Omega Owners Forum
Chat Area => General Car Chat => Topic started by: Lizzie Zoom on 08 February 2025, 12:35:25
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My Omega has just passed another MOT, thank goodness! 8) 8)
I will have to have replaced a worn track rod end apparently, for an all in price of £320. As I am through doing any difficult, under car, on cold surface, work I am happily leaving it to the Vx dealer. They are having to source the parts, probably from Autodoc, as I would, so I am just sitting back and paying the bill!! ;D ;D ;)
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I've been doing that for years. Much easier to pay someone else to do it, although I might have thought twice at that price.
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I've been doing that for years. Much easier to pay someone else to do it, although I might have thought twice at that price.
But the satisfaction of f*ucking up your own repairs is priceless. ;)
I tend to do whatever I possibly can myself.......rather than pay some man who pissed about at school and with no qualifications who now works for Bodgit and Scarper motors. :)
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I like giving some work to the local Vx dealer as I find, over the 18 years that I have (25 years before with my company cars), I get some useful extra service, including discounts when available. So I am no stranger to their parts and service departments!! :D :D ;)
Like with the recent work I have done on the Omega, I will still do it when I can physically. My hands and arms are still bruised and battered though, not a good look!! ::) ::) But that is apparently what comes of taking the medication I do. :o :o
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£320 to replace a track rod end is nothing short of extortion ! :o
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absolutely distgusting for a 10 minute job and a £10 part !
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And they won't touch the alignment either. So budget another £80 or so.
But that quote is either chancing it or they don't want the work. Either way, I wouldn't be letting them any where near the car.
If they're taking the piss with the price, then they don't value your custom, and if they don't want the work then imagine the contempt for you and the car if you go ahead with it.
And bear in mind, for the mileage you do, you can buy both wishbones, track rods and drop links for less than £100.
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And they won't touch the alignment either. So budget another £80 or so.
But that quote is either chancing it or they don't want the work. Either way, I wouldn't be letting them any where near the car.
If they're taking the piss with the price, then they don't value your custom, and if they don't want the work then imagine the contempt for you and the car if you go ahead with it.
And bear in mind, for the mileage you do, you can buy both wishbones, track rods and drop links for less than £100.
No, they are doing the tracking within that price, and I will be supplying the alignment figures that you useful placed on record on the OOF some good time ago, to them 8) :D ;)
As for the overall price, it is worth to me as who else is going to do it in a lovely, warm, fully equipped dealership? ;D ;D ;)
I am sure given the age of my Omega, and the well stuck on nature of anything underneath the car, the labour price I pay is ok compared to struggling, in the cold, to unjam the part by a professional, whilst I enjoy endless coffees! :D :D ;)
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…………and, don’t forget, I am a 71 year old women with a heart condition, so a long way past being 17 when I believed I could do anything! ::) ;D ;D ;)
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Tracking or four wheel alignment ?
Even with four wheel alignment the price is at least twice what is reasonable.
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And they won't touch the alignment either. So budget another £80 or so.
But that quote is either chancing it or they don't want the work. Either way, I wouldn't be letting them any where near the car.
If they're taking the piss with the price, then they don't value your custom, and if they don't want the work then imagine the contempt for you and the car if you go ahead with it.
And bear in mind, for the mileage you do, you can buy both wishbones, track rods and drop links for less than £100.
No, they are doing the tracking within that price, and I will be supplying the alignment figures that you useful placed on record on the OOF some good time ago, to them 8) :D ;)
As for the overall price, it is worth to me as who else is going to do it in a lovely, warm, fully equipped dealership? ;D ;D ;)
I am sure given the age of my Omega, and the well stuck on nature of anything underneath the car, the labour price I pay is ok compared to struggling, in the cold, to unjam the part by a professional, whilst I enjoy endless coffees! :D :D ;)
It's still criminally over priced even allowing for the coffee and other perceived benefits.
Paying a random person on the street would be better value for money.
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And they won't touch the alignment either. So budget another £80 or so.
But that quote is either chancing it or they don't want the work. Either way, I wouldn't be letting them any where near the car.
