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The Great Aussie Soarer Mechanic Guide

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Neil GriffithsNeilV8.jpg (10544 bytes)

5 Silvia Ave
Queanbeyan NSW 2620Rush Imports
(02) 6284 3111

Recognised for years as Soarer Guru. Located in Southern NSW.

Damien Ware frozenpod@hotmail.com
EMV repairs, CD stacker repairs, Blinky dash repairs, ECU repairs.

January 2006
by Peter Scott

"Can you recommend a Mechanic / Exhaust Shop / Suspension / Wheel Alignment Place to work on my Soarer?"


Plenty of times you don't want to do it yourself. But what mechanic will treat you right? This is a list of customer responses grouped by State. If you have a good or bad experience please email me .  There are a few rules though. No Mechanics can nominate themselves.  You must be a member of the ALSC and post your comment on the forum at  Soarercentral.com. This Guide can only be as good as you can make it, so please contribute! Remember mechanics work best if you talk to them, give them lots of information, develop a relationship with them. Describe to them what you want fixed, ask questions, listen and be helpful. It can be a worthwhile and rewarding relationship. Give them every opportunity to work with you. Mechanics listed can have right of reply.

Air conditioning thread on Soarer Central.com

Shortcuts : NSW  VIC   ACT  SA  Queensland  WA

iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) positive iconNeu_16x16.gif (136 bytes) neutral iconNeg_16x16.gif (131 bytes) negative

rating Address comment from
New South Wales
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Niall
3/2 hale St. botany
Ph.: 9666 6364
mob: 0415 866 014
Yeah Niall is the man Edwin.
Niall used to work at the back of Tokyo Imports. but he moved to Botany. its easy to get to,just go straight down the M5 and take the turn to get onto botany road...go botany rd a lil bit and turn right on to Hale St and follow it right down the end and his shop is down there. you shouldnt miss it there is always a Soarer in his work shop.
Monday, December 05, 2005 - 09:10 pm, by:  Shane McInnes (Soarin_tt)
iconNeu_16x16.gif (136 bytes) Midas, Concord, Paramatta Rd. I have had servicing and mechanical work on my Soarer done by MIDAS at Concord (they are on Parramatta Rd). I am pretty sure they could do the bushes,  If you have talk to Darren (the owner) or Dave, I am sure they can help you. Monday, December 05, 2005 - 09:49 am, by:  Robert Carlyon (Bob)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Niall in Botany:
(Bond Auto Tech)

Bond Auto Tech
3/2 Hale Street
Botany, NSW 2019
Phone: (2) 9666-6364
Mobile: 0415 866 014
Go to Niall in Botany:

He fixed my misfiring, which no one had ever seen before (no sh!t). Tried everything under the sun to get it back on the road and he got it back up and running.

Yeah Niall is the man, he knows his stuff.

I got some of my electrical issues fixed at Niall's, and he is a genius. When I picked up the car, I have never seen so many soarers, (becides the soarer cruise) in one place. He had around 10 soarers at his workshop, 3 with vic plates on them as well, he is well known and respected for his knowledge with soarers.

yeah nialls the only mechanic i trust with my car in sydney.

Nial(mechanic) does my work great bloke.

 

Saturday, August 13, 2005 - 06:44 am, by:  Benny Gammelmark
Saturday, August 13, 2005 - 11:08 am, by:  Emanuel Spinola
Saturday, August 13, 2005 - 04:03 pm, by:  Jose-Antonio Castillo
Saturday, August 13, 2005 - 05:57 pm, by:  Shane McInnes
Monday, August 15, 2005 - 09:46 pm, by:  Steven Nanevski
Wednesday, August 17, 2005 - 11:09 pm, by:  Steven QueeThursday, January 26, 2006 - 06:55 pm, by:  Jeff Smith (Mozzie)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Neil Griffiths

5 Silvia Ave
Queanbeyan NSW 2620Rush Imports
(02) 6284 3111

Hey Grandad, thanks again for your phone support, you're a gem!

As for neil he's the guru for most mods & lighting + a little mechanic work.Ideal for the southern NSW soarer's.

Soarercentral.com

Friday, August 12, 2005 - 08:45 pm, by:  Kylie Patterson

 Jeff Smith (Mozzie)

 

iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Nathan @ Grey Imports...Ph 02 9557-5938-W,,
M-0419-995-150 50 Albion St Annandale...
One of Neils mates.

ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Need a Mechanic In sydney

Neil Griffiths ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Need a Mechanic In sydney
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Northshore Prestige Motors
CNR Paton Place and Quirk Rd

Balgowlah NSW 2093
Phone: (02) 9948 5302
Fax: (02) 9948 9502
Email:
 
Northshore Prestige
Bought my Soarer here and was happy with the car, how it was  
represented, and the price. However, when the alarm failed (minor  
problem) they flick-passed this to the installer and refused to get  
involved. Similarly, with a faulty sleeve in one headlight they  
fobbed it off to their complier rather than accepting responsibility  
as I believe they are required to do by law. So, fine to buy there  
but do not expect any active post sale support despite their claims.  
On the responses of their subbies to these problems, Security in  
Motion were good while Grey Imports were crap. - David Vaughan

 

Benny Gammelmark

David Vaughan

iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Peter Pilkington: 67 New South Head Rd Rushcutters Bay - 9328 6588.

and the rest of the lads at Sportscar International (Edgcliff.)

It's Peter Pilkington: 67 New South Head Rd Rushcutters Bay - 9328 6588.

Niall was the one who used to do all the work so when he set up on his own I tracked him down. Niall's details: 3/2 Hale St Botany NSW - 0415 866 014
ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Reccomend Sydney Mechanics
Damien Smith ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Reccomend Sydney Mechanics

Steven Millward ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Archive through June 21, 2005

iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) MEDOWIE MOTORS
Shed 4/ 19 Abundance Rd Medowie 2318
(02)4981 8206
There's a guy in Medowie (North of Newcastle) his about the only guy up here that I would trust with my soarer. Most of the time I can supply him parts as well.

As for Parts Brad Street Parts at Kotara are pretty easy to deal with sometimes (but Personally found James at Castle Hill Toyota alot easier and quicker with his work).

And Autobarn at Maitland are also good to deal with for the aftermarket parts. For both V8 and 1J soarers (plus a guy off here works for them)
 

Friday, January 27, 2006 - 10:21 am, by:  Mark Northcott (My91gt)

iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Mark Stewart Smash Repairs,
376 Pittwater Rd North Manly
NSW 2100 - 9907-1000
Extremely good buy may be too expensive for some. You get what you pay for. Friday, January 27, 2006 - 10:44 am, by:  Benny Gammelmark (Oldfield)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Audio/ICE
Metrosound
, 79 Whiting St Artarmon
NSW 2064 - 9436 1995
Friday, January 27, 2006 - 10:44 am, by:  Benny Gammelmark (Oldfield
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Unichip Installers
Australia and NZ

Friday, January 27, 2006 - 10:44 am, by:  Benny Gammelmark (Oldfield
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Precision Installations
996 King Georges Rd,
Blakehurst NSW 2221

9547 2233
The guys at Precision Installations in Blakehurst. Did a great job of fitting my deck to the factory amplifiers so that all my speakers and subwoofer are still operatable, a job that a lot of other places didn't want to do. A little on the pricey side but they did a good job, and it's amazing what can be pushed through the stock speakers. Friday, January 27, 2006 - 11:01 am, by:  Jose-Antonio Castillo (Ahh_soarer)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Online Performance
Unit 4/25-27 Whyalla Place, Hoxton Park, NSW
02 9826 6602
www.onlineperformance.com.au
A quick plug for Online Performance. Been taking my cars there for many years. Great people to deal with.


Friday, January 27, 2006 - 04:53 pm, by:  Brad Elphinstone (Belphins)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Suspension and wheel alignment
Pedders
8 Hornsby St Hornsby NSW 2077
ph: (02) 9477 6310

