N00b!

[Farren]

Hi guys! I'm new here, and after lurking a bit I figured I might as well say hello. I just moved to Florida from Texas, and since I'm going back to school (for the 2nd time!) I had to sell my new car (can't afford a note AND tuition) and search for a cheap, reliable, inexpensive used car. So naturally, I got a corolla. What I ended up with is a 1997 Corolla CE. (I don't really know about the CE- that's just what is on the badge on the trunk.) It is the 1.6 with a 5 speed, 130k miles aaaaand....neon frickin' yellow! I picked it up for $1100, so naturally it needs a bit of work- though for the price I payed, I am pretty impressed. EVERYTHING still works. Well, with the exception of the power steering pump. I will throw some pics of it up soon, but first- I have questions!

The car squeeks over bumps, from the front. I am fairly certain that the struts are OEM, and at 130k miles, they are undoubtedly shot. What are good replacements, and what are the chances of my springs being ok?

My drivers seat cushion isn't ripped or anything, but it is in pretty sad shape. There isn't a lot of "cushion" left in it. Anyone know where to get a replacement?

[PhatRoyale]

Welcome to Toyotanation!

Try this on all 4 corners of your Corolla, if it does this then your struts are shot. Good replacements can be found on ebay, I would recommend KYB-GR2.

You Tube

You Tube

Springs usually can be reused if they aren't sagging excessively. Pics of your car will be needed to judge the condition really. Squeaking over bumps may mean that your sway bar bushings need replacement or just a good greasing down.

Replacement seats can be found at your local junkyard by searching using car-part.com

[kickfli12]

yeah, what phatroyale said. and, as far as your power steering pump goes, i have one laying in my garage ill sell you if you want it. make sure it is the pump though, your belt may just need tightening. have you completely lost power steering?

[Farren]

Thanks for the welcome! I'll have to check my struts tomorrow when I head out.

Originally Posted by kickfli12

yeah, what phatroyale said. and, as far as your power steering pump goes, i have one laying in my garage ill sell you if you want it. make sure it is the pump though, your belt may just need tightening. have you completely lost power steering?

Lol oh yeah, the pump is beyond dead. I cut the belt off when I bought the car- the previous owner somehow managed to let all the fluid leak out, so the pump ran dry for a week or so, making a god-awful "dear god kill me now" whine. How the pulley was even still spinning is a mystery to me. I'll send a PM about that pump! Thanks!