<TABLE cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=6 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD colSpan=2><TABLE width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 4px" vAlign=top colSpan=2>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]Used X1/9 - What to look out for?!<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 17 1999 at 9:06 AM[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<SCRIPT language=Javascript> <!-- var n54_em; n54_em = ""; n54_em = n54_em + "K";n54_em = n54_em + "J";n54_em = n54_em + "_";n54_em = n54_em + "J";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "n";n54_em = n54_em + "e";n54_em = n54_em + "s";n54_em = n54_em + "@";n54_em = n54_em + "c";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "m";n54_em = n54_em + "p";n54_em = n54_em + "u";n54_em = n54_em + "s";n54_em = n54_em + "e";n54_em = n54_em + "r";n54_em = n54_em + "v";n54_em = n54_em + "e";n54_em = n54_em + ".";n54_em = n54_em + "c";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "m"; document.write("Ken Jones"); // --> </SCRIPT>Ken Jones <NOSCRIPT> Ken Jones </NOSCRIPT> [/FONT]</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=bottom colSpan=3><HR></TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=3>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->My son is considering buying a '86 X1/9 Bertone, high miles (125K) low price ($1500). Talked with the previous (original) owner and will look at the car Saturday (6/19). Saw an '85 listed with 86K miles for $3000 so this looks like a decent deal.
I had a Fiat 128 rust out from under me in under 10 years here in Michigan (motor mount, then wheel mounts), so I appreciate the rust warnings and specific check points mentioned in the Rust thread from early May. The PO has had rust repair done in '97, including repainting.
Other than a nonworking speedometer, that I assume I can find a source for, everything is working. The PO will refer me to her "Italian" mechanic that has maintained the car for some years for his input, FWIW.
So, what else to check for, folks? Also, what are parts sources for this car?
KJ<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
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[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR><TD>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]Author[/FONT]</TD><TD>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]Reply[/FONT]</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top noWrap width="17.9%">[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<SCRIPT language=Javascript> <!-- var n54_em; n54_em = ""; n54_em = n54_em + "x";n54_em = n54_em + "1";n54_em = n54_em + "9";n54_em = n54_em + "e";n54_em = n54_em + "r";n54_em = n54_em + "@";n54_em = n54_em + "t";n54_em = n54_em + "m";n54_em = n54_em + ".";n54_em = n54_em + "n";n54_em = n54_em + "e";n54_em = n54_em + "t"; document.write("x19er"); // --> </SCRIPT>x19er <NOSCRIPT> x19er </NOSCRIPT>[/FONT]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 15px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->rust, rust, and oh did I mention rust?<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 17 1999, 2:06 PM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 15px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->I have an '86 as well.
Mechanical parts for the X1/9 are fairly inexpensive and easy to obtain. Look for rust in the usual spots, rocker panels, etc. Pay particular attention the area around the windshield.
Some electrical items can be expensive, window motors, headlight motors, etc. Make sure the charging system works well. I would also recommend a compression check.
Where are you in Michigan?
<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial] [/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top noWrap align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top noWrap width="17.9%">[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]Mac[/FONT]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 30px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Aside from rust...<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 18 1999, 11:45 AM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 30px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Hi there!
Sounds like you are already aware of the rust hazards of owning a piece of Italian metal, so I won't really cover it here.
Aside from rust, I would also check the condition of anything rubber! Meaning the timing belt, fuel and brake lines, gaskets, seals etc. If you cannot determine the age or condition of any of these, or if in question at all, you must automatically assume they need to be replaced, and that cost should be factored into the bargaining process.
Also it is a good idea to check the condition of the suspension components. Worn out parts in this department can really hurt the car's performance - almost more than anything else. The ol' standard of pushing down on the 4 corners of the car to check for suspension bounce is really not so effective with the X as it may be on other cars due to the cars small size and unique construction. Even if the car's suspension is shot it likely won't look like it from the bounce test. Take it for a drive! Don't be afraid to rev high, these cars are designed to live in the higher rpm range. Take corners cautiously but aggressively (if that makes any sense). If the rear starts to sway around unexpectedly or if the car feels generally unstable in corners it is a pretty safe bet that some suspension work is in order.
As for electrics, just follow your gut. It is a common misconception that these cars have poor electrical systems. I disagree - it is more that they have systems that will BECOME poor if not treated respectfully. Grounding is a major issue with electricals in these cars, as ground connections can get corroded over time, causing all manner of electrical glitches.
Mainly, the rust issue is of foremost importance. Anything else can be fixed without major heartache. Please let us know what happens - Good Luck! -Mac.
<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial] [/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top noWrap align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top noWrap width="17.9%">[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]Ulix[/FONT]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 45px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->86 X<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 18 1999, 4:25 PM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 45px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Some good info from Mac regarding the suspension.
Note that bad rear ball joints are expensive because you have to replace the whole A-arm at close to $300 each.
Also, I would make sure the 5-speed is in good shape, all the gears work well, also reverse!
After you buy it, treat the tranny with respect, especially reverse. Never ever bump start the car in reverse.
Brake hard once, if the fronts lock up relatively early, the rear calipers need to be replaced or rebuilt.
If a car has really rusted, the large crossmember in front of the engine has holes in it. I have never seen this, but if it happens, the car is a paperweight.
Finally, don't let us discourage you with the grim sounding stories, the X is a great car, just buy a good one.
Ulix
Yellow 74
2 bad reverse gears in my past<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial] [/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top noWrap align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top noWrap width="17.9%">[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]Mac[/FONT]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 60px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Ah, yes, the 5-spd!<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 18 1999, 4:38 PM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 60px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->How foolish of me to overlook the tranny! ;o
Thank you for bringing that up dude!
