1971 DODGE POLARA

Typical onset: 80,000-150,000 mi

Symptoms: Rattling noise from front of engine on cold start that quiets as oil pressure builds, Rough idle and poor performance as timing retards, Check timing with light—if more than 4-6 degrees off spec, chain is likely stretched, Catastrophic failure causes bent valves and potential piston contact

Fix: Replace timing chain, gears, and tensioner as a set. On 383/400/440 big-blocks, also inspect thrust plate and oil slinger. Quality double-roller chain recommended. 4-6 hours labor for small-block, 5-7 hours for big-block due to tighter engine bay.

Estimated cost: $600-1,200

Symptoms: Hard starting when cold, flooding when hot, Rough idle, hesitation on acceleration, black smoke from rich mixture, Fuel leaks from gasket surfaces or accelerator pump, Modern ethanol fuel deteriorates original gaskets and corrodes internal passages

Fix: Full rebuild with ethanol-compatible kit or replacement with remanufactured unit. Carter BBD (318/360) and AFB/AVS (big-blocks) are common. Rebuild takes 3-4 hours including removal, bench work, reinstall, and tuning. Some opt for Edelbrock replacement for reliability.

Estimated cost: $350-800

Symptoms: Front end sits noticeably lower than rear, uneven ride height side-to-side, Clunking from front suspension over bumps, Severe rust on torsion bar hex ends or crossmember anchor points, Alignment won't hold, excessive tire wear on inside edges

Fix: Inspect anchor bolts and crossmember for rust-through. If solid, re-index torsion bars or replace adjusting bolts. If crossmember compromised, welded repair or replacement required (major job). Also replace all bushings while apart—typical for 50-year-old rubber. 6-10 hours depending on rust severity.

Estimated cost: $800-2,000

Symptoms: Whining noise during turns, especially when cold, Puddles of ATF under front-left of engine bay, Hard steering or jerky assist, low fluid level, Seeping from pump shaft seal or gearbox input seal

Fix: Pump rebuild or replacement takes 2-3 hours. Gearbox seal replacement often requires removing box (4-5 hours), so many opt for reman unit if internal wear present. Flush system and use fresh ATF (Dexron III compatible). Check hoses for dry-rot.

Estimated cost: $400-900

Typical onset: 100,000-180,000 mi

Symptoms: Gear oil leak at axle tube ends or pinion seal, Howling or whining from rear at highway speed, Clunking on acceleration/deceleration if ring and pinion backlash excessive, Hot differential after moderate driving

Fix: Axle seals straightforward—1.5 hours per side. If bearings or gears worn, rebuild requires 8-12 hours: remove axles, set up ring/pinion with shims and proper backlash, new bearings/races/seals. 8.75" Chrysler rear is robust but parts availability good. Dana 60 slightly more expensive.

Estimated cost: $250-450 seals only, $1,200-2,200 full rebuild

Symptoms: Intermittent no-start, gauges drop out, lights dim, Smell of burning plastic near firewall, Voltage fluctuation, battery not charging properly, Ammeter shows discharge even with new alternator

Fix: Bulkhead connector terminals corrode and overheat—inspect all pins, clean with contact cleaner, crimp or solder repairs as needed (2-3 hours). Alternator: square-back Chrysler units common, 1-2 hours R&R. Consider ammeter bypass (1 hour) to reduce bulkhead load. Upgrade to higher-amp alt if running modern accessories.

Estimated cost: $200-600

Typical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi

Symptoms: Clunking over bumps, steering wander and vague on-center feel, Uneven tire wear, alignment won't stay in spec, Visible play in ball joint with bar under tire, levering up, Torn rubber boots, rust on stud

Fix: Upper control arms typically need both bushings and ball joints at this age. Bushings press in/out; ball joints riveted (drill out, bolt in new). 4-5 hours for both sides including alignment. Lowers usually last longer but inspect simultaneously. Use quality Moog or similar—cheap parts won't last.

Estimated cost: $500-900