Might have an oppertunity to pick up a '79 for somewhere around $200 or so. Owner kinda wants to just dump it.

Took a brief look at the beast. It has "super sport" badges on it. (Faded and old, probally fake) and supposidly it runs 8 )

My questions,,,,,

What should i look out for engine wise ? Would a small tick, or knock while its running be really really bad repair? If it does run a bit rough, would some cheaper work (plugs,, wires cap rotor) improve things tremendously ?

It appears to be someones project car. Some of the components appear newer than others, so i think some work has been done to it.

Is an El Camino in general, a nightmare to work on ? 8 )

On average, are parts widely available and or cheap ?

Basically im thinking of picking it up for something to fix up and kinda drive around as a 2nd vehicle. A toy to work on in my spare time 8 )

Welcome to ECC carrierx!

I don't know if you can get a roadworthy El Camino for $200. :?

If it knocks or ticks I'd stay away from it unless your ready to do an engine swap. If it runs a little rough it may just need a good tune-up. El Caminos are no harder to fix than any other auto. There are plenty of aftermarket and restoration parts available but they're not necessarily cheap.

:mrgreen:

From my limited experience with 305's and 350's... a small knocking --- to a point --- is normal.

BUT, if it's excessive or is louder than a distinct clock tick, you've got a valve problem (or loose piston, even worse cuz that means a re-bore of the block).

And that, as 87ElCamino suggested, is a problem. It means an engine rebuild.

So, for $200 you're getting a shell. Little more. Something to rebuild, but not a road worthy car (IMHO).

If you want a project car, go for it.

If you want a daily driver this car is not it. At least, not yet. :)