Topic: What to look out for: '84-6 cylinder, automatic

[Wayne in NJ]

What to look out for: '84-6 cylinder, automatic

    Hi!
    Considering purchasing an '84, 6 cylinder, automatic, which the owner admits needs tranny work. Heard the parts for either trans available that year in the 6, are readily available.
    He also says the convertible top needs replacing.
    Anything, specific, for which to be on the lookout? Among other things, any 'rust areas' for which this particular fox body is famous?

    Thanks!
    Wayne in NJ

[bluemax]

Wayne, can't speak to the 6 cyl transmission parts availability as I have an SVO.

As for potential "rust" areas, the following is pretty typical for all Fox Bodies, especially in the rust belt states;

1. floor pans - particularly with a convertible
2. lower door seams - convertible doors are modified versions of the coupe and hatch and getting harder to find
3. cowl
4. front frame rails

Parts are not as readliy available as the early model cars, i.e. can't build a car out of a catalog. That is slowly changing though. Depending on color option, interior parts can be hard to find; door panels, rear trim panels, etc.

Good luck with the purchase. 

[svo2scj]

Convertibles can be WATER traps especially if the top had leaks or had a window cracked to let water/snow get in.  Look in the trunk, under the rear seat and is the forward rear quarters. 

The rest of the FOX BODY areas for rust - see to be due to the lack of paint on some of the parts.  (and contact with salt if on the east coast)

Mark

[Wayne in NJ]

Thanks for the tips!  Realized i posted in the wrong spot...sorry!