It sounds worse when you put it that way. 
It sounds worse when you put it that way.
The car got a new brake master cylinder and alternator this week. I'd wanted to do the jobs myself but directed that energy and time to another project car, our 2002 Saab 9-5 Aero wagon. The Z is for sale, hosting a few pics here for an interested party. Sorry the pics are so low-quality, I can re-shoot the car this Wednesday, my next day off.
These are new seat covers from Al Knoch Interiors. They are the correct pattern and construction, the most noticeable difference from stock being they have a smooth surface instead of the slight pebble grain from the factory. I installed them myself. With a little patience the fit could be improved a little but I haven't taken the time yet. There are no marks or scuffs on the seats, some foreign materials show in the pictures but the covers are new.
The brake master cylinder still had good pedal but an internal seal failed, making the brake fluid pressure switch "wet" and causing a leak at the switch. Unfortunately the switch body was brittle and breaking, so a new one was needed. New switches are NLA but I found an NOS one from a vendor in Florida.
What is left? Small stuff, mostly. The driver-side window regulator is worn beyond the range of adjustability and should be replaced. It rattles, unfortunately. The part is very available for well under $100. I would replace the rear U-joints sometime. I have replacement stock '94 mufflers ready to tame the exhaust sound. They are on hold for now.
Waxed the car and went for a drive in the country Sunday. A creaking squeak caused by contact between the passenger door panel and the dash reminded me that I hate squeaks and rattles. Just 22 cents bought a sheet of closed cell foam from Walmart. It’s now adhered to the dash with rubber cement for easy future removal and the annoying squeak is no more. In other news, I’ve also decided to keep the Z for now and continue enjoying it.
That is a great looking ride. Love the red seats, they are timeless.
"In other news, I’ve also decided to keep the Z for now and continue enjoying it. "
After seeing these photos, I knew you'd come to your senses.
Stopped off to turn around at a lakeside trailhead / picnic area, then did a good pull through second gear and let the tach swing up toward 6,000. Not sure what terminal velocity is in 2nd but can confirm it’s north of 70.
Dat sound.
Had pretty much decided to keep it by then but knew it was the right decision after the drive.
I love this thread and learning about this specific car and engine. I know what you mean about the 32V V8 sound. While not the same grade of car as your ZR-1, I love my 97 SVT Cobra and the sound of that engine at 6,000 RPM and above. I have straight pipes (i.e. no mufflers) after the cats, and it wails pretty good at high RPM.
Don’t sell your Cobra short, that’s a sweet sounding mill and every SVT is special.
Thanks and no worries, I love the Cobra. I just meant that when new, the ZR-1 package alone cost about the same as the Cobra. Your car has a lot of cool tech in it for the 90's.
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