Most of the time when a car collector goes to evaluate a car, the hardest part is attempting to keep their emotions under control. The following tips can help guide you in allowing your left brain to make the evaluations.
Stand well back from the car and look at it from all angles. From a distance you'll see imperfections in the paint or body that you might miss at closer range. Slowly move closer, inspecting the paint further along with the finishing work. Look for signs of repainting or body work
Next, you want to take a look at the inside of the car. Does the car still have its original upholstery? If so, the wear and tear of the fabric will be able to provide you with some indication as to how well the car has been taken care of. Make a point of checking under the floor mats. Also, if you can, lift the carpeting. Particularly, note any presence of rusting in the floor.
Now take a look underneath the hood. If you're not a mechanic, hopefully you've brought one with you. Typical engine problems that you'll find in classic cars revolve around the fuel delivery system - such as idle adjustment problems, idle float problems, air/fuel mixture issues, fuel pump, fuel filters, and so on. You'll want to check all of these components for possible problems.
If the car is not in running condition, you'll have to partially rely on the owners word that the engine is in good condition. Even a mechanic can't verify the health of an engine simply by inspection. In this case make the assumption that the engine will need major work, possibly replacement.
If the car is in working condition, turn the ignition and let the car idle for a while. Listen to the engine sounds and make note of any irregular noises. After about 5 minutes or so, turn off the engine. Use the oil dipstick to check both the oil level and condition. Dirty oil is a bad sign. Let the engine cool and check the radiator for water level and condition.
Now you are nearing the end of your inspection. You want to take the car our for a spin around the neighborhood. Make note of any steering problems or brake issues. Listen for any noises coming from the base of the car such as transmission noises, spring noises, wheel noises and so on. Note if the car pulls left or right - it could just mean the wheels need balancing or it could be something more serious.
By this time, you will know the car pretty well and have an overall feeling about it. If you are still feeling positive about the car, you are now armed with your notes in hand and are ready to negotiate with the owner for the best deal you can get.
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