I'm new to owning an older and bigger engine/vehicle especially what now seems to be somewhat specialized in certain areas

I purchased the car knowing it needed work simply because i fell in love with it. Now its time to get the work done and i am finding it harder than i initally thought to find KNOWLEDGABLE and FAIR mechanics that CAN do the work.

It definitely needs the front passenger wheel assembly including the cv joint replaced. It clacking and shredding tires every other week. It's also got a moderate oil leak. And there are intermittent issues with the transmission. Also, some light body work but im more concerned with the immediate safety and drivability of the vehicle.

If anyone has any suggestions on how to seek out trusted and knowledgeable shops for someone who knows little to none id be grateful for any help!

 

Google reviews are great for finding a decent mechanic. I know how hard that is getting. Everyone wants to charge the most for the least.

I suggest learning how to do the axles yourself, its not hard and im sure there are youtube tutorials that will walk you thru each step. Especially with all the money youll have to throw away on labor.

The trans is another story tho. Id suggest getting that looked at as soon as possible. It could be as simple as a solenoid going bad that if left, could cause you to have to replace the entire trans. How many miles and how does the fluid look? These transmissions are not really known to last long.

 

The transmission is a common failure point on the v8 cars. If the issue requires you to pull the trans for any reason, I'd send it off for a performance rebuild. Otherwise you'll always be left wondering when it'll blow and leave you stranded.


I'd reach out to Triple Edge Performance for the transmission build. They specialize in this transmission and know what it takes to keep the transmsisions going at elevated power levels (like the stock V8 makes).

 

This is some good information on keeping your vehicle in good shape. Back in the 80's and 90's and early 2k I was a sales rep and had to supply my own vehicle many of them I ran upwards of 200-300k and I always kept up with the service. I could tell by the way the car sounded at times what was wrong with it.