Archive for January, 2010
Examine the outside appearance. Start at one corner and walk around the vehicle, checking the lower areas (the areas most susceptible to corrosion damage) first. Then move to the upper-body panels and make another circuit. Does the paint match all around? Color variations, as well as poorly fitting doors, body panels, or hood may mean the vehicle was in an accident.A fresh coat of paint is also suspect. What’s it hiding?
Look underneath for puddles, which can mean leaks from the cooling system, transmission, brakes, or engine. Get under the vehicle and check the frame for cracks or other signs of litigue. Note damage to skid plates, steering linkages, cables, hoses, wire harnesses, and so on. Inspect the suspension (springs, shock absorbers, and bushings), driveline components (shafts and U-joints), and exhaust system for signs of wear and tear.
Is the underside caked with mud and grime? if it is, you’ll most likely inherit a corrosion problem. if the pickup has a bedliner, check the surrounding sheet metal for signs of corrosion. Look carefully along the underside of the cargo bed for rust.
How are the tires? Uneven tire wear probably means improper wheel alignment, but it can also be a sign of accident damage. Find out. Don’t forget the spare, and make sure the jack and other tire- changing equipment are in place and in good working order.
Push down on each corner of the vehicle. If it bounces more than once before leveling off, it probably needs new shock absorbers. Stand about 10 feet in front of the truck. Is it listing to one side? if one side of the truck hangs lower than the other, it may need new springs.
Climb inside. if you detect a musty or moldy odor, suspect a wet interior. (if the Interior reeks of a heavy masking scent, suspect the same.) Seats should be free of rips and tears and should not sag when you sit down.All windows should move freely up and down, and all doors should open, close, and lock properly (don’t forget the tailgate). With your helper outside, turn on the lights (low and high beam), turn signals, back-up lights, and so on.
Don’t forget to inspect accessory equipment such as caps, roof racks, winches, and brush guards. Check each thoroughly.