Hi,

I just joined. I am trying to learn how to work on my car. Right now I am just trying to get a handle on it's condition and decide whether it is worth fixing up. It was given to me as a gift, so I've never taken it to a mechanic. I've had it 4 months, and its been running pretty well, but I am starting to have some problems with it.

Is there anyone else here just trying to maintain their ride?

The body is a mess. The hood was replaced by a previous owner, and it is misaligned by about 1.5 inches. Since the latch doesn't line up an eyebolt and clasp was installed to hold the hood down.

Anyway, my first question is how do I tell if the hood is crooked, or the car is crooked?
I don't even want to go to a body shop, because one look at my car, and they will laugh me out the door.

Anyway, I am hoping that there are some guys here who won't laugh at a gal for trying to learn about her car.

Thanks,
Mary

 

I can't help you with your questions, but welcome to the club!

 

sounds like it's been wrecked. You can eyeball a hood and get it t close on the latch. What I'd suggest is purchasing a carfax report for the car and see if that VIN number has ever been reported as being wrecked. Sounds like it has though.

Maybe some pictures will help. Don't be scared to post your ride online. I have a 1976 turbocharged pinto. It's urine yellow with a black vinyl top.

 

Yeah, welcome, and post pics. I'd love to see it, bad condition and all. I really like 1st gens.

 

www.mazda323performance.com/forum. These guys knowith all.