Where To Find Classic Car Parts
by: Joel Noah
Classic car parts are not easy to come by. But if you have finally been able to purchase theclassic car you’ve always dreamed of, finding the classic car parts to restore and accessorize it may be a high on your priority list.
Whether you have a muscle car, an antique or a vintage model, you will inevitably find the need to replace and restore some of your car parts. Classic car parts are not as readily available as for the cars that are still in production. You can’t just walk into a dealership and place your order because the parts are no longer being made. But with a little digging, they can be found.
Some places to start your search include:
Online Auctions
Online auction sites, such as Ebay, are probably the easiest place to begin your search for classic car parts. If you’ve seen the ads that Ebay has “It,” you know this is true. Ebay Motors has many listings for hard to find vehicles and classic car parts. You’ll have to cover the shipping charges, so that is something to consider when purchasing larger items.
Swap Meets
Finding a local swap meet may be just the thing you need to locate the classic car parts you need. They are great places to find older model accessories and other outdated items.
Classic Car Part Dealer Publications
Often times you can find the parts you are looking for in car part dealer magazines. The only drawback here is that you will probably have to spend top dollar. This option could be used as a last resort though if you are unable to find a specific part anywhere else. Exhaust all other possibilities first if money is tight.
Clubs and Organizations
Clubs and organizations exist for as many hobbies that people can think up. Certainly, there are a fair number of clubs and organizations geared toward car enthusiasts. Locating and joining one such club may prove beneficial in your hunt for classic car parts. You will be able to make connections with other people who share your interest.
In the Internet age, it is also possible to find a club or organization centered on classic car parts by doing an online search. Try searching Yahoo groups and you are likely to find a list of clubs you could join. Again, making connections with people who share your interest in classic car parts may lead you to a dealer or another source from which you can purchase classic car parts.
Junkyards
Maybe you don’t picture yourself hanging around a junkyard to find used classic car parts, but you may be able to find a diamond in the rough. If you have never used this type of service before, it could be worthwhile to check it out. Everything is computerized and usually a visit or a phone call is all you need to check and see if they have the part or accessory that you need for your precious investment.
Of course you will want to take good care of your classic car to limit the number of parts that you will need to search for. The less time you spend tracking down parts, the more time you can spend enjoying the car of your dreams.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Friday, December 29, 2006
Is A Classic Car Right For You?
Is A Classic Car Right For You?
by: Jeff Anderson
There are several things to consider when thinking about the purchase of a classic car.
Can you afford this purchase? Then think about repairs, if you can't do them yourself it will be expensive as will the parts needed to fix the car.
Speaking of parts, they are often hard to find so your car may be out of commission for long periods of time. Do you have the patience to deal with these delays? If you won't be doing the repairs yourself do you know of a good mechanic who is qualified to work on the classic car you want to buy?
You should have at least $3000 put away for repairs. That sounds like a lot but is actually the minimum suggested by classic car experts.
Are you thinking about doing restoration work? If you plan to do it yourself remember to have enough space allotted for the job. You will need room to take the classic car apart and store it during the restoration.
Will you drive your classic car on public roads? If you are planning to remember that driving situations have changed. Brakes and steering systems were made for a different time. You will need to make adjustments when driving the classic car in today's traffic.
You will need classic car insurance. The classic cars did not come equipped with the anti-theft devices or serial number database of today's cars. The classic cars were not made with security devices.
If you have a "partner" are they supporting you in this endeavor? It will take time and money to make this dream a realization so make sure you have the backing you need. Some couples enjoy this hobby together.
Take time and find the car that is right for you. You may have dreamed about a certain car but now realize that it is too expensive and prone to breakdowns. Modify your search and buy only when you have everything in order. Make certain that this is a decision you can afford.
Buying a classic car can be a great hobby and a dream-come-true but make sure you know what you're doing before you buy!
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: Jeff Anderson
There are several things to consider when thinking about the purchase of a classic car.
Can you afford this purchase? Then think about repairs, if you can't do them yourself it will be expensive as will the parts needed to fix the car.
Speaking of parts, they are often hard to find so your car may be out of commission for long periods of time. Do you have the patience to deal with these delays? If you won't be doing the repairs yourself do you know of a good mechanic who is qualified to work on the classic car you want to buy?
You should have at least $3000 put away for repairs. That sounds like a lot but is actually the minimum suggested by classic car experts.
Are you thinking about doing restoration work? If you plan to do it yourself remember to have enough space allotted for the job. You will need room to take the classic car apart and store it during the restoration.
Will you drive your classic car on public roads? If you are planning to remember that driving situations have changed. Brakes and steering systems were made for a different time. You will need to make adjustments when driving the classic car in today's traffic.
You will need classic car insurance. The classic cars did not come equipped with the anti-theft devices or serial number database of today's cars. The classic cars were not made with security devices.
If you have a "partner" are they supporting you in this endeavor? It will take time and money to make this dream a realization so make sure you have the backing you need. Some couples enjoy this hobby together.
Take time and find the car that is right for you. You may have dreamed about a certain car but now realize that it is too expensive and prone to breakdowns. Modify your search and buy only when you have everything in order. Make certain that this is a decision you can afford.
Buying a classic car can be a great hobby and a dream-come-true but make sure you know what you're doing before you buy!
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Thursday, December 28, 2006
All About Car Shows: People Behind The Scene
All About Car Shows: People Behind The Scene
by: Tonza Borden
Now that you have picked a leader and have a plan of action, you can proceed to forming committees.
People Behind The Scene
When the car show visitors see your extravagant event, they won’t see all the hard work performed by the people behind the scene. On the day of the show, these worker bees will be at their assigned post in the midst of fun and festivities. However, getting to this point is no easy task. To have a car show extravaganza—not your ordinary event, you will need extraordinary people.
A Few Good People
They are a select group of men and women who will work on the committees. These individual groups will be the nucleus of executing a successful event. They must be people who like and respect each other to work as a team. A car show extravaganza requires individual stamina, flexibility and cooperation because each committee will be responsible for a component of the event on a time-line.
Equal Opportunity
Each person within the committee will have specific tasks to perform. No one person wants to feel burdened with an unequal share of responsibility. And, everyone wants to have fun, of course. So, list the tasks, ask for volunteer team captains and workers. Then, determine who has special or creative skills that can be used to enhance assignments. People who volunteer usually participate at a higher level than those drafted or made to feel obligated.
When it is all said and done, it is the people behind the scene of your successful event that will make you proud.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: Tonza Borden
Now that you have picked a leader and have a plan of action, you can proceed to forming committees.
People Behind The Scene
When the car show visitors see your extravagant event, they won’t see all the hard work performed by the people behind the scene. On the day of the show, these worker bees will be at their assigned post in the midst of fun and festivities. However, getting to this point is no easy task. To have a car show extravaganza—not your ordinary event, you will need extraordinary people.
A Few Good People
They are a select group of men and women who will work on the committees. These individual groups will be the nucleus of executing a successful event. They must be people who like and respect each other to work as a team. A car show extravaganza requires individual stamina, flexibility and cooperation because each committee will be responsible for a component of the event on a time-line.
Equal Opportunity
Each person within the committee will have specific tasks to perform. No one person wants to feel burdened with an unequal share of responsibility. And, everyone wants to have fun, of course. So, list the tasks, ask for volunteer team captains and workers. Then, determine who has special or creative skills that can be used to enhance assignments. People who volunteer usually participate at a higher level than those drafted or made to feel obligated.
When it is all said and done, it is the people behind the scene of your successful event that will make you proud.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Car Engine Explained
The Engine Explained
by: Kevin Schappell
The engine is the heart of your car, but instead of pumping blood, the engine pumps air and fuel. The engines main function is to convert air and fuel into rotary motion so it can drive the wheels of the car. How does it do that ??.... Well let's start with a cutaway of the engine and see all the major parts then we will get into the actual mechanics.
Pistons: Most common engines have 4, 6, or 8 pistons, which move up and down in the cylinders. On the upper side of the piston is what is called the combustion chamber where the fuel and air mix before ignited. On the other side is the crankcase, which is full of oil. Pistons have rings which serve to keep the oil out of the combustion chamber and the fuel and air out of the oil.
