Used Car & Truck Parts

The junkyard is one of the best places to visit for car parts. You can save money because junk yards sell used parts at affordable prices. However, you can’t just visit a salvage yard and pick up parts like you do at a hardware or auto parts store.

You have to find and remove your own used car parts from vehicles in the junkyard. So if you are new to this, it is better to keep the following tips in mind when buying used car and truck parts.

1. Perform an online check

Don’t waste time heading to the junkyard only to find out that the junkyard doesn’t have the parts you need. Start your search from home by checking a few online vehicle inventories. Most of the professional salvage yards list their vehicle inventories on their business websites.

A visit to the inventory lets you know if the junkyard has the vehicle you need your part from. Though the inventory lists the vehicles in the junkyard, you need to personally visit the junkyard to find out if it has the parts you need.

2. Check the junk yard’s safety policies

Read the professional salvage yard’s safety policies listing how visitors should behave while in the junkyard. These rules include no smoking, no use of flame cutters and wearing close-toed shoes for safety purposes. Most junkyards ask you to leave the premises if you are caught violating their policies.

3. Tools

While junkyards sell used car parts, they don’t have the tools you need to remove them available to loan. They may at the most have an engine pulling A-frame to remove engines and a wheelbarrow for wheeling parts to the office and paying for them. You need to bring your own screwdrivers, mallets and other tools for removing used car parts.

4. Get help

It’s always better to bring someone along to help you if you need large parts like an engine or flatbed. Don’t assume that the junkyard will provide the necessary manpower or help to physically remove parts too. You have to bring as many people you think you require to get your used car and truck parts.

Now that you know how to buy used car and truck parts from a salvage yard, it’s time to visit a junkyard like Wrench-A-Part. This salvage yard boasts of an extensive inventory of used vehicles and lemons so there’s a high chance of getting your desired used car parts here.

Top Prices Paid By Salvage Yard

Selling your junk car is a great idea because junkyards give good used car part prices. However, you can get the best rates only if you do things right. Don’t commit the same mistakes many people make when selling their car to salvage yards.

By avoiding mistakes, you will be able to get the top prices paid by salvage yards and the best rates for junk yard used car parts. Below are some tips to help avoid mistakes that could cost you.

1. Taking the vehicle to the salvage yard

There’s no point in you spending time and money transporting your vehicle to the salvage yard. Yes, it’s true that some junkyards do make customers pay for towing. But there are also many lots that tow your vehicle to their junkyard free. So even if your car is drivable, you can save money having it towed to the salvage yard instead of going through the hassle and expense of doing it yourself.

2. Selling in parts instead of as it is

While most junkyards buy lemon cars, there are also some that buy running condition vehicles. If your vehicle is one of them, don’t sell it to the junkyard as junk. But instead, sell it as a drivable vehicle. You can get a better rate for drivable vehicles from junkyards than auto dealerships because salvage yards have a low overhead.

3. Collecting only one bid

Don’t make the mistake of accepting the first and only bid you get because different junkyards give different quotes. Collect a few bids from a few salvage yards, and compare them before making your final decision.

While some of them do quote fair prices, others tend to haggle with the customer to buy the car at a really low rate. It’s better to collect at least three bids before making your final choice.

4. Obliging to a later payment

You have to relinquish your ownership of the car to the lot once you sell your car for junk yard used car parts. Make sure you are paid on the spot and don’t agree to have the check sent to your home or your office later on. Always avoid buyers who make these suggestions, as other junkyards give you your money on the spot.

If you have to sell an old or used vehicle, you now know the mistakes to avoid so that you get the best used car part prices. You can easily avoid all these mistakes if you sell your car to Wrench-A-Part. They not only pay you a fair price on the spot, but they also tow your vehicle away for free.

