'78 Advice

[mvftw]

I'm looking to buy a '78 S/A L82 4sp Sunday. Can I get some tips on what to look & lookout for. It's supposed to be a #'s matching car. Any tips whould be great.:s

 

[Yoda]

Here is a very good check list to use when you inspect the car.. It is from the "Tools" tab at the top of the page, in the Misc. section I'll save you some time here it is Inspection Form

Since I am at work and suppose to be working I won't get into any more details, but if you go to the search feature and type in buying or purchasiing or some other key word you will probably find lot's of info.. plus, others will be chimming in with help too

 

[78SilvAnniv]

Fingers crossed for you!

Mine is an L48 Automatic, and I am very happy with her.

I feel the most important aspect to consider when purchasing these older cars is MAINTENENCE! Records or at least 'we did such-and-such this year, and this-and-that the next'.

I prefer a little more mileage on older cars, I distrust ones that have been sitting for long periods of time. My own SA has over 200k on her, but we MAINTAIN her, and have replaced or upgraded many items. She's still a work in progress, but I enjoy driving her!

You'll find the Inspection Form very helpful as it will remind you of items to check that you would otherwise forget about!
Heidi

 

[page62]

That is a very comprehensive list. But you need to check for one more thing: RUST!

Look at the lower radiator supports, make sure they aren't eaten away.

Also, check where the rear trailing arms attach to the frames. That area may be filled with crud. If so, see if you can dig out some crud in order to inspect them. In some cases, the trailing arms themselves can be rusty!

 

[gary b.]

'78' Shark

I also have a '78' & am very happy with it !
One thing to look for (based on my experence) is rusty
windshield pillars, inside, under the pillar trim.
A quick look at the V.I.N. should give a clue.
Half of my V.I.N. tag was rusted away, thats how bad mine is.
Have'nt fixed it yet, but will soon. I had other little things that
needed attention.




EVERYONE here is very helpful, and if anyone knows
anything at all about your questions & concern's
you WILL get a responce!
Good luck ! gary.

 

[Dave L.]

Silver- Does your car still have the original engine in her?

Dave

 

[78SilvAnniv]

Not Original Motor

Was replaced with GM crate engine in 1997. However, the original engine had approx. 190k and was very strong until she went.
Heidi