Just bought a '97 SE 5spd-loaded this weekend. Love it. The car has 100k miles but feels and looks brand new. The suspension doesnt feel loose at all. I was out driving around trying to get a feel for the car. I peeled out of first and it scared the crap out of me because the wheel hop was so bad. The whole front end was pounding. Is this normal? How do you get rid of it?

 

It happens sometimes. Try not to do it too much as it can cause early engine mount failure.

 

New engine mounts, firmer suspension, and smoother shifting will help...not much though. It's just a problem with a FWD platform that has lots of torque.

 

Oh okay. I just wanted to make sure that something wasnt wrong with the car since I just got it. Thanks for the replies.

One other thing I noticed is that when I start it in the morning the belt (or something) squeeks momentarily. Will belt dressing fix this? I know the belts and alternator were replaced very recently.

 

I just replaced my alternator last week. When I started it up for the first time, the belt squeaked for a split second. I turned it off and tightened the tensioner a half-turn. Started up the car again, squeak was gone. Try tightening the tensioner a half-turn or so.

 

Thanks Ill give it a try.