What to look for on a prospective Elcamino

[dsolomon]

I am considering adding a 70 Elcamino to my herd. I want it to be a project so that paint, interior and options can be tailored to my personal preferences.

My primary concern is rust as I guess it is with all of us. What areas are prone to rust on a 1970 Elcamino and are there areas that if rusted should make me reconsider the purchase?

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

[grandsport]

Hi Dan,welcome. Waving I'm the Chevelle Forum dummy so I can't help you.:)

[Highway Star]

Welcome to chevelleforum.

Don't let Gary BS you, he has been in the car business for like 50 years!!!

[grandsport]

Welcome to chevelleforum.

Don't let Gary BS you, he has been in the car business for like 50 years!!!

Woah,dude.I didn't start selling cars at age 3. But I did make my first sale at 17.:)

[BillsCamino]

Welcome Dan! Waving
Look for rust around the rear window, especially the lower corners, and smuggler's box behind the seat. Also the lower corners of the windshield/cowl area.
What condition is the bed? Quite a few Elkys got beat up hauling stuff over the years.

[johnnys1977]

Check the frame really well. Around the area of the steering box, also just where it comes down to join the outer rails the arch over the rear end and the rails on out to the rear! Look for soft spots. Maybe a small hammer to tap and listen for it to not sound solid!
The lower cowl down at or below the lower hinges!
Then as has beeb said around the windshield, top and bottom! Seen a lot with roof rot too! Especially a vinyl or former vinyl roof Elky!
Around the rear window and the lower bulkhead panel where it meets the bed!