What to look for - first time purchase

[Chow717]

I am looking at buying a '71 or '72 M35A2 from a friend's father inlaw. Not sure of the engine mdl# or too much else other than "it starts and runs good". Always had a strong interest in owning a military vehicle but this would be my first venture into owning one. Is there anything specific I should ask or look for before making the purchase? We have talked price around 2500 which fits in my budget for now. Just have to smooth it over with the wife. Any assistance offered is greatly appreciated.... and needed.

oh yea.. I would need to drive it home over 500 miles. It has a title to transfer.

 

[FreightTrain]

First off,make sure it hasn't been hacked on.Check the wiring.Make sure there are no additions or ratty wiring.Check all fluids.Brake,Axles,Trans,Transfer,engine,Radiator.Pull the U shaped tube off the filter can to turbo,reach in and wiggle the turbine.It should have a little play but no more than a few thousands(being dry) and check to see if the blades contact the housing(if they do or there are rub marks then the turbo is shot).Replace the pipe and fire it up and look on the passenger side of the engine at the slobber tube.See how much blow by there is.There will be a steady stream of faint haze but it should be billowing smoke.Check for the usual leaks.There is a 90% shot there will be a LOT of oil on the passenger side block from teh Headgaskets especially if there are tabs hanging out of the head to block joint.Check the back side of all wheels for leaking oil.Check the front axle boots for tears.Check all the tires for dry rot.Now drive it.Remember,Left and up is reverse.Left and down is 1st,2nd is middle up,3rd middle down,4th right down(yea,U shaped shift) and 5th is right up.If there is not a side to side switch middle of the dash under it then always start in 1st gear cause it has a sprag not airshift front engagement.

 

[Chow717]

Thanks for the info on my request. I have found out the truck has more wrong with it than I want to deal with. Lots of noticable rust, a non-turbo engine, needs tires and batteries, cracked windshield needs replaced among other things. Would probably need to be towed the 500 + miles home.

dang.. I got the bug now.