1982 PLYMOUTH SAPPORO

Typical onset: 70,000-110,000 mi

Symptoms: Rattling noise from front of engine on cold start, Metallic grinding that increases with RPM, Check engine light or loss of power if chain jumps timing, Metal shavings in oil filter

Fix: The 2.6L 'Astron' engine has dual balance shafts with their own timing chain system that wears prematurely. Requires front engine disassembly, replacement of balance shaft chain, tensioners, guides, and main timing chain while you're in there. 8-12 hours labor depending on seized bolt issues.

Estimated cost: $1,200-2,200

Symptoms: Rough idle that won't adjust with mixture screws, Hesitation on acceleration, Black smoke from exhaust, Stalling when warm, Poor fuel economy (sub-18 MPG)

Fix: The feedback carburetor system uses vacuum solenoids and a primitive computer that fail frequently. Diaphragms crack, solenoids stick. Full carburetor rebuild with feedback system components runs 4-6 hours. Many techs convert to manual choke non-feedback carb from earlier model year for reliability.

Estimated cost: $450-900

Symptoms: Bubbling paint under rear window seal, Rust holes in lower quarter panels behind wheels, Water leaks into cargo area, Trunk floor rust-through

Fix: These coupes trap moisture in the rear hatch seal channels and quarter panel seams. Surface rust becomes structural quickly. Proper repair requires cutting out rust, welding patches, and resealing. 12-20 hours for both quarters plus materials.

Estimated cost: $1,800-3,500

Typical onset: 90,000-140,000 mi

Symptoms: Blue smoke puff on startup after sitting overnight, Blue smoke during deceleration, Oil consumption 1 quart per 1,000 miles, Fouled spark plugs on cylinders 1 and 4

Fix: Valve stem seals harden and crack. Can be replaced without head removal using compressed air method, but many shops pull the head for peace of mind and to check for other wear. In-car: 6-8 hours. Head off: 10-14 hours including resurface.

Estimated cost: $600-1,400

Typical onset: 80,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: Growling or humming from rear that increases with speed, Vibration through chassis at highway speeds, Wheel wobble visible when car is on lift, Hot wheel hub after driving

Fix: Rear wheel bearings are press-fit into the axle housing and fail from age and lack of lubrication. Requires axle removal, bearing press work, and sometimes axle housing damage if bearing spun. 3-5 hours per side including axle seal replacement.

Estimated cost: $400-750

Symptoms: No-start condition with cranking but no spark, Stalling when engine is hot, restarts when cool, Intermittent dying while driving, No check engine codes, all other systems check OK

Fix: The distributor pickup coil (reluctor) fails from heat cycling, especially in warmer climates. Part is NLA from Chrysler; must source Mitsubishi equivalent or aftermarket. Distributor removal and installation: 1.5-2.5 hours. Many techs keep a spare in the glovebox.

Estimated cost: $250-450