Hello everyone, yes its good to see some list activity at last. Also a a
matter of interest the RREC have just updated their web site and if you are
a member there are chat and discussion forums available.
Anyway I purchased my 1969 Shadow about a year ago. I paid £5250, so I am
definitely in the low end of the market.
However I have, so far ,been rather fortunate and have had a very pleasant
12 months ownership. Having said that I have been working my way through the
car progressively eliminating a lot of minor problems and catching up with
the servicing schedule. For example the electric windows were faulty and
heater controls etc weren't working. I knew all this before I purchased the
car. When looking for the car to buy I set the following rules. I decided to
buy at the low end and take some risk. I did not plan to use the car other
than for casual use and at £5000 hardly expensive.
1. The car should have a good appearance and not require bodywork repairs
and should be complete.
2. The Engine should not require attention.
3. The Hydraulics should be working.
4. I would accept electrical and simple mechanical defects (since I can
usually sort them out)
5. I would be prepared to invest lots of time putting the car right (and
hopefully not too much money)
I made the assumption that if something was working then if I carried out
the correct servicing procedure then they should stay working. So far that
has proven to be correct and I dont think I can lose money on my investment.
I consider my self to be fortunate so far and probably would not recommend
my approach to anyone else. I enjoy having a go at repairs and do have
access to reasonable facilities and I am resigned to working on the car
until such time that I am confident that everything is as it should be.
I also attended a workshop Seminar run by the RREC which is very useful and
an excellent investment prior to buying.
If you want a car to drive regularly and you are not in a situation to do
much to it your self then buy the best you can afford.
from a reputable source, with a service record, and get expert advice. Join
your local enthusiasts club.
I suppose buying a Shadow is the same a buying any other car, except that
you should take a lot more care since they can be expensive to put right.
At the end of it you will own something to be proud of.
Regards Brian McMahon N Ireland
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