OPEL–SCOOTACAR
ESSENTIAL CHECKS
Thinking of snapping up this pint-sized Fifties classic? Here’s what you need to know
KNOW WHERE THEY ROT
Check from bumper to bumper, prodding and looking for filler. It’s suggested the MkII is more rust-prone than the MkI because the later cars used thinner metal. Check too for bodged repairs. Key areas include the sills, wheel arches, door bottoms, headlight surrounds, rear valance, floor pans and rear spring hangers. The A-posts, boot floor, lower wings and boot lid can also rot.
DOES IT JUMP OUT OF GEAR?
MkIs have a smooth gearbox casing (visible down the back of the engine), often substituted for the later ribbed version of the MkII, which is stronger and features improved synchromesh. If the gearbox is getting worn, it’ll jump out of gears, particularly when you lift off the accelerator – try this in each gear. DIY rebuilding of the gearbox costs around £200; specialist overhaul will be £600. Halfshafts are prone to breaking, so engine upgrades will only give them a harder time.
TEST THE KINGPINS
If there’s lots of play in the system you can expect to pay around £120 plus labour to get both kingpins overhauled. New wishbones are often needed, too, at £55 per side for the parts. To check for wear, jack up the front of the car by supporting it under the front crossmember, grip the road wheel top and bottom, and try to rock