Helped me out where Jax failed. They will also do wheel alignments to spec.
Saturday, January 28, 2006 - 02:58 pm, by:  Benny Gammelmark (Oldfield)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Exhaust
Quick Fit Hornsby
2/27 King Rd Hornsby NSW 2077
www.quickfitmotorsport.com.au
Ask for Don
These guys did my exhaust and the BFI (this was before I wanted to get my hands dirty). Saturday, January 28, 2006 - 02:58 pm, by:  Benny Gammelmark (Oldfield)
iconNeu_16x16.gif (136 bytes) Tyres:
JAX in Thornleigh
Very well priced but you should check their work yourself - they don't. I got a new set of wheel nuts from them and they were too long.
I got tyres from them at the same time so I didn't notice before I started driving (knocking from suspension when turning). Long story but fixed now.
Saturday, January 28, 2006 - 02:58 pm, by:  Benny Gammelmark (Oldfield)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Car electronics (Alarms, etc.)
James Trikalis
Vehicle Electronics
(2) 9702-7400
This is a great bloke and very reasonably priced. Monday, January 30, 2006 - 10:51 am, by:  Benny Gammelmark (Oldfield)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Precision Installations
996 King Georges Rd,
Blakehurst NSW 2221

9547 2233
The guys at Precision Installations in Blakehurst. Did a great job of fitting my deck to the factory amplifiers so that all my speakers and subwoofer are still operatable, a job that a lot of other places didn't want to do. A little on the pricey side but they did a good job, and it's amazing what can be pushed through the stock speakers.
ACT
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) John at Trojan Motorsports in Mitchell. Phone: 02 6242 6277 there is a good Soarer workshop in Canberra... John at Trojan Motorsports in Mitchell. Phone: 02 6242 6277 Good blokes too. Thursday, January 26, 2006 - 12:37 pm, by:  Sam Schreck (Schreck300)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Neil Griffiths

5 Silvia Ave Queanbeyan NSW 2620Rush Imports
(02) 6284 3111

Yes, Neil is our saviour and the only one for me.

Neil Griffiths (NSW) at Rushimports/Queanbeyan Autotech for all Soarer mechanical repairs. The guy is a the guru when it comes to mechanicals and more for these cars.

As for neil he's the guru for most mods & lighting + a little mechanic work.Ideal for the southern NSW soarer's.

Thursday, January 26, 2006 - 12:37 pm, by:  Sam Schreck (Schreck300)
  Ollie Ernst (Oli_g)
 Jeff Smith (Mozzie)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes)
Mark has passed away
Mark Paddick (ACT) for most/all Soarer electronic item repairs like EMVs, CD Stackers, Blinky dash, etc. Also for LED upgrades to most Soarer lighting such as boot lights, dash buttons, glovebox, interior light etc. Thursday, January 26, 2006 - 03:57 pm, by:  Ollie Ernst (Oli_g)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Autotech Services
11 Collie St, Fyshwick, ACT
02 6280 5061
Specialist for Unichip installation and dyno tuning
Very experienced mechanic. Good work.
David Vaughan
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Powatone Exhaust
5 Collie St, Fyshwick, ACT
02 6280 5570
www.powatone.com.au
Specialist for exhaust work.
Knows his stuff, listens to what you want and makes good proposals.  
Very happy with the result.
David Vaughan
iconNeg_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Pedders
5 Salamander Court, Phillip, ACT
02 6281 0011
Not interested in factory specs for the Soarer and did little to back  
up with reasons the suspension alignment settings they chose.  

After the alignment, the car handled badly, squealed front tyres in low speed corners and wandered on the road. Avoid this place.

David Vaughan
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Revell Steering
11 Isa St Fyshwick,
ACT Ph. 02 6280 5610
Ian Moon listens to what you want from the car and will set it up accurately to match. Highly recommended. David Vaughan
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Canberra Toyota Belconnen PH: 6222 1700 Daniel McCall in spare parts has agreed to offer all Toyota parts at trade prices for members. However you must have the part number on hand when placing your order. Thursday, April 20, 2006 - 05:03 pm, by:  Sam Schreck (Schreck300)
Victoria
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes)
Sports & Luxury Cars
Ferntree Gully (Near the Maccas)

10 Hayward Rd,
Ferntree Gully, 3156
www.crossover-car.com.au

ph03) 9753 5799
Check out ALSC's sponsor 'Sports & Luxury Cars'.

They're located in Ferntree Gully (Near the Maccas) and are the Soarer specialists in Melbourne.
ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Good mechanic in Melb
Morgan Cross
Daniel Lee

Ian Wood
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Rhodes Smash Repairs in Ferntree Gully.

