Viewing a Caterham tomorrow. Advice please!
Discussion
As title suggests, I am going to view a Roadsport which is being advertised at the moment in the classifieds.
http://www.pistonheads.com/classifieds/used-cars/c...
Any pointers on the kinds of things I should check when I view it? I don't mind that it's been used as a Academy/track car. Seems like a good price to get into Caterham ownership. I could always upgrade parts or move on a few years later once I feel more comfortable.
All input will be greatly appreciated.
Even better would be if anyone in Peterborough could pop down with me to check it out in the next few days but I know that may be pushing my luck there! If you don't ask, you don't get!
http://www.pistonheads.com/classifieds/used-cars/c...
Any pointers on the kinds of things I should check when I view it? I don't mind that it's been used as a Academy/track car. Seems like a good price to get into Caterham ownership. I could always upgrade parts or move on a few years later once I feel more comfortable.
All input will be greatly appreciated.
Even better would be if anyone in Peterborough could pop down with me to check it out in the next few days but I know that may be pushing my luck there! If you don't ask, you don't get!
From the description it looks like a great entry into 7 ownership, yes it is an ex-Academy car but as long as it has been properly maintained and you can accept the odd dings and scrapes then it ought to be fine. Obviously need to look for any signs of HGF, it should drive OK and all gears should engage easily. Would be best if you could find a local 7 owner to help give it a look over.
I also think it looks like a great way to get in to Seven ownership. Have a good look underneath for corrosion, surface rust on the powdercoat and oil leaks as well as the stuff already mentioned.
edited to add they do videos of all their cars for sale: here
edited to add they do videos of all their cars for sale: here
Edited by grenpayne on Thursday 5th December 22:15
As Dave says, do a compression test and check the history file for any Minister invoices (they used to rebuild/refresh/reseal the K series for racing).
Pay particular attention to number 3 cylinder.
Other than that, just have a good look around the car. They are very simple and everything is exposed once you get the bonnet and nose cone off. Good luck!
Cheers,
Ian
Pay particular attention to number 3 cylinder.
Other than that, just have a good look around the car. They are very simple and everything is exposed once you get the bonnet and nose cone off. Good luck!
Cheers,
Ian
Standard pistons do break up in race cars which is why everyone ends up with forged pistons. It would be good to know whether it was in the Academy for one year and then road used, or raced in other series. Whilst Minister (or Caterham) did the work for the official Caterham series, there were/are other options in Caterham Graduates for example.
Agree with Mr Grubbster. There are always others around. It's hard but be patient with the hunt and get the best. Condition is very important and as mentioned history. Mine had Minster work done, so was a big draw for me.
btw mine is an ex-Academy too, and I love it. That one you were looking at has CR500 tyres which are considered to be one of the best tyres around.
btw mine is an ex-Academy too, and I love it. That one you were looking at has CR500 tyres which are considered to be one of the best tyres around.
May give the dealer a call to check if its still available but I'm not that bothered anymore. Im thinking in the long run, spending more may be the better option. Gonna give myself until next April to see if I get any big jobs at work (self employed) that will allow me to buy a better car (with 140bhp).
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