Purcahsed Vin712: My God, What Have I Done?!

[Gatoona]

It was a hot Sunday evening, and my brother had just picked me up from the train station to take me home after I had called and notified him that I had just missed my connecting bus. I don't have my own car, never drove, and don't even have a driver's license. Driving never really caught my interest or needs, and from birth have lived as a car-free individual.

Anyways, so as my brother is driving me home, he stops by a gas station to fill up his car. The gas station doesn't have a public bathroom, so I decided to go in the back of the station to quietly take a leak. As I'm pissing away at the wall, I notice that there's a whole slew of junk cars stocked around me. From Jeeps to Jaguars, all of which were in pretty bad shape, there was car after car in the back of this gas station.

As I finished up, I started to head back. Then ... from the corner of my eye I saw something that caught my attention: The DeLorean. Up until that moment, I had never seen a real DeLorean in person before. As I walked around admiring it, something about its shape and look made me want to just stand there all night gazing at it.

"HURRY UP, I'M GOING TO LEAVE YOU HERE BRO'!," my brother shouted. "I'm coming," I replied.

During the car ride back home, I couldn't stop thinking about the car. I even had trouble sleeping that night, as questions about the DeLorean I just saw ran rampant through my mind. "Why was that car there?" "I wonder who owns it." "I wonder how cool it would be to drive that car with Huey Lewi's 'Back in Time' song blasting out of the speakers?" Stupid things like that.

The next morning, I called in sick for work, and decided to check out the car once more. I had never been interested in cars before. What the hell was happening to me... :paranoid:

Having arrived at the same gas station once more, I went to the back again to inspect the DeLorean. She was in pretty bad shape. From having a dent in the right front fender, to the rear and front fascia coming off, interior completely torn up and cracked from the California sun, etc. Even under her horrendous current state, I had fallen in love. You know what they say, for someone to see the faults and imperfections in something and still love it for what it is, it must be true love ... or borderline insanity.

As I stood idolizing the car, the owner of the gas station had crept up behind me demanding who I was out of curiosity. I explained to him the situation and how I came last night (not the pissing part on his property) and saw the DeLorean, and how it caught my interest.

"You want to buy it?" He asks.
"How much are you selling it for?" I reply out of curiosity.
"I've been trying to sell her for $12,500."

Whoa. Even I knew that for a car in that condition, especially a DeLorean, that it was way too much.

"She's been sitting here for about four years, 23,000 miles, engine still works, but you'd have to clean up the fuel system and do some work here and there. Frame is in great shape, and just about everything inside and out is original. Haven't added or modified a thing since I bought it. I've been collecting cars, as you can tell by looking around you. It's an addiction the wife hates, but cars are my passion. I've just never had the time to fix up most of it, and with my age, I don't have much time." He replied.

"$12,500 is pretty high," I state. "Can't you go any lower?"
"Well... the best I can do is $11,000"
"Really? How about $6000?"
"I don't think so. That's a definite no. I'm really in no rush to sell the car."
"$8,000?"
"No."
"Can't you go any lower?"
"Alright, I can do $10,000."

The world around me paused for a bit. Here was the deciding moment that will essentially change my entire lifestyle.

"Yes. I'll take it." I answered.
My God, What Have I Done?! :elmo2:

So here I am now ... a DeLorean owner. She sits and waits for my next move.


12495124961249712498124991250012501125021250312504 125051250612507125081250912510

[Rich W]

Wow. Great Story. Not sure if you got a good deal on it yet (I think your early offers were much closer to the current value).

I would take a lot more photos of the car and a few of the frame from the under-side, then go to DMC CA and talk to Danny.

Look at this car as a long term project, in stages, and decide what you want to get done in Stage 1, Stage 2, Stage 3, etc.

Then have some fun with it.

Later,
Rich W.

[Silverbullet]

Welcome to the club?..... We are all crazy.... looks like you will have your work cut out for you... Lots of help here though...

Craig

[mluder]

Yeah... You have a long haul ahead of you. You do realize that many of the interior pieces are no longer available? I ask because when I bought my car a year and a half ago I was not. Fortunately my interior was just discolored not torn to shreds. I agree with Rich - $6000 would have been a generous offer.

That being said, welcome aboard! This site is a great reference and will serve you well on your journey.

Cheers.
Steve

[DeLorean03]

Ok, you bought a DeLorean and are trying to save it. Admirable - good for you. There's the fluff, here's the truth:

I sure hope you're in this one for the long haul. You've got a pretty solid amount of work ahead of you. Nothing that can't be done - it will take time and money - but it's doable. This could nearly be Project Vixen Part 2 (Google: Project Vixen).

We're here for you, and we all can help you. Bottom line: hope you're not wanting to drive this thing like next week or something :P.

