What do you think?

[kkrehbiel]

I suppose the best part of this story is that I had the opportunity to drive this car for a spell before I actually forked over the cash.

My step father recently purchased a '93 Chevy Astro van from an auction. He had it painted, and offered to sell it to me for $4500.00.

Right now, the vehicle needs a brake job, new alternator (or some other electrical fix), and to top it all off, there is Gas in the oil.

My question is simple, is it worth it? What are the possible causes of Gas in the Oil? Also, what effect does a worn belt have on the Alternator?

My step father is now trying to tell me that because I did not replace the serpentine belt, it's my fault the alternator is out. It sounds pretty far fetched to me, but perhaps someone can enlighten me a bit?

Thanks for all your help!

Warmest Regards,

KK

[YogsVR4]

take a look at www.kbb.com and check out the van for a private party value. The ones I tried came back at less then 4K. Unless theres something fantastic about this van - it sounds like he's trying to take you for a ride.

[Polygon]

1. I wouldn't pay $4,500.00 for a car with these kinds of problems, especially when the gas and oil are being allowed to mix.

2. A loose alternator belt can cause a few things. The belt may become warn and snap. The belt may not dive the alternator properly causing power issues. In some cars the alternator and the water pump are on the same belt so the engine may not be cooled properly. All in all a loose belt would not cause a faulty alternator.

So what you are saying that the engine is burning oil? Or there is gas in the oil pan? Either way you have some bad seals in the engine for fluids to be mixing.

[|Banchi1O5|]

our family has had 3 astro vans
brake jobs are a big problem and be prepared to fork out some money
you can pick up a nice one for about $3k so i wouldnt recommend buying his - they are nice vehicles and can usually make it to 175k+ without any major problems. good luck

[Whitey001]

I agree thats way too much for the problems it has. The fuel oil mix might be caused bu bad or loos gaskets. if so have fun:bandit:

[THE4TH]

i wouldn't have paid that much for the van to begin with ...
not to mention one with such problems..
mini vans usually entail a lot higher cost to fix.. as far as i am aware..
and the gas in the oil... well it's meant for oil.. it would be like having water in the gas tank...