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Oldsmobile Aurora

14950525455112

Comments

  • aurora5000aurora5000 Member Posts: 168
    See Post # 2613
  • garnesgarnes Member Posts: 950
    seegirt - I agree with musclecar97, one of those sensors. The O2 is notorious on lots of cars for doing this. I hear the O2's have a bad reputation on Aurora's too. Fortunately it's not a big $$ thing.

    As for cleaning the throttle body, you need to get a 7mm socket if you don't have one with a nice socket wrench set. Take off the big hose or tube that connects the air box to the mass air flow sensor. You just need a screw driver for that part. Now, remove the clip that attaches the wiring to the MAF. Next, remove the 3 screws that attach the MAF to the throttle body with the 7 mm socket. The bottom one is by feel only - can't see it at all. I found it easiest to get by first attaching the extender to it, holding it, and then snapping on the ratchet. Just go slow so as not to drop one of the screws. It's really not that bad.

    Get some throttle body cleaner from an auto place. Make sure it's O2 SENSOR AND CAT CONVERTER SAFE. To open the throttle body, you need to manually roll or turn the pulley like thing (I'm sorry I don't know what it's called or how to describe it - maybe someone else knows better) behind the throttle body.

    You can spray the cleaner on the inside of the throttle plate to remove the crap. Wipe it off. Also spray around inside the throttle body to loosen and remove other deposits. I don't think you will be able to wipe everything clean. I think the idea is to loosen the debris and it basically passes through the engine when running again. I'd probably do an oil change shortly after too. I don't see how you would prevent the crap from getting into the engine. I'm not sure it is a big deal. It should be made of smaller particles than your air filter catches anyway.

    I'm about to do this as well and have not yet done it, but this is my understanding as described by a mechanic while looking over the car.

    Anybody else - please add any other comments or suggestions.
  • isseyvooisseyvoo Member Posts: 121
    Have you seen the http://www.saveoldsmobile.org/ site? Not that it will help, but the site captures my sentiments.
  • rjs200240rjs200240 Member Posts: 1,277
    "When it came time to drive and SL8 he dissed me" is the phrase I was referring to. I assumed you meant "drive AN SL8" not "and SL8" inferring that SL8 was the model. This was at the Jag dealer you mentioned.

    If you clean your own TB, make sure to have some rags or paper towels under the opening. Sometimes the cleaning stuff will roll back out. It is pretty flammable, so you don't want it leaking everywhere (although if it does, just give it time to evaporate). Also, I think it would dry out anything rubber like hoses or belts.
  • garnesgarnes Member Posts: 950
    RJS - thanks. I probably would have made the mess.

    Hey, I talked to Extreme Motor Sports - still no word on the cold air induction system.

    But - they said someone that works there just bought an Aurora classic that needed a new motor and they either dropped the 4.6 in it or are going to. It sounded like they did already. Anyway, I am writing them and will try to get whoever this person is to log on here and give us the details.

    Seems like if you take care of the engine it should go for a very long time. I don't see this happening for me.
  • dlcleavdlcleav Member Posts: 40
    I'm on my second Aurora. I purchased a '95 autobahn and drove it 160K miles before the tranny left me stranded. I then bought a '98 Eldorado ETC that I drove for 4 months before trading it on a '98 Aurora-autobahn. The '98 Aurora had 18K on it last July and now is approaching 47K. The only difference between an ETC and my Aurora is the Northstar 300hp. The Aurora's ride and handling (in my opinion)is far superior. I really wish Olds would've placed the full Northstar in the Aurora. Would've been a fantastic ride!!
  • HenryHenry Member Posts: 1,106
    Hello Gang, at one point there was a discussion going on as to how to get the entire rear panel of the Classic to light up when the breaks are pressed. More than a few of us was of the opinion that it would look great if the entire tail section would light-up and not just the ends.

    Did anybody ever find a way to do it??
  • rjs200240rjs200240 Member Posts: 1,277
    That would be something to see... Especially at night. I imagine you'd have to use LEDs as bulbs might not handle the impact of closing the trunk very well. LEDs are sort of expensive, though. Especially for as many as you'd need to stretch across the car...

    I noticed something 800watt said (perhaps on the GMForums Aurora board) about the Caddy performance board on GMForums. I went and checked it and they have some pretty good stuff. Much of the engine stuff would be somewhat applicable to classics, and any 2000+ Seville stuff might apply directly to the 2001+ Aurora as much is the same. I believe the suspension and brakes are pretty much the same as well (not the CVRSS/Magnaride). The Aurora uses a front stabilizer bar as thick as the STS (30mm; SLS is 28mm), and a rear that is in between the STS and SLS(22/20/18mm). Front brakes are almost the same size, with the Seville having slightly larger rears. The Aurora's 17" wheels are the same size (17x7.5) as the optional STS wheels. Tires on the optional STS wheels are the same Michelin Energys (unless you get extra optional Goodyear W-rated rubber on your STS). Anyways, you might find some interesting info there.

    I wonder if new pistons and cylinder bore sleeves (and probably injectors and PCM) could be used to make the 4.0 into a 4.6? It is only the bore that is different (dimensionally anyways, the crank and con-rods might be stronger in the 4.6). I also wonder what would happen if you dropped the STS's cams into an Aurora. Would the hp peak be worth the torque loss? And would it even get used? My car snaps shifts off at 5800 exactly. The 300hp Northstar doesn't peak until 6000 rpms...

