Thinking of buying - what should I look out for

**lchesnin** · #1 (**permalink**) 02-23-2005, 12:40 PM

I'm going to look at a '64 2600 Sprint soon. Before I jump in over my head I am asking for advice on what to look for and look out for on the car. It's been in storage for some time, is supposed to be complete but not driveable. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

**tubut** · #2 (**permalink**) 02-23-2005, 03:02 PM

This may be of help: http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/...0/message/2443

Obviously, there are the mechanicals need checking: engine, gearbox, differential.

The worm-and-roller steering boxes are prone to wear. Replacement worm-and-roller parts are available in Italy and cost about USD 500.

Be aware that the front quarter window seals are not available for 2600 Sprints.

Alfajack · #3 (**permalink**) 02-23-2005, 04:43 PM

The Sprints were very prone to rust, so check the body carefully. The floors, rockers, wheel arches, etc. are all likely places

Lots of these cars are full of bondo, bring your refrigerator magnet to check if those nice looking rockers are metal or not.

AJ

dretceterini · #4 (**permalink**) 02-23-2005, 05:01 PM

Having had probibly more 102s and 106s than any one here, I can say they they are wondeful cars. Like any coachbuilt car of the 60s, it can cost a fortune to put them in good shape, especially if you can not do a lot of the work yourself. In today's world, I would be surprised one bit if someone put $75,000 into one of these cars to get it to as new condition. The cost of engine bearings, gaskets, carb rubbers, pistons and liners, carb rebuild, and other stuff can make the cost of an proper engine rebuild close to $10,000!

67alloy · #5 (**permalink**) 02-24-2005, 08:26 AM

Front valances rot from catching radiator leaks. Seat pads disintegrate into mustard colored dust. Brake cylinders and master undoubtedly will need to be rebuilit. Fuel tank, carbs and filters should be disassembled and cleaned completely or you will forever be chasing down latent red dust. Floorboards also susceptible to rust through. Tires for stock rims expensive. Window motors go bad; even the best wind very slow.

Alfajack · #6 (**permalink**) 02-25-2005, 08:02 PM

So, have you looked at the car yet? Buying or no? Inquiring minds want to know!

AJ

**lchesnin** · #7 (**permalink**) 02-27-2005, 07:52 PM

Thanks to all who offered advice. Went to see the car this afternoon. Haven't yet decided to buy. It seems to be a very complete car. It is not running, nor do the brakes work. The mechanicals do not worry me. I'm just not certain that I am up to the restoration that this car cries out for. The body has some damage, but generally everything is in need of re-work, as it all show signs of its age. A much bigger project than I had hoped to see. I'm going to mull it over and decide tomorrow.

**lchesnin** · #8 (**permalink**) 02-28-2005, 10:08 PM

Decided that this one wasn't for me. Thanks again to all who offered advice. Had a great time looking it over, and learned much from the experience. I'll keep looking and I'm certain that the right car will show up (although it just may not end up being a due mila seicento).

**tubut** · #9 (**permalink**) 02-28-2005, 11:18 PM

Probably a good decision. Buying a car that doesn't run or needs a lot of bodywork is hard to justify even for those who know the type or model well.