[Mark D]

Congratulations on the purchase... you have a very long road ahead of you from what I can see in the photos, but for the most part these cars are easy to work on. There are lots of people here on this forum with incredible knowledge and a willingness to help out their fellow DeLorean owner. Don't be afraid to ask questions. I agree with Rich that your first move should be to have the car thoroughly inspected by DMC in Garden Grove. You should be able to get a feel for what it's going to take to bring the car back to a reliable status and then to take care of some of the cosmetic issues.

It's good to see another one saved from rotting away in a parking lot.

[ramblinmike]

Ask a bunch of questions and search the forums. Everybody here will try and help you. Take Rich's advice to heart. Make small goals. This week I will... It will help keep you from getting overwhelmed.
My little bit of advice would be this: it is just a car. It works like any other car. Don't get caught up in the mystique and hype. Go through each system in order of importance. Don't expect it to just work. No 31-year-old car could do that.
There are a number of known issues with the cars as they left the factory. Go through each one and make the upgrades. Be smart about what needs to be done-you don't need to just start throwing money at it randomly. Be aware that many of the car's components are not specific to the DeLorean. If you have any mechanical experience with cars, all if it is applicable here.
Above all, don't set unrealistic timetables for yourself. Do it right the first time and you will be rewarded with a reliable car that you can enjoy. Get your hands dirty and treat it like a hands-on learning experience.

Welcome to the group.

[Jimmyvonviggle]

When you first see a DeLorean it's like meeting a beautiful woman, you can't speak and all sense goes out the window. Welcome, nice to have a new owner.

[Gatoona]

I want to thank everyone for the support and advice.

I was talking to a fellow mechanic about the purchase this morning, and he had mentioned that there was a very strong relationship between DeLorean owners, almost like a family-bond. After reading some of your replies, it has given me a great sense that I won't be going into this project alone. The DeLorean community is simply awesome.

I knew before and after purchasing this vehicle, that it would as most of you have already stated, require large amounts of time, money, and dedication. But, time, in terms of putting hours into the car myself is something I have little of as I am working four jobs/7-days a week, so ideally most of the major and even minor touch-up work would be done by the DMC shop in Garden Grove, CA. That's not to say that they will do all the work. Minor things like replacing the fender, starting up the engine, and electrical work I WANT TO and can do.

I'm looking to spend at least around 25-30K in labor and parts with the DMC shop here. A lot of folks have told me that I should just abandon this project and buy a new Honda Accord or Civic with that kind of money, or better yet, just buy a DeLorean in better condition.

The fact of the matter is, first off, as someone who has been living a car-free lifestyle for his entire life, my goal is not to get a car to drive around. If that was the case, I would have purchased a working car already.
As for purchasing a better DeLorean, one that's in working order, I could... but that would mean seeing the car I currently now have, ultimately end up crushed or taken apart to be used as a parts car. Something I, even with the short amount of time I have been with this DeLorean would be extremely saddened by.

I don't know what it is with this DeLorean #712 and I, but I want nothing in the world but to see her running again and fixed up. Does this sound a bit corny or nuts?!

Anyways, I have already spoken with and met in person Don from DMCCA at the shop while purchasing a car cover there last week. Don has been nothing but helpful and kind. We have agreed that the car will be with them for the entire span of the restoration.

I will document the progress and costs of the restoration and share them with you all.

[pezzonovante88]

I think this is a great story and it makes me glad that this DeLorean is being rescued. I also like how you 'fell in love' with this particular one and that you'd rather fix 712 than buy a new one. The money you are looking at spending at DMC is in the realistic ballpark and that is also relieving to hear because you don't have an unrealistic idea of what it'll take to get this car back in order.
Most of the interior can either be replaced by new old stock parts or aftermarket DeLorean vendor parts. The few pieces that are no longer 'available' will come up for sale here and there, or they can be custom made and recovered.
Good for you, welcome to the family, and good luck!

Cheers for 712 :cheers1:


Ps. I like the Jag XJS Conv. he has parked next to your car.

[vwdmc16]

Wow, a great story. The price negotiation you had was very similar to the one I had when I bought my car, "i'll take it!".

I really hope you can knuckle down and get to work on 712 soon, too often people buy these kind of projects and we never hear about it again, one great thing about this forum and community is that we love to share the progress on our cars no matter how little progress it may be.

So a serious question, If you werent even into driving cars, How good are you with wrenches? Do you have much experience working on machinery? You are going to have to do alot.