41 Forest Road
Ferntree Gully
Ph: 9758 2081
Ask for Kim (Owner) and let him know that you are an ALSC member and that you were referred by Rob Hayden. Daniel Lee wrote on Friday, September 23, 2005 - 02:21 pm:
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Dynamic Car Alarms
Trevor J. Harold
640 Mountain HWy,
Bayswater Vic, 3153
PH: 9738 1616
Mobile: 0402 102 105

Steven Taun
Email:
modulerepair@alphalink.com.au
Tel: 9879 3400
Steven been working on all soarer electronics for the last 3 years from fitting the autowatch immobilers to fixing dashboards/changing leds/cruise control mod, so for all you in melbourne who dont have access to repair or modify any electronic's let Steve know.

Steve can also changing all the led's in Soarers to the white leds on the whole EMV and AC controls.

He can also modified the door locking to unlock both doors when ignition is turned off as well as change backlighting to blue on the dashboard + fixing blinky dash too.
Monday, January 30, 2006 - 12:51 pm, by:  Daniel Lee (Son_gokou)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Tyrepower in blackburn  
Mike is the owner and operator and the prices for tyres are second to nowhere in the eastern 
suburbs. They were very helpful and knowledgeable. Would highly recomend 
them for alignments, balancing, fitting and anything wheel related.
Ollie stoney
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) B&N Automotive Air conditioning (70 Railway Rd Blackburn ph: 9878 2918) I was doing an oil change on my car earlier this week and was dismayed to see one of the low pressure aircon pipes covered in green dyed oil and a very slow bubbling coming from the fitting.
Thanks to this thread I was able to take the car to B&N Automotive Air conditioning (70 Railway Rd Blackburn ph: 9878 2918) and they fixed the leak, checked the rest of the system and cleaned and regassed it with ER12 (same as HR12).
Very relieved! Nice guys, good service and used to dealing with Soarers.
Friday, March 31, 2006 - 04:12 pm, by:  Michael Bagshaw (Bajor1)
Queensland
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Lew Radbourn
0425 74 94 36
i can and do all servicing as well as Modifications to the TT and V8's
mostly the TT's
mate call me 
Wednesday, August 24, 2005 - 01:19 pm, by:  Jeff Hogan
iconNeg_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Superior My car was always serviced at superior by the previous owner. A flick back through the bills show that they are NOT cheap and also the did a massive dodgey on him in regards to a fault the car had at the time. Thursday, August 25, 2005 - 12:53 pm, by:  Perry Morgan
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Superior Automotive at Albion Superior Automotive at Albion 07 3262 3233

I have been using them for 6 years with no probs. The do heeps of Soarers (Last time i picked up my car from a service there were 8 of them parked outside.)
ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Brisbanites Mechanics
Adam Lynch (Urabus) ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Brisbanites Mechanics
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Tuff Toys A good place to go would also be Tuff Toys at love st in bulimba. When you ring, ask for Wayne. The have had LOTS of experience with soarer being that they are importers and servicers of imported cars.
They also have an on-board diagnostics tool that will read all of your cars ailments and settings in the blink of an eye. I would highly recommend anyone to have their car serviced by him.
Thursday, August 25, 2005 - 12:53 pm, by:  Perry Morgan
iconNeg_16x16.gif (131 bytes) The Chequered Flag

Sterling Auto Electrics

Well, if anyone is interested, I have another mechanic and auto-electrician to add to the dodgy list. Avoid The Chequered Flag and Sterling auto electrics at Albion.

I just got my Soarer back from them (they are my warranty companies designated mechanic) and besides taking two weeks to replace the cam sensors, I got the car back missing a number of bolts for the top engine covers, the guard in the boot for the fuel system still removed (with my water bottle in the back bouncing around next to my fuel tank, yay) and the wierdest thing, now my tape player doesn't work.

Heh, and of course the best part, I took the car there because its supposed to be under warranty, but I had to pay the mechanic cash because apparently my 1 year warranty is already up (after 3 months ).

