Help! Should I consider buying a TD Mark7?

[dieselweasel]

Hello,
I am new to the site and wanted to ask for some advice on buying a 1984 diesel Mark VII. I found one that has been sitting for a few years, the owner tells me that it was running fine before it was parked but now he can't get it started (although he hasn't tried hard). The car is about 8hrs from me so I don't want to buy it if it is junk. He claims the car was in good condition, all options working, no probs with suspension, engine, cooling, electronics etc., and looks to be in good shape physically.

Can anyone give me a sense of what this is worth and what I should worry about since it has been sitting? I know gas engines but have never tinkered with diesel.

Many Thanks!

 

[JoshMcMadMac]

It depends on the price, but they are pretty rare and pretty cool. Where is it located? I would definately ask to see many detailed pictures before make that long of a haul.

 

[dieselweasel]

Hey, I'm including more info:
165K miles
located in SC
Price $1000-$1500
Stored indoors for 2-3 yrs.

Any advice would be welcome.

THX

 

[OldSchool1]

Treat it exactly like you would a GAS powered purchase.

What would you give me for a Mark VII that I said doesen't run?

I don't want to talk a Brother out of a sale or a buyer out of the experience of owning one of the best cars on the planet but I do want you to think about it.

I bought my TD for a fair price. It was running when I picked it up and I've discovered that the head gaskets are bad and I'm going to spend about a year and do it myself. Parts are scarce but available. I know three other owners and i talk about my experience here or at: http://www.lscclub.org/diesel/

The page for my diesel is here or at: http://www.lscclub.org/cars/oldschool8/