I am thinking sometime in September I am going to start looking for one is 1-2000.00 a good starting point? Does not have to run just hoping for something fairly solid to start with running does not matter as I am going to possibly go with a 302. Anyway are there any typical problem areas I should check when I am looking. Any tips or pointers on buying would be great.
Hello, I am pretty new to these cars, but I bought a 72 Comet, and THEN started research So you are doing good! Mine was in the middle of your price range, with an engine that runs good and a new battery, and decent enough tires to drive it home. I would definitely ask to pull up the carpet over the front floorboards of what car you look at, and see if it has rust, which is indicative of a leaky cowl. I should have done that, because mine has a fair amount of rust and I would have beat the seller down on price more if I had known. The only real work I have done so far is to pull the interior, and begin gathering replacement components for what is too worn to keep. So far, that entails arm rests, the dash pad, and I have decided to replace the carpet too. The bench seat will need an upholstery job if I keep it instead of finding bucket seats. I have not had a hard time finding these parts, but they add up bit by bit. So take a survey of what you think you will want to replace to get it where you want it. Jonathan
Being that you are in Michigan, checking for rust should be your top priority. These cars are prone to corrosion in the lower quarters and the lower cowl area. Also, check the frame rails, get under any car you're considering with a flashlight and take a good look. If you see any rust, realize that the stuff you can see is probably hiding a lot you cant. Be objective, chasing rust can kill a lot of enthusiasm for these neat little cars. If you can afford it think about trying to find a car outside of the rust belt. The members here will help you as best as they can in your search. Good Luck and welcome to the club!
Yeah I am almost certain I will not get one in Mi, I was thinking Ky, Tennessee area something like that and just renting a car hauler and going on a road trip. I would rather spend the money on hauling it rather than buying something that needs frame work behond my abilities. My wife has family in the Paducah Ky area.
Keep looking online,you`ll eventually see one you like,stay away from heavy snow areas where they use a lot of salt.
I've had friends buy cars in California, and have them shipped to Detroit, fairly reasonably. Then we just drive them from there. Even Kentucky and Tennessee cars can have rust, I have one from Arkansas and it's rusty in places my California car wasn't. Just buy the best car you can afford.
I bought my car in California and had it shipped back to Michigan. If I remember right the shipping was ~$1000. It was definetely worth it to not have to deal with as much rust.