Crankshaft: The crankshaft is connected to the pistons via a connecting rod. As the piston moves up and down in the cylinder it rotates the crankshaft and converts the straight line motion into rotary motion.
Valve train: The valve train consists of valves, rocker arms, pushrods, lifters, and the camshaft. (shown in above picture in blue, yellow, and green) The valve train’s only job is that of a traffic cop. It lets air and fuel in and out of the engine at the proper time. The timing is controlled by the camshaft, which is synchronized to the crankshaft by a chain or belt.
Now that we have a general overview of the parts involved let's talk about what happens. Most automotive engine today are 4-stroke (or 4-cycle) engines, meaning they have four distinct events which make up the cycle.
Intake stroke: The camshaft opens the intake valve and the piston moves down the cylinder. This creates vacuum and sucks in air and fuel into the combustion chamber above the piston.
Compression stroke: As the piston starts moving back up the cylinder the intake valve closes and seals off the combustion chamber. The causes the air and fuel to compress.
Power stroke: As the fuel is compressed and the piston nears the top of the cylinder the spark plug fires and ignites the fuel and air. This explosion pushes the piston back down the cylinder and drives the crankshaft.
Exhaust stroke: After the piston reaches the bottom of the cylinder, the exhaust valve opens and the gasses left over from the fuel and air are sent out to the exhaust system.
Put these four events together in the above order and you have a complete cycle. Are you asleep yet? That's enough theory, let's talk about the real world and problems you might encounter with the above mentioned parts.
Pistons: Remember I talked about the rings, which seal the combustion chamber from the crankcase. The rings over time tend to wear out. When they wear they allow the fuel and air to enter into the oil and dilute it. This dilution reduces the oils ability to lubricate your engine and can cause premature wear. Also if the rings wear down they can allow oil from the crankcase to enter the combustion chambers. This will result in oil being burned and exiting your tailpipe as grayish/white smoke. If your car spews grayish white smoke and it does not go stop in the first few minutes after start-up you might have warn rings. If the smoke goes away after start-up look to the valve train section.
Crankshaft: The crankshaft rides on bearings, which can wear down over time. The bearings support the crankshaft and also the rods, which connect the pistons to the crankshaft. A loud medium pitched knocking noise in the engine points to warn bearings most of the time. This is usually a costly repair and involves removing the crankshaft and either machining the surface where the bearings ride, or replacing the entire crankshaft. To prevent this type of problem, use a high quality oil, change your oil at suggested intervals (3 months or 3000 miles is a safe number) and always maintain your oil level between oil changes.
Valve train: Remember the oil smoke problem mentioned above in the piston sections. If your car only smokes grayish/white smoke at start-up you may have leaking valve seals. Valve seals keep oil from above the valve from leaking into the combustion chamber. When they wear, they can allow oil to seep into the combustion chamber and collect there until your start the engine again. You generally do not get oil leaking past the valve seals while the engine is running since the seals expand with the heat of the engine and plug the leak.
Another common problem is the timing chain or belt will slip or even break causing the cam shaft to stop rotating. Remember the camshaft tells the valves when to open and if it stops spinning then the valves stop opening and closing. No valve moving, no engine running :-)
A term you will here when talking about timing chains and belts is "interference engine". When an engine is an "interference engine" the pistons and valves are so close together that if the valves were to stop moving (broken belt or chain) and the crankshaft kept spinning they would crash into the piston. (that's the interference) This crash tends to do bad things to an engine, breaking valve, bending pushrods, and even cracking pistons. This is why most manufacturers recommend changing the timing chain or belt every 60,000 miles. Timing belts dry out, stretch and deteriorate over time so even if you do not have 60,000 miles on the car think about changing the belt after it's 6 years old.
Preventive Maintenance:
Change your oil regularly.
Give your engine a chance to warm up before driving if possible. Let the oil get into all parts of the engine before driving. This is even more critical in cooler temperatures when the oil is cold and sluggish.
Change your timing belt or chain at your manufacturer's recommended interval.
Avoid "snake oil" additives advertised on late night TV. Regular oil changes and good maintenance habits will keep your engine running it's best.
If you have a turbo charged engine, give the engine a minute or two cool down before turning it off. This cool down period allows oil to circulate and cool down the bearings. If you shut off the engine immediately after hard driving, the oil can gum up around the hot bearings and create problems down the road.
What to discuss with your mechanic:
If you have to replace your engine, discuss the benefits of buying used versus new. If you plan on keeping your car for some time, a new engine might be the best bet. Sometimes new engines are not much more expensive than rebuilt ones, and offer the best solution.
When trying to diagnose engine noises, be as descriptive as possible. Take note to when the noise occurs; at what throttle position, and when the noise started occurring. Sometimes changing the weight of oil being used can cause a new noise to crop up. Make sure you mechanic knows if you changed oil brands or weight recently.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: Kevin Schappell
The engine is the heart of your car, but instead of pumping blood, the engine pumps air and fuel. The engines main function is to convert air and fuel into rotary motion so it can drive the wheels of the car. How does it do that ??.... Well let's start with a cutaway of the engine and see all the major parts then we will get into the actual mechanics.
Pistons: Most common engines have 4, 6, or 8 pistons, which move up and down in the cylinders. On the upper side of the piston is what is called the combustion chamber where the fuel and air mix before ignited. On the other side is the crankcase, which is full of oil. Pistons have rings which serve to keep the oil out of the combustion chamber and the fuel and air out of the oil.
Crankshaft: The crankshaft is connected to the pistons via a connecting rod. As the piston moves up and down in the cylinder it rotates the crankshaft and converts the straight line motion into rotary motion.
Valve train: The valve train consists of valves, rocker arms, pushrods, lifters, and the camshaft. (shown in above picture in blue, yellow, and green) The valve train’s only job is that of a traffic cop. It lets air and fuel in and out of the engine at the proper time. The timing is controlled by the camshaft, which is synchronized to the crankshaft by a chain or belt.
Now that we have a general overview of the parts involved let's talk about what happens. Most automotive engine today are 4-stroke (or 4-cycle) engines, meaning they have four distinct events which make up the cycle.
Intake stroke: The camshaft opens the intake valve and the piston moves down the cylinder. This creates vacuum and sucks in air and fuel into the combustion chamber above the piston.
Compression stroke: As the piston starts moving back up the cylinder the intake valve closes and seals off the combustion chamber. The causes the air and fuel to compress.
Power stroke: As the fuel is compressed and the piston nears the top of the cylinder the spark plug fires and ignites the fuel and air. This explosion pushes the piston back down the cylinder and drives the crankshaft.
Exhaust stroke: After the piston reaches the bottom of the cylinder, the exhaust valve opens and the gasses left over from the fuel and air are sent out to the exhaust system.
Put these four events together in the above order and you have a complete cycle. Are you asleep yet? That's enough theory, let's talk about the real world and problems you might encounter with the above mentioned parts.
Pistons: Remember I talked about the rings, which seal the combustion chamber from the crankcase. The rings over time tend to wear out. When they wear they allow the fuel and air to enter into the oil and dilute it. This dilution reduces the oils ability to lubricate your engine and can cause premature wear. Also if the rings wear down they can allow oil from the crankcase to enter the combustion chambers. This will result in oil being burned and exiting your tailpipe as grayish/white smoke. If your car spews grayish white smoke and it does not go stop in the first few minutes after start-up you might have warn rings. If the smoke goes away after start-up look to the valve train section.
Crankshaft: The crankshaft rides on bearings, which can wear down over time. The bearings support the crankshaft and also the rods, which connect the pistons to the crankshaft. A loud medium pitched knocking noise in the engine points to warn bearings most of the time. This is usually a costly repair and involves removing the crankshaft and either machining the surface where the bearings ride, or replacing the entire crankshaft. To prevent this type of problem, use a high quality oil, change your oil at suggested intervals (3 months or 3000 miles is a safe number) and always maintain your oil level between oil changes.