Safety In Removing Car Parts At Salvage Yards

Removing used car parts from salvage lots can help you save money. The parts there may be second hand, but they are functional and way cheaper than brand new ones. A salvage yard is not a hazardous place, but you should be careful in going about your business there. Always keep in mind that the best way to remove parts at junk yard properties is to do it safely. Remember the following safety pointers:

  • Steel Toed Boots are necessary. If you have steel toed boots, wear them when you go to salvage lots. These boots can protect your feet when you carry heavy used car parts around. Never wear open toed footwear. If you do not have steel toed boots, wear the toughest shoes you have. Protect your feet at all times to prevent debilitating injuries.
  • Do not smoke. You play with fire when you smoke while working on cars at a salvage yard. Though you are tinkering with old cars that do not run, there are still flammable substances in them. There is also spilled gasoline or oil on the lot, so one light touch of a small flame can ignite everything. Pay attention to the “NO SMOKING” signs at the salvage yard. Break the habit while you search for the used parts you need.
  • Do not use tools that cause sparks. Such tools are battery-powered saws, handheld grinders, and flame cutters. Leave the tools that produce sparks in the safety of your home. Sparks can easily turn into flames when they come in contact with flammable substances like oil or gasoline.
  • Do not forget to wear construction gloves. Hand safety is imperative when you work with used car parts. Wear construction gloves, which are puncture-resistant and a bit heavy but allow you to keep your manual dexterity. Investing on construction gloves is great because you can also use them in various jobs around the house.
  • Leave your kids at home. Please do not bring your kids to a salvage yard. They can get lost or trapped easily in unattended vehicles, which are attractive forts to them. Children could cut themselves or swallow objects easily. Follow the rule in most self-service salvage yards and do not allow children under eighteen inside the salvage yard.
  • Do not drink alcohol. It is always tempting to bring beer or hard drinks at the salvage yard. Sobriety is important while working at the salvage yard. You should be aware of what you are doing because if you make a mistake, you could be injured if you react slowly. Stay alert.

You should always prioritize safety when you are removing uses car parts. The best way to remove parts at junk yard is to arrive alert and prepared, so that you can leave uninjured with every part that you need.

Tools You Need In Used Car Part Removal At A Salvage Yard

Car part removal preparation at junk yards means collecting the right tools. As you know, most salvage yards do not provide the needed equipment for taking used parts from old vehicles. The best way to remove parts at junk yard lots is to bring your own tools. The tools you bring to the yard depend on the types of parts you need from the vehicles at the junk yard. Here are some of them:

  • Oil. Penetrating oil may not be a solid item you can carry to the salvage yard, but it is a very useful tool in removing stubborn car parts such as bolts, and nuts. This oil lubricates crevices that free the stuck parts of the old car. It is a very handy assistant to have at the yard.
  • A-frame. The engine pulling A-frame is the tool you need to remove an entire engine without stress or strain. Many lots provide A-frames free of charge. Even so, you still need to work the equipment by yourself. Bring along someone knowledgeable about the A-frame so that you can finish the engine removal faster.
  • Pliers. Pliers help accomplish the removal of most old car parts. Locking pliers are useful for keeping stubborn components such as nuts and bolts in place. You can also bring regular pliers, type-side-cutters, channel lock pliers, and needle nose pliers.
  • Rachet wrenches. You don’t need to bring an entire collection of wrenches with you. Ratchet wrenches are suitable partners in removing difficult bolts and bolts in very tight spaces.
  • You own battery. Bring your own 12 Volt battery when you go to salvage yards. Make sure you also have alligator clips and jumper cables. This is a very useful tool in testing electrical parts such as radios and power door locks. If there are no keys, you can also open locked trunks and doors with this.
  • Screwdrivers. Many car components are secured by screws. Bring various sizes of flathead and Phillips screwdrivers to help remove such parts.
  • Markers and a notepad. A marker and a notepad can help you remember the junkyard car parts that you need. With these tools, you can also write down measurements.
  • A rubber mallet or a hammer. Certain car components may be stuck because of compressed engine fluids and dirt. You can remove weakly bonded components with your hand. Use a mallet or a hammer to remove components that have stronger bonds.

