Dumb Question

I'd like to know if there is a set of guidelines on the site on what to look for when sizing up a potential Maverick. For example, is there one thing that would cause you to walk away from a seemingly good deal? Where should I look for problems? I'm basically looking for a nice daily driver that needs a small amount of tlc. How about it...any advice?

 

In a Word....R-U-S-T...you can overcome anything else with the knowledge this board has to offer...

 

a common place for rust is the cowl vent. this is the slots between the hood and the window. i take a gallon of water and pour it in and see if any shows up inside underneath the dash or if it all goes down the drain to the ground as it should. also check for rust underneath on the frame like the torque boxes. good luck. welcome to the board.

 

it would depend on how much money you got or how mechanically inclined you are

I passed on this… http://mmb.maverick.to/showthread.php?t=21606&highlight=free cabinator didn’t

 

Specific critical areas for rust:

front cowl on pre '74*
floorboards, all years*
frame especially rear shackles, all years*
torque boxes, all years*
front fenders, all years
rear quarters, all years*
shock towers especially at top, all years*

* major repairs, harder to do especially if a body work novice

Walk away from MAJOR frame rot. The rest can be fixed. The cowl is probably the next most difficult fix, but several here have done it with success.

Cars from the Northeast (ie. rust belt) are the most prone to these critical areas of rot. Cars from the Southwest are prone to all rubber items like window gaskets, bushings, etc. dry rotting. These are MUCH preferable to rust and easier to repair, much less cheaper.