Valve train: Remember the oil smoke problem mentioned above in the piston sections. If your car only smokes grayish/white smoke at start-up you may have leaking valve seals. Valve seals keep oil from above the valve from leaking into the combustion chamber. When they wear, they can allow oil to seep into the combustion chamber and collect there until your start the engine again. You generally do not get oil leaking past the valve seals while the engine is running since the seals expand with the heat of the engine and plug the leak.
Another common problem is the timing chain or belt will slip or even break causing the cam shaft to stop rotating. Remember the camshaft tells the valves when to open and if it stops spinning then the valves stop opening and closing. No valve moving, no engine running :-)
A term you will here when talking about timing chains and belts is "interference engine". When an engine is an "interference engine" the pistons and valves are so close together that if the valves were to stop moving (broken belt or chain) and the crankshaft kept spinning they would crash into the piston. (that's the interference) This crash tends to do bad things to an engine, breaking valve, bending pushrods, and even cracking pistons. This is why most manufacturers recommend changing the timing chain or belt every 60,000 miles. Timing belts dry out, stretch and deteriorate over time so even if you do not have 60,000 miles on the car think about changing the belt after it's 6 years old.
Preventive Maintenance:
Change your oil regularly.
Give your engine a chance to warm up before driving if possible. Let the oil get into all parts of the engine before driving. This is even more critical in cooler temperatures when the oil is cold and sluggish.
Change your timing belt or chain at your manufacturer's recommended interval.
Avoid "snake oil" additives advertised on late night TV. Regular oil changes and good maintenance habits will keep your engine running it's best.
If you have a turbo charged engine, give the engine a minute or two cool down before turning it off. This cool down period allows oil to circulate and cool down the bearings. If you shut off the engine immediately after hard driving, the oil can gum up around the hot bearings and create problems down the road.
What to discuss with your mechanic:
If you have to replace your engine, discuss the benefits of buying used versus new. If you plan on keeping your car for some time, a new engine might be the best bet. Sometimes new engines are not much more expensive than rebuilt ones, and offer the best solution.
When trying to diagnose engine noises, be as descriptive as possible. Take note to when the noise occurs; at what throttle position, and when the noise started occurring. Sometimes changing the weight of oil being used can cause a new noise to crop up. Make sure you mechanic knows if you changed oil brands or weight recently.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Extend The Life Of Your New Or Used Car
Extend The Life Of Your New Or Used Car
by: Ryan Larson
You don't think much about your car do you? Your car sits outside 24/7, 365 days a year in all extremes of weather. You routinely drive it at speeds that exceed 70 mph. You stop, start, stop, start through city traffic. You sit idling in traffic jams day after day. Yet, you expect your car to start every time you get into it and turn the key.
The best thing that you can do to extend the life of your car, and to potentially save yourself a bundle of money, is to have your car serviced on a routine basis. All car manufacturers have a schedule of recommended services for each vehicle they sell. Follow this schedule. The best place to have work done on a new vehicle that is still under warranty is the dealership.
It's a bit different when you have an older, out of warranty car. At this point you can make a decision to continue to use the dealer for service, or find yourself a local mechanic.
The first rule of thumb is to have the oil in your car changed every 3,000 miles. This is the simplest and most important part of routine maintenance for your car. At that time, whether you go to a "speedy" oil change business or to your mechanic, the technician will take a look at the overall condition of your engine. They'll check belts and hoses and fluid levels of your transmission and brakes. They'll check your air cleaner and the condition of your tires. Some of these drive through services also offer add on's such as engine cleaning and radiator flushes. If they think they see something that could become potentially serious they will tell you about it and suggest you take your car to a mechanic.
Cars have really changed over the years and most technicians use computers to diagnose problems. You'll need to be able to describe the problem to the mechanic. They'll need to know things such as when you first noticed the problem and exactly under what condition it happens. Does it happen when the car is cold, or after it warms up? Does it happen when you're at an idle or when your accelerating? If you don't use the same mechanic have a copy of your car's service record with you so that the new mechanic can see what maintenance been done in the past. It's best to find a mechanic you're comfortable with and stay with him. Knowing your car's history can go a long way towards helping him diagnose and fix a problem.
Learn to listen to your car. If you hear an unusual noise, notice a change in it's performance or handling take it to your mechanic.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: Ryan Larson
You don't think much about your car do you? Your car sits outside 24/7, 365 days a year in all extremes of weather. You routinely drive it at speeds that exceed 70 mph. You stop, start, stop, start through city traffic. You sit idling in traffic jams day after day. Yet, you expect your car to start every time you get into it and turn the key.
The best thing that you can do to extend the life of your car, and to potentially save yourself a bundle of money, is to have your car serviced on a routine basis. All car manufacturers have a schedule of recommended services for each vehicle they sell. Follow this schedule. The best place to have work done on a new vehicle that is still under warranty is the dealership.
It's a bit different when you have an older, out of warranty car. At this point you can make a decision to continue to use the dealer for service, or find yourself a local mechanic.
The first rule of thumb is to have the oil in your car changed every 3,000 miles. This is the simplest and most important part of routine maintenance for your car. At that time, whether you go to a "speedy" oil change business or to your mechanic, the technician will take a look at the overall condition of your engine. They'll check belts and hoses and fluid levels of your transmission and brakes. They'll check your air cleaner and the condition of your tires. Some of these drive through services also offer add on's such as engine cleaning and radiator flushes. If they think they see something that could become potentially serious they will tell you about it and suggest you take your car to a mechanic.
Cars have really changed over the years and most technicians use computers to diagnose problems. You'll need to be able to describe the problem to the mechanic. They'll need to know things such as when you first noticed the problem and exactly under what condition it happens. Does it happen when the car is cold, or after it warms up? Does it happen when you're at an idle or when your accelerating? If you don't use the same mechanic have a copy of your car's service record with you so that the new mechanic can see what maintenance been done in the past. It's best to find a mechanic you're comfortable with and stay with him. Knowing your car's history can go a long way towards helping him diagnose and fix a problem.
Learn to listen to your car. If you hear an unusual noise, notice a change in it's performance or handling take it to your mechanic.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Saturday, December 23, 2006
How Pop-Culture Collectibles Can Increase Your Online Auction Profits
How Pop-Culture Collectibles Can Increase Your Online Auction Profits
by: David Espino
How Pop Culture collectibles can increase your Online Auction profits
With the increasingly competitive environment for products to sell in the online auction arena, sellers are getting more creative as to the items they purchase for re-sale.
While some of the Dutch Auction items that are frequently sold on eBay will always maintain their commodity status and always sell well, Pop Culture collectibles will usually generate a higher profit-per-item simply because of a combination of two forces.
Scarcity and Desirability.
Pop Culture collectibles can run the gamut from a special early edition pair of Levis to a rare Coca Cola collectible.
However, when I discuss Pop Culture items in this article, I will limit the definition to only the types of collectibles that I’ve managed to have any experience with and that would be T.V., Movie and Toy collectibles.
Obviously, the category of Pop Culture collectibles is much bigger than this limited definition, but in the interests of keeping this a knowledgeable article, I will focus on the limited definition here.
One of my first experiences with Pop Culture collectibles was with a box of unused "The Fonz" posters that I found at an antiques swap meet a few years ago.
I came across this box at a seller’s stand. It had one poster taped to the outside of the box and the price tag on the box said $5 each.
I asked the seller "How much are the posters?", not ever assuming that the price on the box was the current price.
The seller replied with "Three bucks each."
Being new to eBay and wanting to experiment, I counted the posters, which were still in shrink wrap material. There were 25 posters in the box. The box looked like it had been loaded and unloaded too many times, but the posters were in perfect condition.
So I asked the seller, "How much for the whole box?"
He asked, "How many are there?"
I told him, "25".
He said, "How about $40 for the box?"
I said, "O.K.", and handed him $40.
I posted an auction for one of the Fonz posters that week. It was a large photo of "The Fonz for Prez", sort of a campaign poster with Fonzie in his traditional Leather jacket, thumbs up and a "Sit on it" button on his jacket.
The auction was set to close on a Sunday, and when I checked it on Friday, it was up to $22 !
I was shocked and happy at the same time.
On Sunday, I took my family out to dinner and got home to see that the auction had closed at an astonishing $42.50 !
That experience was the one that cemented me in the area of Pop Culture collectibles!
