I'm looking into buying a classic firebird that is currently not running since it doesn't have a battery (and bat. tray for that matter), the cables are shot and there's no exhaust past the factory cast manifolds. The current owner claims thats all it needs to run fine. What would be the cheapest way for make sure of that (since if i don't get the car i don't wanna waste my money)?

 

Just get a battery and jumper cables. Hook them up and see if it turns over... Also bring a small bottle of gas for the carb.....

PS. Get acouple of friends to help out.. Just be careful.....

 

what about the exhaust. the owner says it needs atleast some tubes after the extractors before he'll let someone start it, he doesn't wanna burn up a valve. I feel ignorant asking this but is that possible or is that an excuse?

 

It has the cast manifolds on???? Should be ok for acouple of seconds....All you are checking for is; turning over and starting up.... Plus any unusual noises from the engine, like knocking, etc......

Dont rev the engine..... I have done this before and had friend do the same with no problems on new/old engines....

Although, it may not the right way, then if you really what the car, tell the guy to drop the price...

Since it looks like the engine will probably have to be rebuilt anyways...