New slow speed project: 800B, suggested first steps

[45degrees]

Hi all -

I just picked up a '71 Scout 800B. It's running and in my unqualified eye in decent shape. As much as I can tell it's nearly original except for a few add-ons, although I'm still taking stock.

I'm a mechanical neophyte, but not afraid of getting my hands dirty, making mistakes, and learning. I'm hoping that fixing up this vehicle over time gives me that chance. I'd like it to be a nearly daily driver.

I've been perusing the threads and knowledge base but am looking for advice on suggested first steps. I'm going to take her in to a shop this week for a full tune-up and once over. I know there are some things that need fixing, but am not sure how critical they are or what to prioritize. What things should I add to the list of things to check out / fix / replace right off the bat?

Thanks in advance!

[Four Paws]

Well, if you are going to have it tuned up - assuming plugs, wires, cap, rotor, points, condenser, and carb rebuild/adjustment - next on my list would be to flush/change all the fluids...anti-freeze, brake fluid, engine oil, tranmission oil, transfer case oil, front/rear differential oil. Also, check over the driveshaft U-joints.

Welcome, and good pick on your first Scout!! Do you have sliding rear windows?

[45degrees]

Four Paws, thanks for the tips. That looks like a good list to begin with.

Nope, no sliding rear windows in the back.

[Scout Driver]

The brakes would be a first priority. Always important, but even more-so because this will be your daily driver. I'd also give the wiring a quick check. Any vehicle of this vintage will be subject to brittle wires, electrical repairs that might be sketchy and corroded or loose grounds. You don't want to be stranded because of an electrical issue, or worse yet, in an accident because a signal didn't work, or victim of a car fire. Best of luck with your Scout!

Scott

[Robert JetFxr]

You can give me a call 406-670-0995, Robert

I will be happy to give it the once over and help you get going with a plan. I also have a few parts if you need.

[Albuq. Henry]

I would second the wiring... The connecters where the wires go through to the engine compartment, Bulk Head Connectors (BHC) are very much known to be a problem... Sometimes bad connection because of dirty... And also sometimes they are old and brittle. When they are brittle, the little ears that hold them in place break off. Without the ears it is hard to plug them together, when you push from the inside or out, the other piece just goes through.. so even with nice clean terminals you cant make a good connection... And becareful because the blue wires with screws, on the connector slightly to the pass side, they are always hot and the screws sit kinda close to the fire wall. So if you try to push that one and it goes through the screws can short pretty easy. Belive me I know!! Scared the ...out of me! Alot of times that one is wrapped with electrical tape. Another area that I would look at first is the AMP meter connections.



Good luck with the scout.. What engine do you have in it?