I continued to sell the Fonz posters, one at a time (so as not to "flood the market") at prices from the $42.50 high to a low of $12.50.
My estimate for gross sales is somewhere around $450 for that box of posters.
This type of profit exists in the area of Pop Culture collectibles, but it does take some guts to seek out and "gamble" on these types of deals.
I had no idea what the posters were worth when I purchased them, but I had a good hunch, which proved to be correct.
Other Pop Culture deals I’ve made, most found at antique swap meets:
M.A.S.H. action figures - purchased a box of 28 of them for $50, sold them individually for between $9.00 and $15.50
Star Wars Figures - purchased a box of special limited edition figures for $120 at a regular swap meet, sold the box to a Star Wars dealer for $2,100.
Evel Knievel figure, mint in box, purchased for $10, sold for $115.
Alien 3 movie theater poster (massive, about 4’ tall by 12‘ wide), found at a yard sale for $10, sold on eBay for $50.
Bionic Woman action figure, mint in box, purchased for $30, sold for $85.
In each of these cases, I had no idea what the value was, I just went with my gut. But the fact that they were Pop Culture collectibles made it much easier to take that chance and buy the items.
Another solution many sellers use is to have their spouse at home, ready at the computer to do price research on unknown items!
Armed with a cell phone and a significant other at home doing research, your results will be less of a risk and more fun, too!
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: David Espino
How Pop Culture collectibles can increase your Online Auction profits
With the increasingly competitive environment for products to sell in the online auction arena, sellers are getting more creative as to the items they purchase for re-sale.
While some of the Dutch Auction items that are frequently sold on eBay will always maintain their commodity status and always sell well, Pop Culture collectibles will usually generate a higher profit-per-item simply because of a combination of two forces.
Scarcity and Desirability.
Pop Culture collectibles can run the gamut from a special early edition pair of Levis to a rare Coca Cola collectible.
However, when I discuss Pop Culture items in this article, I will limit the definition to only the types of collectibles that I’ve managed to have any experience with and that would be T.V., Movie and Toy collectibles.
Obviously, the category of Pop Culture collectibles is much bigger than this limited definition, but in the interests of keeping this a knowledgeable article, I will focus on the limited definition here.
One of my first experiences with Pop Culture collectibles was with a box of unused "The Fonz" posters that I found at an antiques swap meet a few years ago.
I came across this box at a seller’s stand. It had one poster taped to the outside of the box and the price tag on the box said $5 each.
I asked the seller "How much are the posters?", not ever assuming that the price on the box was the current price.
The seller replied with "Three bucks each."
Being new to eBay and wanting to experiment, I counted the posters, which were still in shrink wrap material. There were 25 posters in the box. The box looked like it had been loaded and unloaded too many times, but the posters were in perfect condition.
So I asked the seller, "How much for the whole box?"
He asked, "How many are there?"
I told him, "25".
He said, "How about $40 for the box?"
I said, "O.K.", and handed him $40.
I posted an auction for one of the Fonz posters that week. It was a large photo of "The Fonz for Prez", sort of a campaign poster with Fonzie in his traditional Leather jacket, thumbs up and a "Sit on it" button on his jacket.
The auction was set to close on a Sunday, and when I checked it on Friday, it was up to $22 !
I was shocked and happy at the same time.
On Sunday, I took my family out to dinner and got home to see that the auction had closed at an astonishing $42.50 !
That experience was the one that cemented me in the area of Pop Culture collectibles!
I continued to sell the Fonz posters, one at a time (so as not to "flood the market") at prices from the $42.50 high to a low of $12.50.
My estimate for gross sales is somewhere around $450 for that box of posters.
This type of profit exists in the area of Pop Culture collectibles, but it does take some guts to seek out and "gamble" on these types of deals.
I had no idea what the posters were worth when I purchased them, but I had a good hunch, which proved to be correct.
Other Pop Culture deals I’ve made, most found at antique swap meets:
M.A.S.H. action figures - purchased a box of 28 of them for $50, sold them individually for between $9.00 and $15.50
Star Wars Figures - purchased a box of special limited edition figures for $120 at a regular swap meet, sold the box to a Star Wars dealer for $2,100.
Evel Knievel figure, mint in box, purchased for $10, sold for $115.
Alien 3 movie theater poster (massive, about 4’ tall by 12‘ wide), found at a yard sale for $10, sold on eBay for $50.
Bionic Woman action figure, mint in box, purchased for $30, sold for $85.
In each of these cases, I had no idea what the value was, I just went with my gut. But the fact that they were Pop Culture collectibles made it much easier to take that chance and buy the items.
Another solution many sellers use is to have their spouse at home, ready at the computer to do price research on unknown items!
Armed with a cell phone and a significant other at home doing research, your results will be less of a risk and more fun, too!
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Friday, December 22, 2006
Antiques & Classics - Cars That Last
Antique Classics – Cars That Last
by: NamSing Then
The term Antique Classics is used in reference to old cars. According to Antique Automobile Club of America, an antique car is generally defined as a car over 25 years of age. However, the exact legal definition for the purpose of antique vehicle registration varies widely from State to State.
With about 12 years being the normal design life of modern cars, 25 years is about double and therefore a car that's reached 25 is a rare survivor, and probably not economic to maintain as regular transportation.
The term Classic Car is often used synonymously with the term Antique car, but the formal definition of that term is restricted to specific high-quality vehicles from the pre-World War II era which began with the Great Depression in 1930 and ended with the recovery after World War II in 1948. The Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) defines the term Classic as a “fine" or "distinctive" automobile, either American or foreign built, produced between 1925 and 1948. A Classic was high-priced when it was introduced and was built in very limited quantities. Although, by 1930’s most of the manufacturing technologies had already been invented, certain factors like including engine displacement, custom coachwork and luxury accessories, such as power brakes, power clutch, and automatic lubrication systems, help determine whether a car can be considered a Classic.
Some exemplary pre-war Antique Classics are:
1. 1934–1940 Bugatti Type 57. The Type 57SC has become the singular classic car.
2. 1934 Citroën Traction Avant. Has the distinction of being the first mass-produced front-wheel drive car,
3. 1936 MG T series, a sports car meant especially for American soldiers fighting in the war.
4. 1938 Volkswagen Beetle, the most-famous automobile of all times. It was a pre-war design that continues to exist even in the present times.
The CCCA Club keeps a thorough list of the vehicles they consider Classics, and while any member may petition for a vehicle to join the list, such applications are carefully scrutinized and very rarely is a new vehicle type admitted. They also acknowledge the fact that their rather exclusive definition of a classic car is by no means universally followed and hence they generally use terms such as “CCCA Classic” or the trademarked “Full Classic” to avoid confusion.
After 1930 the number of auto manufacturers came down sharply, as the industry consolidated, and developed after the war more advances in engine design were made, like the compression V8 engines and modern bodies from General Motors, Oldsmobile and Cadillac brands.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: NamSing Then
The term Antique Classics is used in reference to old cars. According to Antique Automobile Club of America, an antique car is generally defined as a car over 25 years of age. However, the exact legal definition for the purpose of antique vehicle registration varies widely from State to State.
With about 12 years being the normal design life of modern cars, 25 years is about double and therefore a car that's reached 25 is a rare survivor, and probably not economic to maintain as regular transportation.
The term Classic Car is often used synonymously with the term Antique car, but the formal definition of that term is restricted to specific high-quality vehicles from the pre-World War II era which began with the Great Depression in 1930 and ended with the recovery after World War II in 1948. The Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) defines the term Classic as a “fine" or "distinctive" automobile, either American or foreign built, produced between 1925 and 1948. A Classic was high-priced when it was introduced and was built in very limited quantities. Although, by 1930’s most of the manufacturing technologies had already been invented, certain factors like including engine displacement, custom coachwork and luxury accessories, such as power brakes, power clutch, and automatic lubrication systems, help determine whether a car can be considered a Classic.
Some exemplary pre-war Antique Classics are:
1. 1934–1940 Bugatti Type 57. The Type 57SC has become the singular classic car.
2. 1934 Citroën Traction Avant. Has the distinction of being the first mass-produced front-wheel drive car,
3. 1936 MG T series, a sports car meant especially for American soldiers fighting in the war.