If they're taking the piss with the price, then they don't value your custom, and if they don't want the work then imagine the contempt for you and the car if you go ahead with it.
And bear in mind, for the mileage you do, you can buy both wishbones, track rods and drop links for less than £100.
No, they are doing the tracking within that price, and I will be supplying the alignment figures that you useful placed on record on the OOF some good time ago, to them 8) :D ;)
As for the overall price, it is worth to me as who else is going to do it in a lovely, warm, fully equipped dealership? ;D ;D ;)
I am sure given the age of my Omega, and the well stuck on nature of anything underneath the car, the labour price I pay is ok compared to struggling, in the cold, to unjam the part by a professional, whilst I enjoy endless coffees! :D :D ;)
…………and, don’t forget, I am a 71 year old women with a heart condition, so a long way past being 17 when I believed I could do anything! ::) ;D ;D ;)
How much would Serek charge to do it?
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Or any other local garage? And save the return trip in fuel.
Actually a better idea as it's only an advisory item... I presume you drive less than 5k a year...
Leave it.
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Mums car has had the same advisories for the last 4 years ,no change when I look at them. Due for its test in a few weeks ,just hope the rot has stayed away.
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Or any other local garage? And save the return trip in fuel.
Actually a better idea as it's only an advisory item... I presume you drive less than 5k a year...
Leave it.
I agree it’s a monstrous price, leave it until you find someone who will do it properly for a fair price, something will turn up👍 now go and buy something nice for yourself out of the £320 you’ve saved 😎
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Thanks for all the advice! 8) :y
I will be re-considering using the dealership if I really can save the money :D ;)
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dealers are not interested in repairing cars let alone older ones so if you dont want to do it yourself there should be a local garage that would ( if you have one you trust ! not one that wants to change more bits because they think its " better long term "or seized ! )
to be sure you could always just buy a complete track rod assembly ,lube up the sleeve for futureproofing and have them fit that .
i wouldnt let them buy the part as they might put a markup on the price of it !
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dealers are not interested in repairing cars let alone older ones so if you dont want to do it yourself there should be a local garage that would ( if you have one you trust ! not one that wants to change more bits because they think its " better long term "or seized ! )
to be sure you could always just buy a complete track rod assembly ,lube up the sleeve for futureproofing and have them fit that .
i wouldnt let them buy the part as they might put a markup on the price of it !
Thanks for the advice :-* :y
Can anyone give me a ball park estimate of what it should cost to do the job, by a garage, with parts, tracking, labour and VAT all included please?
I obviously have a decision to make ;)
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As for the cost I can’t really help, but I can give you an idea of time….not including alignment though. When I changed one on my lads truck he was keen to get back to the garage for the retest on the same day so time was of the essence. Jacked up the truck and removed the wheel, and then started the clock. ;D Put the grips on the bar and take note of the angle of the grips, loosen track rod lock nut half a turn. Undo track rod nut but leave the nut on, smack the track rod to separate and remove nut and lower track rod. Assuming an identical replacement part, count how many turns to remove it from the rod, maintaining the grips angle roughly, put new one on and count the turns. With the threaded part upwards and the grips in the right place you should be able to do the lock nut back up half a turn. Fit the track rod back in and tighten. The alignment may not be spot on but it’s good enough temporarily. We were putting the wheel back on the truck just seven minutes later, and I’m not a mechanic, so imagine what a doodle it would be for them. :y
I appreciate that you aren’t in a position to do it so I’m certainly not criticising your choice there, I just wanted to put some perspective on it. :y
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As for the cost I can’t really help, but I can give you an idea of time….not including alignment though. When I changed one on my lads truck he was keen to get back to the garage for the retest on the same day so time was of the essence. Jacked up the truck and removed the wheel, and then started the clock. ;D Put the grips on the bar and take note of the angle of the grips, loosen track rod lock nut half a turn. Undo track rod nut but leave the nut on, smack the track rod to separate and remove nut and lower track rod. Assuming an identical replacement part, count how many turns to remove it from the rod, maintaining the grips angle roughly, put new one on and count the turns. With the threaded part upwards and the grips in the right place you should be able to do the lock nut back up half a turn. Fit the track rod back in and tighten. The alignment may not be spot on but it’s good enough temporarily. We were putting the wheel back on the truck just seven minutes later, and I’m not a mechanic, so imagine what a doodle it would be for them. :y
I appreciate that you aren’t in a position to do it so I’m certainly not criticising your choice there, I just wanted to put some perspective on it. :y
Many thanks for all that detail :-* :y :y
I certainly couldn't do it myself, but it is a great explanation of what is involved. That gives me a very good idea of what to expect a professional mechanic will do, and the time they will take / charge for. :D ;)
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Firstly a caveat, not all garages are prepared to fit customer supplied parts. Given the quality of shit available on Amazon you can't blame them. Mercedes will tolerate parts obtained from another dealer with receipt, my local Merc specialist will fit anything I provide but obviously only warranty the labour on used parts. The local garage my neighbour uses used to allow customer parts but now won't.
