I am going to look at a car and the guy said someone was test driving it and the clutch came apart. He said the engine will only crank some times due to parts being lodged in the bellhousing. Anyone ever heard of this and what should I look for other than motor possibly being blown?

 

The motor is probably fine.

Without taking it apart, it's hard to tell what you need. Most likely, a complete clutch and flywheel, and I'd think about a new bellhousing. Other nearby parts (clutch hydraulics, throwout bearing, tranny input shaft) might have taken some damage too.

Unless they're willing to knock $1500+ off the purchase price, move on. Too much of a headache.

 

Thanks for the input.