Approximately 200 miles after obtaining the car, the rear end seized. As far as I know this was the original rear end. Apparently the case had cracked and emptied of oil.
It helps if you have a trusty mechanic for cheap labor, although parts will require some ingenuity to obtain. Those who have not already done so should peruse www.dodgedart.org for a list of part dealers in their area. Note that while parts abound, mechanics can be unscrupulous and attempt to charge extra for feigned *difficulty* in obtaining replacement parts.
New rear end obtained and installed, car currently runs fine.
The interior is shabby and needs attention.
The vehicle has the standard NE USA, Mopar rust points: behind the wheel wells, along the roof. The frame has apparently rusted as well. Buyers and collectors should inspect the rust situation closely.
Besides being a Dart enthusiast, I was also told that the 70s Mopars are good cars to learn mechanics on. I am lazy and will likely never learn, although more serious pupils might find such advice helpful.
The car handles like a bloated grandmother on a parquet dance-floor. Not terrifically agile, but somehow fun to be around nonetheless.
The cabin is very roomy and I like tucking myself into the corner while driving. It also makes me want to smoke.
The bench seat is a nice feature. Very nice for those occassions when one finds themselves riding with a girl they are sweet on.
Auto engineers of today should take note of the design choices of the 70s - everything is knobs and switches. So much better than the pushbuttons and MFDs of today.
I really really love having the high beam switch as a 'kick' button, located the clutch would be.
Paid $600. With repairs, the car has cost about $1,800.00. You can find Swingers and darts on ebay and http://collectorcartraderonline.com .
$1,800 is about the low end of what you might pay for such specimens.
I heard that in the sequel to "Napolean Dynamite", Napolean buys and drives a Dodge Dart.
How appropriate.
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