Subject: RE: a real shame
Author: Ray Hale
Date: Jul 28, 2004, 3:15 PM
Post ID: 1717243705
John Ulrich wrote:
tom short wrote:
As we all know, those words mean different things to different people. "Ground up" can mean new plugs and points to some and to others means every single wearable component replaced with new, in the motor,tranny & rear end to start off with... Later, JU |
Ahh, aint that the truth, John. The almost-honest person I bought my
Eldo from, who claims to be an expert and respected Guzzi guy, told me
to come up (500 miles) and ride her home. Never would have made it to
the next state. My bad, really, but shame on him, too. Won't go into
details on the list but if you ever see me around the campfire don't ask
unless you want a nasty, nasty story.
I've seen ground-up restos on beemers and VWs that meant a coat of black
rattle can paint to cover up rust and some nice, glossy wax on the
paint. The buyer better be educated and very cautious. Next time I'll be
taking tools and doing minor disassembly before buying any vehicle. I
need to see the stuff that's easy to hide and easy to get to, *if* you
know what to look for.
I'm still learning with each purchase, even parts, but it can get
expensive. Lists like this, the books written by true enthusiasts,
acquaintances who've learned the hard way, are all good resources. Hell,
think what *we* could do for the new buyer if we all listed our
hard-knocks lessons, just for loops, and put it together as a public
document. "No, bubba, a super grabby clutch is not the norm for old
Guzzis. Something is likely big wrong in there."
As to price, I have to agree with the theory that if the seller and
buyer meet in the middle, everything's cool. The "value" to the
individual builder, businesses excluded from this theory, will hardly
ever meet or exceed the sale price. I don't think we should feel a
responsibility to keep prices at any certain level, just keep it honest,
dammit.
As an example, I struck a nice deal today with Mark for a shaft to
connect my shift linkage to the floorboard rail, as I attempt to switch
from pegs to boards. I need it. I want it. Can't find it around here,
don't want to even think about making it. He's got it and we agreed on a
price I can afford and justify. Mark obviously got what he needed for it
or it wouldn't happen. Along with the part, I got some excellent advice
and friendly conversation. What else is there?
I've got a friend here in town who continually finds old loops within
easy driving distance, some running, for $150.00 - $300.00. I want one.
I deserve one, even. Don't y'all think?
Ray