On a lighter note, one of the first things you bought was a car cover? It appears that poor car has been without shelter for many years so I doubt it would be offended by a little more dust. But I understand, one of the first things I did to my car after bringing it home was alot of cleaning.
Check out my thread, cosmetically my car wasnt as bad but mechanically our cars probably are the same. So check out some of the things that re in store for you.

http://dmctalk.org/showthread.php?3763-The-Restoration-of-1768

[dvonk]

...As for purchasing a better DeLorean, one that's in working order, I could... but that would mean seeing the car I currently now have, ultimately end up crushed or taken apart to be used as a parts car. Something I, even with the short amount of time I have been with this DeLorean would be extremely saddened by.

I don't know what it is with this DeLorean #712 and I, but I want nothing in the world but to see her running again and fixed up. Does this sound a bit corny or nuts?!

welcome to the forum! :wave:

i think its awesome that youre going to restore 00712. i too hate seeing DeLoreans crushed or parted out, especially the early VINs. you will find everything you need here!

im definitely looking forward to seeing your progress. :smile:

[WelmoedJ]

Welcome to DeLorean ownership!
You've got a great pile of possible junk there.
As others mentioned probably way too much money you paid for it.

However it's your money and now it's your responsibility to make it into a good looking DeLorean again.
Take your time and spend whatever money is needed well.
This car is also know to flow your money away from you like the Niagara if you'r not careful.
Do most of it yourself and spendings will stay within reasonable limits.
It also helps to get you familiar with the ins and outs of this car.
Besides that it makes you trusting your car once it's ready to hit the road.

Use all of us here to fill in the gaps in your knowlegde.
Since you're in the LA area, try and contact my friend Tom Tait.
He's a knowlegdeable and very practical D owner and surely will advise if asked.

I do not wish to start advising here, so be our guest and ask whatever you need or want to know.

Good luck!

[Dangermouse]

On a lighter note, one of the first things you bought was a car cover? It appears that poor car has been without shelter for many years so I doubt it would be offended by a little more dust.

I understand completely. An orphan turns up in your life, cold and wet, and the first thing you do is put a blanket over her. Then you work on cleaning and feeding her.

Looking forward to reading about the adventure.

[Bitsyncmaster]

Big job ahead but get that engine running and it will motavate you to keep working on it.

[Morpheus]

Congrats on the new obsession! I'm in the middle of a complete frame-off restoration myself, so I'm very familiar with what's going through your head right now.

Just remember, take it slowly.

[OverlandMan]

I've seen this car a month or so ago when I was scouring the internet for my car. I believe it was on Craigslist. Neat story how you happened upon it (taking a leak at a gas station).

I think you have a realistic budget getting her back in presentable condition and making her go again. And I admire your desire to fix up this one rather than buy a restored car. I hope you don't slip into that funk that so many project car owners run into... when you realize you're pouring money into another project that you'll never get back if you decide to sell down the road. I've been there before. But I do think your circumstances are different, being a non-car owner previous to this. At least you only have this car to put money and effort into and not several like some of us.

Start a thread or blog and post pictures and information about your project as things progress. We all want to see how it turns out. Congrats and cheers to you and #712! :cheers:

[SamHill]

Do you have some garage space and tools to do a few things yourself?

[Kenny_Z]

Great story and I'm glad you're going to save her. I know what it is like to fall for what others would call a piece of junk. No one else can see the potential except you.

Keep in mind you can sell off almost any piece you have replaced to recoup some of the cost. Take those upper door panels for instance. The vinyl might be shredded but if the backs are in good shape they'd be worth it to someone who has good vinyl but broken panels.

[mluder]

Good for you ... That's the right attitude to have. These cars are special and they take a special kind of person to own and maintain them It sounds like you are just that type of person.

Good luck on your quest, sir.

Cheers.
Steve


I don't know what it is with this DeLorean #712 and I, but I want nothing in the world but to see her running again and fixed up. Does this sound a bit corny or nuts?!

[Ryan King]

Hows the Frame?

[Domi]

Welcome to the forum :)
Congratulation on your purchase, especially an early VIN like yours.
Your story makes me think about the movie "Christine" when the young man saw the car, he felt in love with it, just like your story, wonderful.
I really hope you will share your working progress by posting some pictures.

[DrJeff]

Welcome to D-world :cool:

Just an idea but you might want to look upon this as an opportunity to go a direction other than 'restoration'. You could compare the cost of restoring this to look like all the other restored D's to the coat of going 'custom'. There would more work for you personally, but you'd get the benefit of learning about upholstery, fiberglass, metal work, and other fabrication methods. Going custom also gives you options to avoid the more expensive, but not necessarily impressive, D parts.

Only bits I wouldn't mess with is the external look of the car.

Best of luck

[Ozzie]

It's really good to read new and positive energy from a new and now fellow DeLorean owner.

It will be in very goods hands with DMCCA, and it sounds like you have a realistic idea of the amount of expenditure required ahead. Look forward to seeing updates here.

Best wishes.

[jafo2k]

Congrats on the purchase. I sure you have just as much fun as I'm having with 3133. Sigh...

