tt9714

Hmm...Lexus LS400 to Chevy Malibu. Those two cars shouldn't even be mentioned in the same sentence. You'll lose more in depreciation in the first year of owning that '05 Malibu than it would have cost you to keep the LS400 on the road for at least 2-3 more years.

If you want to upgrade the power of a car, the Lexus SC300 automatic is a poor choice. It takes a lot of $$ to significantly increase the power of a normally aspirated engine. Buy a turbocharged engine with a manual transmision (e.g. Porsche 944 Turbo) then raise the boost pressure and get a new engine management chip to remap the fuel delivery. That's the best bang-for-the buck in terms of horsepower and torque. If it's better handling that you desire, then change the tires, get thicker swaybars, raise the spring rates, and get shocks with sport valving. Headers and different torque converter on your SC will do little in terms of "performance upgrades."

I'm having a similar problem with my 95 SC400. The compressor is engaging, but I only get hot air out of the vents. I just had my R134a recharged, so I know that is OK. I believe that it is the "air outlet servomotor" since I received diagnostic code 43. Do you guys know how to check the A/C controller diagnostic codes? With the key in the OFF position, simultaneously hold down the "AUTO" and "RECIRC" buttons while turning the ignition key to ON, then release the buttons. The A/C display should flash 4 times, then a 2 digit diagnostic code will flash. If you get "21" that is for the solar sensor, and it will always come up unless you are in direct sunlight. Low refrigerant pressure is code 23.