    Garnes, if you are able to weight the wheels, I'd really be interested. Every time I see a Centerline magazine ad, I wonder how much the wheels weigh. They tout one of their forged alum. 17" wheels as being 13.5 lbs. while a "typical" cast alum. 17" wheel weighs 24.5 lbs. It makes me curious what my 17" wheels weigh.
  • 800wattaurora800wattaurora Member Posts: 187
    Corsa exhaust- They sell a kit to fit 2001+ Aurora's, but no kits for the classic 95-99. They will

    custom make an exhaust for anybody if you goto them in Cleveland. The new aurora's have the same exact exhaust setup is 2000+ seville's. He will sell me the mufflers and tips for $600. I've been talking to Jim Browning Jr. over at corsa. The mufflers are actually 3 mufflers, one behind the catalitic. At first he told me it's a 3 muffler system and I wrote back and ask whats with 3? Where's the cat go?

    He replied:

    Taylor,

    The center mufflers goes behind your stock cat, so it is emissions compliant.

    I have built a system for the same car...it is in my neighbors driveway, I think all they did was just to shorten the end of the Y-pipe to make it fit in the car. The hardest part for the system was going from the center muffler to the rear y-section.

    Have you looked under your car? If you want to buy the mufflers and tips,figure on $600.00

     -Jim

    There tips look nice, but checked out there site and they ask $150-175 per side. Ouch. I wrote him today to ask how much for the 3 mufflers only. I'll have some place good bend me the rest.


    This sound http://www.corsaperf.com/flashcadillac.htm coming from my classic Aurora?


    What's everbody think? Should I go through it? I need a custom exhaust to compliment the intake work. If no, what type of mufflers than?


    taylorsturf@attbi.com

    Taylor

    86 442 (stock 307 HO)

    96 Aurora

    White/tan

    tinted windows (all 5 at 30%)

    Wood dash kit

    xenon headlights & yellow fog

    Viper Alarm & remote start

    KILLER 800 WATT SYSTEM

        Alpine 7887 CD

        Boston Pro 6.5 Components

        Boston 6x9

        300.4 JL Audio 4 way

        500.1 JL Audio mono block Sub Amp

        2 10w3d4 JL Audio

        1 Farad Cap

        Monster cable all the way

        Custom Carpeted Install with JL Logo

    (FUTURE MODS)

    RSM intake kit, Throttle body, 1" torque plate, Front Strut Brace (IN THE MAIL)

    Custom Exhaust (CORSA????)

  • 800wattaurora800wattaurora Member Posts: 187
    sorry about the spacing, I'm going CRAZY!
    Taylor
  • rjs200240rjs200240 Member Posts: 1,277
    I think the tips are attached. I doubt they are charging you $175 per side for the tips. The exhaust is a cool grand for the 2001+ Aurora, so you're not really getting a bad deal (granted, it mounts right up for the 2001+). I say go for it. If nothing else, you can tell the rest of us how they sound. I think the Corsa would be the least sound intrusive aftermarket exhaust you could get. Isn't the third muffler just a resonator? Or doesn't it replace a resonator?

    I think the spacing is because you have a hyperlink. It seems that any hard return turns into an extra space once it does it's web parsing. Not sure why, but it only does that when links are present.
  • garnesgarnes Member Posts: 950
    RJS - yes that middle one is just the "resonator". I think it is basically just another muffler to help keep things quiet. Some other systems just eliminate it.

    800wattaurora - thanks for the additional info.
    My opinion is that if you spend 600, shoot, what's another 600 for the whole thing and have it installed by them? Just another angle.

    That is really a tempting way to do it. All I can say is that when I rode in the STS at Corsa it was totally quiet in the car at idle. It was totally quiet in the car when cruising around town at 30, 40, probably 50 or 60 too. Acceleration from the light was not that loud either. Cruising on the highway at 70/75 there was a slight "note" in the car. Nothing major. It was definitely in the background. No "drone" or anything. I'm sure Jim could give you someone to talk to at the Olds dealer just down the street from them. They did a 2001 with the Corsa. They could give you their thoughts. I've never driven around in a car with a performance exhaust for long periods, so I have no reference as to how likable the system would be. It's really subjective too - everybody is different. Oh yeah - when you floor it, man did it sound good. Not loud and blatty. It had a smooth quality about it. Very cool.

    QUESTION - given that Corsa says the STS gained 20HP at the wheels (Jim said they dyno'd with the system, without, and then with the system again) how much on an Aurora?? 14 or 15? I'd guess at least 10 at the wheels.

    If you just got their mufflers and attached it to the existing piping, how much of the gain would be realized? 75%???

    Any thoughts???

    You got me tempted again on this.

    Although the MAF was a flop, I'm confident that the K&N plus a Corsa system would put you around 270 HP.
  • garnesgarnes Member Posts: 950
    800watta - Just do the road trip!!! See the Indians when the White Sox are in town! Let me guess - Cubs fan.
  • silotwosilotwo Member Posts: 27
    I purchased my 95 almost one year ago, exceptional condition, one owner who was meticulous about everything, even the seats looked as if they had never been sat in. It was not detailed by the dealer after trade yet even the engine compartment was immaculate. Had 60,000 miles on it and I picked it up from the dealer for $9,100 cash with no trade. Their asking price was $11,400.

