Advice Needed-1991 Park Ave Maintainence
02-23-2015, 11:14 PM
#11
Senior Member
Posts like a 4 Banger
Thread Starter
The ICM can go at any time, given the age. If it'* still running fine, there is no point in messing with it. The complete ICM/ Coil setup can be swapped with a newer style unit that used the 3 individual coils, from a 92-93 model year series 1 engine.
As for the ABS, the ones from 1990 and before were fully hydraulic (teves), and prohibitively expensive to repair (replacement hydraulic unit is literally $1k on Rockauto). Rockauto lists the same system for '91-'93 however, which has served me well, and appears to be a much more reasonable setup. It'* not something to really worry about, but if an issue arises with it, it can be addressed then.
There are literally thousands of nitpicks on the car that we can scare you to death with, but it'* best to handle it as it comes usually. If something does crop up, we are happy to help share any information you need.
I agree with the bullet proof nature of the 3.8 v6 however. It takes quite a bit to kill one typically.
There is another warning I would also like to share in your journeys, OBD 1.5. It is typically found in 94-95 model year vehicles, and requires scanners that are specifically compatible with it, which can make for tricky diagnostics if you are at the mercy of someone else for repairs. It'* not necessarily a deal breaker every time, but should be given thought to when deciding whether or not to buy it.
Also, it seems that as the 2000+ models age, they tend to have more 'model specific' issues that crop up too, especially with high mileage. Little things like window regulators, wheel hubs, etc.
As for the ABS, the ones from 1990 and before were fully hydraulic (teves), and prohibitively expensive to repair (replacement hydraulic unit is literally $1k on Rockauto). Rockauto lists the same system for '91-'93 however, which has served me well, and appears to be a much more reasonable setup. It'* not something to really worry about, but if an issue arises with it, it can be addressed then.
There are literally thousands of nitpicks on the car that we can scare you to death with, but it'* best to handle it as it comes usually. If something does crop up, we are happy to help share any information you need.
I agree with the bullet proof nature of the 3.8 v6 however. It takes quite a bit to kill one typically.
There is another warning I would also like to share in your journeys, OBD 1.5. It is typically found in 94-95 model year vehicles, and requires scanners that are specifically compatible with it, which can make for tricky diagnostics if you are at the mercy of someone else for repairs. It'* not necessarily a deal breaker every time, but should be given thought to when deciding whether or not to buy it.
Also, it seems that as the 2000+ models age, they tend to have more 'model specific' issues that crop up too, especially with high mileage. Little things like window regulators, wheel hubs, etc.
TheReaper!
02-26-2015, 09:12 AM
#12
Senior Member
Posts like a 4 Banger
Thread Starter
I'll be getting the car in a few days , all the papers have signed and am just waiting for the shipper . It would have cost me about $350 to get in myself , and $650 to have it shipped . Since it'* pretty cold out and I'm basically pretty lazy I opted for shipping . 
According to the car-fax the car has had a lot of oil and filter changes and new batteries all at the dealer but not much else . The car is 23 years old with 21K on the clock , so is there any thing I should do to it ? Like trans fluid , radiator flush etc. ? I'm wondering if the tires are originals ?
TheReaper!
According to the car-fax the car has had a lot of oil and filter changes and new batteries all at the dealer but not much else . The car is 23 years old with 21K on the clock , so is there any thing I should do to it ? Like trans fluid , radiator flush etc. ? I'm wondering if the tires are originals ?
TheReaper!
02-26-2015, 11:28 AM
#13
Senior Member
Posts like a Turbo
I'll be getting the car in a few days , all the papers have signed and am just waiting for the shipper . It would have cost me about $350 to get in myself , and $650 to have it shipped . Since it'* pretty cold out and I'm basically pretty lazy I opted for shipping .
According to the car-fax the car has had a lot of oil and filter changes and new batteries all at the dealer but not much else . The car is 23 years old with 21K on the clock , so is there any thing I should do to it ? Like trans fluid , radiator flush etc. ? I'm wondering if the tires are originals ?
TheReaper!
According to the car-fax the car has had a lot of oil and filter changes and new batteries all at the dealer but not much else . The car is 23 years old with 21K on the clock , so is there any thing I should do to it ? Like trans fluid , radiator flush etc. ? I'm wondering if the tires are originals ?
TheReaper!
2004 Bonne SLE
1971 Chevelle SS
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02-26-2015, 10:35 PM
#14
Senior Member
Posts like a 4 Banger
Thread Starter
These are the original pics from the dealer , I saved them to an album on photo bucket . I think it was the deal of the day pretty much in the entire country . Should have it this week end ? $4,550.00
TheReaper!
Buick Park Avenue 1991 Slideshow by joeblackakathereaper | Photobucket
TheReaper!
