Buyer beware…

ENGINE Listen for the crank rumbling and timing chain chattering. Check for oil leaking from the rear main seal and from the heater valves. If it has been converted to electronic ignition, check it’s a quality system such as Lumenition. Oil pressure of 50psi in fourth when warm is good. Blue smoke could be worn valve guides and seals.

COOLING SYSTEM Check the hose clips and hoses, and for bearing play in the cooling fan. Inspect the radiator for rust and leaks. Water in the engine oil is a blown head gasket.

GEARBOX Check for crunchy changes and whether third pops out on the overrun. Test the overdrive (if fitted) works. If, when accelerating up a hill, you feel a clutch-slip sensation, it’s faulty. Listen for rear diff noise and check for leaks.

STEERING, SUSPENSION Feel for any wandering and wallowing. Stiffness or play in the steering is worn kingpins. Check for worn bushes on the rear leaf spring hangers and front lower swing arms. Inspect the condition of wheel spokes.

BODY Use a magnet to check for filler. A stiff door (tight at the top, a looser fit at the bottom) suggests the sills are rotten and sagging. Be wary of major inconsistencies in panel gaps. Check for rust in the floor, scuttle, door bottoms, boot and rear lights.

INTERIOR Check for damp, peeling trim, failed switches and gauges, sagging seats and clumsy upgrades.