Essential Questions

I saw this decent looking 51(i think) chevy coupe near my house for 3k, so I thought I should check it out. But, having rushed into my last purchase, I wanted to be prepared.

So what are some essential questions you should ask when approaching a seller? Obviously, does it run, but what else?

Thanks,
Signed,
Dumbass that can't buy a car.

 

Are you sure you want an old car and all the work that comes with it? I've seen too many overly optimistic people jump into old cars with no knowledge of how they work and it's painful to see when someone else screws them making it run or doing crappy bodywork because they don't know any better. Before you buy anymore cars find some friends that can better school you in person as to what you should and should not buy. Hang around and see what their cars require and maybe help out a little until you get a feel for what it really takes to own and operate an old car. It's worth not being depressed that you bought another junker because you didn't know any better. Good luck, Jim

 

Well I have 2 51's (one being fixed up, one supplying parts), so what I would ask about is running condition, the trans, and brakes. Is it still a 6v or a 12v? What condition are the tires? Is it complete, all parts? What shape is the body in? Rockers rusted, rocker braces rusted? What shape is the wiring in, and the glass? For sure try to drive it to test the trans and brakes, remember no power steering or power brakes.
I'd say for 3k I would want most everything there with minimal body rust and run fairly good with a stock setup.
just my .02

 

You need to learn to look for yourself. Otherwise the seller will prob say anything to seal the deal. If you have a good pal that knows cars, have him go with you.

 

1. Take a refrigerator magnet with you. Go over the car's entire body, especially the rocker panels, quarters, etc. Wherever it sticks is metal, wherever it doesn't is bondo. Set the price accordingly.

2. In negotiating a price, the first person to quote a specific dollar amount is the loser.

3. When negotiating a price, be willing to walk away without buying it. If you can do that, then you control the deal. I learned this first hand while haggling over oriental rugs during two deployments to the Persian Gulf.

Good luck!