Manta Questions

[EastcoastOpel]

Hi, I just found out about a 1973 Manta that is for sale a few blocks from my house, I never even knew it was stored there, i'm interested in getting it, what should I look for as far as major problems, typical rust areas etc. also is there any rare or hard to find options or parts I should check it for? any info will be a great help, i'll also post after I look at it to give a better idea of its shape or if i'll buy it to part out.
Thanks, Rob

[opelnut10]

Hi, I just found out about a 1973 Manta that is for sale a few blocks from my house, I never even knew it was stored there, i'm interested in getting it, what should I look for as far as major problems, typical rust areas etc. also is there any rare or hard to find options or parts I should check it for? any info will be a great help, i'll also post after I look at it to give a better idea of its shape or if i'll buy it to part out.
Thanks, Rob

The first thing to look at is where the battery sits up in the rear corner of the engine compartment on the driver's side, if it has rusted out then be ready to do some electrical work of the fuse panel which is under it inside the car under the dash. Next check the front stub frame rails on both sides and the front jack points for rust. As far as rare or hard to find options, factory sunroof (that works and don't leak) factory or ARA (dealer installed) AC, and last but not least the Luxus interior (cloth) that is the easiest option to check because most of them look like a pack of wildcats has been turned loose inside and have been sharpening their claws on the seats

[AZManta]

1973 was the only year to have the rubber impact strip on the chrome bumper. If this manta has it undamaged it is quite a rare find. If this manta has a solex carburetor with any kind of trouble, be prepared to replace it with a weber. If it has GM air conditioning, periodically check the bolts that mount the compressor bracket to the block, as they tend to loosen in time. It is important because it can knock a hole in the oil filter. The PCV system can be troublesome, and if it is blocked the engine will be more likely to leak oil. Make sure that the tube (restrictor) in the intake manifold is clear. Also the small hose at the valve cover had a clip to keep it from going too far inside and being restricted. just make sure that everything is clear.
Mantas tend to get door fatigue. Where the rear-view mirror attaches look for signs of cracking. Sometimes it starts at the top moulding. You should also check the lower control arms for cracks around the bushing area.
Also check the front crossmember at the same location and also the crossmember supports that attach to the rear where they contact the crossmember. Tom