    I wouldn't let the 27k miles be the deal breaker, I'd check maintainence records, mine was serviced like clockwork at every 3K miles. In spite of all this, problems with the power windows and the cd player came about shortly after I bought it.

    If the little old lady's is truly in showroom condition and everything, I mean everything works I would offer around $8,000 to $9,500, regardless of condition the future value is going to be low.

    And of course, a lot depends on badly you want it, it is a fair bet that once you drive it, you're going to want it. :)
  • silotwosilotwo Member Posts: 27
    I rarely get the chance to drive the classic for long distances on the open road. But Easter Sunday I decided to let the wife and 2 of the kids head to grandma's house in the Silo, and I took one of the boys with me in the classic.

    She took the more direct lower miles to drive route, I took the almost all interstate 20 mile longer route. We decided to prove once and for all whether it was the route or the miles that made for a quicker trip.

    Well, I couldn't help but to cheat as soon as our routes split and the classic was on the open road.
    Luckily, even at 100 mph, my kid didn't "feel" like we were going fast, beat the wife to grandma's with 20 minutes to spare. Hid the car to let her gloat about how she is always right, then stepped into view and she realized she had been fried.

    I left earlier for home than they did so got to drive back alone. Had the tunes cranked up and doing a relaxed 75 to 80 when I spotted the greatest looking black car up ahead. It was a good excuse to feel the g's when I kicked the classic in to catch up to it. Turned out to be a BMW 850, which my BMW buddies tell me was a European only model that requires major retrofitting to meet US standards.

    The car was really hot looking and obviously had plenty of muscle. The classic and that 850 played tag for about 50 miles, it was a blast. I couldn't believe that the classic, which I considered to be a modern day lead sled, accelerated so quickly from 70mph to 100mph. The 850 couldn't pull on the classic and the classic felt extremely stable in high speed maneuvers.

    Not that this is a fair comparison, but it reminded me of my Porsche 911 in that the faster and harder I drove it, the better it performed. Not saying the classic is a Porsche by any means, but I sure was impressed with it's ability to move.

    I really liked the smiles and nods of approval I shared with the driver of the 850 when we rode side by side knowing the fun was over.

    Now I really want to pick up a 99 with autobahn as I wait for the 2002 4.0's to someday hit the market at "bargain of the century" prices.
  • rjs200240rjs200240 Member Posts: 1,277
    did not need any retrofitting. They were sold here at BMW dealerships just like any other Bimmer. The 850 has a V-12 while the 840 has a V-8. They were more lux/sport than sports car. They were too heavy to compete with Corvettes and Porsches and such, and were pretty expensive for the performance. The V-12 made about 295hp and 330lb-ft from about 5.6 liters. The car had a lot of tech-stuff, though, but was tuned more for luxury. They are neat looking, but were a bit of a flop for BMW. Actually, I raced one once in my 'vette. We stayed pretty even up to about 80mph (although I got screwed at our stoplight start when a car turned in front of me) at which point I backed off because we were going awfully fast, and also my turn was approaching.

    I've noticed that about the Aurora as well. Off the line it isn't that fast (unless you totally bury the pedal) but as speed picks up, it accelerates effortlessly. I just wish I spent more time on open roads (and bothered to hook up the Valentine 1). Thanks for sharing your experience with us. It is nice to hear those sorts of stories. What would you get out of upgrading to a 99 that your 95 wouldn't have (other than OnStar)?

    Garnes, assuming a similar % gain from the exhaust, the Aurora would gain 17 hp. However, I bet the gain would be a bit less as the STS's camming is probably more responsive to a freer exhaust. I don't think 800watt would give much up by not having the exhaust installed by Corsa (which means a road trip). I think it is the mufflers that free up the power. I don't believe they use larger tubing or anything. As long as he has a quality shop use quality stainless parts with good bending equipment it should be fine.
  • seegirtseegirt Member Posts: 9
    I am entertaining the opportunity of buying this guys 93 Volvo 940 Wagon with 63K on it. 63K on the 40 series volvo is barely broken in. The guy's been transferred by our company to Australia so he needs to get rid of his US purchased cars.
    The car is in outstanding condition and has most, if not all of the options Volvo offered at the time. Here's the dilemma: I buy the Volvo, I have to sell my 96 Autobahn fully optioned Aurora with
    86K. Now some of you guys remember some of my earlier posts, if not.....I bought my 96(light teal metallic) in June of 98 with 18K on it.

    I have replaced the OEM Michelins with Yokohoma Avid V4's.....great tires at a great price from tirerack.com.

    I have replaced the fuel pressure reg.
    -the A/C compressor(while still under warranty)
    -the EGR valve
    -1 tune up at 40K
    -Tranny flush,clean,fill

    Brakes etc...

    Beyond that, the car has been great but for 3 problems
    1.the SES light comes on rather routinely
    2.the passenger front door no longer power locks/unlocks...only manually(anyone know how to fix this???)
    3.it has consistently consumed a qt. of oil every 1200 miles since the 45K mark

    I figure I can get the Volvo for $7800 or less, if not I walk. I can sell my 96 for $8300 or so, it's in excellent condition and runs great but for the occasional SES light, which, as some of you guys have pointed out is more likely then not the 02 sensor.

    My logic here is to have a commuter mobile that will last 200K and be safe for the "new driver" in the house to use on weekends(my 15 year old kid gets her permit this summer). I know the Volvo's have a good safety reputation but the 93's do not have passenger side airbags.