Nothing like just paying $600 bucks, getting your car back, driving it home then finding out the unprofessional state it was left in

Live and learn I guess, at least my Soarer is back on the road again
Saturday, August 27, 2005 - 12:28 pm, by:  Tim Pike (Keydecoder)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Brisbane Tuning and Turbo' at the Gabba I take my TT to 'Brisbane Tuning and Turbo' at the Gabba. They're a bit expensive, but they do the job. I am not sure about the V8 version though as this guy is a turbo guru. But they've worked on a few Soarers there. They do all mechanical work too, not just tuning.ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Brisbanites Mechanics Jeremie Chuvan (Jez) ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Brisbanites Mechanics
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Geoff at sebring discount mufflers Try Geoff at sebring discount mufflers, hes done a fair bit of work for me and my mates, mainly performance upgrades but he surely can service your car and have a look at any noises etc. Hes located at cronulla avenue of gold coast highway next to bobjane and mermaid suspension.ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Good soarer mechanic on the Gold Coast Brett Harrison ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Good soarer mechanic on the Gold Coast
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Yuji Kimura (Kimura Motors) ph 5537 6827 at 211 Brisbane Road Labrador Yuji Kimura (Kimura Motors) ph 5537 6827 at 211 Brisbane Road Labrador that apparently knows Soarers inside out has the Jap workshop manuals no need for translation (how goods that!)
Worth looking at check him out
ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Good soarer mechanic on the Gold Coast
Andrew Vlamos ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Good soarer mechanic on the Gold Coast
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) AUDIO / ICE

*BRISBANE*

Wow Sight and Sound in Annerly,
Speak to Nick upstairs or Dwain in the installers workshop in the underground carpark.

These guys do great jobs and awesome prices
James Harris wrote on Saturday, September 24, 2005 - 05:48 pm:
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) MSI 7/179 Siganto Drive Oxenford is the place for servicing and general repairs in the Gold Coast area. They have loads of experience with soarers and they also have a racing division.
Can't beat their prices either. Phone:5561 8400.
Saturday, February 25, 2006 - 02:00 pm, by:  Mike Bradberry (Halflife)
South Australia
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Adelaide Turbo Service at Marion Bill at Adelaide Turbo Service at Marion looks after my TT and does a great job. However he prefers to work on turbo vehicles. Sunday, September 18, 2005 - 11:52 pm, by:  Daniel Burns (Danny)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Mark at Ultra tune in
Waymouth St near West Tce
Clayton, I use Mark at Ultra tune in Waymouth St near West Tce. He is a bit of a Toyota fan and he really DOES know his stuff ...and I will vouch for his honesty! Tuesday, September 20, 2005 - 10:18 am, by:  Ken Bruns (Uncle_ken)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Brenton from Fours and More in Pooraka. I contacted Japanese Motorsport and they got me onto brenton from Fours and More in Pooraka...I only had one thing done on the car (alternator). They did a good job, but as i have not done any work to my car as yet, so still not heaps sure how they work. My mate had his Supra there and they did a good job on his car. Tuesday, September 20, 2005 - 10:26 am, by:  Kris Antczak (Lexus_v8)
iconNeg_16x16.gif (131 bytes) CMI Toyota CMI Toyota charged me $1500+ for a simple water pump replacement (12.5 hrs labour for their most experienced mechanic) - absolute joke! Then they compounded it by busting the fan hub during the water pump replacemnt and would not admit liability and so I had to shell out another $500 in order to fix that - WANKERS!ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Adelaide Soarer Servicing Shaun Luckhurst
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Frank Bria Motors just off Hampstead road Frank Bria Motors just off Hampstead road. Honest work at honest prices, they are not Soarer specialists but they always look after my car and I have had no dramas at all. Also,they did my 100k service including replacing the water pump, all seals, etc. for around $750! Other than that, you could try PVP Imports which is on Hampstead road. They specialise in Jap Imports and Rob is very experienced and excellent to deal with. ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Adelaide Soarer Servicing Thomas Mulraney
iconNeg_16x16.gif (131 bytes) PVP Imports Id give PVP Imports a miss. Gary Morriss
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Morpowa auto & dyno centre.
Mark or Steve Podlewski
14 Famechon Crescent, Modbury North
82642077
Try Morpowa auto & dyno centre.
Mark or Steve Podlewski
14 Famechon Crescent, Modbury North
82642077
ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Adelaide Soarer Servicing
Gary Morriss
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Manta Racing
Deacon Ave Richmond
Manta Racing this weds, for all front suspension bushes and steering rack bushes, they always use Beaurepaires, Richmond.
318 south rd
83540411