4. 1938 Volkswagen Beetle, the most-famous automobile of all times. It was a pre-war design that continues to exist even in the present times.
The CCCA Club keeps a thorough list of the vehicles they consider Classics, and while any member may petition for a vehicle to join the list, such applications are carefully scrutinized and very rarely is a new vehicle type admitted. They also acknowledge the fact that their rather exclusive definition of a classic car is by no means universally followed and hence they generally use terms such as “CCCA Classic” or the trademarked “Full Classic” to avoid confusion.
After 1930 the number of auto manufacturers came down sharply, as the industry consolidated, and developed after the war more advances in engine design were made, like the compression V8 engines and modern bodies from General Motors, Oldsmobile and Cadillac brands.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Up Your Used Car Value By Stopping Rust
Up Your Used Car Value By Stopping Rust Part 1
by: Barbara Thorp
Rust is rust. It's unsightly, it speaks of neglect and inevitable decay. And no one likes it. Certainly not on cars, whether used cars or new. After all, we want our cars looking shiny and brand-new, just as it was when it left the car dealer lot.
When it comes to buying used cars, no one wants to buy a rust bucket. Rust radically depreciates your used car's resale value. So, whether want to buy used car or a new one, the trick is keeping rust from taking root in your car.
Three basic steps are:
FIND RUST
KEEP IT FROM STARTING
ATTEND TO IT ONCE IT HAS STARTED
Most people shopping around at the used car dealer lot fail to detect rust simply because they don't know where to spot it. Of course, you can't expect the dealer to be upfront about rust in their used cars for sale. One needs to understand then how rust usually starts and where it is most likely to emerge.
How Rust Starts
Rust usually begins through the chips and nicks your car receives from the pebbles and stones that hit it during daily driving. With a small nick exposing bare metal in an unnoticeable location, it is just a matter of time until rust forms.
Left unchecked long enough, this tiny nick will eat its way through to the other side. When this happens you have problems because once a rust hole starts, it cannot be stopped. It can only be slowed down.
Where to Look For Rust
The most likely areas to check for rust are in and around the wheel wells, and on the fenders immediately behind the tyres. These are the war zones where your tyres will kick up stones and chip the paint. The front of your car can also catch flying stones from other cars, making this a problem area as well.
The next time you're looking at used cars for sale, use a torch to look underneath the car, and behind the front and rear tyres on both sides. Of course, before you do this make sure the car is parked on a level surface in park/gear and the emergency brake on. If it is on a slope, put blocks under the wheels for added safety. Shine your light on the inside of the fenders and wheel wells.
Another word to the wise for those who buy used car
Avoid cars with fresh paint. Think about it: no one paints a car just because the colour has faded a little. It was painted because either it was in an accident or it had a rust problem or worse yet - both! A crash repairer can hide a lot of sin with paint and body filler
Other rust-prone places to check when buying a used car are the exterior flooring under the driver's and passenger's seats, the interior flooring underneath the carpeting/matting, under the carpeting/matting in the boot, and around the engine compartment. Use your torch, your eyes, and your fingers!
www.CarsNet.com
by: Barbara Thorp
Rust is rust. It's unsightly, it speaks of neglect and inevitable decay. And no one likes it. Certainly not on cars, whether used cars or new. After all, we want our cars looking shiny and brand-new, just as it was when it left the car dealer lot.
When it comes to buying used cars, no one wants to buy a rust bucket. Rust radically depreciates your used car's resale value. So, whether want to buy used car or a new one, the trick is keeping rust from taking root in your car.
Three basic steps are:
FIND RUST
KEEP IT FROM STARTING
ATTEND TO IT ONCE IT HAS STARTED
Most people shopping around at the used car dealer lot fail to detect rust simply because they don't know where to spot it. Of course, you can't expect the dealer to be upfront about rust in their used cars for sale. One needs to understand then how rust usually starts and where it is most likely to emerge.
How Rust Starts
Rust usually begins through the chips and nicks your car receives from the pebbles and stones that hit it during daily driving. With a small nick exposing bare metal in an unnoticeable location, it is just a matter of time until rust forms.
Left unchecked long enough, this tiny nick will eat its way through to the other side. When this happens you have problems because once a rust hole starts, it cannot be stopped. It can only be slowed down.
Where to Look For Rust
The most likely areas to check for rust are in and around the wheel wells, and on the fenders immediately behind the tyres. These are the war zones where your tyres will kick up stones and chip the paint. The front of your car can also catch flying stones from other cars, making this a problem area as well.
The next time you're looking at used cars for sale, use a torch to look underneath the car, and behind the front and rear tyres on both sides. Of course, before you do this make sure the car is parked on a level surface in park/gear and the emergency brake on. If it is on a slope, put blocks under the wheels for added safety. Shine your light on the inside of the fenders and wheel wells.
Another word to the wise for those who buy used car
Avoid cars with fresh paint. Think about it: no one paints a car just because the colour has faded a little. It was painted because either it was in an accident or it had a rust problem or worse yet - both! A crash repairer can hide a lot of sin with paint and body filler
Other rust-prone places to check when buying a used car are the exterior flooring under the driver's and passenger's seats, the interior flooring underneath the carpeting/matting, under the carpeting/matting in the boot, and around the engine compartment. Use your torch, your eyes, and your fingers!
www.CarsNet.com
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
You Can Tune Your Car For Maximum Performance!
You Can Tune Your Car For Maximum Performance!
by: Matthew C. Keegan
Are you satisfied with your performance? Your car's performance, that is? If you are not or if you have wondered how you can crank more power out of your engine, then I have some good news for you: you can do it with an engine tuning programmer. Yes, within minutes you can turn your ordinary passenger car into a road warrior without having to pop the hood or by removing the dashboard. It is a quick, easy, and awesome way to unleash more power from your car's engine.
The aftermarket parts industry is constantly coming up with everything you need to enhance your vehicle’s look as well as its improve performance. On the performance side of things custom air filters, cold air intakes, and exhaust systems are much sought after options for car enthusiasts. In addition, performance chips are being installed by owners who desire to turn their ordinary cars into something extraordinary.
While performance chips are a great way to increase torque and bang out more horsepower, they are invasive. This means you must either pop the hood or remove the dashboard to locate your current chip, swap it out, and replace it with the new one. Fortunately, technicians have invented tuning modules that work by simply hooking it into your under dash diagnostic connector. Once you are "wired" all you will need to do is answer a series of yes/no questions and the programmer does the rest. When you are done, you can disconnect the programmer and enjoy your now potent vehicle.
Power programmers, including those developed by Hypertech, fit right into the palm of your hand. Each programmer is custom developed for your make/model, so you must specify the vehicle you own or it won't work for you. Popular vehicles that can benefit from tuning programmer include: the Dodge Ram; Jeep Wrangler, Cherokee, and Gran Cherokee; the Ford "F" series pick ups and Mustang; and several GM models including the Corvette, Firebird, Camaro, and many full size pick up trucks.
There are several benefits in using a power programmer, including:
--Increased horsepower
--Increased torque
--Increased fuel economy – yes, an efficiently tuned engine gets the best fuel mileage.
--Optimized tuning – tune for 87 octane or 91 octane fuel.
No you don't have to be mechanic or a computer programmer to work with a power tuner. Everything you need is stored right inside your little hand held device. What's more, if you decide that you want to return your car to its OEM specifications, you can do that in mere moments. Try swapping out a performance chip that quickly!
Of course, power tuners aren't for everyone. If you are satisfied with the status quo or aren’t looking to get the edge while driving, then you are likely to pass on the experience. For everyone else, a power tuner is an affordable and non invasive way to turn an ordinary passenger car into a true road rocket.
by: Matthew C. Keegan
Are you satisfied with your performance? Your car's performance, that is? If you are not or if you have wondered how you can crank more power out of your engine, then I have some good news for you: you can do it with an engine tuning programmer. Yes, within minutes you can turn your ordinary passenger car into a road warrior without having to pop the hood or by removing the dashboard. It is a quick, easy, and awesome way to unleash more power from your car's engine.
