02 Questions (Sunroof / Body)

[Guest Anonymous]

Looked at a 74 02 the other day that "appeared" in reasonable condition, not a lot of rust (from the a quick look, like none in the doors, rockers etc.,) this is a Calif. car. (not that this means it doesn't have rust). The car has a clean title as well, however, clearly it had been hit lightly in the back as their was an area over the rear wheel that was pooched out. I deceided not to drive it as I thought I would wait and see what else is available out there. With this general description is this something to stay away from??? Also has a stuck sunroof (haven't a clue how much that costs to fix or who can do it.

[Guest Anonymous]

It doesn't take much of a tap in the rear--even on a squarelight--to cause a slight buckling at the top of one or both rear wheel openings. Looking in the trunk with the wood trunk floor removed (both sides) will tell you if there was serious damage and how/if it was repaired. You can also take a tape measure and measure wheel center to wheel center on both sides of the car to make sure the unibody isn't sprung.

Stuck sunroof: presuming it's stuck closed, it might be easy to loosen up or it might be a real PITA. The upholstery panel on the inside of the sliding section can be removed with the sunroof closed, exposing at least some of the mechanism. If the crank turns and the roof doesn't move, it could be a stripped gear on the crank, or a broken cable. Both can be fixed, it just takes time and the instructions from a shop manual. Presuming the car isn't a rustbucket, the problem may just be lack of lubrication. Just be careful and don't force anything. The cables fasten to the roof with plastic tabs; they're easily broken and then you have to replace the whole cable at $60 or so a pop.

Good luck

Mike

[Guest Anonymous]

Even someone like myself w/30 years experience on BWM 2002s would need to see the vehicle before making an evaluation. However, from your message it seems the body damage is mininal. I suggest you get the car up on a lift and look for frame and interior panel damage. The sunroof could be stuck for various reasons. Commonly the mechanical crank and other moving parts are not lubricated on a regular basis. I'd be will to look at it if the car were nearby. Good luck.