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hello all, i just found an '73 thing. the body is straight, no dents, but the rear fenders needs to be replace, and the rear hubs need to be replaced(has bus hubs now), the engine was rebuilded but has been sitting for along time. it is now frozen(dont think it is a big deal) has gas heater(dont know if it works), needs new frame and top. the guy wants 3000.00 for it. my ? is does this sound like a good deal r not.. just looking for some opinions..

thanks caspar

I would not consider $3k to be a "good deal" given the condition you explained. It sounds like a restoration project. Expect to put-out a few hundered dollars for rear fenders- if you can find them! Also, the top frame will cost you at least another $100. Expect the worst from the engine. Don't count on "it ran when I parked it." Unless you can get that $3k price down, I would consider a turn-key car for a little more money. That's just my opinion. However, I'm in California and there may be a better selection of Things to chose from.

I personally bought my '73 thing from a guy in Ma. For $400. IT has an engine that runs, but needs some serious Luv. It needs new floor pans, battery tray, 5 tires and some clutch work. All four fenders need to replaced as well as some bondo done. I just replaced the fuel pump as well as the carburetor. So do the math and make a decision.


Hope i was able to help.....

Sounds like you have at least $2500 and 100 hours to complete the car.

We bought our good condition -- never restored 73 running with a rebuilt engine for $3500.

T.

The longer you wait for the perfect deal the longer you are without a Thing.

Sounds like too much for a project car. I have bought three things so far. The first for $3000. It was a decent daily driver with good top windows good DP engine with Kads rebuilt front end etc etc. Still have it but unrecognizable as it is today. The second I paid $600 for and it was in excellent condition minus an engine, The third was $2000 and it had a body lift big tires and wheels nice paint job high backs and again Kads just needed a starter.
The price is about right for a runner but seems high for a body. Talk him down to something you can live with. Keep in mind the total investment you will have when finished. Good luck. Bob