Ulix is right again
- the 5 speed is rather prone to fail gears without proper care and treatment... but as he said, don't be discouraged. They also can last a very very long time if treated with a reasonable amount of respect.
Words of wisdom there: Buy a good X and you'll be in love forever. Buy a bad one and you'll curse that day for as long as it takes you to fix, part or sell the thing! -Mac.<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
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[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 17 1999 at 9:06 AM[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<SCRIPT language=Javascript> <!-- var n54_em; n54_em = ""; n54_em = n54_em + "K";n54_em = n54_em + "J";n54_em = n54_em + "_";n54_em = n54_em + "J";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "n";n54_em = n54_em + "e";n54_em = n54_em + "s";n54_em = n54_em + "@";n54_em = n54_em + "c";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "m";n54_em = n54_em + "p";n54_em = n54_em + "u";n54_em = n54_em + "s";n54_em = n54_em + "e";n54_em = n54_em + "r";n54_em = n54_em + "v";n54_em = n54_em + "e";n54_em = n54_em + ".";n54_em = n54_em + "c";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "m"; document.write("Ken Jones"); // --> </SCRIPT>Ken Jones <NOSCRIPT> Ken Jones </NOSCRIPT> [/FONT]</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=bottom colSpan=3><HR></TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=3>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->My son is considering buying a '86 X1/9 Bertone, high miles (125K) low price ($1500). Talked with the previous (original) owner and will look at the car Saturday (6/19). Saw an '85 listed with 86K miles for $3000 so this looks like a decent deal.
I had a Fiat 128 rust out from under me in under 10 years here in Michigan (motor mount, then wheel mounts), so I appreciate the rust warnings and specific check points mentioned in the Rust thread from early May. The PO has had rust repair done in '97, including repainting.
Other than a nonworking speedometer, that I assume I can find a source for, everything is working. The PO will refer me to her "Italian" mechanic that has maintained the car for some years for his input, FWIW.
So, what else to check for, folks? Also, what are parts sources for this car?
KJ<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top noWrap align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial] [/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 15px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->rust, rust, and oh did I mention rust?<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 17 1999, 2:06 PM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 15px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->I have an '86 as well.
Mechanical parts for the X1/9 are fairly inexpensive and easy to obtain. Look for rust in the usual spots, rocker panels, etc. Pay particular attention the area around the windshield.
Some electrical items can be expensive, window motors, headlight motors, etc. Make sure the charging system works well. I would also recommend a compression check.
Where are you in Michigan?
<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial] [/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top noWrap align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 30px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Aside from rust...<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 18 1999, 11:45 AM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 30px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Hi there!
Sounds like you are already aware of the rust hazards of owning a piece of Italian metal, so I won't really cover it here.
Aside from rust, I would also check the condition of anything rubber! Meaning the timing belt, fuel and brake lines, gaskets, seals etc. If you cannot determine the age or condition of any of these, or if in question at all, you must automatically assume they need to be replaced, and that cost should be factored into the bargaining process.
Also it is a good idea to check the condition of the suspension components. Worn out parts in this department can really hurt the car's performance - almost more than anything else. The ol' standard of pushing down on the 4 corners of the car to check for suspension bounce is really not so effective with the X as it may be on other cars due to the cars small size and unique construction. Even if the car's suspension is shot it likely won't look like it from the bounce test. Take it for a drive! Don't be afraid to rev high, these cars are designed to live in the higher rpm range. Take corners cautiously but aggressively (if that makes any sense). If the rear starts to sway around unexpectedly or if the car feels generally unstable in corners it is a pretty safe bet that some suspension work is in order.
As for electrics, just follow your gut. It is a common misconception that these cars have poor electrical systems. I disagree - it is more that they have systems that will BECOME poor if not treated respectfully. Grounding is a major issue with electricals in these cars, as ground connections can get corroded over time, causing all manner of electrical glitches.
Mainly, the rust issue is of foremost importance. Anything else can be fixed without major heartache. Please let us know what happens - Good Luck! -Mac.
<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial] [/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top noWrap align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 45px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->86 X<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 18 1999, 4:25 PM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 45px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Some good info from Mac regarding the suspension.
Note that bad rear ball joints are expensive because you have to replace the whole A-arm at close to $300 each.
Also, I would make sure the 5-speed is in good shape, all the gears work well, also reverse!
After you buy it, treat the tranny with respect, especially reverse. Never ever bump start the car in reverse.
Brake hard once, if the fronts lock up relatively early, the rear calipers need to be replaced or rebuilt.
If a car has really rusted, the large crossmember in front of the engine has holes in it. I have never seen this, but if it happens, the car is a paperweight.
Finally, don't let us discourage you with the grim sounding stories, the X is a great car, just buy a good one.
Ulix
Yellow 74
2 bad reverse gears in my past<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial] [/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top noWrap align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 60px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Ah, yes, the 5-spd!<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 18 1999, 4:38 PM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 60px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->How foolish of me to overlook the tranny! ;o
Thank you for bringing that up dude!
Ulix is right again
- the 5 speed is rather prone to fail gears without proper care and treatment... but as he said, don't be discouraged. They also can last a very very long time if treated with a reasonable amount of respect. Words of wisdom there: Buy a good X and you'll be in love forever. Buy a bad one and you'll curse that day for as long as it takes you to fix, part or sell the thing! -Mac.<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial] [/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top noWrap align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]