    I really like the my 96. It makes my 72 mile/day commute a bit more tolerable.

    What do you guys think?
  • HenryHenry Member Posts: 1,106
    As has been shown, you can keep the Classic to 200K and beyond. However, do you really want to give a 250hp v8 to a new driver? My nephews faces light up at the thought of driving the aROARa as their car.

    Yes they want an SUV, but they will settle for the kick in the pants the cars gives you when you step on it at about 50mph. If the power is there, they will use it.

    The Auroara is one of the safest cars in its class. BUT, there is a lot less trouble a teenager can get into with a Volvo station wagon.

    Bottom Line: I would trade the Aurora (I don't know about getting $8,300) for a newer car with the passenger side air bags (Volvo S40 maybe). The station wagon would make her the "one with the car that fits everybody". How many of her friends do you want her to be driving around?

    IMHO

    Henri
  • rjs200240rjs200240 Member Posts: 1,277
    Just keep the Aurora and spend under $1000 for an 80's Caprice for your daughter. Those things are like tanks, and repairs are cheap (hell, most cosmetic damage doesn't even need to be repaired. It just adds to its toughness.) They have decent acceleration from the small block, and they could punch through a brick wall. There is a certain inherent safety that comes from mass and girth. I personally wouldn't drive a snore-mobile because my kids might want to drive it. (This might be a bit over-simplistic, but I just think Caprices are cool.)
  • vcjumpervcjumper Member Posts: 1,110
    How many parking lot fender benders might happen driving a huge Caprice.
  • 800wattaurora800wattaurora Member Posts: 187
    Don't think I'll be makin the trip to Cleveland for the Cosra intall? I've already gone to Cleveland once and caught at White Sox game on the road, visted the R&R museum, lame.

    I HATE THE CUBS ! Not only are they a lousy team but I work for the Offical printer of the Cubs. I'm a pressman and I personal print the daily programs and scheduels. I get so sick of looking at that STUPID CUBS LOGO ALL DAY. They are very picky on the print quality which leads to headaches and unwanted overtime, like my manditory 60 hour week isn't enough, I have to stay even later and run the freaking cubs programs because I'm waiting for the updated stats to come in, than go to nite school too. LONG WEEK. The good news is that were starting to print for the White Sox too, Lot's of Baseball trash talking at my work, All of us pressman HATE THE CUBS, but we love to TRASH TALK!

    In a sick way the the CUBS have helped me to afford to customize everthing for my AURORA
    Hum, I do like those overtime checks though.

    I think I'm doing pretty damn good for someone that just turned 21.
  • 800wattaurora800wattaurora Member Posts: 187
    Yes I personally print every scorecard for every home cubs game. I've got serious responsabilities at work. Not bad for 21.

    Anways back to cars.
  • 800wattaurora800wattaurora Member Posts: 187
    I'm looking to customize my Aurora. Your only young once, so I might as well go for it, the whole deal. My RSM stuff should come this week, can't wait to put it on and try it out. Unfortunitly I might wait to put it on for 2-4 weeks, the anticapation will kill me. I'm waiting because at my father's work (a vocational school), they just bought a brand new dyno machine at $20K+. Waiting for electricans and professional install. I probley will get dyno's for nothing or at a miniumal cost, but I have to wait till it's calibrated and running right. I don't want to wait though, I've been planing this intake work for forever now, I just want to do it and get it out of my system.


     Exhaust, The corsa system is problem my #1 choice except for the daily doubts on the loudness, it sounds great but will it ruin the luxury? A fellow white diamond driver on the Caddy pages, he went and put Dynomax turbo flow mufflers on. He's very happy with the sound, says he sits in the driveway sometimes just to listen to the exhaust, If I buy Corsa's or somebody elses mufllers, I'll do the samething, Vroom, Vroom. Reading on www.caddyinfo.com Dynomax has been recomended by several Northstar owners, Some put on flowmasters and thought it was too loud, changed to dynomax. Caddy info has got a nice section on exhaust recomenadtions and owners resposenes. Talking to RSM Racing they offer Saber muffler/exhaust on their Aurora for $895 installed in Tronoto. Not shippable because they custom make it. Talking to the owner of their Aurora, I ask him how quite it is and he laughs at me, It's not quite. It sounds like a small block coming at you, But it's free flowing and performance oriented. I told him loud isn't what I wanted and going to Canada was out of the question,so he told me his thoughts on Dynomax. Dynomax is owned by somebody else(can't think of name) the parent company makes most Stock GM exhaust and the bolt-on aftermarket exhaust too. Basicly their all the same with slight improvements in quality with a differnt logo stamped on it, it's slightly higher quality than stock, not his #1 recomendation, he said found somebody else who is high quality independant exhaust company, they use Saber. So I searched for somebody other than DynoMax who is my #2 choice, I found Corsa next. Thats about it though. One Eldorado driver put on Ravin mufflers through Midas and he says he loves the sound too. Checked into Midas and they do recomend Ravin 77's (there quitess performance muffler) but they wouldn't bend me a custom exhaust, just swap mufflers, telling me that it wouldn't be OBD-II compliant. Screw them if they don't know what there doing. Called a local hot rod shop by my house, they said YEAH We can bend you any kind of exhaust you want and still pass emmisions and agree with OBD II, we do it all the time. Come on in and will put it on the lift and show you your options. Plan on going there after I get my intake on.

    They know what there doing. They also offer dyno's at $100 an hour $80 for the second, Think i'll hold out for the school's dyno.


