Another "help with a purchase" thread

[kenmo]

Alright guys, before the flaming begins, I have done multiple searches on the subject and have gathered some info. But, I would like as many opinions as possible on this before making a purchase.

1993 Viper w/53000 miles (in the classifieds on here, although I found his advertisement on another board)
-2 owners, 2 reported collision/insurance claims on Carfax, still a clear title
-Owner is asking $27K, but seems negotiable
-Car is in Miss., I'm in Texas
-Present owner is unaware if head gaskets have been swapped
-From the pictures I've seen, it looks clean and well taken care of (dashboard was redone)

My story: I'm 29, mech. engineer, not rich but make a descent living, been into cars as long as I can remember. Have been out of the car scene for a while, but wanting to come back with either a Vette or....this Viper. I plan to use this car as a cruiser only. I have made the "mistake" of heavily modding cars in the past, and that's the point where they typically decline in reliability and I drive them less and less. This is, of course, my personal opinion only.

So, my questions are:
1. Am I getting myself into a money pit? As stated, I'm not rich, and don't want a busted Viper in the garage because I can't afford to fix it. I'm on the fence between buying a Vette only a few years old, or a Viper that is over 10 years old.

2. Any way to visually check if head gaskets have been swapped (yes, I know what head gaskets are and where they're located...just curious if they are typically tagged or if there is something in particular that is swapped during the R&R that is different from original and visable)

3. If the head gaskets have not been swapped will I be looking at a rebuild in the near future?

4. Collision damage...not a huge factor to me as long as it tracks straight, looks good, and was repaired right. What do you think the typical "deduction" is for it's track record?

5. Head gaskets and dashboard were the two major complaints in my searches....anything else I'm missing that was a problem on the early Vipers?

6. As stated, it's a descent days drive away from me....I have requested as many pictures as possible, but any other steps you could suggest I do to ensure this is a good car BEFORE taking the trip out there?

You guys might chuckle at me being nervous dropping $27K on a car, but it's a lot of money for me. I really would appreciate any constructive comments about the car....you guys are the experts, not me!!

Ken

[SilverRT/10]

Get the VIN and give it to your local dodge dealer. Their system will tell if they have ever replaced the head gaskets.
The price seems about right if there is no damage to the frame. Inspect it thoroughly since it's had 2 accidents. It might be worth paying a few bucks to the dealer where the car is located to inspect it since you're not close by.
I don't think there is a way to tell about the head gaskets. Either way, with those miles be prepared to start looking at the clutch and other normal wear items for replacement.
Also realize you will have no real windows, no power mirrors, etc. You would get all that with a vette.

[BLEBYU]

send me the last 8 digits of the vin @ mrobbins@catt.com and I will run it for you...
Mike

[kenmo]

I thought I had it in my post, but I left that off....the carfax did bring back a "frame damage" comment with the first collision report. I think that's a great suggestion on having a dodge dealer look it over. Good point with the clutch too....didn't realize these went through them that fast!

And I love the fact not having any creature comforts....less to go wrong and less weight!!

Thanks guys...keep the comments coming!!

Ken

[plumcrazy]

id buy that car if i ran it by a knowledgeable local guy and tech first.

clutches are cheap to replace.

head gaskets i thought were under warranty on them or something. id ask the tech though

id be more worried about the old tires...a new set just ran me $1300 plus install. but they are very important and might save the car from another accident.

there must be someone local willing to drive to it and check it out for ya. i've done it a few times for guys in nj.

then get a tech to go thru it for ya for a little insurance

[OKViper]

When it comes down to it - if the car is in decent shape - you'll likely not loose much $ in depreciation. You said your not "rich" but, this is the kind of car that you could enjoy for a few years, sell it for little depreciation and move on to something else. Meanwhile, you had fun with a Viper...

[kenmo]

Good points by all....and I appreciate the help.

Mike....a BIG thanks to you on getting back with me.

Mike has let me know that no work was done at the dealership as far as head gaskets are concerned. I've done a lot of searching on the subject, and it appears that it's now "if they go bad" it's "when they go bad." But after 50K miles, is it possible the original head gaskets could have lasted that long?

I'm suggesting to the seller that we get it inspected at a dodge dealership. I appreciate all the comments guys....please keep them coming!!
Ken