Complete your car part removal preparation at junk yards first before you go. Remember that the best way to remove parts at junk yard components is by doing so safely with the right tools.

Tools You Need In Removing Used Car Parts

Acquiring junk yard parts can be worth your while if you are willing to spend time and effort in visiting salvage yards. It is true that the car parts you get from salvage yards are already used. You should know what you are searching for, how to remove those parts, and which parts should come off to repair or replace what you already have. Auto part removal needs tools so that you can accomplish the job with ease. Take note that most salvage yards do not provide the labor or the tools to help you out.

Remember that the necessary tools for removing car parts depend on which parts you require. Be prepared by taking the following tools:

  • A set of screwdrivers. Don’t forget a set of flat head and Phillips screwdrivers in various sizes. Many engine parts are supported by screws and bolts. If the part you need is secured by screws, you can remove it with your screwdriver set.
  • A set of rachet wrenches. A rachet wrench set is a vital tool to have when you go to a salvage yard. Rachet wrenches are better than traditional wrenches because they can help remove those bolts in very tight spaces. They also give you more grip in unscrewing bolts. You won’t need to bring other types of wrenches if you already have a rachet wrench set.
  • A sturdy wire or C-clamps. It is possible for long parts to warp if you let them hang loosely as you remove their screws and bolts. A study wire or C-clamps are useful in keeping those long parts in place as you remove the screws and bolts that secure them under the hood.
  • A rubber mallet or a medium size hammer. Having a mallet or a medium size hammer helps you break the tough bonds that keep some parts in place. These bonds may be caused by compressed engine fluids and grime.
  • Pliers. Bring channel lock pliers, type-side-cutters, regular pliers, needle-nose pliers, and locking pliers to help you remove the car parts that you need. Locking pliers are especially useful in holding difficult nuts and bolts.
  • Your own battery. You should bring jumper cables (with alligator clips) and your own 12 Volt battery. This way, you can test different electrical parts such as power seat motors, power door locks, and radios. You can also use a battery in opening car doors and trunks without using keys.
  • An engine pulling A-frame. This helps remove an entire engine easily and safely. Some salvage yards provide this, but you must operate it by yourself. Familiarize yourself with how it works before you go to the salvage yard.

Auto part removal requires patience and knowledge. Once you have the necessary tools, you can be certain that your hunt for junk yard parts will always be hassle-free and safe.

Bring tools to Salvage Yards

Most of us know that you need to take along basic tools like a spanner, screwdriver, pliers, hammer and some wires to hold parts in place when looking for junk yard parts. You need these tools because junkyards don’t pull your chosen parts and hand them over to you. You need to do all the pulling and unscrewing, which is done better with tools you are comfortable using.

Some other interesting things and tools you need to carry along with you for auto part removal at a salvage yard include a bucket insert to hold all your tools and small parts you take off.

A flashlight proves helpful when checking out vehicle nooks and crannies and to make sure you remove the right part. It’s also better if you note how many bolts keep the parts in place and if there are any clips as they all help to ensure a smooth removal process.

You need to carry a few bags and a marker or two to keep left and right hardware separate when ripping apart things like door sets. A notepad also proves helpful for jotting down measurements because you can’t always rely on your memory!

Wear the right attire

As you will be getting dirty, you need to wear the right clothes that are not only comfortable but keep you safe. Wear closed-toe shoes or boots to protect your feet from heavy tools and car parts.

You also need safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris and dust. Long pants like jeans or overalls always offer more and better protection than shorts, along with a jacket to protect your arms.

Restricted tools

Do not carry restricted tools like a cutting torch and jacks to junkyards. It’s also not advised to drink or carry any alcohol to the salvage yard because alcohol can affect your speed and judgment. Not only is auto part removal safer when sober, most junkyards even ask you to leave and may not even let you return if you are caught with alcohol.

As some salvage yards may not have power, it’s worth carrying a charged cordless screwdriver or reciprocating saw to help make removing junk yard parts so much easier and quicker.

