Is there anything special to look out for when inspecting a 1970 Dart Swinger?

Too many red flags for me at that price. Adjusting the shifter is extremely easy as long as all of the correct parts are there. Same goes for the kick down. If he can’t get those 2 very simple things working right he doesn’t impress me much as a mechanic or he’s using that as an excuse to cover for a junk transmission. The only way I’d consider that car is to put it up on a rack and do a thorough inspection. I’d bet that 95% complete job is more likely 25%. IMO that’s a $7500 car at most. I’m 61 and have seen a bunch of cobbled together cars that were supposed to be 95% done but in reality need a full restoration. If you really like the car offer about $7000 and stick to your guns. Remember, if it’s a Bondo buggy and you can’t fix it a proper paint job starts at about $10,000 these days