Thanks for the responses. I'm assuming the water pump is relatively inexpensive to replace, so that may be a right-off-the-bat preventative fix. I'm sure it's equal parts luck and which car you buy, but having to do a rebuild would definitely be a pain and a drain!

I'm already figuring an extra $10K into my purhase price to take care of the clutch if need be. I don't abuse my cars, so hopefully I'll find a car with a fresh clutch and get a good amount of fun out of it. Can't hurt to be prepared, though. Are there any tell tale signs of a bad clutch? I know in certain F cars the pedal starts to rise a bit as it wears out.

Any idea what a head job and a timing chain replacement will run? Anyone know where I can find some service manuals? Thanks again!