[ILM1010]

Cool to hear about a Delorean close to my Vin Number, Good LUCK and welcome to the cult

[Some guy]

Hey i just got my Delorean looking good and on the road. I bought it in May and it took me 3 months to get it on the road. It was in very similar condition to yours. interior destroyed, exterior in need of work, motor not running and fuel system in need of a lot. I have been working on it for months and i still have parts in the mail.
Make it your own.
This sight and its members helped me so much. I never even bought a manual. i just came here.

Now that you own a D, brush up on your back to the future trivia. It will never stop no matter how many time you ask.

[jafo2k]

Now that you own a D, brush up on your back to the future trivia. It will never stop no matter how many time you ask.

Yup.

[DeLorean03]

Now that you own a D, brush up on your back to the future trivia. It will never stop no matter how many time you ask.

I'll vouch for that - 9 years and counting.

[Jeff K]

You said you work 4 jobs and 7 days a week?

Do yourself a favor - sell it now and take a hit. This project will eat you alive.

[vwdmc16]

Wow, I say stop sleeping and you could find some time

[DMC3165]

When you first see a DeLorean it's like meeting a beautiful woman, you can't speak and all sense goes out the window. Welcome, nice to have a new owner.

That statement pretty much nails it right on the head!

[D Knight]

Welcome to our little corner of the net! My car wasn't much different than yours when I bought it. In fact, many here said it was nothing more than a parts car. Saving it absolutely can be done, you couldn't ask for a better support group for saving it. Most everyone is very helpful. Most important, have fun. This is a fun car, don't let the tasks discourage you! Most stuff on these cars is fairly easy to work on.

[SProfita]

Welcome! still awaiting mine, have it found sitting in an old warehouse, just waiting to see title and get the funds! Neat story you have, and don't let anyone discourage you, it will be a masterpiece when all is said and done! :thumbup:

[Jonathan]

When you first see a DeLorean it's like meeting a beautiful woman, you can't speak and all sense goes out the window. Welcome, nice to have a new owner.


That statement pretty much nails it right on the head!

Makes me think of the one about "DMC's are kind of like frying bacon in the nude... you better like BLT's!!"

Seriously though, great story! Welcome aboard, we're all happy to have you :)

Like others, I'll offer my advice on your future journey:

That part about whether or not you got a good deal on paying $10,000 for the car? Never speak of it again. Why? Because you can't go back and change it, and not one of us here knows more about your finances than you do. If you are good with that number, than that's all that counts. Trust me, asking strangers the "did I get a good deal" question never makes you feel better. Put that aspect behind you and keep walking forward :)

Now, the future $30,000 parts and labour piece, I would agree with that. $30k was in the ballpark of what I was actually thinking before I read further and saw you already had that in mind. Good for you for being conscious of that.

A couple observations from your pictures (and more pics as others mentioned would be great, either of the frame, or of more areas on the car):

- I would investigate what the "mystery button" on the right side dummy switch does. My guess it is either a previous owner (PO) creative wiring solution to get either a fuel pump to run or to get the cooling fans to run. Best to consider putting the wiring back to factory and not live with someone else's creations. With that in mind, check out your fuse relay area behind the passenger seat and take inventory of what is in there or what doesn't match the factory specs.

- Your fuel sender is having an issue. That's typically why the fuel gauge pegs straight up like that. Could be a corroded wire on the sender, or something else. You might consider DMCX's fuel pump and sender combo if you have to gut your fuel system anyway.

- Your tripmeter reset plunger has the knob broken off in the instrument cluster. Not terribly hard to fix, just getting the $20 worth of tiny plastic parts all installed can take time and patience. FYI, they often break off because people think they twist to reset, which they don't, they push to reset.

- I thought I noticed part or all of your steering column canopy missing. Is it there? Or if it was removed, is that because you struggled with the ignition key?

- You may need the replacement headlight switch if yours has crapped out. Can't tell from the pics, it might be modified or maybe just the label peeled off?

- Engine bay needs deice shield recall done, of course the air filter housing is missing too and your bulkhead connectors cover.

- Likely get an entire replacement set of weatherstriping for the car/doors. Maybe side marker light gaskets too.

Anyway, those are just some ideas. You'll figure out much more once you spend a few hours on it pouring over every square inch :)

[Silverbullet]

I am so with Jonathan... and the fact that you love it, just relax and it will come together... Someday I would like to shake your hand, when you can drive your first car, and you have saved it from just roting away... Just keep the 4 jobs... and you will have the money to complete the car...lol... Let us know when you are going to take the car to DMC Garden Grove... Mine is there now... I would like to see your car. Keep smiling

[jawn101]

Worth noting that the deice recall isn't really so vital here in CA. :)

Congrats on your find and I hope it works out exactly as you hope.

