advice on major | FerrariChat
Buy

advice on major

Discussion in 'Technical Q&A' started by davewapinski, Jun 10, 2004.

This site may earn a commission from merchant affiliate links, including eBay, Amazon, Skimlinks, and others.

  1. davewapinski

    davewapinski Formula Junior

    Nov 24, 2003
    276
    #1 davewapinski, Jun 10, 2004
    I am planning on getting a major service done on the ’89 Mondial t cab in the fall when the leaves are down and winter has not hit yet. There are no known issues, but it will have about 50,000 miles by then. I am a firm believer in preventive maintenance. What are reasonable prices for a major service for this vehicle?

    Parts: sometimes shops charge a reasonable markup, but it seems that many shops now mark up parts 2 to 4 times. Therefore, I was thinking of supplying my own parts. So this needs to be acceptable to the shop. What parts should be changed during the major?

    Areas: as a consultant I travel very much. I am willing to go extra (even very long) distances for a good shop with reasonable prices. Salt Lake City and Las Vegas are easy for me. In addition, I might be back on the East Coast, in Texas, or in Scottsdale/Phoenix. CA is a distant possibility.

    Dealers: very mixed emotions in this area. I have had both good and bad experiences with dealers. A Ferrari is such a unique vehicle that a dealer might be best especially since their computer interface is unique. However, my experience with the Dodge Dealer in SLC explains my reluctance. When I worked at the top secret labs at Dugway Proving Grounds, I had a Dodge van along with other vehicles. I drove the 2 hours each way to the Dodge Dealer for a tune up, change the oils in the axles, and other preventive maintenance. Afterward I noticed oil on the driveway of the home in Dugway and it was coming from the rear axle. So I got another gasket (noticed that the dealer had charged me 4 times this cost for a similar gasket), sealant, and extra oil. Put it on the lift at the auto hobby shop. Surprise – there was no gasket; the dealer had put just a little sealant there, but charged me time and materials for putting a gasket on. Never been back to that dealer again. Sold that van when it had 300,000 miles on it – second engine, but original transmission. The second engine was a used one from a junk yard in Hawaii – US Government paid for shipping the van to and from Hawaii. So very mixed emotions about dealers, but will not rule out a very good one.

    Independent shops: have had best experiences with shops that people have recommended. However, Ferraris are such rare vehicles and the computer interface is unique, so not for sure if this is a valid option.

    Doing it myself: I am more intellectual than mechanical. However, I am a fast learner and an exacting worker, so things normally turn out well. My main company is in the process of buying an aircraft hanger in Las Vegas, NV or on the coast in Florence, OR (have interests in both places). So there would be space for a lift. Is doing it oneself practical?

    What are your recommendations?
    You can either post them or email them to me.

    Thanks in advance!
     
  2. ernie

    ernie Two Time F1 World Champ
    Lifetime Rossa Owner

    Nov 19, 2001
    22,620
    The Brickyard
    Full Name:
    The Bad Guy
    #2 ernie, Jun 10, 2004
    Hey Dave

    I say do it yourself. I did the engine out major on my 348. It wasn't that hard. You will run into little things that will get you agrivated, but over all it's no big deal. If you have access to a lift it will make the job of taking the engine out easier. Taking the engine out and putting it back in is the biggest job. Once you have the engine out it is pretty easy to work on it. All you need are tools, patience, and some guidance. You will learn a tremendous amount by doing the work yourself, not to mention save thousands of dollars. You can get the parts you need from these guys http://www.eurospares.co.uk

    If you decide to have someone do it, go with a good independant. You should expect to pay $3,500 to $4,000 at the most. Anything above that and they are over charging you. The majority of that cost is labor.

    In the end I still say do it yourself.
     
  3. sparta49

    sparta49 F1 Veteran
    Owner

    Mar 3, 2001
    7,804
    LA
    Full Name:
    Frank
    #3 sparta49, Jun 10, 2004
    5K to 7K depending on what extra they find like water pump , clutch, etc.
     
