Originally posted by JDLangevin:
[QB] Hey there, I'm just 1 1/2 hours east of you... and across the big line
Burlington? My last time there was 4.5 years ago to meet with an IBM engineer with whom I used to exchange emails on computer related matters.
"It sounds like it doesn't have any rust on it, which sounds great for you. Sadly I've seen that paint jobs don't last very long... even less if there is any rust."
I would not say not any but in very good condition considering its age and the climate it has been in. The main problem is the whole rear passenger side behind the rear door where the fuel trap door is. The clearcoat was faulty there for some reason I can't fathom. I had a small accident 11 years ago where the right front fender and hood were damaged. The hood was replaced as well as the battery which had been cracked. That is the only body work it has known. I'm also having it treated to an annual body oil treatment for the past 8 years or so. It is the first car I've kept for this long. The previous car was a Buick Skylark Ltd 1981, bought new and changed in March 1989 for my SHO. The car before the Buick was a Chrysler New Yorker Brougham 1976 bought used in 1978-9 preceded by a Ford Gran Torino Brougham 1975 bought used in 1976 preceded by a Dodge Dart Swinger 340 1970 which was my first new car...
When I bought my SHO, I expected to keep it 8-10 years when, usually, a car gets undependable and ends up costing more in maintenance than its resale value. So far, I have not had too many problems, the battery was changed 3 times, rear suspension redone about 4 years ago, some steering work, tires changed mostly because no one could fix my rear toe in problem which resulted in constant bald inner side of tires, normal brake maintenance, clutch replaced, rear wheel bearings, preventive belts replacement. My A/C stopped working 11 years ago and did not bother getting it fixed. Last Spring, I inquired about getting it fixed and told to expect to have to pay at least 1500$ to get it back working... My cruise control also is not functional. Inside the car, the roof covering would need to be changed because, at the rear window, the material was burned by the sun and it ripped all along the edge of the rear window. I don't know if the dealer would still be able to order it?
"Typically, changing the color of a car is going to be more expensive than staying with the same color. However if you want to go for a similar color that you will enjoy a lot more, then I would say go for it."
I still enjoy that color as it takes a while for it to look dirty even if it is... Unlike darker colors such as black when even a little speck of dust is quite apparent.
"Other than that, the rule applies: you get what you pay for. If you get a $1000 paint job, it not going to be nearly as nice or last as long as a $3000 one. But, then you have to consider the cost and the condition of the rest of the vehicle. Would it be worth it?"
From the very little I know on the subject, labour accounts for an important part of the whole paint job cost. Often, going for the cheapest component cost is not a good deal. For instance, the cheapest computer keyboard won't last but a slightly more expensive one will last 5 times more which makes it a much better deal. The most expensive computer keyboard was the IBM one and costed close to 200$ which was not necessarily the best deal. I thought there could be something similar that possibly applied to car paints that I should be aware of. As I mentioned, I know nothing abour car paints and clearcoats. Are there brands that should be avoided. Would the MotorCraft brand be best or some other brand be used instead?
"Just saw the mileage, wow that's nice. Has it had a 60k yet? If not it's due!"
The timing belt was replaced a year ago. The top maintenance is what is left to do. My problem is finding someone that will do a proper job. I now have to replace the crankshaft position sensor and will also have the water pump replaced preventively at the same time. My car intermittently stalls for a second or two when cruising on the highway.
"If you want to get together sometime let me know, I try to make it up to Montreal fairly often. Drop me an email or something... "
Send me an email next time you come. Exchange rates have discouraged my going across the border these last few years.
--
Gilbert