[Sidaries]

So here I am now ... a DeLorean owner. She sits and waits for my next move.

Have you seen this? It seems, that you car was a company car.



12577

[jawn101]

Have you seen this? It seems, that you car was a company car.



12577

Nice bit of history!

[LEVY]

People,

The OP is gone! He only posted twice, everybody here seems exited but he is not posting anymore. If he indeed bought this car, I know he will came back, specially is this is his first car.

Lets see if he came back, he might be busy digging inside his car!


LEVY

[OverlandMan]

People,

The OP is gone! He only posted twice, everybody here seems exited but he is not posting anymore. If he indeed bought this car, I know he will came back, specially is this is his first car.

Lets see if he came back, he might be busy digging inside his car!


LEVY

He's probably too busy working those 4 jobs to post! :Headspin:

[DMCMW Dave]

He's probably too busy working those 4 jobs to post! :Headspin:

Note everybody has a job where they are in front the computer for 9 hours a day. Lots of people on this list apparently do.

[Rich W]

I did a quick check of the CFR List and VIN...712 is on the list. (also listed similarly in the VIN_List database)

Chestnut Fleet Rentals was the company that purchased 88 very early DeLoreans from DeLorean Motor Company
and leased them back to DMC for use as company cars, training cars, etc. You will need to photo document it.

I am very glad to see that VIN...712 will be fully restored, since it has some interesting early company history.

Later,
Rich W.

[Gatoona]

Didn't expect this many replies and interest from the DeLorean community. Thanks for the comments everyone! I've taken the time to read all of them, and I appreciate each of the helpful advice you have all left, and will use them as guides in my journey to restoring VIN712.

Perhaps I should come to this site on a daily basis, and not on a weekly one...

With that said, I've had the chance to visit VIN712 again this Monday as she is currently still parked behind the gas station. I've had more time to inspect her inside and out, and have noted and found these additional problems and items:


The ignition lock assembly and Center pad for the steering wheel is missing. Seller tells me someone must have stolen it.
The right door is completely jammed. It does not fully close, and will not open. I have tried inserting the key and jiggling the lock mechanism from the inside but it seems to do nothing.
After digging through the insides of the front storage compartment, I have found the steering column canopy, the original spare tire, some discolored and unreadable 1980 DeLorean catalogs and booklets, two car batteries, a few unusable hoses inside a plastic bag, two struts for the hood which are bent, and a mini lifting jack stored within the walls of the front storage compartment.


During these past few days, I've been planning out the restoration process. The first goal is to transport her to the DMCCA shop for inspection and cleaning. Can anyone recommend me to a great company or individual that can help me transport her? How much should a ~18 mile trip via flat bed cost?

Also, I ran a background check for the VIN using Autocheck and the only issue brought up was the fact that the last vehicle emission testing done on this car was 11 years ago in 2001, and it had passed.

I'll be scheduling my work schedule to see her again next week. If anyone has any picture requests as to what they want to see, I'll gladly note those down and take more pictures.

This is looking to be a 1.5-2 year restoration project.
Thankfully, time flies when you're working 4 jobs. HAHA.

12589

[Gatoona]

Also, lazabby sent me a PM asking for the plates on the driver's side. I can't seem to upload the image in the message, so I'll post it here.

12590

[Some guy]

When i needed to transport mine from riverside, i just rented a uhaul and a car carrier. the car was light enough that me and 3 other guys just pushed it up on a trailer. once i got it home i just pushed it off.

[LEVY]

You need to go get it ASAP!

Believe me, the more you wait, the more parts you will need to buy!

LEVY



Didn't expect this many replies and interest from the DeLorean community. Thanks for the comments everyone! I've taken the time to read all of them, and I appreciate each of the helpful advice you have all left, and will use them as guides in my journey to restoring VIN712.

Perhaps I should come to this site on a daily basis, and not on a weekly one...

With that said, I've had the chance to visit VIN712 again this Monday as she is currently still parked behind the gas station. I've had more time to inspect her inside and out, and have noted and found these additional problems and items:


The ignition lock assembly and Center pad for the steering wheel is missing. Seller tells me someone must have stolen it.
The right door is completely jammed. It does not fully close, and will not open. I have tried inserting the key and jiggling the lock mechanism from the inside but it seems to do nothing.
After digging through the insides of the front storage compartment, I have found the steering column canopy, the original spare tire, some discolored and unreadable 1980 DeLorean catalogs and booklets, two car batteries, a few unusable hoses inside a plastic bag, two struts for the hood which are bent, and a mini lifting jack stored within the walls of the front storage compartment.


During these past few days, I've been planning out the restoration process. The first goal is to transport her to the DMCCA shop for inspection and cleaning. Can anyone recommend me to a great company or individual that can help me transport her? How much should a ~18 mile trip via flat bed cost?

