Ok chaps i have located a series 2 vdp, nice car relatively solid and complete but needs restoration and thats exactly as i wanted so i could make a few tasteful mods. However, the engine is seized as solid as a solid thing. Now this alarms me. The owner says it drove to the current location about three years ago and has not moved. Its not cheap, he is looking about the going rate for a runner but the rarity of a vdp here may balance it out. Should i chance it or hold out? Im not really geared for heavy engine work more bodywork etc., engine removal or replacement WILL make the car unviable for me at least. Head removal and top end work is my realistic limit. Advise would be much appreciated. Cheers jj.

 

Not a good choice, given your resources, in my opinion. Might work out, but odds not good.


It oughta be "dirt cheap" with a seized engine, no matter how good the rest of the car is and the VDP status.


Test. VDP value of running car minus shop cost to remove and replace with a rebuilt engine = value of this car. Caution, it may be a negative number...


But, economics and the car craze are not the same. Don't ask how I know.


Carl

 

Yeah its not looking like a good idea as much as i want it to work out. I think its a non runner (pardon the pun!)

 

Very likely a good move on your part. If the thing was such a good buy , you would think he would spend a few hundred pounds/euros to at least get it spinning over. Seems like he wants top money, no effort, you take all the risk.

 

if you can get it for FREE , it is still gonna cost a small fortune.

 

hmmm Needs restoration and engine seized an he wants the same price as a runner????
What's the good points, it's a VDP. Is the interior good (really good) is the chassis sound (suspect not) It sounds as though it's only worth scrap money though. The other problem is that without engine running it's a bit difficult to see it all works properly e.g. fuel pumps.

I would say that the engine is the least of the problems. It's not really a difficult job to change the engine and gearbox for a known good one just long winded and probably easier than changing the head by some accounts! The trouble is finding a known good one.

If the price reflects the condition and the cost of replacing the engine (not necessarily a recon one) and you've got the time and effort realistically.

But you need to decide with your head not your heart. Now how do I know this????

 

If it were me, I'd leave it alone. I cannot believe the man wants top book for a car that doesn't even run !! I suggest you let him dream on and look elsewhere.

 

I have to agree with everyone else, too much money for the condition, and if you are not prepared tor major engine work, stay away from cars that need major engine work.

 

Thanks for all the solid advise. I have decided to leave it a week or so as im heading to the UK (to the nec classic car show in Birmingham!) then i will offer him scrap value. He can take it or leave it, then if it turns out a disaster i can weigh it in. Again cheers for the very grounded opinions, just what i needed!

 

You can see my MG Midget at the NEC show on the Midget and Sprite Club stand. I'm there on Friday and Sunday.

 

Nice little car, Fraser.
Reminds me a bit of my Datsun SPL-311.
(';')

 

Bought it. Cheap as chips. On first inspection it seems starter motor is seized so maybe im in luck! I now have enough jaguars, unless i can find a nice XJC! Heres a quick pic as she sits..
Many thanks for all your advice. No doubt ill need it again.

 

Certainly looks nice. Hope it all works out. Keep us posted (with pics!).

 

Will do!

 

Oooh, that's nice!
(';')

 

Nice looking S2, mine is a daily driver and looks like it is in a lot more need of a resto than yours.

 

Ah no its no where near as good as yours. This needs repainting badly due to lacquer peel, rot wise its not too bad though, some corrosion at bottoms of doors, around fuel filler cap on one side and of course corner of rear screen on one side. She appears to have been an older restoration. No rust on sills, arches, floors etc. Too good to be original. But first things first lets get starter motor out and see where we are seizure wise.

 

There just might be a way to confirm the "stuck starter" hypothesis. fresh hot battery to assure a crank. Then give the solenoid atop the starter a really good whack. Not a fix, but might work a time or two. And if it cranks the engine even a couple of times, big relief.


And, Just perhaps, dirty connections. Clean, lube and tighten both battery cables at both ends. And, the connections at the starter solenoid. And, there is a woven/braided wire down under. It runs from frame to transmission. Same treatment.


And, jump 12v to the small post on the solenoid. It might just crank!! Beware. as you are under the car to do this. It can be done topside at the relay, but not quite as conclusive.


Nice car. Good price. Enjoy..


Carl.

 

Tried fresh very strong battery and just getting a solenoid click at the starter doesnt make any attempt at turning.

 

Can you not put socket on front of motor to see if it at least turns?? I know its tight down there. I was able to turn mine over with huge pair of channel locks on water pump pulley, just had to squeeze belt so it would not slip. It let me know my issue was starter related and not a locked motor!