Info please

Info please

Author
Discussion

Act Daft

Original Poster:

191 posts

156 months

Tuesday 16th December 2014
quotequote all
Hi Guys

I've been to have a look at a 97 4.2 Cerb today with a view to buying and I need some information please.

Firstly the seller states that the 4.2 engine is a stronger unit than the speed 6 engine and doesn't suffer from the same issues as the 6, is this correct or just sales talk?

Does the engine when started for the first time from cold sound a little rattily?

and just a couple of other issues wipers not working correctly say needs new ribbon and passenger door wont open from outside are these minor issues?

Everything else seems in order including full history, receipts including top end engine rebuild a few years ago by unknown

any advice appreciated

Thanks

Tim

Griffithy

929 posts

276 months

Tuesday 16th December 2014
quotequote all
Act Daft said:
Hi Guys
Firstly the seller states that the 4.2 engine is a stronger unit than the speed 6 engine and doesn't suffer from the same issues as the 6, is this correct or just sales talk?
The speed 6 engine certainly is huge, heavy and quite complicated compared to the AJP8.
I prefer the AJP8 very much, a really lovely engine.
Early 4.2s could suffer of crankshaft failure.

Pandoras box is open now ...... popcorn.....

Before buying get it checked by a specialist.
Money always well spent.


Boatbuoy

1,941 posts

162 months

Tuesday 16th December 2014
quotequote all
The AJP 8 V's Speed 6 is a well documented and discussed topic. I don't think it needs repeating here as there are so many threads about it all ready that you can search for and read at your leisure.

Ribbon cables in the steering wheel boss/hub are a weak point and it wouldn't be a bad place to start. They are an easy (if somewhat fiddly) home job if you feel inclined.

Exterior door buttons/switches can also fail due to moisture allowing corrosion to build on the contacts. regular use helps prevent this, but again it's not a huge job to replace.

Early 4.2's had high-lift cams, these are sometimes known as 'clatter cams' for the reason you describe. Noisy from cold, but the noise goes after a bit of running. Mine does it.

Do your research, speak to owners, and get a survey if you feel that's right.

Regards,
Olly

Gazzab

21,093 posts

282 months

Tuesday 16th December 2014
quotequote all
It's an old car so it won't be perfect unless it's been rebuilt - so buy on condition, recent bills and an expert eye. This reduces the risk.