they use these guys for there race car
ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Adelaide Soarer Servicing
Gary Morriss
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Pedders at Richmond Pedders at Richmond have been good for me. $88 for all 4 wheels, and the main guy that does it (if he is still there) is into performance and track cars.ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Adelaide Soarer Servicing Peter Nitschke
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Adelaide Exclusive Mechanical on Magill Rd Adelaide Exclusive Mechanical on Magill Rd are excellent. Serge is the head honcho there, used to be the number one mechanic for Adelaide Motors (BMW dealers, so you know he was busy). He's not up to speed on SC400's, but he soon will be as I will be taking mine there. He is the best mechanic I've ever used and does not charge like a wounded bull. Interestingly he has a friend who imports SC400's so has a knowledge base to draw from.

Once he gets to know you he'll even give you a loan car while he works on yours. Normally a Beemer or a Merc!!
ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Adelaide Soarer Servicing
Brenton Trafford
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) MV Automatics in blackwood MV Automatics in blackwoodALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Adelaide Soarer Servicing Adam Foster
iconNeg_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Exhaust Technologies on Goodwood Road Thumbs down for Exhaust Technologies on Goodwood Road, got car back with mufflers at different angles, and a new muffler spewing it's insulation out. Had to seriously hassle to get anything done about it, not good, especially considering what they charged the insurance company for the work.
The faulty muffler was supposed to be replaced, but I have my doubts as it is a bit louder than the other one.
Saturday, January 28, 2006 - 06:34 am, by:  Peter Nitschke (Pen)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) CMI Toyota
152 West Terrace Adelaide SA 5000
Phone: (08) 8238 5555
Fax: (08) 8211 7563
CMI Toyota have formally agreed to match or beat the price on Soarer 
parts
on a written quote from any other Toyota parts dealer. 

You must identify yourself as a member of Soarer Central. 

Contact either Mark Aldridge or Sean Webb. 
Saturday, January 28, 2006 - 06:34 am, by:  Peter Nitschke (Pen)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Salisbury Toyota have also been doing good prices for members, not sure if that policy will change with the new owners. - must mention you are a member of ALSC to get discount Saturday, January 28, 2006 - 06:34 am, by:  Peter Nitschke (Pen
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) AAA Exhausts in Richmond Big plus for AAA Exhausts in Richmond. Did my exhaust and was very pleased with the quality of workmanship. Saturday, January 28, 2006 - 11:21 am, by:  Clayton Webb (Clackers)
iconNeg_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Mag Wheel and Tyre Centre Prospect Told me my car had been in accident, bushes were fine, couldn't do wheel alignment until the subframe had been re-aligned in crash repair shop. In fact it was only the bushes completely stuffed. Peter Scott
iconNeg_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Bob Jane, Pultney st Adelaide They left the lower control arm bolt loose after a wheel alignment. Told me the alignment wasn't coming up to spec and the car was pulling and nothing they could do. Car also was making clunking noise. Took it back next day and asked them to check everything again and that if felt as is something was loose. They had it all day, told me nothing was wrong, nothing was loose. I got home and found loose lower control arm bolt, tightened it up in disgust. Next day they did wheel alignment again and it was fine, except the wheel was no longer straight ahead. No apology. Went back next day to get steering wheel made straight ahead - no change. Peter Scott
iconNeg_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Complete car care, Marion Rd Just thought I would report my experience I had with the dodgy tossers down at Adelaide Complete Car Care on Marion Rd.
I took my car there to have the heater core replaced and for the 100K service, I spoke to Peter who is the owner (Italian guy with chest hair everywhere). When I got the car back he said he had done the heater core but if I wanted the timing belt done I would have to supply it because he can’t find one anywhere. I took the car away and all is fine until I get the car home, turn it off and the turbo timer doesn’t kick in. I look down to where the timer used to be and its just not there. Took the car back and said dude WTF, but before I gave the car back to him I reset my Apexi RSM which records how fast the car has gone, what revs it gets up to and things like that. I go back the next day and find the turbo timer has been put back in place but is not working with no power going to it. I checked the history of the RSM to find someone has taken it out for a joyride and gotten the car up to 83km/h and reved it out to 8500rpm. I asked the guy "Why did someone take it out for a ride if it was only having a turbo timer put back in and who was thrashing the balls off it"?!? The guy said to me "I don’t care what your computer says no one has taken this out for a ride, I don’t have people like that working here and why would I want to take it for a drive, we get better cars than that in here" then he said "And as for your turbo timer were not going to have it fixed because it wasn’t working when you brought it in". This whole thing is BULL, I am 100% certain that the timer was working when I gave it to him and now to boot I have just found out my aircon isn’t working and again I know it was working when I gave it in to him.
Wednesday, March 22, 2006 - 07:43 pm, by:  Tom Burgan (Burg)
iconNeg_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Toyota I took the car to Toyota to have it checked out (Big mistake, as they started with the most expensive repairs and used process of elimination, I had a few harsh words and they they stopped trying to screw me financially). Initially they informed me that it was running on 6 cylinders as 2 of the injectors were kept open. They believed the injectors were in need of a service and assured me that a good service SHOULD resolve the problem. Well, I had my doubts, as it was weird that two of the injectors would have gone cactus at the one time, and I assumed it would have been the ECU that was faulty.

