MY08 3.0R-B: Post NRMA inspection investigations

[kyle]

I've been looking at a MY08 3.0R-B which came back from a NRMA inspection with a few items, including:
- engine oil low by approx 1L
- clutch fluid high in moisture content
- 'disruption' to left front/rear suspension + visible signs of poor repair activity (loose, rusted bolts incorrect size/position)

I didn't get a chance to talk to the mechanic who did the inspection today, but will do tomorrow.

I'll be asking for quotes to bring suspension up to scratch, but I'm a little concerned about the fluids as it seems like more of a black box and could be innocent, or really not.

To that end I thought I'd ask some folks with experience; is there anything in particular I can look for or ask that might give indications as to the reason for oil usage and moisture in the clutch fliud?

Having read extensively about H6s and their dislike of low oil this is the item that has me thinking, and wondering how you rule out abuse or negelect, as much as possible anyway

Appreciate any and all thoughts on the topic. I'm not urgently looking, but aside from a few cosmetic issues it felt like a good example with all of the extras. Just looking to go into it with eyes wide open...

[bigBADbenny]

Being a spec B you should get a quote from Heasmans in Sydney or Trutrack or Quadrant in Melbourne, as they can rebuild Bilsteins properly... There's also somewhere in QLD. They can also mitigate the dodgy repairs properly...

[kyle]

Thanks, much appreciated - I'll follow up with Heasmans tomorrow. (I'm in Sydney, profile updated)

[bigBADbenny]

Get the damage rectification quoted then work out wether to refurb the billies if required or upgrade to coilovers.

I'm no H6 expert but the Headgasket appears to be their Achilles heel so perhaps get the coolant litmus tested.
Get a member to do a Learning View with their tactrix to give an idea of the state of tune of the car and if any cel codes memorised.

[Brunsy3.0]

I think your right to have a concern about the low engine oil im not overly sure on how low they need to be to cause damage but have seen many of threads where low oil was extremely damaging to the internals
Not trying to put you off but it might be worth pming some more experienced H6 owners that are more knowledgeable than I Kido for example

[BUDDAH]

Most if not all 3..0RBs use a bit of oil 1lt is of no concern. Even from new Subaru gave new owners a 1lt of oil to top up

[kyle]

Thanks guys for the pointers.

I went ahead and purchase the vehicle after some negotiations, and had it put through a quick service (just fluids and a few other things which needed fixing).

I've been keeping an eye on the level, and it doesn't seem to be burning anything, but I've only done about 1k since then.

A little todo list of little non mechanical things which will get done as time allows, but otherwise very happy.

I think I'm getting a feel for it, though had been wondering if it might be worth taking somewhere (like Kido's) for a checkover and tune, not a spare second to investigate yet. Hard to guess as it's the first Lib/H6 I've owned.