MORE EYES ARE BETTER
We’ve had a bit to say about what to do to when you’re pulling your car out of the shed after a bit of a rest, but what if you’re in the market for a new transport of delight? You might have saved a bit of money over lockdown – after all, we weren’t travelling anywhere – or maybe you’ve decided now is the time to get that car you lusted after across the years, but could not afford till now.
The best advice you can ever get is, when you go to look at a car (and I think you should always eyeball it) take a second set of eyes, attached to someone who knows what they’re looking at. Their role isn’t just to spot any potential issues, but to also act as the one person in the exchange who isn’t going to come over all emotional about the deal.
You’re allowed to fall in lust with the shape and colour, and their role is to act as the voise of reason.
If the car is up for auction, do your research in advance. When it’s with a dealer or private seller, you have less of an issue with deadlines – except of course if it’s a model that’s in big demand.
In any case, don’t skimp on your research. If it’s interstate, buy an airfare – the cost will be insignificant compared to what a dud deal can end up costing.
And don’t be afraid to hire a pro to go along with you. Lots of mechanics I know will tag along for a modest fee and provide good advice. You just need to find a mutually suitable time.
Meanwhile we’ve just overcome a big hurdle with Tom’s HG Monaro – the big custom build we’ve had going on for some time now. You may recall we had some issues getting the engine and front end sitting properly, particularly now we were using a muchupdated suspension and steering set-up.
It’s the nature of one-off builds that you have to take things as they come. Which often means having a few runs at an issue before it’s completely solved. Anyway, we promised Tom the engine would look like a jewel when it was installed in the bay, and I reckon we’ve succeeded.