been a member of Celicasupra.com for quite some time, so I know how to use the search function. That's not to say I won't ask a random stupid question now and then. At present I'm trying to assess the normal wear items that need to be replaced, so as to be prepared for what lies shortly ahead. The car has around 207,000 miles on it and is now starting to have some mechanical fits. The items that I'm already planning on repairing or replacing if needed are Struts, brakes, tie rod ends, clutch, suspension bushings, ball joints, timing belt, motor mounts. The ignition system was given a tune up almost exactly a year ago (roughly 7000 miles ago) but I'll still be checking it out.
My brother isn't exactly mechanically inclined, and I'm presently in school for ASE certification here at the local Community College.

If you kind folks can think of anything that is normal to wear out that I haven't mentioned, I would certainly be appreciative.

Now for my first actual question. The stock exhaust manifold has developed a crack from what I'm told. Is it better to replace it with another OEM type part or check for aftermarket upgrades? In my opinion If something's broken I usually upgrade it to something better. However as it's not my personal car... If I was to upgrade, is there a downside to the part? IE tendency to crack, fitment issues, etc...

[DEATH]

I'd just "upgrade" to an ebay header if I didn't plan to swap it later down the line. Is it making noise?

Anyway - Welcome. The SA guys are really cool so you are in good company. Texas meet coming up in spring - you should come to that in either car or bring your brother and both cars. I love the mid 80's Supras - that was my first "performance" car when I was growing up. Was a huge step up from the '81 Celica GT I drove before that.

[robidunno]

He hasn't mentioned it making any new noises lately, but he's been car pooling with his wife in their truck for quite some time now. The Celica stays in the garage quite a bit. I'll ask though. After talking to him he says that it's not really making any noise that sounds like the exhaust. It seems to be just a surface crack that's just starting.
As for the spring meet, if I'm there it'll probably be just me in the Supra as my brother lives in El Paso. I'll try though.

This post has been edited by robidunno: Nov 9, 2008 - 1:38 PM

[spolski07]

welcome! what part of san antonio do you live?
i am on the north east side (i35 and Loop 1604)

[robidunno]

I'm on the NW side near 1604 and Bandera.