Anyway, I took their word for it (Big Mistake # 2) and had the injectors serviced. When they put them back in, the problem did not go away, and THEN they said to me that it was the ECU... well, F***!!!!!

A new ECU from Japan was quoted to be $2,000, and I nearly fell off my chair. I asked if it can be repaired, and "supposedly" no one in Adelaide repairs them.
 

 

Wednesday, March 29, 2006 - 12:00 pm, by:  Kris Antczak (Lexus_v8)

iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Grove Auto and

Automotive Service Solutions

I contacted another well trusted Mechanic from Grove Auto) and he informed me of 2 workshops in Adelaide that do repair the ECU's. After many phone calls and a lot of running around, I had the ECU repaired at Automotive Service Solutions (they only deal with Trade, not general public).
They informed me that there was a damaged (not sure if burnt out) Injector driver or something (maybe a capacitor) that needed replacing and a couple of other little faults.

Once I got the ECU back (only took them 1 day to do), I went back to Toyota to refit. I collected the car this morning and it drove like it used to (but we'll see over time as knowing my luck it will break down).

There was a lot of White smoke from the exhaust initially due to the unburnt fuel in the cat-converter, which was disappearing over time.

At this stage, the problem seems to have been resolved all due to the ECU having a fault.

I thought this may be of some use to others in identifying some of their car issues.
Soarer Central V8 Running Very Rough - Update
Wednesday, March 29, 2006 - 12:00 pm, by:  Kris Antczak (Lexus_v8)
someiconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) and some iconNeg_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Various places including CMI Toyota.  

Hi Peter!

Just chasing up some tyre advice and happened upon the Mechanic Guide and thought I'd contribute.

Just happens that my car's in CMI Eastside having gotten a couple of things re-fixed from the previous service - $450 refurbished water pump was no good, so for another $50 I get a new unit. Also after the last service I had the 'engine electronics' warning after a cold start until warm. That had them stumped for a day until I reminded them it may be simply a plug disturbed by the previous water pump service (as it went in for that service without such a fault) and they now report it was a 'left-over computer setting' they'd forgotten to reset. When I pick it up today it all better work OK.

So, my service centre and mechanic opinions -

CMI in general - can be expensive for parts needed during service, but haggling works when buying parts separately (sometimes matched Castle Hill prices). No apparent Soarer expertise at any CMI - always underestimate time and parts required. Rarely a quick, simple, cheap service, but once fixed, usually stays fixed.

CMI Westside - impersonal with little parking even to drop-off the car.

CMI Eastside - more pleasant staff, full explanation of service and easy parking, but usually a delay/problem. Slightly misaligned replacement cambelt - misfired all the way home, returned for fix. Small spring from steering pump/rack valve pinged off under bench and lost, with overnight delay. A refurbished steering pump faulty - replaced by new.

Exhaust Technologies - replaced entire V8 exhaust system including (handmade) headers, cats and quality stainless mufflers for $1800. All nicely aligned - Peter N must have gotten an apprentice :)

Pedders (Keswick) - found and quickly fixed a knock/rattle that other service centres couldn't even locate - sway bar clamps. Also fitted Andrew Vlamos's bushes for me without any fuss/expense.