Also, I ran a background check for the VIN using Autocheck and the only issue brought up was the fact that the last vehicle emission testing done on this car was 11 years ago in 2001, and it had passed.

I'll be scheduling my work schedule to see her again next week. If anyone has any picture requests as to what they want to see, I'll gladly note those down and take more pictures.

This is looking to be a 1.5-2 year restoration project.
Thankfully, time flies when you're working 4 jobs. HAHA.

12589

[Silverbullet]

3 towing options...

Find a friend with 100 mile AAA Towing... get it towed for free.

Join AAA and wait a few days to call...

Call a tow company and pay $200 for the 18 mile trip ($65 hook up and $7 a mile)

Best of luck to you...

Craig

[stevedmc]

I had my Mustang towed on a Sunday for just $130. This was for a 30 mile trip.

[stevedmc]

3 towing options...

Find a friend with 100 mile AAA Towing... get it towed for free.

Join AAA and wait a few days to call...

Call a tow company and pay $200 for the 18 mile trip ($65 hook up and $7 a mile)

Best of luck to you...

Craig

The first two of your ideas involve lying.

[dvonk]

kinda random, but i stumbled across this (posted by James in 2005 (http://www.dmchelp.com/showthread.php?43-DMC-Daily-Sales-Report-12-31-1981)) and saw your VIN, so i figured id re-post it here for you. its not really any new information, per se, but relevant nonetheless. not sure why there is an arrow pointing to the name assigned to 712.

12593

[Dangermouse]

The first two of your ideas involve lying.

Not so with the first one.

AAA membership covers any car that the member happens to be in/with, not necessarily their own.

[SamHill]

kinda random, but i stumbled across this (posted by James in 2005 (http://www.dmchelp.com/showthread.php?43-DMC-Daily-Sales-Report-12-31-1981)) and saw your VIN, so i figured id re-post it here for you. its not really any new information, per se, but relevant nonetheless. not sure why there is an arrow pointing to the name assigned to 712.

12593

Anybody know what Haglin's role was in the company?

[stevedmc]

Not so with the first one.

AAA membership covers any car that the member happens to be in/with, not necessarily their own.

I'm pretty sure insurance most insurance doesn't cover preexisting conditions.

If I buy a wrecked car and purchase insurance with full coverage, should the insurance company pay to repair the damage?

[LEVY]

Gatoona,

I hate to be the one with bad news. Since your car is a company car, it is out of warranty, you are on your own! :D

LEVY

[Dangermouse]

I'm pretty sure insurance most insurance doesn't cover preexisting conditions.

If I buy a wrecked car and purchase insurance with full coverage, should the insurance company pay to repair the damage?

You're not asking them to fix it.

You just call them up and say that you went out to your car today and it wouldn't start - damn car. Can I get it towed to XXX for repair?

You may want to clean it up and air up the tires etc.

[stevedmc]

You're not asking them to fix it.

You just call them up and say that you went out to your car today and it wouldn't start - damn car. Can I get it towed to XXX for repair?

You may want to clean it up and air up the tires etc.

Go buy a non running car and leave it at the sellers house, buy a new AAA policy and tell them you would like them to tow a non-running car your just purchased. Let me know what they say.

Anything else is just a lie. If others can sleep at night after doing this then go right ahead. I might like to start crap on this forum but I do believe in trying to be honest.

If a person can't afford $130 to tow a Delorean, they really should reconsider the purchase.

[Stainless]

Go buy a non running car and leave it at the sellers house, buy a new AAA policy and tell them you would like them to tow a non-running car your just purchased. Let me know what they say.

Anything else is just a lie. If others can sleep at night after doing this then go right ahead. I might like to start crap on this forum but I do believe in trying to be honest.

If a person can't afford $130 to tow a Delorean, they really should reconsider the purchase.

+1 My opinion of Steve just went up even higher in my book.

[artisticent]

A new AAA policy will give you 3 tows of 7miles for 1 year before you can upgrade to a AAA+ membership. So the tow will still cost you money after 7 miles.

[stevedmc]

A new AAA policy will give you 3 tows of 7miles for 1 year before you can upgrade to a AAA+ membership. So the tow will still cost you money after 7 miles.

But does it provide coverage for a non running car that was purchased before the AAA policy was bought?

[Jonathan]

Go buy a non running car and leave it at the sellers house, buy a new AAA policy and tell them you would like them to tow a non-running car your just purchased. Let me know what they say.

Anything else is just a lie. If others can sleep at night after doing this then go right ahead. I might like to start crap on this forum but I do believe in trying to be honest.

If a person can't afford $130 to tow a Delorean, they really should reconsider the purchase.

