On 05/09/2012 6:25 PM, Dan Penoff wrote:
For what it's worth, this is a re-write regarding "old" cars and what defines
them. Do take the in context - some of these guys are rebuilding cars that cost more
than a new piano...
It is a matter of all of the above. Age takes its toll, especially on sheet
metal, leather, MB tex, horsehair stuffing, etc. All of those things are
subject to deterioration over time, whether being used (driven) or not, and
they are the vast majority of the parts which make up a car. There comes a
point when they are just past their useful life. Sometimes they can be nudged
along for awhile, but the clock is always ticking.
The general rule of thumb for the useful life of a car, from one of the great
builders, is about twenty years. It is about then that a rebuild is necessary.
I would suggest that you do searches on the topics of rebuilding, restoring,
and refurbishing. The terms have very different meanings. These topics have
been well covered at various forum sites.
Often inexperienced (1st. time) caro owners are unaware of maintenance other
than regular tuning. Within the 20 year life, depending on usage, one should
expect multiple new sets of tires, brakes and possibly a new set of shocks.
Again based on use, about every five years a car will need a thorough Italian
tuneup, tires and battery. These are not hard and fast rules, but a guide for a
well maintained car.
What it all boils down to is that cars over 20 years old will need considerable work if they have not had a total
rebuild within about the last 15 years or so. Also, there are only a handful of manufacturer's products which are worth
the investment. That is why you hear "run away" or "OMG" when a newcomer asks about a 1973 GM
product, in lovely condition, built in the USA, by Union employees, who also went on strike regularly. The original
owner was always a collector and most likely the "good as new" car is "discovered" on Craigslist.
It just goes with the territory. The lesson has been learned over and over again.
Of the builders, here's the handy list:
Mercedes Benz - diesel and maybe gas
There will probably be many responses with the "you forgots" and the "how
'bouts." I didn't forget them, I chose to forget them for reason. There are endless
possibilities, but as a beginner, I would suggest that you play it a bit safe and stay with the
known commodities.
Cars which were built to last, have proven that they do last. But, as you see,
it is a very short list and even those need proper maintenance throughout their
various incarnations by means of rebuilding.
It all boils down to an old car is still an old car. They wear out. Many can be
brought back to life. All it takes is $$$.
You would be doing yourself a favor if you were looking in the direction of
quality car and check Mercedes diesels from the 1970's and early 80's.
Take it for what it's worth, but this is coming from guys who make their
livings doing this.
Dan
On Sep 5, 2012, at 5:08 PM, Dan Penoff wrote:
When I get home tonight I'll go into detail. I have a LOT of notes from my
discussions with these guys. It's pretty fascinating to me...
Dan
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http://www.okiebenz.com
For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com
To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/
To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to:
http://mail.okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
