What to do with a mistreated 1970 280SE

[hgupta]

My sister let her 280SE sit around at a repair shop for 8 years and it no longer starts up. She owes the mechanic $500 for work that he did a long time ago, and recently gave me the title. Should I pay the mechanic and tow it out or sell it as is, or just let the mechanic keep it? The body is in good shape, and the mileage is very low, but the interior has rotted out due to a window left open and the engine hasn't been turned over in years. Any suggestions?

[cth350]

If its a rust free body, everything is replaceable. If the rockers or frame rails are gone, it's just yet another 108 in need of major overhaul. Do you want another?

If your mechanic is willing to give it back to you after 8 years of free storage. You have either a very warm hearted, friendly mechanic, or one very poor business man. Either way, your sister owes this guy a great deal of cash.

-CTH

[bstreep]

because most mechanics by now would own the vehicle. Laws in most states allow them legal recourse to possess and re-title the vehicle for unpaid bills.

[hgupta]

yeah, he's a pretty good friend of mine and I am one of his best customers. He doesn't want the car either, but would rather have the cash. He has no problem with it sitting in his lot.

[ctaylor738]

I will tell you from recent experience that the fuel system is completely hosed and getting the injection to work after sitting for eight years will probably require some expensive assistance. It's not something you can take apart like the Zeniths. Unless there are some specific parts that you want, or are really up for the challenge, it might be better to pass on this one.

Chuck

[william rogers]

I sure would go for it if the underbody is fairly rust free i'll bet there's some creative way to clean the fuel system .I let a wonderfull old 810 datsun sit and made the mistake of not taking out the plugs and putting some oil in the cylinders before I started it .those 280's are sure nice cars......lets us know if you take it on ....
William Rogers....

I would go for it, but do not be disillusioned. A Window being open and the interior rotted is costly, as it cost me over 1700 to redo just the interior in my 114. Further more, I have never seen a instance where water has entered the cabin and not caused some amount of rust to the floor pan or rockers. Pull the carpet and check the floors!!!!! Unless you are, or have a good tech, and have the skills and money to do the job right it may be more for a heart ache. I have spent a fair amount of money fixing up my 114 and I am a veteran tech. My 114 is no where near the worth the money I have invested in it. What I've done was mostly for fun!! It is hard to find a good tech that will do the right thing. At least you will have Parts Shop and the forum on your side if you chose to do it your self!
Good Luck!
Bryan