All "carb-influenced" and "man without a brain" stuff aside, this is the most intelligent thing I have seen here so far. I 100% agree with exactly what Steve wrote. Do it right and you can expect the Karma-Gods will reward you for it in some other way down the road. Good post Steve :)

[David T]

If you are having a car towed directly to a shop for repairs the shop will typically pick up the tow and work it into the price for repairing the car especially if you are giving them a lot of work. They will have a reliable tow service and will make all of the arrangements. You should have the car insured before moving it. AAA won't tow a car that does not have license plates and is not registered and up to date. That policy does vary though so you *might* be able to talk your way out of that requirement. Do not try to move it yourself, the tires may not even turn.
David Teitelbaum

[thirdmanj]

But does it provide coverage for a non running car that was purchased before the AAA policy was bought?

Yup. It doesn't matter. The stipulation is that the member is with the car. I'm a AAA platinum member. Have been ever since I bought a '71 VW bus in TN and had to drive it back to VA. She broke down 170 miles out of the destination. Called AAA upgraded to platinum for the increased benefits and the 1 time 200 mile tow. And I don't feel guilty about it. Why should I? I'm gonna pay for it in the long run, just not all at once.

[stevedmc]

Yup. It doesn't matter. The stipulation is that the member is with the car. I'm a AAA platinum member. Have been ever since I bought a '71 VW bus in TN and had to drive it back to VA. She broke down 170 miles out of the destination. Called AAA upgraded to platinum for the increased benefits and the 1 time 200 mile tow. And I don't feel guilty about it. Why should I? I'm gonna pay for it in the long run, just not all at once.

So what's your point? You were already a AAA member BEFORE the bus broke down.

[Dangermouse]

Go buy a non running car and leave it at the sellers house, buy a new AAA policy and tell them you would like them to tow a non-running car your just purchased. Let me know what they say.

Anything else is just a lie. If others can sleep at night after doing this then go right ahead. I might like to start crap on this forum but I do believe in trying to be honest.

If a person can't afford $130 to tow a Delorean, they really should reconsider the purchase.

I specifically addressed option 1 - Phone a friend with an AAA policy. I said nothing about buying a new one just for this car.

Why AAA doesn't limit their coverage to just cars that you personally own is beyond me, but they don't. (I think they used to, but don't any more). The member just has to be present with his/her card. There is nothing illegal or dishonest about it. Most cars they tow are "non-running" to varying degrees.

And as a matter of fact, I did do this. I was an established AAA member and I was moving house. I called them up, explained that my (non-DeLorean) project car wouldn't start and could I get a flat bed to take me from A to B. I was completely honest about it. They had every chance to say No, but within the hour there was a truck in my driveway. IIRC, that was the first time I had used their services in 5 years of being a member, so they still came out ahead.

[Alan]

All "carb-influenced" and "man without a brain" stuff aside, this is the most intelligent thing I have seen here so far. I 100% agree with exactly what Steve wrote. Do it right and you can expect the Karma-Gods will reward you for it in some other way down the road. Good post Steve :)

I completely agree. Above board is worth something. Good post, Steve... and good support from those who have voiced agreement.

[stevedmc]

I specifically addressed option 1 - Phone a friend with an AAA policy. I said nothing about buying a new one just for this car.

Why AAA doesn't limit their coverage to just cars that you personally own is beyond me, but they don't. (I think they used to, but don't any more). The member just has to be present with his/her card. There is nothing illegal or dishonest about it. Most cars they tow are "non-running" to varying degrees.

And as a matter of fact, I did do this. I was an established AAA member and I was moving house. I called them up, explained that my (non-DeLorean) project car wouldn't start and could I get a flat bed to take me from A to B. I was completely honest about it. They had every chance to say No, but within the hour there was a truck in my driveway. IIRC, that was the first time I had used their services in 5 years of being a member, so they still came out ahead.

Ron sucks.

[stevedmc]

I completely agree. Above board is worth something. Good post, Steve... and good support from those who have voiced agreement.

Since we are somewhat on the topic of honesty, I should also mention that I don't cheat on my taxes. When I bought 16510 I paid about $2,300 in taxes (including title and license). When I bought my Mustang I paid about $280 in taxes (including title and license).

I could have lied about the value on each vehicle's bill of sale as many people do but I didn't. This country has been good to me and I believe in supporting it.

[thirdmanj]

Since we are somewhat on the topic of honesty, I should also mention that I don't cheat on my taxes. When I bought 16510 I paid about $2,300 in taxes (including title and license). When I bought my Mustang I paid about $280 in taxes (including title and license).

I could have lied about the value on each vehicle's bill of sale as many people do but I didn't. This country has been good to me and I believe in supporting it.

How great for you. But I don't think anyone gives a shit.

