Used SVO ?'s

[ArmyZip]

Hey guys I need some help. I am looking at buying a used 1986 SVO mustang and I don't want to end up with a lemon. What are some key things to look for when I check it out? Is there anything in the SVO that is particularly prone to failure that I should have checked out before I buy it? Any help on this would be appreciated.

[SVOeric]

Of course you are looking for a USED SVO,


Our SVO's are built on standard fox chasisied mustangs, so they pretty much have the same problems other mustangs have.

watch for broken floorboards where the rear drivers seats bolt down, and torque boxes. Those are the 2 biggest things I can think of right now.

as far as the engine goes, that 2.3 is one tough engine. The turbo does add a bit of complexity, but nothing major, and nothing you can check without taking some stuff apart.

Let us know if you have more specific questions.

[ArmyZip]

Mechanic?

This is a shot in the dark but do any of you know a good mechanic in Hialeah FL that knows turbos that could take a look at the SVO for me?

[svobud]

as stated - regular problems you see on a Mustang....tranny, rear end, floors, bushings, etc...

but, I always look at the wiring. I hate a car that someone has spliced a dozen butt-connectors under the hood and dash....usually leads to some 'never to be found gremlin'.

As for a SVO specifically - make sure it has good lights (cause they're getting mega-expensive now-a-days) - and make sure the rest of it's "SVO specific" items are still intact.

[Ralphcobra]

suggestions

I have had a pile of problems with the svo's that I own, but almost all of the problems are generally to do with electrical system and worn out suspension and drive train. A lot of parts are specific to the svo and are hard to find. My suggestion to you would be to buy the best condition car that you can find and then try to keep it in as good condition as you can afford.
If you start a restoration on one of these little cars, you will spend a pile of money and will have much more in one than you would have if you had bought a good condition car to begin with. Ask me how I know this? I have much more money in all of my svo's than I could sell them for. Just my thoughts. Ralph

[gbeaird]

Most of us do, Ralph. But remember how much fun the SVO is to drive, _especially_ at boost in 5th gear?!! :-)

Good recommendation to get the best car you can find and go from there, though. Even if you are a good mechanic, the parts costs alone will kill a budget, if you can even say that word with 'SVO'.

Gene Beaird
86 2R SVO (expen$ive, but loving it!!)
Pearland, Texas