Adam,
Since the car is 30+ years old, you need to pay attention to the
things that go bad with time, as well as mileage.
-It wouldn't be extravagant to replace all the flex hoses in the
brake system. Flushing the old fluid out and bleeding the brakes
would be a minimum.
-Have a close look at all the coolant hoses, including the two that
run through the firewall for the heater.
-Inspect the bushings in the suspension. If you see significant
cracks, put them on the "winter list." The car will handle OK, but it
will handle better with new bushings. Even renewing them with OEM
rubber will be an improvement.
-Look very carefully at the diff. mounts. These are notorious for
cracking. If you hear a sharp clank from the rear when you drop the
clutch, chances are good at least one is cracked. It's not all the
difficult to repair, but it entails welding.
-While you're looking at the frame, look at the upper rear spring
perches. They tend to tear and deflect upward. Welding is in order
here, as well.
These are all in addition to the usual inspections you should do on
wheel bearings, brakes, etc.
--
Phil Barnes (peb3@cornell.edu)
Cortland, NY (nowhere near New York City)
'71 TR6 CC61193L (27 year owner)
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