Novice Question

[CudaJon]

I recently purchased a 73 Cuda (BS23H) and the car engine is running fine no big surprises yet... Doesn't overheat, idles very nicely, smooth linear acceleration, oil pressure gauge reads in the middle between the center and H, no leaks on the garage floor.  However in saying all this I do not have a background to notice things. My question is, in reading the service manual and referring to Group 0, should I  perform some or all of the maintenance the manual is outlining since I don't not know the history of the engine/components. It seems to me not to be a bad idea however I'm also looking at the group to point me in anything else I should look at due to the age of the car. 

Thank you very much!!
Jon  

[soundcontrol]

I always change the oil and filter when I get a car, then I know for sure it's been done and at what point. Look at the old oil, smell it, and check the plugs, for a general condition of the engine. Check the rest of the fluids also, tranny, rear end, brakes, coolant.

[turbostang7]

Every time I purchase a car (that I intend on keeping) I replace all the fluids, cheap insurance IMO. I usually do the thermostats etc, check over all hoses, change the belts (put the old ones in a case in the trunk in case of a breakdown.

[js29no]

 Maybe some fuel system cleaner, then A new fuel filter. run non ethanol gas in it.

[Racer57]

You don't have to do it all at the same time, but I would recommend changing and checking everything. That way you know the condition and it will also allow you to see/find anything else that possibly needs attention.

[73_Cuda_4_Me]

First thing I'd check is all safety-related items... Steering gear (bearings, seals, brakes, tie rods, ball joints, and A-Arm bushings), rear brakes and seals, then driveshaft U-joints...

Then I'd do the bulkhead connector and alternator bypass wiring ASAP... It's something you won't notice in any inspection, but many connectors (and even a whole car or two) have gone up in smoke over the poor factory ammeter wiring and power feed system used by Ma Mopar... and time is the connector's worst enemy (oxidation, heat resistance, and loose blade connectors)...

My two cents... given to me by so many nice members here on this site... just payin it forward!  8  )

[Racer57]

Then I'd do the bulkhead connector and alternator bypass wiring ASAP... It's something you won't notice in any inspection, but many connectors (and even a whole car or two) have gone up in smoke over the poor factory ammeter wiring and power feed system used by Ma Mopar... and time is the connector's worst enemy (oxidation, heat resistance, and loose blade connectors)...

Now ya got him scared to even start the thing !!!

[73_Cuda_4_Me]

Not my intention, for sure...

just mentioning some of the things that are pretty important that someone new to this should be able to use right away, but by all means, ENJOY the RIDE!!!  8 )

[CudaJon]

OK soooo bring a fire extinguisher and say a quick pray - got it - thanks!!

Seriously I understand about connectors and age not to mention old capacitors - I restore old military radios for the past quarter century.

I think this weekend I'm going to take some pictures of the engine and front end suspension and post  for anybody who wants to take a lookies, there are some valves that are unfamiliar to me plus I like to get everyone's opinion. Thanks so much for your comments. This is where the internet pays off!!