which includes the cylinder heads, is rebuilt. Usually the only component from
the old engine that is used is the bare engine block, and this part is only used if
it’s in top-notch condition, to ensure longevity of service. These same rules
apply to other remanufactured auto parts, whatever they may be. You will find
that remanufactured auto parts usually carry a longer and stronger warranty,
covering parts and labor for longer periods of time as compared to rebuilt parts.
Used Parts
What about used auto parts? Let me start with a well-known Latin expression,
caveat emptor. Translation: “Let the buyer beware.” Yes, used auto parts have
their place in auto repair. And no, I am not discouraging the use of used parts.
But be careful when buying them.
When selecting a salvage yard from which to purchase used auto parts, look
the place over. Is it clean and well organized? Are the parts in order and
sheltered from the environment? Too many times I have seen delicate electrical
components laying out in the weather and then picked up off the ground and sold
to an unsuspecting customer. What kind of cars does the salvage yard have in its
inventory? Late model, import, or old clunkers? There’s nothing wrong with a
good mix of all of the above. If the yard is loaded with outdated rust buckets,
however, move on.
There are many respected salvage yards that take pride in their businesses and
in serving their valued customers. Be especially careful when buying certain
used auto parts, specifically engines, transmissions, transfer cases, differentials,
hydraulic units, and electrical parts. They are subject to the environment and can
rust and wear away internally where you can’t see it. Look for a salvage yard
that has an organized dry storage building on the premises, with everything
neatly stacked and categorized. In addition, I like to see an up-to-date computer
system used to cross-reference parts. I also like to see the salvage yard connected
to a network of salvage yards via computer across either the region or nation.
This is especially helpful if you need a hard-to-find part for a particular year,
make, and model.
When selecting used parts, ask about the warranty and the return policy. Also,
watch the way in which the part(s) are removed from the vehicle. I’ve seen yard
attendants use oxygen-acetylene torches to remove parts that should have been
removed with wrenches and hand tools. I’ve also seen yard attendants use
forklift trucks to carry parts across yards and then drop them in front of the
facility, denting or damaging the part. Am I condemning salvage yards? No, just
the “chop shops.” Ask around. You’ll find out who they are.