Buick Park Avenue 1991 Slideshow by joeblackakathereaper | Photobucket
02-27-2015, 04:31 AM
#15
Senior Member
True Car Nut
Nice looking car by the photos! I normally inspect the car with a fine tooth comb.
FULL Tune up time.
I like to remove a few spark plugs and take a look at condition, brand/type used and check gap. I installed Ngk Iridium in my PA right away. If the wires look OEM or even slightly old, get a new set of spark plug wires, NGK work and fit very well. Like to look at air filter and replace if needed, and clean throttle body, or look in bore and see how it looks for starters.
I look for any leaks and change all the fluids. Dexron VI (6) for the Transmission fluid, new filter & gasket kit. Inspect brakes/rotors, calipers/ lube sliders/ and replace as necessary, do a 4 corner DOT3 bleed. Rad yes definitely flush, I recommend Prestone LL long life antifreeze.
The coolant over flow bottle, make sure it is clean and free from any dirt.
Change out the fuel filter & go to wall mart and get some bottles of Chevron Techron Concentrate Plus fuel additive.
Add two bottles of the cleaner with some fresh high octane and take it for a good hwy run when safe & possible.
Power steering, good idea to get old fluid out & use GM power steering fluid, these cars like that.
Tires ya check the date code, when I got PA and checked, 2 of the tires were 8+ years old.
Installed & balanced 4 Michelin Destiny right off the bat.
FULL Tune up time.
I like to remove a few spark plugs and take a look at condition, brand/type used and check gap. I installed Ngk Iridium in my PA right away. If the wires look OEM or even slightly old, get a new set of spark plug wires, NGK work and fit very well. Like to look at air filter and replace if needed, and clean throttle body, or look in bore and see how it looks for starters.
I look for any leaks and change all the fluids. Dexron VI (6) for the Transmission fluid, new filter & gasket kit. Inspect brakes/rotors, calipers/ lube sliders/ and replace as necessary, do a 4 corner DOT3 bleed. Rad yes definitely flush, I recommend Prestone LL long life antifreeze.
The coolant over flow bottle, make sure it is clean and free from any dirt.
Change out the fuel filter & go to wall mart and get some bottles of Chevron Techron Concentrate Plus fuel additive.
Add two bottles of the cleaner with some fresh high octane and take it for a good hwy run when safe & possible.
Power steering, good idea to get old fluid out & use GM power steering fluid, these cars like that.
Tires ya check the date code, when I got PA and checked, 2 of the tires were 8+ years old.
Installed & balanced 4 Michelin Destiny right off the bat.
__________________
1997 Buick Pk Ave (Soft Ride) Suspension!
1997 Buick Pk Ave (Soft Ride) Suspension!
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TheReaper! (02-27-2015),
WilliamE (03-07-2015)
02-27-2015, 11:20 AM
#16
Senior Member
Posts like a 4 Banger
Thread Starter
Nice looking car by the photos! I normally inspect the car with a fine tooth comb.
FULL Tune up time.
I like to remove a few spark plugs and take a look at condition, brand/type used and check gap. I installed Ngk Iridium in my PA right away. If the wires look OEM or even slightly old, get a new set of spark plug wires, NGK work and fit very well. Like to look at air filter and replace if needed, and clean throttle body, or look in bore and see how it looks for starters.
I look for any leaks and change all the fluids. Dexron VI (6) for the Transmission fluid, new filter & gasket kit. Inspect brakes/rotors, calipers/ lube sliders/ and replace as necessary, do a 4 corner DOT3 bleed. Rad yes definitely flush, I recommend Prestone LL long life antifreeze.
The coolant over flow bottle, make sure it is clean and free from any dirt.
Change out the fuel filter & go to wall mart and get some bottles of Chevron Techron Concentrate Plus fuel additive.
Add two bottles of the cleaner with some fresh high octane and take it for a good hwy run when safe & possible.
Power steering, good idea to get old fluid out & use GM power steering fluid, these cars like that.
Tires ya check the date code, when I got PA and checked, 2 of the tires were 8+ years old.
Installed & balanced 4 Michelin Destiny right off the bat.
FULL Tune up time.
I like to remove a few spark plugs and take a look at condition, brand/type used and check gap. I installed Ngk Iridium in my PA right away. If the wires look OEM or even slightly old, get a new set of spark plug wires, NGK work and fit very well. Like to look at air filter and replace if needed, and clean throttle body, or look in bore and see how it looks for starters.
I look for any leaks and change all the fluids. Dexron VI (6) for the Transmission fluid, new filter & gasket kit. Inspect brakes/rotors, calipers/ lube sliders/ and replace as necessary, do a 4 corner DOT3 bleed. Rad yes definitely flush, I recommend Prestone LL long life antifreeze.
The coolant over flow bottle, make sure it is clean and free from any dirt.
Change out the fuel filter & go to wall mart and get some bottles of Chevron Techron Concentrate Plus fuel additive.
Add two bottles of the cleaner with some fresh high octane and take it for a good hwy run when safe & possible.
