Need tips on buying used parts

[Joe R.]

I was thinking of buying an intake manifold that is advertised in the Driveline. I talked to the seller last night, he says it had a crack that was subsequently repaired between two of the intake ports. He also said that it is a very common problem. I was thinking about buying his manifold and sending it to Dave Brezenski to have some porting work done. Anyhow, I am looking for suggestions on what I should do before committing to buying the part. Any general guidelines for buying parts from the Driveline, swap meets or eBay would also be appreciated.

Thanks,
Joe

[Joe R.]

Re: Need tips on buying used parts

I tried to look the seller up here, but couldn't find him. I used both his name and his NCRS number with no dice. I take it that's like a bad sign and stuff? I was going to ask him for some pictures. Can non-members or former members advertise in the Driveline?

Joe

[Gene M.]

Re: Need tips on buying used parts

Joe, I suggest go to a place like Carlisle and see before you buy................

[Terry M.]

Re: Need tips on buying used parts

I tried to look the seller up here, but couldn't find him. I used both his name and his NCRS number with no dice. I take it that's like a bad sign and stuff? I was going to ask him for some pictures. Can non-members or former members advertise in the Driveline?

Joe

Joe,
Only current NCRS members can advertise in The Driveline.

That tells you he is a member of NCRS. The fact that he has not registered for the Technical Discussion Board means nothing. Many NCRS members do not register here. I don't know the current numbers (the administrators have them), but I am sure the majority of NCRS members are NOT registered here.

Thus while only current members can advertise in The Driveline, not ALL current members are registered on the Discussion Board.

[William C.]

Re: Need tips on buying used parts

Especially on a manifold that you want to modify (porting) I would try to buy at a venue where you could do a complete inspection before buying. Carlisle, or any local swap meet should provide unmolested options.

[Jim C.]

Re: Need tips on buying used parts

Joe,

I'm all for buying ORIGINAL parts and putting them back on our Corvettes. Any original part you can put back on your car makes it just a little closer to its factory specs. I'm also in favor of buying original parts and restoring them if possible. As for a part that has been damaged and "repaired", I would probably pass, unless it's SUPER rare and it's probably the best you'll ever find. Even still, I would probably pass and just keep looking. I think you can find undamaged manifolds at some of the big swap meets, on line auctions, and other Driveline ads. If you really want to go crazy, you could look for correct, original manifolds with the appropriate date codes for your car. I guess it all depends on how detailed you want to get. I would still wait to find undamaged parts. Restored is one thing, damaged and repaired is another. Good luck.

Jim C.