Wrench-A-part is an ideal place to head for junk yard parts. They not only have an extensive inventory of used car parts to choose from, they also provide A-frames, wheelbarrows and physical assistance to carry your heavy used car parts like engines around.

Buying Used Truck Parts at Salvage Yard

Whether you are fixing up grandpa’s old Ford or seeking body parts for your brand-new Chevrolet, the salvage yard can be your best friend. Used truck parts are cheaper than brand new and when it comes to older vehicles, often more readily available. Of course, before you head to the local u-pull salvage yard, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

New or Salvage?

There are certain parts you are simply better off purchasing new. This applies to most electrical components such as starters, alternators, electric window motors and such. This is simply because they are already fairly economical new and are regularly replaced components. Thankfully, there are relatively few parts that fall into this category.

Obtaining Parts

The next step in your journey is to shop around for good prices and availability. Now, you will likely find there are a couple different types of salvage yards – ones that will pull the parts for you and those that allow you to pull it yourself. There are pros and cons to both types. Obviously, when the yard pulls it for you, the process is much simpler, but they are often a bit more expensive and will not be looking to give you the best part available.

Pulling Parts

If you have decided to go with a pull it salvage yard, you need to go prepared. Make sure you have the following:

  • Knowledge: A repair manual will give you detailed instructions on part removal, not only will you learn proper process you will know which tools to use as well.
  • Tools: Take a well-stocked basic tool kit with you. Even if you know what you need specifically, you never know when you will run into unexpected issues. So, be sure you have what the job requires along with a basic socket set, open end wrenches, hammer and screwdrivers.

The best way to remove parts at a junk yard is patiently and methodically. Take your time to fully understand what you need as far as parts go as well as what tools you are going to need. Buying used truck parts at salvage yards is a great way to get your project finished in a hurry and under budget.

Tools To Use when Removing Junk Yard Parts

No matter how big your toolkit may be, it’s not practical lugging the entire set around a junkyard. You also can’t go there unprepared without any tools. Here’s a list of some important and necessary tools to carry with you to remove junk yard parts.

1. Pliers

Carrying one of each type-side-cutters, needle-nose, regular, locking and channel lock pliers really help tackle most auto part removal jobs. The locking type is especially useful for holding stubborn nuts or bolts.

2. Ratchet wrench set

Instead of hauling a complete set of wrenches, a set of ratchet wrenches suffices. It works just like traditional wrenches but gives a better grip for unscrewing bolts, especially the bolts in tight spaces.

3. Battery

It’s worth carrying a 12V battery and jumper cables with alligator clips to test electrical parts like power door locks, radios, power seat motors, etc. It’s also useful for opening trunks and doors without keys.

4. Screwdriver set

You need to bring along a set of various sized Phillips and flathead screwdrivers for removing engine parts that not only have sturdy bolts but also support screws.

5. Notepad and markers

If you need some small junk yard parts, and can’t rely on your memory to reference them, pouches, a marker, and a notepad can help. You can store hardware separately in them and note down important measurements.

6. Clamps or wire

Sometimes you need to hold some parts in place while removing the bolts and screws that secure them. This is when you need clamps or some strong wire to hold them in place. This prevents the junk yard parts from warping from their weight as they hang loose while you remove their screws and bolts.

7. Oil

It may be surprising to think that oil plays a part in junkyard auto part removal. However, it’s very necessary for removing junk yard parts because time leaves most bolts, nuts and other fixtures stuck in place. The oil helps free these bolts by lubricating the crevices.

8. A hammer or mallet

Some parts may still remain bonded to other parts because of the heated compression of dirt and engine liquids, even after removing the hardware holding the parts in place. While the weak bonds can be broken by hand, you’ll need a few taps of a hammer or rubber mallet to free the tough bonds.

For more information on auto part removal, just pay a visit to www.wrenchapart.com. With the right tools, you will be able to remove and take home some quality and useful junk yard parts.

