Buying another festiva Inspection Checklist??

[links56]

Alright, I found another Festiva that I am going to buy to drive while I finish my B6T Swap. There's nothing spectacular about it, Its just an L and has some rust in the normal areas, but it is at a dealership and has had the entire brake system replaced and wheel bearings. So this is my question for you guys.....What should I check out as far as drivability? I plan on taking the oil cap off for starters, I plan on buying this and taking a 3500 mile trip with it the next week, I just want to make sure it doesn't leave me stranded anywhere. Thanks guys!

[Aspire SVT]

Since it's at a dealer they should have no problem with you giving it a thorough check over, I would inspect all of the fluids. Pulling off the oil cap and inspecting in the valve cover for caking can give you an idea of the overall maintenance history, also pulling it off for a moment when its running and putting your palm over it can also be a basic check for cylinder blowby if you feel pressure on your palm. if the oil wasn't changed often then you can pretty much assume the other fluids weren't either. I would check all of the lights and make certain every thing works.
Check the v belt tightness. Make sure the keys work in all the doors and the hatch. And have them lift the vehicle so you can check the underside for any excessive or structural rot, any leaks and suspension issues or looseness. Allow the engine to reach operating temp and keep an eye on the temp gauge while you drive it. Just ensure to NOT remove the radiator cap when it's warm.! Listen for clunks, weird noises and be very receptive when you drive it. Salesmen like to talk alot during road tests if they go with. I told one to shut up one time...and I still walked away from it.. Good luck any questions just ask.. I work on fords for a living.

[zoom zoom]

I would be satisfied to own a vehicle that doesn't clunk clank bang or squeal in one way or another.

but that's just me.

[Aspire SVT]

I'm picky, receptive and thorough. I've passed on the six I've looked at this season..

[drddan]

Mine clunks, rattles, and moans all over. But it will immediately start, take me anywhere I wanna go, and I actually trust it to get me wherever I go.
2+ years and it hasnt failed me (...not too badly, anyway!) Thats another story, and not the cars fault.
Solid reliable transport.