What to look for when buying a manta?

[Dirk]

Just a few questions about what to look for when buying a manta(specifically body/frame wise)

I finally found a car nearby to me that i'm supposed to go look at if this snow ever melts. After distracting the wife "Hey look, that mini-van you wanted-here's the keys" I've got my shot.

It's a 1973 manta luxus in running condition.

I just can't mess it up. I've bought old used car's before so i got the general inspection down just need specific things to look for that might escape someone without alot of opel experience. If i utter the words "this is only the parts car for the good one i'm getting" AGAIN(non-opel before) she's gonna take the sawzall to it, and me.

for the bad, what's "fixable"(dad's a welder, so i'm not that worried about that) and whats "run away"?

Thanks
joe

[BQS4]

The basic thing to first look for in any Manta/Ascona, especially the "A" series, is the battery box. Pull the battery out and look at it carefully. It will more than likely be rusted, but, if it's rusted through, how far, as the fuse box is directly under it. If it's just a hole or two, you're alright, but, make it your first priority. Second is the firewall behind and below the brake booster. then the jack point on the driver's side, then the passenger side. Then the driver's floor.

[hrcollinsjr]

Originally Posted by BQS4 The basic thing to first look for in any Manta/Ascona, especially the "A" series, is the battery box. Pull the battery out and look at it carefully. It will more than likely be rusted, but, if it's rusted through, how far, as the fuse box is directly under it. If it's just a hole or two, you're alright, but, make it your first priority. Second is the firewall behind and below the brake booster. then the jack point on the driver's side, then the passenger side. Then the driver's floor.

Glad Gene mentioned that this thread could really include all of the 50 series cars. I can't believe he didn't include the Sportwagon but they could/should be included as well.

I'll add a little to what Gene as already mentioned. In addition to looking at the battery box area I've seen the fuse panel and wiring located below damaged due to battery acid. I've also seen not just the jack points damaged by battery acid but even the front sub frame damaged as well. I'm sure there are other areas to check out but these are at the top of my list.

Harold

[Dirk]

Thanks for the info guys, i feel better about knowing what to look for when i go.

Cleared it with the wife too, if it's good, it's mine.

[4speed]

The spare tire mould at the trunk is also a “hot spot” !