What to look for when buying a Patrol

[Aus60]

Hi all, new to this forum and the G60 patrol scene.
Im looking at a 1973 MWB open top patrol to buy.
Just wondering what are some places I need to inspect for rust, mechanical issues and any other things that might hold me up?

Cheeres in advance, all help is much appreciated.

$_20-1.JPG

[Johnny Roadkill]

Hi Aus60,

Welcome !

It might be useful to hear about your plans, would help to know what's important and what's going to be replaced anyway - what's the goal at the end ? ( just drive it, restoration, boat-hauler, modified off-roader, ??? )

Having said that, here's what I've found ( and heard ) -

chassis rust is serious work, and the chassis crossmember just behind the engine seems to be a common spot,
as for the body look carefully at the windshield frame - often rusty around the vents and fiddly to repair,
brakes aren't a standout even when working properly - and they often aren't ( replacement wheel cylinders are available),
clutch issues are another common complaint,
electrical gremlins ( but it's all really simple if you're handy with a multimeter ),
engine cooling system can get gunked up if it's been sitting for a while ( a radiator re-core is available but expensive ),
any original suspension springs, shocks, bushes, etc. will likely be needing replacement ( Dobinsons sell replacements for most parts ).

Cheers,
D

[Aus60]

Thanks will defiantly be checking all of that out, I do know that it needs a new master clutch as it blew.
I'm planning to restore it, find a hard top roof and use it for special off roading and cruising. Eventually have a dream of putting a turbo diesel in it but that is a long way down the track.

[Johnny Roadkill]

Sounds good !

Clutch hydraulics aren't any major drama as long as the clutch itself is ok - at least until you're ready to do the engine swap. The old P motor is pretty simple to work on ( manuals are available on this forum), but service parts are scarce so be prepared to make some of your own gaskets ( or just use gasket silicone instead ). For a resto you'll probably find there are a few parts that everyone is looking for because they're hard to find in good condition. Having said that there are plenty of really nicely restored vehicles on this forum so it can be done and done well.

Below is a link to a recent thread on a turbo-diesel resto-modded G60 ute :

http://60patrol.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=4269

cheers,
D