Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

Hello,
my name is Kendall and I live in Seattle. Just finished my latest project and I'm looking for something new (er uh.. old!) So a 311 is what I have in mind. Been doing a lot of research online as to parts availability, aftermarket parts, what problems to expect etc... Looks like I'm in for a real treat. I'm looking for a 68-70 fixer upper. I don't have the $10,000.00 initial investment nor do I want to. I want to be able to tinker, trouble shoot, plan and the likes. The journey is half the fun right?
So, first question. There's 69 for sale on CL here in Seattle that I'm going to look at on Saturday. Any input would be welcome.

http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/cto/3861822837.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Thanks in advance. Good to be here.

Kendall

Welcome Kendall from a fellow Washingtonian!

Looks like a decent place to start, but it will require rust repair, body work, possible welding or fabrication, etc. If these are areas you enjoy, then this may be a good place to start.

Welcome. You came to the right place.

Some locals may know the car and can offer some history if they have come across it over the years.
If you can get the VIN ahead of time, check if it is in the registry.

At 1st glance, some items I notice:
-car looks like a '68 registered as a '69 - no side markers, license plate light is on bumper
-fan shroud is missing
-hose in passenger footwell may be heater core bypass
-bungee cord battery hold-down may be an indicator of some other creative fixes

Some good reference reading before you check out the car:
http://311s.org/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f= ... ilit=buyer
http://www.datsun.org/roadster/resource ... guide.html
http://www.311s.org/pmwiki-311/pmwiki.p ... uyersGuide
http://www.datsunroadster.com/misc_page ... _guide.htm
http://www.datsuns.com/roadster/roadsterguide.htm

As noted in other posts on the topic, front brake calipers and ball joints are pricey.
Check with owner what "new brakes" means. Pads only or a rebuild? Fresh fluid and clean calipers would be a good sign.

Looks like the asking price is realistic, but hard to tell for sure without seeing it in person.

Happy shopping. Good luck.

Hi Guys,
I chatted with him on the phone a bit. First order of business will be the carbs. He says one has a sticky float. He said the front bumper is off of a Sprite. And yes, I could see the rust. Probably replace the fenders. Welding is not a strong spot for me. Nor do I own a welder. I do have a buck or two to spend using pros to do the work. From what I've read here on the site, rocker panels are a big issue. Meeting with him on Saturday. If I do purchase, I'll probably drive her for the summer months to get a feel for her then begin the work in fall.

Am I wrong or do these cars look great from all angles? I just may be hooked.

Kendall

Kendall124 wrote:If I do purchase, I'll probably drive her for the summer months to get a feel for her then begin the work in fall.

Perfect choice.. Just get the brakes and the motor working and have a great summer...

Welcome!
First decisions to be made:
1) Low or High windshield - looks like you have that out of the way!
2) 1600 or 2000?

This one is a 1600 obviously. Rust is my personal biggest fear with any car, everything else I can repair.
Rust repair can be expensive, and if there is a little visible, there is TYPICALLY a LOT that is not - not always, but look carefully.
Once the metal is repaired, then there is paint. And the list goes on.

I think you are spot on with driving whatever you buy first and enjoying it.

Well... I bought her. Price was right. Motor and tranny in good condition. Interior is shot, front fenders are shot, top is shot.

I'm already in love.

Kendall

Be sure to send us some photos. Congrats on the purchase.

Kendall124 wrote:Well... I bought her. Price was right. Motor and tranny in good condition. Interior is shot, front fenders are shot, top is shot.

I'm already in love.

Kendall

Cool man, welcome to the addiction! There is something about these cars as you will soon find out. Glad you're in love cause it will help when she tests you and some stupid item pisses you off (expect it)! But like you said, the resto is part of the fun. We're here to help, source parts, and enjoy along with you. Once I'm up and running again I'm sure we'll meet!

Welcome aboard fellow roadie!

Thanks Guys. Rough numbers tell me I'm about 8k away from my goal which is a nice little weekend driver. 12k if I really want to go nuts. 15k if I just want to work on it forever I'll get some pics up in the next day or so.
Going to post a question or two, or 5 very soon. She is currently on her 3rd can of engine de-greaser. Yesterday I finally saw where the starter motor was. And I also said out loud "Oh, that's where the fuel pump is." Pretty bad under there.

Kendall

All the better for you to appreciate the progress you'll make.