SMOKEFAN

iTrader: (2)

I may be looking at several '85 - '93 stangs in the next couple of weeks


What are the bad spots to look for?

What is good?

What engine issues may factor into purchase?

89notchback

iTrader: (2)

The first place to look is inside the engine bay where the strut towers meet the frame rail. I'v seen cars that were completly rotted out there. Also check the trunk or hatch lip, right above the license plate, this is another common rust spot.

Other things to look at are the frame rails under the driver and passenger floor, cuz some people dont know how to jack a car up and the rear upper control arm mounts.

Thats about all I can think of right now, good luck finding a car

BIZ

iTrader: (4)

Check for torque bends in the A-post..look for cracking or chipping paint on the outside of them (specially near the top)....this is a sign someone ran the **** out of it...

CDNCOBRA

With an '86 5.0 you will have flat top pistons so if you plan on doing alot of motor mods this will come into play. The 87's are flycut so there is more valve releif. An '86 does not support alot of different cams unless you have the pistons flycut.

Also the '86 was the first year for the 8.8 Rear end and true Dual exhaust for the 5.0 cars. 85's had dual tailpipes at the rear only and a 7.5 rear end.

red87gt

If your not planning on going with a Carbed engine try going with a 1988.5 + model/year cause they are MAF instead of speed density. I made that mistake now its gonna cost me a bundle to swap. Of course if you dont intend on doing upgrades such as heads and a more agressive cam, it doesnt matter as much.

good luck on your purchase.