Hi, My name is Mike, and I'm called Mr.Boots because I have a giant collection of western boots. I have owned Spiders in the distany past (pre19yo daughter), and I've decided to buy a Spider for a "Sunday" car. Not as a second childhood, but because I've always wanted to get another one. I'm looking for a "garage queen" that will never see a rainy day, and I think I've found one.
It's an '83 in fantastic shape (16,000 mi). It belongs to a collector who rarely drives it. It was recently given a NYS Inspection, and easily passed the emissions part with good numbers. One tiny, tiny rust bubble under the paint on a rear fender by the top of the wheelwell. It has an aftermarket AC that needs re-charging. No noticeable oil leaks that I can see.
Can you give me some pointers on what I should look for and detect that could be problems down the road? Any deal killers that I should be aware of? I'm test driving it tomorrow or as soon as there is a dry day as the owner would take it out of the garage unless it is dry.
It has been 20 years sinc I've owned a Spider, so I appreciate any help that you could give me.
Thanks in advance,
Mike
Hi. Newbie here who needs some advice.
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So Cal Mark
not sure what you consider a deal killer, but even with that low mileage many parts will deteriorate due to age once you start driving it regularly.
As for deal killers, I'd inspect the underside for serious rust and look at the front crossmember for cracks at the mounting points to the unibody. Other than that, the rest is just maintenance or replacing worn parts IMHO.
As for deal killers, I'd inspect the underside for serious rust and look at the front crossmember for cracks at the mounting points to the unibody. Other than that, the rest is just maintenance or replacing worn parts IMHO.
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jacksplace