  4. evansp60

    evansp60 Formula Junior

    Nov 2, 2003
    384
    Ottawa, Ont. CANADA
    #4 evansp60, Jun 10, 2004
  5. f355spider

    f355spider F1 World Champ
    Owner Rossa Subscribed

    May 29, 2001
    18,055
    USA
    #5 f355spider, Jun 10, 2004
    DIY? Don't know your experience, but I know I'm good for fluid changes, parts swapping and an occaisional oil pan gasket. I've seen what it takes to remove a 348 motor...way beyond my capabilities (what did Clint Eastwood say? "A man has got to know his limitations...)

    The "computer interface" is largely a mute point; if you have no problems, then there is no need to plug in and check for codes...go to a mechanic with good reviews, and you feel comfortable with. Supplying own parts? Very touchy issue, and probably not the way to build a relationship with a mechanic. I would advise against it. Do discuss parts costs/prices with your mechanic, and certainly ask if this is acceptable to supply them yourself, but I would NOT make that a criteria for selection. The competence and experience is worth way more than trying to save a few hundred bucks. Figure $6 to $7k for a major, with a few "incidentals"...water pump, maybe a clutch. I really wouldn't sweat this so much. Get over it, get it done, drive car.... :)
     
  6. Husker

    Husker F1 World Champ

    Dec 31, 2003
    11,792
    western hemisphere
    #6 Husker, Jun 10, 2004
    I use Shade Tree Enginetrics in Nevada, Texas. Robert Rogers is a top-notch F-car mechanic who's labor rate is in the $70 per hour range. He has Ferraris come in from literally across the country and he doesn't waste time. He will fix thing that you didn't even know were broken. Don't let his location fool you - this guy is for real.

    Of course, Norwood of Dallas also has an outstanding reputation.

    If you are opting for California, I would recommend Modern Auto Techology in Pasadena. Higher than Shade Tree, about the same as Norwood.

    Good luck.
     
  7. wmnewland

    wmnewland Karting

    Aug 3, 2001
    77
    Manhattan Beach, Cal
    Full Name:
    Newland, William
    #7 wmnewland, Jun 12, 2004
    Only one guy touches my car and that is Eugenio at Eugenio's Ferrari in Los Angeles, (actually he is located in a ciy about 20 miles east of LA). His prices are the best but most important is he stands behind his work and you can trust him.

    I got pictures of the work he did every day (by e-mail). He only works on one car at a time so unlike most other shops that will get you started and then park your car in the corner for 3 weeks, Eugenio is fairly fast. His knowledge is and attention to detail are unbeatable.

    The only problem is he won't work for just anybody and you must wait until he has a slot in his schedule. But you would be doing yourself a favor.
     
  8. ernie

    ernie Two Time F1 World Champ
    Lifetime Rossa Owner

    Nov 19, 2001
    22,620
    The Brickyard
    Full Name:
    The Bad Guy
    #8 ernie, Jun 13, 2004
    If you are gonna take it to a mechanic, I second Eugenio. He is very knowledgable, friendly, and his prices are honest. He charges you what you should be charged and not for the "name". Well worth the waite.
     
  9. davewapinski

    davewapinski Formula Junior

    Nov 24, 2003
    276
    #9 davewapinski, Jun 14, 2004
    Steve Harris has been fair to me - so he is on the short list.

    Their quote for a basic major is $5,500 for a Mondial t.

    Doing it myself will also probably be on the short list.
    I could learn much about Ferraris this way.
    Some disadvantanges are having enough time and do I have the necessary skills (or can easily get them).

    I have the Owner's Manual (believe they call it a Technical Manual).

    I always like to have the Shop Manuals for the vehicles that I am interested in. So I will be getting them either way.

    If I decide to do it myself, what resources are available in people, Internet, and publications?
     
  10. davewapinski

    davewapinski Formula Junior

    Nov 24, 2003
    276
    #10 davewapinski, Jun 14, 2004
    East of LA?

    There is Riverside I believe it is called. Then one climbs up to the High Desert and Victorville plus Barstow.

    Where is this person?
     
  11. 308GTS

    308GTS Formula 3

    Dec 27, 2001
    2,223
    TN
    #11 308GTS, Jun 14, 2004
    The dealer is not an option in my opinion. Have you read some of the horror stories from dealer work? The name on the sign seems to be justification enough for people to pay the dealers crazy prices.
    I second DIY. If not then find a good indie. I am not a huge fan of some of the dealerships handy work. Very substandard in my opinion. YMMV.
     