I do say, how wonderful that this forum can boast the "moral high ground" of stevedmc.

[stevedmc]

How great for you. But I don't think anyone gives a shit.

I do say, how wonderful that this forum can boast the "moral high ground" of stevedmc.

Feel free to audit my dmctalk account.

Username: stevedmc
Password: dmctalksucks

[OverlandMan]

I was enjoying this thread...

[thirdmanj]

I was enjoying this thread...

Meh :/ sorry man. It was just so damn self serving.

... Nobody cares about your fucking account steve.

[Silverbullet]

I am a AAA member, I had my DeLorean that ran (did not trust it) towed to DMCCA and paid the bill in full out of pocket. 14 Miles $165. I also have State Farm Tow coverage. The tow truck operator said that I should have just called AAA, as most of the cars they tow do not run, and they take them to repair shops, as that is what their job is. AAA lets you have 3 tows a year, he said most people never use them... So If you use 1 of your 3, to tow a car... it is part of your plan... So I pay for coverage for 2 different tow plans, and I pay out of pocket... Who is the crazy one.

Craig

[dmcerik]

During these past few days, I've been planning out the restoration process. The first goal is to transport her to the DMCCA shop for inspection and cleaning. Can anyone recommend me to a great company or individual that can help me transport her? How much should a ~18 mile trip via flat bed cost?]

You might want to just call DMCCA and see if they can haul the car from its current location to their shop.

[Chris Burns]

Early VIN Deloreans have been coming out of the woodwork lately:)

You have your work cut out for you. Good luck with it and keep us updated!!

[Great Scott]

AAA insures the policy holder against emergency breakdowns.
This means that any policy holder who has a "road emergency" will get help, regardless of how they got there, who drove, or in what.
That is why they will tow any car. The insurance is not about any specific car, it is about rescuing it's customers at the side of the road 24hrs day.
The key words in this particular situation are "road emergency'. The owner of this DeLorean is neither on the road, nor is he experiencing an emergency.
As a platinum member, I asked to have a non-running vehicle I had just bought towed to a garage. They refused, saying they don't provide non-emergency service for newly purchased vehicles. So now I know.
But, these restrictions come from AAA, not the towing service they will be sending the payment to. You can tell the AAA operator anything you want. No towing company is going to arrive, see that you are cheating and refuse the easy money they will get by keeping mum and finishing the job.
But truly, if you can drop 10G on a 6G car to avoid a little research, why screw a good company for $150?
As a side note- AAA emergency road service is an excellent program with kind and helpful operators, and it would be dirt cheap at twice what they charge. I can't believe everybody doesn't have it. Even the top-o-the line, 200 mile towing, princess cant read a gas gauge or change a flat tire by herself, Platinum coverage is only like $8 a month if I remember.
Brilliant story about finding the car, by the way. Nearly brought a tear to me eye, it did! :approve:

[stevedmc]

I dot have AAA. My roadside coverage is self insured. So far I haven't needed a tow since the day I bought the car and that was nearly 3 years ago.

[stevedmc]

I dot have AAA. My roadside coverage is self insured. So far I haven't needed a tow since the day I bought the car and that was nearly 3 years ago.

I just did the math. Three years of no need for a tow truck adds up to $288 in my towing fund at $8/month. So I basically have $288 sitting in the bank that I can use should I need a tow. I don't depend on tow trucks though. When something breaks, I just fix it on the side of the road and go about my business. I carry spare belts, coolant, radiator cap, oil, hoses, full size spare tire, fuel pump, and even a heater control valve. There has to be something seriously wrong such as an accident before I need a tow truck.

[WelmoedJ]

Oh boy, you are careful.
Half a workshop in your car.

I usually make my trips only carrying an alternator belt and a jerrycan with 2.5 Gallons of gas.
However I do carry a set of tools; come handy if needed.
20k Miles now with only these parts and no regret.

I suppose I just may be very lucky with my car?

[OverlandMan]

Any updates from the OP on the status of this car?

[Dangermouse]

He hasn't been back here in a month. :(

Is the car still there? Has it been towed to the new house? Never mind the US election, these are important questions that we need answered :evilgrin:

[OverlandMan]

He hasn't been back here in a month. :(

Is the car still there? Has it been towed to the new house? Never mind the US election, these are important questions that we need answered :evilgrin:

Yea no kidding! Hopefully he didn't get scared from all the feedback on his car and run for the hills.

[CEOofawesome]

Man I swore I Allready posted on this, but I can't find it... So I guess I will post again! Great for you. I love how the silver on the D still looks on decent condition, but the rest looks terrible! (No offense) my dads geo+my dads Scout 2 doesn't even equal the amount of damage down to that D I don't think. Have fun fixing it, it will be great to see it running and looking nice at the same time!😄