Looking to buy, but it doesn't start!

[Mynnx]

Hey guys. The father of a good friend of mine is selling an '87 LX Hatch that I believe to be in decent condition. The only rust I can find is a slight bit in the sheet metal under the doors and a few bubbles on the hatch. However, I went to check it out tonight and we couldn't get it to start.

The thing has been sitting between 1 and 2 years, so we kind of assumed the battery was shot. We tried to jump it though - with the battery, charging from a truck for several minutes, even without the battery in the circuit, and the darn thing wouldn't start. It would click once or repeatedly, and nothing more.

Do you think it just has some dirty connections, or a bad starter, or anything? Is there anything I need to watch out for before I do start it, just in case? Thanks guys, this may be my first 'Stang (and for under $800 at that); I just got rid of my 1980 Datsun 280ZX and need another sporty car.

Thanks,
~Mark

 

[mustangjoe87]

put a new battery in i bet it starts. change the oil and trans fluid right away if you buy it. maybe prime the oil pump or put a cap of oil in each cylinder before starting, if your worried about it.

 

[mackey]

I think you should just put a new battery in it and try. I do not think you charged the battery enough to turn the motor over.

 

[88-GT]

But he also said he tried bypassing the batter, by from what I am assuming, by bypassing the battery and just putting the jumpers right on the terminals, which should work. I would definately try looking for corroded connections. Remember to inspect the wire too as that can corrode as well. If that fails pray it doesnt have LT's and pull the starter, they are cheap to be rebuilt and will most likeyl fix your problem.

 

[89MustangGX]

Still sounds like a battery issue -- that's the way I would go.

 

[Curse]

Does it still have the same old gas that is now 1-2 years old? If so maybe the gas is no good anymore, just a thought.

 

[6SpeedLX]

check all connections, make sure theyre tight. check the cables, usually they corrode from the inside, out.Pull the starter and have it tested at Autozone or some other car parts store. While you're there, pick up a solenoid, incase thats the problem and to prevent a future problem....plus they're only $15.....