Used Parts Advice

[TheTeacher]

I was thinking it would be very useful if an expert on here would make a sticky that divides up used parts into catagories like:
Never buy used, safe to buy used, cautious, always buy used if u can... etc.

It seems like it should be totally safe to buy a billet grille used, but I wonder about things like injectors, pistons, gears, etc.

I would just like to see some master list created by a pro that gives us scrubs a general idea of how to buy used parts and be smart/safe about it.

 

[JEWC_Motorsports]

Good pictures man. I always try to buy everything used first (makes your dollar go further) Its also about trusting a person. I recently bought a set of take off gears and injectors for my car. Parts showed up in like new condition and i saved a couple hundred dollars.

 

[86GT351]

Like stated it is all about pictures. That is why the paper with the sellers name and date need to be included. You just have to utilize your ability to make a decision. If you feel something is not right, don't buy. If the potential seller is giving you a hard time about answering questions then stay away!

 

[BruceH]

I was thinking it would be very useful if an expert on here would make a sticky that divides up used parts into catagories like:
Never buy used, safe to buy used, cautious, always buy used if u can... etc.

It seems like it should be totally safe to buy a billet grille used, but I wonder about things like injectors, pistons, gears, etc.

I would just like to see some master list created by a pro that gives us scrubs a general idea of how to buy used parts and be smart/safe about it.

If you are this unsure of yourself right now then only buy new until you have more experience. It will save you a lot of grief over wondering if you have been burned and it will save the forum from unneeded drama.

 

[ddavidv]

Fairly simple rule for a noob would be, the more the part moves, the less likely you'd be to buy it used. Grilles don't move = safe. Radiators don't move but water moves through them = somewhat safe. Pistons move constantly in an engine = not safe.

Just a starting point, but it will help guide you as experience builds.