Convertible clamps, interesting conversation

I have had people try to charge me more since it was a Ferrari. For example, after I reached a deal to buy a like new car trailer, the seller wanted $500 to $1,000 more since I would be hauling a Ferrari along with other vehicles. I walked away from the deal and found another one.


The Mondial t cab does not leak water. The previous owner had put in new rubber seals and the clamping pressure was high. I considered backing off the pressure to see what would happen, but did not get around to it.

I was in a hurry and mad at a woman. Broke the clamp on the driver's side. It was the long U part.
OK, I am not perfect.

The part from Ferrari is $400. Since I am paying off my ex-wife (will be completely clear from her within 90 days), I did not want to pay this much. It is a complicated clamp and a Ferrari part, so it probably is worth $400.

Was talking to a friend, and he suggested trying a machine shop.

They could not do it, but suggested two other shops. The one with the best recommendation is a 1 person shop behind his home, but he is a car lover and has been doing it for 30 years. Was inpressed with his shop. It is his passion.

Our conversation a few hours ago went something like this:

Me: Can you fix it or machine a replacement for the broken part?

Bill: Due to the metal they used, it cannot be welded (what other machine shop said). I can machine a new part out of a block of steel. However, I cannot do it for less than $40. If you want me to reassemble the clamp (which I do), it could be slightly more. It could go as high as $60, but not over $60. Somewhere between $40 and $60. When do you want it?

Me: Of course, as soon as possible. However, I want a good job rather than a rushed job. When can you have it?

Bill: Thursday afternoon, around 2 PM.

Me: Deal.

 

Top clamp is the Ferrari part - new one costs around $400.

The part that broke is made of pot iron which is not very strong and is almost impossible to repair.

The new machined piece is made of a good grade of steel and the total cost of repairs was $50. I will paint it black like the rest. Repaired part works great!