|
Hi Maverick,
I've got a 1972 Cutlass S. Believe it or not, it WAS my fathers Oldsmobile - bought new in 72. I've restored the body and fittings with NOS back in 1986. The interior is original and still cherry (honest to God) doesn't look like it's ever been sat in. Lucky me, everything's more than 2 or 3 times more now.
Anyway, about where to get parts....
Probably like everyone, I buy a lot from the states. Most of it comes from ebay because there's no apparent shortage of cars being dismantled; and there seems to be a lot of hidden treasures surfacing as NOS from bygone days. There are a few places in Canada that you can get parts, but shipping via Greyhound or Canada Post isn't really any cheaper.
As far as aftermarket suppliers, I've had real good results from Fusicks (dj442), Parts Place, Tamraz, Year One, and OPG. You really have to shop their catalogues though because they highball and lowball in the wierdest ways. One thing about some of the aftermarket plastic parts...they may look right, but may not fit exactly. I do not endorse BAP and have boycotted them for the past 3 years because they charged me $US45.00 for shipping on 2 separate purchases. It was supposed to go UPS expedited 4-5 day service (oversize). Got them 1 month later via USPS air parcel post for 17.55. When I called for an explanation or a refund, they refused and accused me of trying to extort money. Some of their prices are competitive, most are too high when compared to others. Anyway, you can choose for yourself.
About shipping...If you can get the seller to ship USPS that's great because they don't usually get hung up in customs. Some of the US shippers will declare the shipping value for less so it doesn't go to Canada customs; but that's between you and the seller. You run a risk if it gets lost or isn't registered. But some of the bigger stuff isn't practical to send any other way except courier. It doesn't matter which one, they ALL will charge you a brokerage in addition to customs. I don't like it either. I bought a used OEM Rallye pac gauge for 295 (great deal). Shipping, Customs and brokerage cost me over 100 bucks. Unfortunately that's just the cost of doing business and overall the part adds to the restoration because it's authentic. Considering the price of oil nowadays, I don't think it's going to get better.
Sorry to be such a windbag. If this info helps, good on ya!! If you're looking for something specific, I do a lot of web browsing. Drop me a line; I might know where to look.
Allan R
|