Repair Q's for a N00B

[clumzy]

Forgive the newbie questions but I've got a couple of quick ones. I'm looking at a great 86 that's been restored a couple years back and currently has a few problems.

1. The e-brake cable has snapped. I remember reading that it's a fairly simple procedure to replace depending on where the break occurred. Is there anyway for me to visually inspect without tearing up the entire interior? How much would it take a "professional" shop to repair this? Is it a DIY type repair?

Obviously a non-functional ebrake will not pass a Cert so I need to have that repaired before I license.

2. Gas gauge, doesn't work. Apparently the low gas light will come on after about 400km on a full tank so it's not a huge issue but I was wondering if this is a DIY known fix.

3. Body was RUSTED but was restored about 2 years ago. That includes a new paint job for sure. Is there anything that I should specifically look for when inspecting the paint and looking for hidden rust (ie. bubbling, seams, trunk, engine). I suppose it's hard to tell if the beginnings of rust are occuring under the paint.

Your help is appreciated as I will likely be driving a long way to see this vehicle. Thanks!

[Rolla Pat]

Hey Clumzy,


1) The e-brake cable most likely broke from under the car. Will be very easy to spot if you can get it up on a lift. You'll see it pass near the driveshaft. I you haven't done it before, better get someone to do it and adjust the new cable properly.

2) Most likely the in-tank gas gauge meter. Will probably just need an adjustment or one of the wires connecting to it (ground, etc..) is corroded. It's the smaller round top plate on the gas tank.

3) Yes, look for bubbling. Will most-likely occur around seams and seals, wheel well interior, etc... In the trunk, check the sides where the jack rests. If you have a sunroof, inspect that thoroughly. A yearly shot of rustproofing is recommended.

hope this helps!

[clumzy]

Rolla,

Thanks for the responses ... I was planning on bringing a hydrolic jack and some jackstands with me as I inspect the car. IF the seller is ok with it I will jack it up and take a look at the underbody and the brake cable. Since the underbody is not nearly at well maintained is there anything else I should look for while I'm down there?

Additionally, how is "rust restoration" done? I understand if the metal is not perforated (ie. surface rust) it can simply be sanded and repainted, correct? And if it is perforated, the rusted area (+ 6 inches) will have to be cut away and a new piece of sheet metal welded into place, and painted. Do I have that right?

If I do, a close inspection of all body panels should reveal if a good job was done, correct?

I suppose I have alot of questions but as I said I will be travelling a long distance to see this car and I'd like to be equipped with information to make an informed buying decision.

Thanks for your help!

[ek-9]

On a side note, don't use that car jack on the driveway. make sure you use it on the road or in the garage cuz i managed to put two nice holes in my driveway :P

[Rolla Pat]

Hey clumzy!

Yep, you got it right about the rust. While you're down there, check for any kind of leaks (diff, tranny, engine oil, prestone, gas tank), check for holes in the floor, rocker panels, etc... When you drive it, check for any noises coming from the diff or tranny. Another important thing is to check the oil pressure, should be between the two ines. Even though Toyota gauges are reknown to lose their precision with time, an out of spec oil gauge is not pointing in the right direction.

[clumzy]

Thanks again for the responses. You guys have made my stay at TN enjoyable so far ... I hope to become a Toyota owner soon.

I will take many pictures of the Corolla when I inspect it on the weekend and post them on my website.