MaximusDecimus
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- Jun 21, 2013
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For anyone wondering...
When I bought the van I wasn't sure I could do much more with it than scrapping/pulling a few parts for resale. I based this off things the seller was telling me, like "transmission is about to go out. Compressor is shot so it doesn't blow cold", and several other things.
Since I had no desire to extensively look it over in his driveway, I bought it for scrap price. He originally asked $400.
Trailered it home and looked through it, fixed what was wrong with it - trans was low on fluid. Topped it off and tested it. Showed no signs of slipping. Serpentine was nearly shredded and falling off. Replaced that and tensioner. Needed new belt on AC pump and she was blowing cold. All in all I'd say about 5 hours work (includes picking up, fixing & meeting with buyer) netted me $1,900.
If you're mechanical or have a buddy who's willing to work with you there is a decent chunk of change to be made on CL from people that just do not maintain their vehicles (or vehicles that break down and owner opts not to repair, and instead sell for cheap). This guy even admitted he knew nothing about cars and by the looks under the hood it showed. Body was immaculate though with the exception of a dent in tailgate/door.
I was having second thoughts about traveling out of state to purchase an old van with no AC. In San Diego, you don't need AC. Guy is selling the van low due to no AC. You changed my mind. Its worth the hassle of traveling to at least check it out. Thanks.
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