Start with a compression test and general inspection of big stuff and fluids.
Get the front wheels off the ground and check for endplay or back-and-forth
at the top/bottom of the wheel (new king pin bushes required if so).
If he can pull the (road) wheels, have him check the condition of the splined
hubs.
Not too bad a job to replace, but expensive. Also, check the condition of
the splines in the wheel hubs ... if they're worn sharp you pretty much have
to replace the wheel(s). Look for cracks in the front shock mounts. PITA to
repair/replace.
If the owner will let him pull the brake drums, check for diff oil in the
brakes ...
if there, he'll be pulling the rear hubs soon (topic of a recent thread).
Also, of
course, any sign of brake fluid means (at least) new wheel cylinders.
With the engine hot and running, take the oil fill cap off. If you get a gusher
he'll need a rocker shaft rebuild.
When he test drives the car, if it's possible get on a long, steep downgrade in
top (fourth gear) and if it pops out of gear some gearbox work will be in order.
Also check functioning of synchros (balk rings) and general feel of the gearbox.
Have him inspect the water pump for wobble and/or fluid in the weap hole ...
he'll need a new pump if either.
Check condition of coolant and oil ... really dirty/weak coolant could spell
problems later. Water in the oil is not a good thing, either.
Check for excessive play in the throttle shafts ... carb rebuild in order if
there's more than just a tad of wobble. If the owner will let him, pull the
dashpots off the carbs and inspect the jet orifice ... if it's oblonged they'll
have to be replaced to get a solid idle.
All I can think of off the top of my head.
bs
***************************************************************
Bob Spidell San Jose, CA bspidell@comcast.net
'67 Austin-Healey 3000 '56 Austin-Healey 100M
***************************************************************
Subject: Re: Buying a BJ8...what to look out for.
> Rust! Look for rust!
>
> Check the outriggers, frame rails, sills, and shock absorber mounting areas.
>
> == Alex in Maine
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