I have an 88 non turbo with a siezed engine - probably the apex seal. I have the opportunity to pick up an 86 non turbo for less than $100 bucks. Very tempting!!!
It was strong non-smoker when car was wrecked, but it's been sitting for 8 months. Should this make me nervous, or should I take a shot since it's so cheap.

 

Its under a 100 bucks , i'll say buy it

how many miles on it?

 

For less then $100, what do you want? Buy it! You can easily part it out if it's dead....

If you are planning to try and start, replace the fuel, flush the system, and put some oil into the engine through the spark plug holes. Rotate by hand a few times, then start up and let it idle for about 5 minutes, then drive carefully...

 

damn 100 dollars!! go for it and if doesnt work part out the car and you can make yourself some extra cash

 

thanks for your advice... got it for $125. are there any precautions that would reduce the chance of carbon lock or apex seal breaking off other than Aaron Cakes recommendation? should I put regular oil or tranny fluid in before turning it over, and how much???

 

I think regular oil. Tranny fluid trick is only for flooded engines.