D Lex

Hi S_mil94. Make sure you can legally test pipe the two. I don't want you to get into any trouble with that. And make sure it will pass emissions if required in you area. In my opinion, I would replace the two cats with High Flow Cats. I have had great success in replacing the cats in all my previous cars with High Flow Cats from Magnaflow. I have not tried them on my SC but I will if/when they need replacement. I like the High Flow Cats because it gives the engine the required back pressure but adds a nice sound (not loud...just throaty) and passes emissions requirements. Anyone who has replaced their cats with High Flow ones can chime in with their results. Good luck and enjoy. D-LEX

Hi dlefever (Doug). The driver's seat usually wear out over time on most cars...because it's the most used. I have good leather in my '95 SC300 but the driver's seat is showing wear. Recently I made inquiries at the local auto upholstery shops and on ebay. On eBay, I find the full replacement leather for around $500-$700 for front and rear seats, shift boot, and armrest. The local shops quoted me $1000-$1500 to replace the same components. By the way, I am in Northern VA so the prices may vary at your local shops. I have never tried to remove and replace leather, so I think I will leave it in the hands of a professional. Good luck. If you decide to purchase an SC400, you will definitely enjoy it as these are great cars to drive and very reliable. D-Lex

Wow NewbLex! I know first hand how frustrating this can be. I think you are on to something with the IAC or Idle Speed Control Module. I had a similar problem, except when I finally got the car to run, it had no power. I cleaned and replaced both the IAC and Idle Speed Control Module with no improvement. On a hunch, I unplugged the MAF sensor while the car was running and instantly the car responded. I changed the MAF sensor and have not had any more problems. Since this is a quick check, I would suggest you unplug the MAF sensor the next time this happens and see if the car starts and runs. If not, I would try cleaning the MAF, IAC, and Idle Speed Control module with CRC Mass Air Flow Sensor Cleaner. Do not use throttle body cleaner or other parts cleaners as they may damage the sensors. Good luck and keep us posted. D-Lex

Hi Scorp805. This is a personal decision, but I'd like to chime in. I recently bought 3 SC300s (a '92, a '93, and a '95). The '92 needs an engine and the entire interior is trashed. The dash is out and the body has a sizable dent from the driver's door to the area above the rear tire. I just decided I am going to strip it and use the parts for the other two cars. The '93 has a water pump leak and excellent body. The interior needs leather and door panels replaced. I am going to bring it back to life. The 95 SC300 is a perfect driving car. The leather is good. I just added a navigation, bluetooth phone, SirusXM Satellite Radio, Pandora, and backup camera. I plan to add a body kit and get it painted. I am also considering a bump in performance with a turbo or a 2JZ-GTE swap. I know and love these cars. If the only thing wrong with the car is an engine. Replace it and enjoy it. If it requires more time and money than you are willing or able to deal with...sell it to someone who will give it some much needed attention. In my opinion, these are the best cars in the world. I don't mind bringing them back to life...but I'm a die-hard Lexus fan. Good luck with your decision. D-Lex