Sell My Car For Cash: 4 Myths About Selling to Junkyards

Can I sell my car for cash to a junkyard in Austin? If an Austin, Texas, car buyer that operates as a junkyard needs the car in stock, the answer is yes. But before you approach the sale, it’s good to be as educated as possible about the transaction. Part of your education involves understanding myths that surround car sales to junkyards. Below are four of these myths.

1. Most Junkyards Offer the Same Price

While it’s true that most professional junkyards pay no more than hundreds of dollars for a vehicle, the sale price from one buyer to another sometimes differs by hundreds of dollars. This is why it truly pays to shop around for different offers. Receiving at least three price quotes is recommended.

2. You’re Required to Pay for Towing

Some professional junkyards charge for towing, but they are in the minority. Considering that sale price for most end-of-life autos is a few hundred dollars, charging for towing significantly decreases the vehicle owner’s incentive to sell. Free towing isn’t just financially beneficial to sellers; it’s also a good business practice for junkyards.

3. You Need a Car Title for the Sale

You need proof of vehicle ownership for the sale of your car to be legal, but a car title (a.k.a. owner’s title) is not the only document that establishes ownership. You can also use any of the following proofs of ownership: auction sales receipt, mechanic’s lien, storage lot lien, and a repossession affidavit.

4. Be Prepared for Price Haggling

Most professionally operated junkyards don’t price haggle for two reasons: the maximum price seldom exceeds hundreds of dollars, and the Austin, Texas, car buyer who purchases the vehicle can make several times that much from simply selling the vehicle’s parts. Selling the leftover scrap metal to recyclers brings in even more revenue.

About Wrench-A-Part

Wrench-A-Part is an Austin, Texas, car buyer that operates as a professional junkyard. We pay competitive prices for foreign and domestic junkers, as well as used cars that still run. What’s more, towing is free of charge. We come to your location, pay you in cash for the vehicle, and tow it to the junkyard for free.

If you live in the Austin area and have an end-of-life automobile you need to sell, please call us at 512-501-6946, or use our contact form. We look forward to hearing about your car!

Sell My Car for Cash: Do Junkyards Buy Industrial Vehicles?

If you own an industrial grade vehicle, such as a dump truck, you probably either use it for work or don’t have much use for it at all. People who haven’t use for industrial vehicles can end up  owning them in a variety of ways, such as through inheritance, bidding on a group of vehicles at a business liquidation sale, and as a part of a legal settlement against a business contractor.

Understandably, consumers who “luck into” industrial vehicles often wish to luck out of them as quickly as possible. When the vehicles are at the “end of life” stage, their owners frequently offer them to junkyards, posing the question: Can I sell my car for cash to a Lubbock, Texas, car buyer, even if the so-called “car” is an industrial vehicle?

The answer is yes, but it depends entirely on the type of junkyard you choose.

Finding a Junkyard for Industrial Vehicles

Junkyards generally fall into two categories: those that buy consumer junk vehicles and those that purchase industrial junk vehicles. You’ll also find junkyards that buy both types of vehicles, but these businesses tend to be catchall junkyards that are either “mom and pop” operations or outfits that are interested in acquiring vehicular scrap metal for recycling.

There are also two categories of Lubbock, Texas, car buyers that solely purchase industrial vehicles: those that buy various kinds of industrial automobiles and those that buy a particular type of industrial automobile, such as an asphalt laying machine that moves on tracks.

If you have a highly specialized machine like this, your best bet is offering it to the latter type of junkyard. Because the business specializes in your specific kind of machine, you are likely to get an offer that’s truly fair, with an explanation of exactly how the vehicle is valuated.

Does Wrench-A-Part Buy Industrial Vehicles? 

No. We are a Lubbock, Texas, car buyer that specializes in domestic and foreign consumer vehicles, although we happily buy heavy duty pickup trucks that are often used on industrial worksites, such as Ford F-350 and super duty Chevy Silverado editions.

If you have a vehicle like this that is ready for the junkyard, call our Belton location today at 254-831-4905, ext. 1, or send us an email through our contact form. We look forward to seeing your vehicle and making a competitive cash offer if we need it in our inventory!