     As far as the second thoughts on Corsa's great sounding exhaust, http://www.corsaperf.com/flashcadillac.htm they put on corsas exhaust on Tim Allen's custom 398HP Deville and he didnt' know if he liked it either, he ask's his partner, Does it sound alright for a caddy? check it out http://www.caranddriver.com/xp/Cara...tures_allen.xml second thoughts, Dynomax setup would cost a lot less than $400 on Corsa mufflers alone? Hum? The tips are nice looking in the picture and I bet are very high quality but $100+ per tip is outragous to me, I'll find the knock offs, same style for the most part. Going to call RSM and ask about thier tips? http://webhome.idirect.com/%7Ersm1/aurexh.jpg The double tips is what I like with the round lip, like GTX's.

                             Responses to my second thoughts?

                             Taylor/800wattAurora

    Taylor

    86 442 (stock 307 HO)

    96 Aurora

    White/tan

    tinted windows (all 5 at 30%)

    Wood dash kit

    xenon headlights & yellow fog

    Viper Alarm & remote start

    KILLER 800 WATT SYSTEM

        Alpine 7887 CD

        Boston Pro 6.5 Components

        Boston 6x9

        300.4 JL Audio 4 way

        500.1 JL Audio mono block Sub Amp

        2 10w3d4 JL Audio

        1 Farad Cap

        Monster cable all the way

        Custom Carpeted Install with JL Logo

    (FUTURE MODS)

    RSM intake kit, Throttle body, 1" torque plate, Front Strut Brace (just ordered, IN THE MAIL)

    Custom Exhaust

  • 800wattaurora800wattaurora Member Posts: 187
    More customizing: I also plan on getting a spoiler for my Aurora, and than later putting on Razzi's ground effects. Need to save a bit though. Having trouble picking out a spoiler?


     Whats everyone think? Which one, everone please vote?

               1. http://www.spoilers4less.com/bcusstylrear1.html I think this is the one?

               2. http://www.wingswest.com/index3.html

               3. http://www.ptautopizzaz.com/wcolds.html


    Razzi kit picts: The Razzi kit will look nice on my white 96 Aurora with exahust like this.

                   http://www.razzi.com/vehicles/oldsm..._4dr_2121_1.jpg

                   http://www.razzi.com/vehicles/oldsm..._4dr_2121_2.jpg This is the exhaust tip style I'm looking for, don't like this spoiler.


          What's the Verdict?


                             taylorsturf@attbi.com

                             Taylor/800wattAURORA

  • 800wattaurora800wattaurora Member Posts: 187
    More customizing: I also plan on getting a spoiler for my Aurora, and than later putting on Razzi's ground effects. Need to save a bit though. Having trouble picking out a spoiler?


              Whats everyone think? Which one, everone please vote?

                             1. http://www.spoilers4less.com/bcusstylrear1.html (I think this is the one?)

                             2. http://www.wingswest.com/index3.html

                             3. http://www.ptautopizzaz.com/wcolds.html


    Razzi kit picts: The Razzi kit will look nice on my white 96 Aurora with exhaust like this.

                             http://www.razzi.com/vehicles/oldsm..._4dr_2121_1.jpg

                             http://www.razzi.com/vehicles/oldsm..._4dr_2121_2.jpg

    This is the exhaust tip style I'm looking for, don't like the little arch spoiler from razzi.


               What's the Verdict?


    taylorsturf@attbi.com

    Taylor/800wattAURORA

  • 800wattaurora800wattaurora Member Posts: 187
    Anyone know why sometimes my posts go space crazy and/or double post?

    rjs200240- whats that hyperlink thing your talking about? anybody know why?
  • rjs200240rjs200240 Member Posts: 1,277
    The spoilers4less and PT auto pizzaz looked exactly the same to me. The wings west link didn't bring up an Aurora spoiler. The Razzi links didn't work because you didn't get the whole link. The "..." is the tip-off. It was probably truncated to be displayed in a smaller sized text box. Some browsers do that. If you make a shortcut or get the page properties, you can probably get the whole link there. I pulled up the Aurora bodykit from their site, though. It looks pretty neat. I wouldn't do it to my car, but it's cool. Actually, the spoiler shown with the kit might go better with the ground effects. It's a bit importy, and looks like a spoiler off an Eclipse Turbo or something but more subdued. The flatter spoiler might not look quite right with the more aggresive kit.

    Actually, I was thinking that with the kit, rectangular shaped exhaust tips might look better. The cutout is perfectly rectangular in that body kit. You could probably buy some chromed ones for an LT-1 Corvette/Camaro for cheapish.