Power steering, good idea to get old fluid out & use GM power steering fluid, these cars like that.
Tires ya check the date code, when I got PA and checked, 2 of the tires were 8+ years old.
Installed & balanced 4 Michelin Destiny right off the bat.
On another note , I've learned a lot here already and by watching several videos about these cars on you-tube .
Also , where or how does one donate here ?
TheReaper!
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WilliamE (02-27-2015)
02-27-2015, 12:40 PM
#17
Senior Member
True Car Nut
You are Welcome Brad, Thanks for being here
Oh & Thanks for asking about becoming a site "Supporter"
Donating to the site would be greatly appreciated.
You can click on my Supporter badge with the stars on it or follow this link:
https://www.gmforum.com/payments.php
Oh & Thanks for asking about becoming a site "Supporter"
Donating to the site would be greatly appreciated.
You can click on my Supporter badge with the stars on it or follow this link:
https://www.gmforum.com/payments.php
__________________
1997 Buick Pk Ave (Soft Ride) Suspension!
1997 Buick Pk Ave (Soft Ride) Suspension!
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WilliamE (02-27-2015)
03-07-2015, 07:33 PM
#18
Senior Member
Posts like a 4 Banger
Thread Starter
Well still no car , shipper apparently having trouble filling the truck ? I was in business for 40 years so I know how things work , pretty tough to make a living these days . Today it was 42 degrees here so I took the Burgman 650 to the quarter car wash for a good scrubbing , I've been riding it all winter without a wash so it was overdue . At the car wash I ran into a young man washing his white 2002 Park avenue that looked new .
He told me his dad was a car dealer and took it for a trade 3 years ago with 30,000 miles on it . A one owner elderly gentleman bought it new and put an average of 3000 miles on it a year , then traded it in on a new one in 2002 . I asked the guy if they had had any problems in the 3 years and 30,000 miles they had put on it . He said not ONE problem . He said when they got it they replaced the original tires and shocks and that was it . I asked him how he liked it because he was maybe 23 or 24 years old , he said he loved it and that it was like a new car from day one and still is .
TheReaper!
He told me his dad was a car dealer and took it for a trade 3 years ago with 30,000 miles on it . A one owner elderly gentleman bought it new and put an average of 3000 miles on it a year , then traded it in on a new one in 2002 . I asked the guy if they had had any problems in the 3 years and 30,000 miles they had put on it . He said not ONE problem . He said when they got it they replaced the original tires and shocks and that was it . I asked him how he liked it because he was maybe 23 or 24 years old , he said he loved it and that it was like a new car from day one and still is .
TheReaper!
03-07-2015, 08:56 PM
#19
Senior Member
True Car Nut
Did the shipper give you any indication of a shipping date?
Glad you got the Burgman clean, sounds like it needed a good bath!
I've ridden those, fun little ride. I've got 2 honda CB 650'* I ride occasionally.
Sweet that you ran into a young fellow with an 02 PA, low miles & clean. Great cars!
My 97 PA now has 110 k miles on it, awesome, safe, comfortable, highway cruisers!
Glad you got the Burgman clean, sounds like it needed a good bath!
I've ridden those, fun little ride. I've got 2 honda CB 650'* I ride occasionally.
Sweet that you ran into a young fellow with an 02 PA, low miles & clean. Great cars!
My 97 PA now has 110 k miles on it, awesome, safe, comfortable, highway cruisers!
__________________
1997 Buick Pk Ave (Soft Ride) Suspension!
1997 Buick Pk Ave (Soft Ride) Suspension!
03-07-2015, 09:10 PM
#20
Senior Member
Posts like a 4 Banger
Thread Starter
Did the shipper give you any indication of a shipping date?
Glad you got the Burgman clean, sounds like it needed a good bath!
I've ridden those, fun little ride. I've got 2 honda CB 650'* I ride occasionally.
Sweet that you ran into a young fellow with an 02 PA, low miles & clean. Great cars!
My 97 PA now has 110 k miles on it, awesome, safe, comfortable, highway cruisers!
Glad you got the Burgman clean, sounds like it needed a good bath!
I've ridden those, fun little ride. I've got 2 honda CB 650'* I ride occasionally.
Sweet that you ran into a young fellow with an 02 PA, low miles & clean. Great cars!
My 97 PA now has 110 k miles on it, awesome, safe, comfortable, highway cruisers!
I refuse to let stuff like this bother me these days , I don't like it and it is aggravating but I'm gonna roll with it for a few more days . If I cancel with them there is no guarantee another shipper will do any better at this point .
I signed with them on 2/22/15 , that'* 2 weeks tomorrow so it is getting old .
On the guy with the Park Avenue today , really and truly the car looked like it just drove off the show room floor . The kid said he loved it and that it road like a dream .
TheReaper!
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Soft Ride (03-07-2015)