Met Pre-purchase Checklist

nashmet@coollist.com
“Nash Metropolitan List”
4 Mar 2003

 

  • Check the bottom of the A pillar (below the bottom door hinge)
  • Check the doors for sag. Lift the handle with the door open, see if movement is in the hinges or the frame.
  • Check the box rails the length of the car.
  • Check for cracks at the steering box and idler arm mounts.
  • Drive the car, and have someone follow, to check for dog tracking on a straight flat road, slightly lift your hands from the wheel.
  • Watch for pull to one side or the other. Car should move slowly to the left, but should not move out of the lane for at least 300 ft.
  • Check all mounting points (suspension, etc.)
  • Check for seepage on brake backing plates. It could indicate wheel cylinder or axle seal problems.
  • When braking, slightly release the wheel, and watch for pulling. Car should stay on track.
  • Watch for any shimmies, vibrations or pull at all times during road test.

 

Simple on-ground checks:

  • Grab each wheel for and after, wiggle back and forth. You are looking for any “clicking” or slop.
  • Also note movement in tire compared to steering wheel.
  • Grab tire at top; pull it back and forth hard. You are looking for any free play.
  • Inside car, slowly move steering wheel back and forth, watching for amount of play before tires start to turn. More than 3/4″ indicates problems. You also want to make sure that wheel does not get excessively tight when turned to max.
  • Check adjustment screw on top of steering box. If it is not at least ¼ inch above nut, this indicates severe steering box wear.
  • Using a trolley jack, slowly jack up car using the “frame” on the area of the jack mounts. Check to see if doors open or close differently than they do with the weight on the wheels.
  • Following these steps, you will avoid purchasing a car with any severe defects. Keep in mind that, as a mechanic, I consider most problems repairable, even a smoking engine. My concern is simply – “Is the car worth putting money into if need be?” Hope this answers some questions, and helps avoid buying a basket case….

 

Gerald A. Henry
Winnipeg MB
MOCNA 7449