The aftermarket parts industry is constantly coming up with everything you need to enhance your vehicle’s look as well as its improve performance. On the performance side of things custom air filters, cold air intakes, and exhaust systems are much sought after options for car enthusiasts. In addition, performance chips are being installed by owners who desire to turn their ordinary cars into something extraordinary.
While performance chips are a great way to increase torque and bang out more horsepower, they are invasive. This means you must either pop the hood or remove the dashboard to locate your current chip, swap it out, and replace it with the new one. Fortunately, technicians have invented tuning modules that work by simply hooking it into your under dash diagnostic connector. Once you are "wired" all you will need to do is answer a series of yes/no questions and the programmer does the rest. When you are done, you can disconnect the programmer and enjoy your now potent vehicle.
Power programmers, including those developed by Hypertech, fit right into the palm of your hand. Each programmer is custom developed for your make/model, so you must specify the vehicle you own or it won't work for you. Popular vehicles that can benefit from tuning programmer include: the Dodge Ram; Jeep Wrangler, Cherokee, and Gran Cherokee; the Ford "F" series pick ups and Mustang; and several GM models including the Corvette, Firebird, Camaro, and many full size pick up trucks.
There are several benefits in using a power programmer, including:
--Increased horsepower
--Increased torque
--Increased fuel economy – yes, an efficiently tuned engine gets the best fuel mileage.
--Optimized tuning – tune for 87 octane or 91 octane fuel.
No you don't have to be mechanic or a computer programmer to work with a power tuner. Everything you need is stored right inside your little hand held device. What's more, if you decide that you want to return your car to its OEM specifications, you can do that in mere moments. Try swapping out a performance chip that quickly!
Of course, power tuners aren't for everyone. If you are satisfied with the status quo or aren’t looking to get the edge while driving, then you are likely to pass on the experience. For everyone else, a power tuner is an affordable and non invasive way to turn an ordinary passenger car into a true road rocket.
Monday, December 11, 2006
How to Get Cheap Car Insurance – Your 7 Steps to a Good Deal
How to Get Cheap Car Insurance – Your 7 Steps to a Good Deal
by: Tommy Gordon
Are you wondering how you can purchase cheap car insurance? Worry no more! Here you'll get the seven easy steps to getting the cheapest quotes and the best deals available. Use one or use all, each of them is sure to lower your rates.
The cheapest car insurance is not necessarily the best auto insurance. But, as car insurance is mandatory for registering and driving your car, it is necessary to purchase insurance for your car. The next seven tips will help you choose, if not the cheapest, then the best deal:
1) Compare auto insurance quotes online – insurance companies save money on man power with online quotes and purchase, some of that money goes back to the client and makes your insurance cheaper. There are many companies providing instant quotes. Depending on your auto (and make sure you provide honest answers) or the number of cars you want to insure, you'll get a preliminary estimation. Don't take this sum as the final quote and don't choose the cheapest quote without analyzing the coverage offered in the insurance policy.
2) A clean credit history ensures significant discounts. To put it simple: car insurance gets cheaper if the owner (that's you) is a reliable payer. However, most insurance companies will have an option of "bad credit quotes". If you have a bad credit history, don't waste your time (your time is also valuable) on the companies that don't give you this option.
3) To get an advantageous insurance it is recommendable that you put al the cars you own under a single policy. Some insurance companies offer very good discounts for multiple cars insurance policy.
4) There are many underinsured or uninsured drivers. You'll need coverage in case of an accident caused by an uninsured driver. Make sure your insurance covers such mishaps.
5) Choose the insurance that fits your financial possibilities and the condition of the car. Once your financial status improves or the vehicle deteriorates, you should update the status of your policy.
6) If you plan on moving soon, choose a short-term car insurance plan – we recommend a one year car insurance. Insurance plans vary from country to country and even from state to state.
7) Make your vehicle as safe as possible both in terms of driver and passenger safety (seat belts, air cushions etc.) and is terms of theft (a car alarm an immobilizer etc.) – this will lower the premiums, thus providing for a cheap insurance plan.
www.CarsNet.com
by: Tommy Gordon
Are you wondering how you can purchase cheap car insurance? Worry no more! Here you'll get the seven easy steps to getting the cheapest quotes and the best deals available. Use one or use all, each of them is sure to lower your rates.
The cheapest car insurance is not necessarily the best auto insurance. But, as car insurance is mandatory for registering and driving your car, it is necessary to purchase insurance for your car. The next seven tips will help you choose, if not the cheapest, then the best deal:
1) Compare auto insurance quotes online – insurance companies save money on man power with online quotes and purchase, some of that money goes back to the client and makes your insurance cheaper. There are many companies providing instant quotes. Depending on your auto (and make sure you provide honest answers) or the number of cars you want to insure, you'll get a preliminary estimation. Don't take this sum as the final quote and don't choose the cheapest quote without analyzing the coverage offered in the insurance policy.
2) A clean credit history ensures significant discounts. To put it simple: car insurance gets cheaper if the owner (that's you) is a reliable payer. However, most insurance companies will have an option of "bad credit quotes". If you have a bad credit history, don't waste your time (your time is also valuable) on the companies that don't give you this option.
3) To get an advantageous insurance it is recommendable that you put al the cars you own under a single policy. Some insurance companies offer very good discounts for multiple cars insurance policy.
4) There are many underinsured or uninsured drivers. You'll need coverage in case of an accident caused by an uninsured driver. Make sure your insurance covers such mishaps.
5) Choose the insurance that fits your financial possibilities and the condition of the car. Once your financial status improves or the vehicle deteriorates, you should update the status of your policy.
6) If you plan on moving soon, choose a short-term car insurance plan – we recommend a one year car insurance. Insurance plans vary from country to country and even from state to state.
7) Make your vehicle as safe as possible both in terms of driver and passenger safety (seat belts, air cushions etc.) and is terms of theft (a car alarm an immobilizer etc.) – this will lower the premiums, thus providing for a cheap insurance plan.
www.CarsNet.com
Saturday, December 09, 2006
How to Plan a Car Show Extravaganza and Fundraiser
How to Plan a Car Show Extravaganza and Fundraiser
by: Tonza Borden
A car show “extravaganza” is a fantastic opportunity to bring a community or special interest group together – for more than one cause. Planning your car show event is not an easy task but the process can be simplified and efficient. The most important steps to planning your extravaganza are as follows:
The Organizers
You can be the sole show organizer or it can be a joint venture with another group. Whichever way you decide to go, there is a lot of face-to-face coordination involved. Also, it may be inconvenient to get everybody to together at a meeting on the same day. But you will need to make sure that everybody knows what’s going on and be reminded of their role and responsibilities. You’re probably wondering how to accomplish that because coordinating people is a major feat itself. Here’s where Atlanta Antique Car Club comes in with those hard-to-find resources. We recommend staying in contact with helloWorld – Video e-Mail. It is easy, affordable and so much better than phoning.
The Event
Plan a car show with a fun and festive atmosphere for the whole family. Plan a luxury and performance car and bike event dedicated to the automobile industry – featuring the best possible cars, motorcycles, limousines, customs, and art cars available because this is the “attraction”. Varying your selection of automobiles and automotive products is what will give your show the extravagant factor and take it over the top.
The Venue
Location, location, location. This is where your show will go down in history. Because of the nature of your event, selecting a venue that is unique is very important. It must have an acceptable floor plan to accommodate a large crowd, registration, bathrooms, many exhibitors and vendors, and ample parking spaces for visitors and show car trailers.
The Theme
Classic cars, food and old music are the right formula for an old-school theme and goodtime. Dressing in period clothing can add nostalgia and interest, too. And, when the 50’s music starts, your visitors will be taking a trip down memory lane. Check out this 50s party in a box to get your creative juices flowing.
The Attraction
If this is your main event of the year, it should be a festive “extravaganza” representing a vintage and classic car lifestyle. Whether it is one day or held over a few days, it should have a dramatic theme to set the stage for beautiful motorcars and beautiful people. Your car show should be the hottest ticket in town – not the most boring. So pull out all of the stops and go for it!