    The Corsa on Tim Allen's car was much larger than stock sized piping. Plus, the car had headers and a rather radically tuned engine. The Corsa you would get would have stock-sized plumbing and wouldn't be nearly as loud. From the Caddyinfo comments and the responses from Corsa, I would guess (like you said) your choices are Dynomax, Corsa, and Ravin. To me, the Corsa's would be the most exotic and the most finely developed, and you have some idea what they will sound like from the website. Plus, they are straight-through instead of baffled. I don't think they will be racously loud, though (although I don't know). Garnes's experience should be a good help. I think the real gains with the Dynomax come when people step up to larger exhaust pipe diameters with the Dynomax muffler, which would make it a bit louder than just a muffler replacement. Plus, it's more affordable. I'm sure the Dynomax would be a fine muffler, especially if you wanted to save some money. Plus, if you hated them then it wouldn't be much wasted money. The Ravins seem weird to me because they come from Midas. I really hate Midas because they always tried to sell me on crap by saying they were legally obligated to perform certain work, or that my car wasn't up to legal specs... Like if I didn't fork over the cash they'd have me arrested. I just don't like the way they do business. Their prices are pretty high too, especially for the mediocre quality brakes and mufflers they install. The Ravin 77's are suggested for trucks and SUVs with a "rich, mellow tone". To me, that means a Flowmaster-like sound. More tough than tuned. Don't get me wrong, Flowmasters sound appropriate on Camaros and Mustangs and Impala SSs, but I don't think they have a more "exotic" sound that would be more appropriate on DOHC engines. It's hard to explain sounds in writing, but I think you know what I mean. Listen to the Corsa Corvette Pace Car sound which comes out of a large-displacement pushrod, and then listen to the Flowmaster sound on a Corvette C5 (go to www.flowmastermufflers.com and then click Products->Corvette Mufflers->Play Video. They will have some sounds of it running at the beginning and end). The Flowmaster sounds nice, but it is a different kind of sound. Deeper and lower whereas the Corsa sounds more exotic.

    If you want vault-like quiet when cruising, then you probably shouldn't mess with the exhaust at all. If you don't mind a slight sound coming through, then all three would probably be ok. I guess it just depends on what type of sound you want, and how much you want to spend.

    I don't know why posting a link spaces everything out, but it sure seems to do that. It puts an extra space after each hard return. You can go in and edit your post afterwards and remove them, though. All in all, I would say use the shorter signature. I mean, by now we all know what mods your car has... :)
  • 800wattaurora800wattaurora Member Posts: 187
    Thanks for your imput, I appreciate it a lot.

    I total agree with ALL or your comments. The Corsa system is definitly a tuned "exotic" sounding exhaust. The DOHC plays a big part, listing to there Vet system, it sounds good untill it reaches highest RPM's, than it gets too high pitched for me for a Vet, but that sound that bothers me, is only at the Highest RPM on the Vet, which is I'm sure is higher than any Aurora and Caddys, so that sound shouldn't be there on Northstar's. It's definetly very cool sounding, but sounds loud thorugh my cheep computer speakers. Still contemplating on the Dynomax or Corsa system, mainly over $cost$. I think I could live with the sound, but this will be my first custom exhaust. As far as the "Vault-like crusing" It's very nice and re-ashures me that this is a luxury car, BUT I'VE GOT 800 WATT OF HIGH SOUND QUALITY. Just a nother notch louder on my Alpine. This re-asures me that I probably won't hear the slight increase in noise at cruising speed anyways since my stereo is always on. (Hum, makes me think)
    Good point on the Tim Allen exhaust, about the headers, larger pipes, etc. Makes me think more.

    800wattAURORA
  • HenryHenry Member Posts: 1,106
    Thanks for deleting the "specs signature" from your postings.

    Henri

    By the way I always wanted to put Focal speaker in my Classic but I can not justify the cost. Particulary since I need to keep the stock headend in order to keep all of my Aurora functions.
  • HenryHenry Member Posts: 1,106
    I did try to buy a spare Aurora radio from ebay, but all I suceeded in doing was losing $60.00. After sending them my check, I NEVER received my radio or the requested refund of my money.

    Henri
  • hammen2hammen2 Member Posts: 1,284
    OK, I know it will take me weeks to catch up with Henry, but my '98 Aurora's in the shop tonight. It hit 88 degrees here in the upper Midwest today, and, when I tried to use my AC at lunchtime (left it on for about 10 minutes), it didn't cool the car (downside to a black/black car :-(. I also noticed the temperature gauge creeping up from a tick under 200 to over 220. I shut the AC off and hurried back to work (no idiot lights came on).

    Had my wife meet me at work after work to follow me the 10 minutes to the dealer (temp stayed fine with the AC off). Bottom line: the clutch on my AC compressor is seized (it was sparking! and thus raising the underhood temp). I suspect they'll have to replace both the clutch and the compressor. This will be my first use of my extended warranty I purchased (1SourceAutoWarranty) and will probably almost recoup what I paid out for it :-).

    --Robert
    who has put 4 tires, front and rear brake pads, new serpentine and water pump belts, an air filter, and a fuel filter on his baby in the last month.

    P.S. I'm now getting water leakage into the right rear of the trunk (the carpet is wet under the CD changer, next to the power antenna - water drips out the bottom of the spare tire well). I had a mechanic friend clean out the drain tube from the power antenna - I don't think there's a leak in the trunk - but it was still damp after last night's rains. Time to put some newspaper in the trunk before it rains, to see where it's coming in...
  • dlcleavdlcleav Member Posts: 40
    I've briefly searched the prior messages for tire comments and found the Yokohama AVID V4 as a logical replacement for the stock Michelin's. Does anyone else have a comment about a decent replacement or should I stay with the Michelin MXV4?

    Dave
  • hammen2hammen2 Member Posts: 1,284
    I put Dunlop SP Sport A2's on my Aurora a little less than a month ago. I've had several opportunities to drive in snow (#!@#!@ late spring) and rain, and it's a night-and-day difference over the Michelin MXV's that were on my Autobahn '98.