  12. Ricambi America

    Ricambi America F1 World Champ
    Sponsor Owner

    Dec 7, 2003
    16,476
    Winston Salem, NC
    #12 Ricambi America, Jun 14, 2004
  13. JSL

    JSL Formula 3

    Jan 5, 2002
    2,212
    California
    Full Name:
    J.S. Leonard
    #13 JSL, Jun 14, 2004
    I echo William! Eugenio is my choice. I drive 250 miles each way just to have him work on my cars. He has done two majors for me. One on my 89 328 and one on my 92 348. Honest, is not a strong enough term to describe him. He is truly worth traveling for. Feel free to call me if you want additional information. I can be reached at 559.288.6701. That is how strongly I feel about Eugenio.
     
  14. JSL

    JSL Formula 3

    Jan 5, 2002
    2,212
    California
    Full Name:
    J.S. Leonard
    #14 JSL, Jun 14, 2004
    Eugenio is in Glendora.
     
  15. davewapinski

    davewapinski Formula Junior

    Nov 24, 2003
    276
    #15 davewapinski, Jun 15, 2004
    Strongest recommendations I have ever seen for a guarage.

    Eugenio will also be on the short list.

    Unlike most people, I am willing to go great distances for superior service.

    Thanks for the information.

    If there are any other recommendations/suggestions, please post them.

    Have driving fun today!
     
  16. davewapinski

    davewapinski Formula Junior

    Nov 24, 2003
    276
    #16 davewapinski, Jun 15, 2004
    Could not find any Eugenio's Ferrari Service in CA.

    Do you have a phone number or other contact info?

    Thanks!
     
  17. Mike C

    Mike C F1 Veteran
    Lifetime Rossa Owner

    Aug 3, 2002
    6,081
    Southeast USA
    Full Name:
    Mike Charness
    #17 Mike C, Jun 15, 2004
    One of the messages above has his website link!!

    http://emelbon.tripod.com/eugeniosferrariservice.html

    and that website has his phone number (626) 484-7933
     
  18. davewapinski

    davewapinski Formula Junior

    Nov 24, 2003
    276
    #18 davewapinski, Jun 15, 2004
    Thanks.

    Did not see his phone number on the website. Like his website.

    Yellowpages.com did not have a listing.

    Yahoo white and yellow pages did not have his listing. There were 4 people with his last name in the town, but did not want to distrub them if they were the wrong person.

    Have a great day!
     
  19. f355spider

    f355spider F1 World Champ
    Owner Rossa Subscribed

    May 29, 2001
    18,055
    USA
    #19 f355spider, Jun 15, 2004
    He advertises in Forza magazine, in the back pages....626.484.7933

    I too, have heard very good things about him, but be prepared for a long wait to get in.
     
  20. JSL

    JSL Formula 3

    Jan 5, 2002
    2,212
    California
    Full Name:
    J.S. Leonard
    #20 JSL, Jun 15, 2004
    Not so long a wait now guys, Eugenio has gone FULL-TIME! He used to just work on weekends and evenings. Get to him soon though. You won't regret it.
     
  21. AR!

    AR! Formula Junior

    Apr 8, 2004
    981
    Berlin, Germany
    #21 AR!, Jun 16, 2004
    I still have the parts list in XLS from the major on my Mondial t Cab. With price comparisons. PM me if you are interested. I also have the Mondial t parts manual on CD.
     
  22. davewapinski

    davewapinski Formula Junior

    Nov 24, 2003
    276
    #22 davewapinski, Jun 16, 2004
    E. is no longer taking new clients that are more than 60 miles from him.

    He seems like a nice person.
     
  23. ernie

    ernie Two Time F1 World Champ
    Lifetime Rossa Owner

    Nov 19, 2001
    22,620
    The Brickyard
    Full Name:
    The Bad Guy
    #23 ernie, Jun 17, 2004
    Hey Dave

    Eugenio is a great guy. It's to bad that you are so far away, because you would have had a top notch job done on your car.

    On the other hand, I still say you should do it yourself. I know you just want to take it to someone so that you can have it back right away. But, you will learn so much doing your own engine out major, and save a few thousand bucks. If you do it yourself, working on the weekend and at least one hour each day, you should have it done in a couple of weeks, to a month. So it's not that long a job. Pull the engine dude, it not that big a deal, do it bro, do it.
     

Share This Page