Highgate AutoCool (Gilbert St) - replaced Air-Con compressor. No hassle and reasonable price.

GaugeWorks (Port Rd) Repaired speedo display unit - replaced all capacitors, etc. in 4 hours.

Hope that's useful, Pete.

Replaced my driver's window regulator the other day - went surprisingly well considering things were tighter, rusted and more concealed than the web-page instructions made out.

We're probably both wondering why I keep going to CMI ... ? I guess because it's easy parking and handy for me, and they now know me while learning all about Soarers at my expense! I also figured they could pop next door to the 4WD workshop if they needed Toyota V8 problems sorted. Reading the Adelaide list though, I'm tempted to try another place next time.

Bye,

Pete

(pwk1@adam.com.au) Peter Kerwin Adelaide, South Australia

May 2007
Western Australia
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Precise Suspensions and Automotive in Wangarra, Ive been using Precise Suspensions and Automotive in Wangarra, he seems to do a good job. They do a lot of soarers down there.ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Anyone know a good mechanic in Perth Cliff Newton ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Anyone know a good mechanic in Perth
iconNeg_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Precise Suspensions and Automotive in Wangarra, i dont think Precise Suspensions in WA deserves to be on that list - F**ked me around for 3 months just to get some headers made up and then he wanted about $200 more than he quoted me in the first place!

Its not just my experience there are a number of other people here who wont go back to them mostly for similar reasons so i say avoid!
Friday, April 21, 2006 - 02:02 am, by:  Phil Gibson (Sciflyer)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Precision Auto Care
Augusta street
Willetton
Ph 9259 1988
I take mine to Precision Auto Care
They do a lot of work on Soarer's Merc's Porche's
They seem to be very good
They are in Augusta street
Willetton
Ph 9259 1988
Speak to Warren
Across the road from Extreme Machines
Gary Nimmo ALSC International Forum - ARCHIVE Anyone know a good mechanic in Perth
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Phil's Mechanical Service
Unit 3 / 101 Maddington Rd Maddington 6109
(08) 9493 3069
Email
philmech@iinet.net.au
Thursday, January 26, 2006 - 11:42 am, by:  Justin McLernon (Zz32)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) WA.
Servicing NOR:
Precise Suspensions and Automotive
Unit 2-11 Dellamarta Road
Wangara
94091226
 


Paul Brockbank wrote on Thursday, September 29, 2005 - 02:06 pm:
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Performance/Servicing SOR:
X-Speed
18 Zeta Crescent
O'Connor
93373288
Paul Brockbank wrote on Thursday, September 29, 2005 - 02:06 pm:
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Audio/ICE:
Alberts Car Audio
North Lake Road
Myaree
93174599
Paul Brockbank wrote on Thursday, September 29, 2005 - 02:06 pm:
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Lexus of Perth

Ask for Gavin who is the service manager or Chris the Senior Technician. They are Soarer friendly and even sponsor a Soarer drag racer. Not inexpensive (serious understatement) but worth considering for jobs like V8 Shims and Buckets where having the tools, parts and experience makes a big difference. For the extra freight you get a loan car, usually an IS200 and exactly what you ask for with friendly and knowledgeable people. They do an excellent job but I would also consider Phil's mechanical and some of the other recommended workshops for less specialised work without the requirement for oxygen when sighting the bill. Sunday, April 30, 2006 - 02:57 pm, by:  Roger Costello (Roger)
iconPos_16x16.gif (131 bytes) Joe Batarseh (Automotive Mobile Master)

0408 935 700
mobile_master1@hotmail.com

Joe has done all my work to date;
Replaced transmission
Rebuilt power steering*
Repaired radiator top tank*
Servicing
Rebuilt aircon compressor*
Replaced aircon condensor
Installed shift kit

(Items with a * were jobs where he outsourced the actual part repair to other people)

In my opinion i cant hope for more from this guy; he works to a very high standard, knows Soarers inside and out, great guy to deal with and his prices are very competitive (at least i havent found better for the level of service he provides).
Whenever i require parts for repair jobs he always manages to find cost effective bits and pieces at very respectable prices.


He is mobile as well, ie he will come to you (within reason)
 

 

Monday, May 01, 2006 - 10:17 pm, by:  Callum Finch (Sigeneat)

 

 

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