The Multi-Task Team Building
The people behind your car show are a very important component – especially the creative team. Here’s a tip that will pay dividends. Keep all of your volunteers happy because they comprise the logistical teams to perform the multi-tasks, at no cost. That being said, the creative team is responsible for planning the theme and working with the committees to get it done, under budget and on time.
The Vendors or Us
Buying, cooking and selling foodstuff has its advantages. On the other hand, your event may be so huge that you won’t have enough hands to flip burgers quick enough. Inviting vendors is a good thing as long as they:
Carry insurance
Be reliable and on-time
Be very professional
The Fundraising
Make your car show extravaganza make money – without spending a lot. How? Use your church parking lot or a donated venue. Be your own vendor by cooking and selling food and beverage – that’s donated or bought at discount prices. What you spend upfront will make a big difference on your bottom line. Sell tickets for a raffle, special attraction, etc. Charge a small fee for parking lot spaces for swap meet vendors. Or, collect donated sale items from your members for 100% profit. Ask for donated folding tables as well as monetary donations (if you are a nonprofit organization). Write and publish FREE public service announcements to announce your event – giving them at least two weeks lead-time. Tell everyone to tell everyone. Get the word out for FREE.
The Sponsors
Sponsors are companies who wish to be associated with your car show and visitors. A great car show is an event that sponsors would like to be associated with so keep that in mind when building your sponsor relationships.
The Exhibitors
You will want to round off your show with sponsors, food vendors, swap meet vendors, disc jockey, musicians, bands, bike performances, etc. Because when it’s all said and done, it’s all about having a good time so give your visitors variety, thrill and excitement. When they’re happy, they tend to buy from exhibitors.
The Visitors
Vintage and classic car show visitors are unique. They are in a class by themselves. They are a special group of people who live the old-school car lifestyle. They are car collectors, enthusiasts and wannabes – with buying power. They are a group who recognize and respect universal status symbols and the finer things that money can buy. That being said, your car show visitors deserve the very best show you can provide.
The Media
Last but not least, you will want to invite the media to make them your partner for all of your car show extravaganzas. As I’ve stated, you must encourage volunteers to tell everyone but telling the media is your best bet. A public service announcement will cover a greater audience and territory than you will be able to do by word of mouth. Another form of ‘media’ is flyers, banners, your web site where people can visit your site for information about upcoming events. In fact, you should be advertising your car club, group, organization at all times and I.D.IT!PLATES is a great way to drive traffic to your web.
Planning and implementing a car show won’t be easy but if it was it probably wouldn’t be a car show “extravaganza”. Use this outline to get started with your first car show. Having a plan will help you to stay focused and efficient – while keeping it simple. After the show, you will want to see pictures that tell the story about your success. So ask all volunteers to bring a camera to snap lots of pictures of event activities and car enthusiast having fun. Please don’t forget to share your pictures with Atlanta Antique Car Club's photo gallery - for the entire world to see.
About The Author
Tonza Borden is the developer and administrator of AtlantaAntiqueCarClub.com. She is a successful home-based communications specialist. Collecting antique automobilia is her hobby. Learning all about vintage automobiles is her passion. Visit http://www.atlantaantiquecarclub.com or contact tonza@atlantaantiquecarclub.com for written permission to reproduce for noncommercial use ©”How To Plan A Car Show Extravaganza and Fundraiser “ giving credit to the author.
tonzaborden@atlantaantiquecarclub.com
www.CarsNet.com
by: Tonza Borden
A car show “extravaganza” is a fantastic opportunity to bring a community or special interest group together – for more than one cause. Planning your car show event is not an easy task but the process can be simplified and efficient. The most important steps to planning your extravaganza are as follows:
The Organizers
You can be the sole show organizer or it can be a joint venture with another group. Whichever way you decide to go, there is a lot of face-to-face coordination involved. Also, it may be inconvenient to get everybody to together at a meeting on the same day. But you will need to make sure that everybody knows what’s going on and be reminded of their role and responsibilities. You’re probably wondering how to accomplish that because coordinating people is a major feat itself. Here’s where Atlanta Antique Car Club comes in with those hard-to-find resources. We recommend staying in contact with helloWorld – Video e-Mail. It is easy, affordable and so much better than phoning.
The Event
Plan a car show with a fun and festive atmosphere for the whole family. Plan a luxury and performance car and bike event dedicated to the automobile industry – featuring the best possible cars, motorcycles, limousines, customs, and art cars available because this is the “attraction”. Varying your selection of automobiles and automotive products is what will give your show the extravagant factor and take it over the top.
The Venue
Location, location, location. This is where your show will go down in history. Because of the nature of your event, selecting a venue that is unique is very important. It must have an acceptable floor plan to accommodate a large crowd, registration, bathrooms, many exhibitors and vendors, and ample parking spaces for visitors and show car trailers.
The Theme
Classic cars, food and old music are the right formula for an old-school theme and goodtime. Dressing in period clothing can add nostalgia and interest, too. And, when the 50’s music starts, your visitors will be taking a trip down memory lane. Check out this 50s party in a box to get your creative juices flowing.
The Attraction
If this is your main event of the year, it should be a festive “extravaganza” representing a vintage and classic car lifestyle. Whether it is one day or held over a few days, it should have a dramatic theme to set the stage for beautiful motorcars and beautiful people. Your car show should be the hottest ticket in town – not the most boring. So pull out all of the stops and go for it!
The Multi-Task Team Building
The people behind your car show are a very important component – especially the creative team. Here’s a tip that will pay dividends. Keep all of your volunteers happy because they comprise the logistical teams to perform the multi-tasks, at no cost. That being said, the creative team is responsible for planning the theme and working with the committees to get it done, under budget and on time.
The Vendors or Us
Buying, cooking and selling foodstuff has its advantages. On the other hand, your event may be so huge that you won’t have enough hands to flip burgers quick enough. Inviting vendors is a good thing as long as they:
Carry insurance
Be reliable and on-time
Be very professional
The Fundraising
Make your car show extravaganza make money – without spending a lot. How? Use your church parking lot or a donated venue. Be your own vendor by cooking and selling food and beverage – that’s donated or bought at discount prices. What you spend upfront will make a big difference on your bottom line. Sell tickets for a raffle, special attraction, etc. Charge a small fee for parking lot spaces for swap meet vendors. Or, collect donated sale items from your members for 100% profit. Ask for donated folding tables as well as monetary donations (if you are a nonprofit organization). Write and publish FREE public service announcements to announce your event – giving them at least two weeks lead-time. Tell everyone to tell everyone. Get the word out for FREE.
The Sponsors
Sponsors are companies who wish to be associated with your car show and visitors. A great car show is an event that sponsors would like to be associated with so keep that in mind when building your sponsor relationships.
The Exhibitors
You will want to round off your show with sponsors, food vendors, swap meet vendors, disc jockey, musicians, bands, bike performances, etc. Because when it’s all said and done, it’s all about having a good time so give your visitors variety, thrill and excitement. When they’re happy, they tend to buy from exhibitors.
The Visitors
Vintage and classic car show visitors are unique. They are in a class by themselves. They are a special group of people who live the old-school car lifestyle. They are car collectors, enthusiasts and wannabes – with buying power. They are a group who recognize and respect universal status symbols and the finer things that money can buy. That being said, your car show visitors deserve the very best show you can provide.
The Media
Last but not least, you will want to invite the media to make them your partner for all of your car show extravaganzas. As I’ve stated, you must encourage volunteers to tell everyone but telling the media is your best bet. A public service announcement will cover a greater audience and territory than you will be able to do by word of mouth. Another form of ‘media’ is flyers, banners, your web site where people can visit your site for information about upcoming events. In fact, you should be advertising your car club, group, organization at all times and I.D.IT!PLATES is a great way to drive traffic to your web.
Planning and implementing a car show won’t be easy but if it was it probably wouldn’t be a car show “extravaganza”. Use this outline to get started with your first car show. Having a plan will help you to stay focused and efficient – while keeping it simple. After the show, you will want to see pictures that tell the story about your success. So ask all volunteers to bring a camera to snap lots of pictures of event activities and car enthusiast having fun. Please don’t forget to share your pictures with Atlanta Antique Car Club's photo gallery - for the entire world to see.
