Hey. Question/Suggestions needed.

[nicksta]

My first question - Can I get a gas latch from any year that will fit on my 89 240?

I want to get rid of the rust/dents on my car and get a paintjob.

The two "problem areas" are the gas latch which has rusted out, and the front bumper which has a couple of dents, rust, and paint chippings.

My question would be, do you think I'd save some money on bodywork if I bought a new front bumper (from 89) and gas latch?

Some other spots on the car need work, so I figure if I spent $150 on these, I might be able to save some? Or is it a waste of money?

Thanks.

[AZhitman]

Nick - First order of business, IF you already have some rust, is to get up inside the front wheelwell and remove one of the front struts. If there's rust up in the strut tower, drop that ride like a bad habit. I'm betting that if your gas latch has rusted, then there's likely a LOT of bad rust up under the unibody - And that's bad.

You'll be glad you did in the long run. There is NO rehabbing a rusted 240 in most cases, uness you catch it very early - Even then, you're looking at a lot of $$$ to make it right.

BTW, Front bumper is plastic, shouldn't have any rust...

[USDM240]

^agreed.

[nicksta]

Hmm, well there shouldnt be any rust problems because I had the car fully inspected before I bought it (last year).

It doesnt hurt to check again, but I think everything is still good under there :p

[USDM240]

that doesnt make much sense to me. you said you had it inspected and its fine, but yet the gas latch is rusted? funny how that would be the only thing to rust....