In a message dated 9/30/2008 6:22:28 A.M. Pacific Daylight Time,
pethier@comcast.net writes:
> For this project I have made a spreadsheet with the part I need, TRF part
#
> and price, Moss part # and price, VB part # and price and other part and
> price for those parts that the big 3 dont have available.
When I was bringing the Europa back from the dead in 1991 I did this. It is
amazing how much this helps. The three pieces of advice I have for anyone
rehabbing or restoring a car:
1. Excel.
2. Camera.
3. Baggies. Include paper note explaining what the part is.
--
I have restored my TR3 twice now in 45 years of ownership. I've also
restored several other cars including two E Type Roadsters. Most of the other
cars
had parts bought on as needed basis. The last E Type, I had a virtually
unlimited budget so I decided to identify via a large spreadsheet as many
parts as
possible as I needed and stock a parts room. I sent the spreadsheet out for
pricing. Instead I got offers of "discounts: whether I bought all the parts
at once or over time. I placed a large spreadsheet order, but I don't think I
would do it again as a hobbyist. Some of the problems I had:
1. $250 starter motor was defective. Discovered 18 months after purchase
and warranty was useless.
2. Numerous parts were incorrect, and non-returnable.Probably $1000 worth.
3. Storage of parts and ability to determine where they are was a problem.
Although shipping cost is a pain, I try to buy out of state. If you can get
a 20% discount from an out of state store, and avoid the 7% you'd pay in state
sales tax, then that's a nice discount.
Also, for me, quality is the top issue as it is lacking in general in
aftermarket off-shore built parts.
My philosophy now is to look ahead and see what I'm going to need for the
next major task, decide who I'll but it from, and order it. I thoroughly check
everything when it comes in IF POSSIBLE.
I bought a horn contact switch kit for the E Type for $85. I didn't put it I
immediately because it was complicated with lots of little pieces and I
wasn't ready to install it.It was pure junk.parts didn't fit, springs didn't
"spring" etc. I still have that $85 kit (non-returnable) and am ashamed to
sell
it on. I have thought of putting some of these parts on ebay, just so I can
show pictures and describe how awful they are and where they came from.My
lawyers says no.
Best, Mike Moore
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