About The Author
Tonza Borden is the developer and administrator of AtlantaAntiqueCarClub.com. She is a successful home-based communications specialist. Collecting antique automobilia is her hobby. Learning all about vintage automobiles is her passion. Visit http://www.atlantaantiquecarclub.com or contact tonza@atlantaantiquecarclub.com for written permission to reproduce for noncommercial use ©”How To Plan A Car Show Extravaganza and Fundraiser “ giving credit to the author.
tonzaborden@atlantaantiquecarclub.com
www.CarsNet.com
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Saturn Dealers!!!
I just need to vent!!!
Sherry's Saturn developed a nasty oil leak so she takes it to the Saturn Dealer. They charge her $87 to do a diagnostic of the leak and come to the conclusion that her timing case cover is leaking and it will cost close to $1K to fit it!
I hate oil leaks but I like my $1K more, lol, so I decide to do the job myself and save the $1K. It cost about $100 in parts and 2.5 days out of my life. Cuts and bruises plus an aching back and legs because I am an old man!
Well, I get all done. I did a fantastic job. I was super careful. I went over all the nuts & bolts I could find to tighten them. Found one motor mount bolt backed WAAAAAAY out. Whew, glad I found that. Sherry drives the car and there is still a puddle of oil under her car!!!! What!!! I did what Saturn said was wrong and it didn't help at all!!! Man was I upset.
While I was looking under her car, I noticed that the oil filter is buried right around the corner from the timing case cover. Hmmmm, I replaced the oil filter and Bada Bing! No More Leaks!!!! What the Hell!!!!
2.5 days and all it took was a $5 oil filter and 5 minutes of my time to fix it!
Bottom Line: Never Ass-U-Me that experts know what they are talking about. Do you own research and get a second opinion on anything major!!!
A Bad Oil Filter, Oy Vey!
Sherry is very happy and I guess that is worth all the pain, getting covered in dirty old grease & oil and 2.5 days out of my life. I just wished I had not listened to the "Experts". I never did before, ask my Lawyer and CPA, lol.
www.CarsNet/com
Sherry's Saturn developed a nasty oil leak so she takes it to the Saturn Dealer. They charge her $87 to do a diagnostic of the leak and come to the conclusion that her timing case cover is leaking and it will cost close to $1K to fit it!
I hate oil leaks but I like my $1K more, lol, so I decide to do the job myself and save the $1K. It cost about $100 in parts and 2.5 days out of my life. Cuts and bruises plus an aching back and legs because I am an old man!
Well, I get all done. I did a fantastic job. I was super careful. I went over all the nuts & bolts I could find to tighten them. Found one motor mount bolt backed WAAAAAAY out. Whew, glad I found that. Sherry drives the car and there is still a puddle of oil under her car!!!! What!!! I did what Saturn said was wrong and it didn't help at all!!! Man was I upset.
While I was looking under her car, I noticed that the oil filter is buried right around the corner from the timing case cover. Hmmmm, I replaced the oil filter and Bada Bing! No More Leaks!!!! What the Hell!!!!
2.5 days and all it took was a $5 oil filter and 5 minutes of my time to fix it!
Bottom Line: Never Ass-U-Me that experts know what they are talking about. Do you own research and get a second opinion on anything major!!!
A Bad Oil Filter, Oy Vey!
Sherry is very happy and I guess that is worth all the pain, getting covered in dirty old grease & oil and 2.5 days out of my life. I just wished I had not listened to the "Experts". I never did before, ask my Lawyer and CPA, lol.
www.CarsNet/com
Monday, December 04, 2006
1986 Buick Grand National
1986 BUICK GRAND NATIONAL 11,405 ORIGINAL MILES
Introduced in 1984 over 20 years ago the Grand National is still considered America's Modern Muscle car. In 1986 Buick added a intercooler to their turbo Regal line up boosting horsepower to 235 with 330 lbs of torque. The Grand National was a special edition constructed with an all black appearance. This look held virtually no chrome or brightwork and was completed with air dam and spoiler. This body style with the all blacked out look made the GN very desirable and with the performance you were getting many people preferred these Buicks over any Euro sports car. This is an extremely rare T-Top model. T-Tops were offered one year only and of the 5,512 only a small handfull of T-Top GN's were built.
This is a numbers matching vehicle the engine is the famous 3.8 litre with original intercooler and turbo. This power plant was capable of 0-60 in less than 7 seconds and would run the 1/4 mile in 14 sec. This vehicle has 11,495 original miles since new and has all its original factory equipment. The motor runs strong and trans shifts like new. Equipped with Grand Touring suspension which included a rear stabilizer bar, larger Diameter front Stabilizer bar, higher rate springs and shocks, the rear axle ratio was 3.42:1. Simply stated without all the technical spec numbers this one quick car.
The interior is original and look's brand new. Everything works including AC, boost gauges, Power windows and the vehicle was upgraded with a superior sound system. The T-tops fit perfect and include the storage bags.
The exterior of this vehicle is black and gorgeous. This vehicle has been in the personal collection of a serious collector it has always been garage kept and meticulously maintained. As shown in the pictures the finish produces a mirror quality shine. We have recently detailed the vehicle to the highest standards.
If you have been on a search for the best of the best in Grand Nationals then you may have just found it. This vehicle has not been modified and is all original, this GN is a perfect candidate for Concours or more sporty activities if you desire. With a few modifications these Grand Nationals rule the drag strip and nothing is comparable. So many of these cars have been customized for the Drag track that to find one that's untouched is extremely rare. Anyone who has looked for an original GN knows how difficult they are to find. This is a rare oprotunity to own a beautiful GN with very low miles.
If you have any questions please feel free to email us or call toll free at 1-888-308-8023, David can be reached at 1-619-247-8341 anytime. We welcome a personal or a third party inspection of this vehicle at anytime during the 10 day auction.
Link to ad: http://www.freecarsnetads.com/showproduct.php?product=140
www.CarsNet.com
Introduced in 1984 over 20 years ago the Grand National is still considered America's Modern Muscle car. In 1986 Buick added a intercooler to their turbo Regal line up boosting horsepower to 235 with 330 lbs of torque. The Grand National was a special edition constructed with an all black appearance. This look held virtually no chrome or brightwork and was completed with air dam and spoiler. This body style with the all blacked out look made the GN very desirable and with the performance you were getting many people preferred these Buicks over any Euro sports car. This is an extremely rare T-Top model. T-Tops were offered one year only and of the 5,512 only a small handfull of T-Top GN's were built.
This is a numbers matching vehicle the engine is the famous 3.8 litre with original intercooler and turbo. This power plant was capable of 0-60 in less than 7 seconds and would run the 1/4 mile in 14 sec. This vehicle has 11,495 original miles since new and has all its original factory equipment. The motor runs strong and trans shifts like new. Equipped with Grand Touring suspension which included a rear stabilizer bar, larger Diameter front Stabilizer bar, higher rate springs and shocks, the rear axle ratio was 3.42:1. Simply stated without all the technical spec numbers this one quick car.
The interior is original and look's brand new. Everything works including AC, boost gauges, Power windows and the vehicle was upgraded with a superior sound system. The T-tops fit perfect and include the storage bags.
The exterior of this vehicle is black and gorgeous. This vehicle has been in the personal collection of a serious collector it has always been garage kept and meticulously maintained. As shown in the pictures the finish produces a mirror quality shine. We have recently detailed the vehicle to the highest standards.
If you have been on a search for the best of the best in Grand Nationals then you may have just found it. This vehicle has not been modified and is all original, this GN is a perfect candidate for Concours or more sporty activities if you desire. With a few modifications these Grand Nationals rule the drag strip and nothing is comparable. So many of these cars have been customized for the Drag track that to find one that's untouched is extremely rare. Anyone who has looked for an original GN knows how difficult they are to find. This is a rare oprotunity to own a beautiful GN with very low miles.
If you have any questions please feel free to email us or call toll free at 1-888-308-8023, David can be reached at 1-619-247-8341 anytime. We welcome a personal or a third party inspection of this vehicle at anytime during the 10 day auction.
Link to ad: http://www.freecarsnetads.com/showproduct.php?product=140
www.CarsNet.com
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