    These tires are pretty good in the snow (I no longer engage the traction control every time I'd try to slowly creep forward through an intersection, from a stop) and absolutely fantastic in the rain - the best rain traction that I've ever had with a car. Ride comfort is pretty good, and handling is excellent (they provide good grip when the car is pushed hard in cornering - no sidewall flex at speed). They've totally changed my outlook on the handling of the Aurora (I knew the MXV's I had were junk from sitting for a year).

    I looked at tirerack.com at the Yokohama's. I believe they were a bit cheaper than the Dunlops, but did not get nearly the same user ratings for dry, rain and snow traction, handling, ride comfort, treadlife, and wear (the Dunlops have a 50k tread warranty - the Yokos 45k). I'd consider the Dunlops very strongly were I in your shoes...

    Hope this helps,

    --Robert

    P.S. Of course I'm not affiliated with Tire Rack or Dunlop :-)
  • nne3jxcnne3jxc Member Posts: 134
    I just posted a message under the Modifications section of the Aurora board about the Dunlop A2's and Struts I just put on my 95.
  • garnesgarnes Member Posts: 950
    RJS - the shipping cardboard box shows 44 lbs for two rims. The cardboard is pretty beefy, so I'd guess the 17 x 7.5's are 20 lbs - maybe 21. I can't wait to put them on the 98 - should look very cool.

    800watta, RJS:

    Corsa exhaust - When I visited, Jim Browning told me they have since refined the Caddy exhaust system after the Tim Allen 398 HP deville. The ones they are selling now are supposed to be quieter than Tim's.

    Again - I just heard a slight note while cruising at 70 to 75. I decided to go with the vault quiet sound for now. If you call Jim, he can give you another reference or two. He gave me one and the guy was very helpful.

    Oh, even Lingenfelter (spelling?) uses Corsa on the Corvettes. Impressive.

    Hope this helps.
  • rjs200240rjs200240 Member Posts: 1,277
    http://media.gm.com/news/releases/020416_opelp1.html

    The release is clearly targeted at a european audience. Still, I thought some of the tips were amusing.

    "Using only 75 percent of the vehicle's top speed is also economical. It results in fuel savings of up to 50 percent with only a negligible loss of time"

    I guess this means I should try to cruise around 100-102mph for optimal fuel economy. I mean, really, I'd get there almost as soon as if I were going 135mph and it's much more relaxing...
  • dlcleavdlcleav Member Posts: 40
    Thanks hammen2 & nne3jxc. I did check out the tire comments on the Aurora modification board. This is the 2nd autobahn I've owned and have never replaced the tires with anything other than the Michelin's. My current '98 (Diamond White / Shale) has 47K miles and my original tires are about shot. My first autobahn ('95 black / black) went 160K miles on 3 sets of Michelins. I've always thought the car rode nice but I'm ready to try a different tire now to see if handling can be improved as well as the vibration at 70-75 mph. The only thing I ever found that helped that vibration was rotating the tires every other oil change. I currently drive 80 miles a day. Thanks for the info...I'm heading to tirerack.com!
  • hammen2hammen2 Member Posts: 1,284
    FYI, I have the same 70-75 mph vibration. I believe that some people here have posted that a "four wheel forced balance" will smooth out the vibration. I noticed it still with the SP Sport A2's (perhaps not as bad) right away, the first time I left the tire shop. This tells me it's not a tire problem, but likely a wheel, alignment, or suspension issue.

    I think that's the next thing I'll tackle. As soon as I get done making all of these repairs/doing maintenance items, I hope my baby runs for a few months with no issues.

    My service tech called me today to confirm that the A/C compressor "grenaded" (his term), leaving bits of itself inside the A/C system. They think they can flush it out. Fortunately the warranty company appears to have authorized the repair, no problem. Had I not had the warranty, I'd be looking at a $1k repair (yet another reason to recommend the extended warranty, which I paid just a little over $1100 for with $0 deductible - it's almost paid for itself already). Assuming the parts come in tomorrow, I should have her back Thursday night or sometime Friday...

    Waiting for my ride home,

    --Robert
  • HenryHenry Member Posts: 1,106
    I was thingkinabout the teenage question some more and I have to now agree with te Chevy Caprice option. The car is no more difficult to drive than the wagon, its cheap to buy and maintain. And its a tank. Also, as an added benefit other drivers will prbably drive more cautiously around her because they will think its an unmarked police car.

    IMHO

    Henri

    P.S. YOu also get to keep the Aurora!
  • nne3jxcnne3jxc Member Posts: 134
    As several people have found, posting long internet addresses into messages can be a problem. However, you can post them as a "link" instead of just a pasted address by using the HTML code.

    The code is:

     < a href=pasted-internet-address >displayed-text< /a >

    Which will let you replace (using CNN as an example):

    http://www.cnn.com

    with this:

    CNN Web Site

    In real life, you have this: (to use the Razzi Body kit example that someone posted the other day)
    Razzi Aurora pic

    I had to add spaces after each "<" and before each ">" in the HTML code example above so that you would be able to see it (and not have the message system "interpret" it -- you will have to REMOVE those spaces for it to work.
    Hope this helps.

    PS: The double spacing occurs because the system automatically adds a "paragraph" command to each line when you use an internet address or HTML code, because it switches the message type from text to HTML -- unless you edit them out like I did :-)
  • rjs200240rjs200240 Member Posts: 1,277
    Here is that article on computer chips:
    Chips Ahoy!

    Thans nne3jxc
  • patpat Member Posts: 10,421
    But you can still get smacked by that limit.

