eBay 1976 unrestored - mostly original - need opinions

Not mine, but interested in making it mine

http://r.ebay.com/anGvBL

Can the experts chime in? I like it for a rolling restoration. Lots of pics and a video in the link on ebay. Obvious things I see wrong:

- Rear sill is toast (easy fix)
- bottom of ambulance doors need love
- possible quarter panel replacement
- curious what the two green toggle buttons are on the dash
- video of engine running / driving sounds really rough
- obvious lean towards drivers side (will new suspension correct this or is it a sign of a different problem?)

The engine concerns me the most. I think the rust can be dealt with. Tub doesn't even look that bad.

From the shots of the undercarriage, the frame looks to be in fantastic shape to my untrained eyes. I don't don't see massive leaks anywhere (I expect some leaks).

So what do you guys/gals think? And the big question - what would you pay for it? I'm thinking of trying to pre-empt the auction and buy it outright.

As always, I (and all of the other newbies) appreciate your inputs. Every response builds on our knowledge base of what to look for and avoid.

 

[Tele Yota]

As long as the cell phone comes with it….

 

[crushers]

looks better than i expected ...
green switches, driving lights i would guess.
engine doesn't sound "bad", sounds like it needs a tune up and an exhaust.

worth? no idea.

 

[Dedtruk]

Sounds like it isn't firing consistently on a couple cylinders, but that's just plugs, wires, basic "tuneup" stuff. If the mileage and other representations are true, it's going to sell for a pretty decent buck, probably twice the current price (which is just over 6K) ... or more. But the important question isn't what we would pay for it.

The question is what is it worth to you? And that depends on what you want to use it for. Since you say you're going to restore it (and by "restore," I assume you mean what you say and are going to keep it stock rather than modify it) then starting with a clean example is important. You should be more concerned with the rust than you seem to be. That's rear sill and quarters, and the top will have to come off, in which case you'll find more rust. And then the costs will spiral. Define just what you mean by "restore". A true restoration is expensive. Refurbishing a sound rig to enjoy is much more affordable. The engine and drivetrain appear basically sound and are far easier to remedy than a beat tub or frame. I disclaim any "expert" status but I have certainly learned the hard way with my share of rusty basket cases.

The lean is typical of stock suspension (easy to fix - use the search and FAQ) unless the frame is tweaked/bent.

For $10-12K, I think you can do better. See https://forum.ih8mud.com/fj40-bj40/789645-1978-fj40-socal-ca-92082-a.html And yes, I know that one is sold. That's just an example. If you're patient, you'll find others that are still available. Be prepared to jump in with cash when you do. Just my $0.02 ... Good luck!

 

[DTSkyCop]

I agree with Dedtruk, there is definitely a miss in the engine firing... Not sure if it was a blockage in the muffler, or as he stated, plugs etc. you might ask the seller if the engine had any compression tests done on the cylinders to see if he can provide you those numbers. 2 days left in the sale, so ask quick if you do... To give time for a response..!!

I am new to this forum having just bought my cruiser a few months ago now... I searched for a while then one appeared from a fellow mud member here and I snatched it up...

Good luck in your search... You will find something... If not this one...

 

[greenbeast]

Rough looking 44k miles??

 

[antFJ]

i spy... fiberglass'd front floors, rear sill is toast, rear jump seats are not stock, cut up/dented dash, holes in the windshield frame, holes in the rear bed, funky brake lines coming out of the master. I wouldn't spend near what the bid is for that truck

 

[Yellow Jacket]

Thanks guys. The price is getting to rich for me for this particular rig. I'll save my $ for a better example. Hopefully a fellow Mudder. (Hint, hint)