Now that you know exactly what type of car you want have analyzed what qualities and capabilities you’re looking for, then it’s time to search for that American Dream Car.
If more fuel reaches the combustion chamber than gets burned, black smoke is present. If this persists even after the car has already being driven, rebuild or repair the carburetor. This is common for high performance vehicles like Muscle Cars. Inspect other instruments and interior accessories while waiting for the car to warm up. Check the headlights, warning lights, signal lights, and the like. The temperature gauge and fuel gauge should be accurate.
Bring along a friend who is more familiar with the model. It also pays to bring your own mechanic. These people will help you get a good assessment of the car not only in its looks but also in its performance. If you are already a member of a collector’s club, ask the technical expert to come along. For the car inspection, it’s best to have it done in your mechanic’s shop. An owner might be quick to reject the idea of certain repairs that need to be done because it can affect the selling value. Having it in the shop will ensure that the inspection is thorough and unbiased. Note that a car which is “ready to show” must be full-functioning and have zero parts to repair internally or externally. If you intend to purchase a car for the purpose of restoring it and to make it your own project, then of course, expect a few defects.
Exterior trims and emblems need to match the model of the car because some might be difficult to find, if the potential car has the wrong one. When the original paint color has been replaced, the car devalues. Inspect the car plate for the paint code and refer to the service manual in order to find out. In order to check the interior, first check to see whether the carpet has been replaced. If so, it must be the same type and quality as the original. With the car owner’s permission, peel off a tiny part at the back. This will give you an idea if the carpets have been replaced. Another clue about the car is that if the carpet is wet, there might be a leak. Major leaks are costly to repair and if not remedied immediately will cause rapid corrosion. Worn out steering wheels are hard to restore as well. The panels and upholstery must be in top condition. They should be the original ones from the time the car was purchased.
After the drive test, open the hood and examine the components underneath. Stains will indicate oil and water leaks in the past. The wiring should be neat and well-routed. A fairly new battery should not have corroded terminals. Pull the dipstick and check the oil level. Oil should not have a milky or grayish shade.