I found a 77 240d for sale. The guy tells me it has been in storage for 5 years. Needs water pump (why it got stored 5 years ago). There is no key, and all the fluids are drained. The price is really right(750 and negotiable). What could I do to evaluate whether or not this car is worth purchasing. Thanks

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'85 300td Frybrid WVO Kit

Pray...long and hard.
Expect that car to need lots of work, and it also depends if it was stored indoors or outside.

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DJ


84 300D Turbodiesel 190K with 4 speed manual sold in 03/2012

Needs water pump may mean: the car overheated and the head gasket blew, there was a serious coolant leak somewhere that left the system high and dry while driving, or simply that it needs a new water pump, which you could do yourself.

But if its all drained, it is a SERIOUS gamble. Expect to invest a few hundred at least (all fluids, filters, battery) to even see if it will run. And then you've got to do all the routine things it will need, suspension, vacuum lines (probably suffering after 5 yrs of not being used) and most other rubber.

If you're looking for a project, talk him down unless the body is in IMMACULATE condition.

Why in the world would anyone drain all the fluids, especially the oil?
Man, that sounds like a can 'o worms there...

No key in itself is gonna be a major pita.

$200 for the car just so you can recoup your losses in parts is fair. Unless, as said, the body rocks. Then buy it with the understanding you likely will be putting a motor in there.

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Think Alternative Energy!
300CD '80 (now gone but not forgotten...)

Depending on the severity of the water pump leak. The water molicule is much larger than the anti freeze one. Fill the cooling system with water. Make sure there is oil in the engine and see if you can get it started. In my opinion if you are a really good judge of people is very important in a deal like this.

You don't really need a key to start it as long as you have a good battery, oil in the crankcase and fuel in the tank.

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DJ


84 300D Turbodiesel 190K with 4 speed manual sold in 03/2012