    Read pat "Lost in the Town Hall? Ask the Sedans Host for directions!" Apr 13, 2002 10:25am which is a long-winded version of nne3jxc's post :-) and how and when to use the Spell Checker.

    The html stuff that gets added ~sometimes~ to your post means that the software has automatically added "target=_blank" to your link so that it will open in a new window. My experience is that if I put that in there myself, it doesn't get added NOR does all that spacing garbage happen that I too edit out.

    No real knowledge of that ... just my experience!

    Any questions, just post there!

    Pat
    Sedans Host
  • autobahn95autobahn95 Member Posts: 62
    just out of curiosity, i clicked on that Razzi Aurora link to see what would come up. i have to admit, the ground effects look great on that car!
    but what made even more of an impression on me were the rims on that ride!!
    does anyone know how i can find out what brand and style rims those are? they sure look great!
    thanks
  • javidoggjavidogg Member Posts: 366
    Hello there, well looking at those rims they look like those ARE's (American Racing) there okay, but try the Lexani's website, that's got I what 18 inch Lexani Romas, on Nitto eXtreme NT555 tires, well peace.
  • docjohndocjohn Member Posts: 5
    Can anyone describe to me how to remove the trim panel that surrounds the radio, climate control and "Driver's information center" in a 2001 Aurora?
    (The "smoked" plastic screen over the display of the "Driver's information center" has become so dusty and streaked from behind that I can barely see it in bright sunlight. I need to remove to to get it clean.)
    THANKS!
  • hlcaurorahlcaurora Member Posts: 2
    Docjohn, I own a 2001 Aurora (4.0), for which I also purchased the GM Service Manuals. According to the Service Manuals, the center trim panel surrounding the radio and climate controls is merely "snapped" in. To remove it, very carefully pull out the center panel to release it from the snap retainers. Be careful not to scratch or damage the wood trim! I am not sure if the DIC lens is part of the display itself or affixed to the center panel. Also, when you clean the plastic lens, use a soft cotton cloth as paper towel fibers will scratch the plastic lens. Hope this helps.

    PS-I thoroughly enjoy this car!
  • buckeyefanbuckeyefan Member Posts: 1
    I NEVER expected to be posting here. I have two other cars, a 2001 Toyota Rav 4 and a new Nissan "Z" on order, expected to arrive in August. I decided to sell my '89 Caddy DeVille to a friend and buy another car that would be good for hauling friends and driving cross country. I didn't want to spent a bundle.

    One day I saw an Olds Aurora in a used car lot and decided to drive it for the heck of it. Well that was a BIG mistake. I couldn't get over the solidity of the car, the blast off of the Northstar, the dazzling array of computer controls and every gadget known to man in the "cockpit." I fell head over heels.

    To make a long story short, I located a '95 Aurora owned previously (one owner) by a Parson (no kidding). Having learned the problems with these models by reading the posts here, I got his phone number from the Dealer and called him up. Turns out he had replaced the engine at 25,000 miles and the transmission at 52,000, all the struts and shocks, the plug and wires, the transaxle fluids, the $600 multi-function switch in the steering column, put brand new Michelin Pilots on it, replaced the air conditioning compressor, etc. In sum, he had already made all the typical repairs this car needs.

    I own the car now and have replaced the right-front CV joint, the body carriage bushings and some engine mount/suspension stabilizer bar bushings, balanced and aligned the car. I've cleaned and detailed it to the point an already new looking car looks ready for the showroom.

    Man, I can't keep myself from taking this baby out for joy rides. The acceleration of this Northstar engine is incredible, and the ride is even better.

    BTW, the leveling system (compressor and sensor) were both kaput, so I bypassed them with a T-jack to the truck and now I pump up the rear shocks (recently new) by myself. They hold air beautifully and the ride is much better than it was previously.

    This is enough foaming at the mouth. Anyone identify with this enthusiasm? I LOVE this car!
  • zinc1zinc1 Member Posts: 133
    Hey guys. In case you didn't see 'em all, there be more pics on that site.

    Razzi1

    Razzi2

    Razzi3

    Razzi4

    Razzi5
  • 800wattaurora800wattaurora Member Posts: 187
    ZINC 1- Thanks for the extra pics. How ya been? Haven't heard from you in a while.

    I emailed Razzi asking for high res. pics to show my paints shop for a quote and they sent me 2 picts of their kit that I haven't seen before, on a BLK Aurora in a field. It also has a spoiler I've never seen before, too bad it's ugly, looks like Zinc's post # 5. How can I post this picts sitting here on my hard drive for you all to see? My picts will be coming shortly.

    Thinking about only getting 3/4 on Razzi's kit, not the front piece for my white 96. I like the 2-tone look, plus the picts on Zinc's site of 2 different white aurora's with GFX, I don't like the front pice and the black line seperating kit/body. Whats everyone think?

    RSM update. Turns out that 1in. torque plate is only available for 95's cause OBD I. Asked for their dyno numbers and they said that their intake kit and larger throttle body are +19 HP. My parts will be ready next week, waiting for strut tower bar to be made.

    Exhaust: Think I'll go with the Corsa mufflers. Haven't decided what tips to put on it yet.

    800 Watt Aurora
  • musclecar97musclecar97 Member Posts: 111
    Buckeye - We feel the love man.

    Zinc - What did you get to replace the Aurora and how does it compare?
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