Complete track rods are £30. From a known UK source.
There was a genuine inner and outer on eBay for a total of £31 but as the outers are sided that's a dice roll.
An hour's labour plus the part should be £125-150 all in.
To align the Omega properly the rear end requires setting as well. Unless you're doing decent miles, have replaced alot of components including the rear track rods, then a full alignment (whilst advisable) might be ill advised.
I can see you taking the car in and afterwards being hit with another £2-300 because of time spent trying to free up the rear track rods and or replacing them... Best case they will say, well we tried but couldn't adjust it and recommend replacing xyz at £abc.
If you were realistically going to get the use out of the components there might be mileage, pun intended, getting the everything done and having it set up properly.
If you have the most recent alignment figures then the alignment can be ballparked on the drive by someone who knows what they're doing.
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Firstly a caveat, not all garages are prepared to fit customer supplied parts. Given the quality of shit available on Amazon you can't blame them. Mercedes will tolerate parts obtained from another dealer with receipt, my local Merc specialist will fit anything I provide but obviously only warranty the labour on used parts. The local garage my neighbour uses used to allow customer parts but now won't.
Complete track rods are £30. From a known UK source.
There was a genuine inner and outer on eBay for a total of £31 but as the outers are sided that's a dice roll.
An hour's labour plus the part should be £125-150 all in.
To align the Omega properly the rear end requires setting as well. Unless you're doing decent miles, have replaced alot of components including the rear track rods, then a full alignment (whilst advisable) might be ill advised.
I can see you taking the car in and afterwards being hit with another £2-300 because of time spent trying to free up the rear track rods and or replacing them... Best case they will say, well we tried but couldn't adjust it and recommend replacing xyz at £abc.
If you were realistically going to get the use out of the components there might be mileage, pun intended, getting the everything done and having it set up properly.
If you have the most recent alignment figures then the alignment can be ballparked on the drive by someone who knows what they're doing.
Many thanks DG :-* :y
I have decisions to make ;)
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https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/305411335709
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/296245516643
From a one of about 5 suppliers I use on eBay.
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Use a small garage. Part is about £15, I'd be gobsmacked if anyone charged more than £20-30 to fit. If you know the geometry is good to start with (particularly no shoulder wear on fronts), you'll probably get away with £25 alignment, if the garage doesn't do that anyway.
That said, *ALL* Omegas benefit from a proper geometry check, set to WIM/OOF specs. Expect to pay £50-£100 for that, depending what needs changing, and note dealers do not have the capability to do that, no matter what BS they spin you.
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https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/305411335709
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/296245516643
From a one of about 5 suppliers I use on eBay.
That's great DG, thanks :y :y
I note the examples are for estates. Does that matter, or are they the same for saloons? ??? :D ;)
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https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/305411335709
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/296245516643
From a one of about 5 suppliers I use on eBay.
That's great DG, thanks :y :y
I note the examples are for estates. Does that matter, or are they the same for saloons? ??? :D ;)
Prompted by your post, I have looked at my now favourite parts supplier for Omega parts, AUTODOC. They have a number of these parts from various manufacturers for all under £10!! :o :o :o
So as I said, I have a few decisions to make, including who is prepared to fit the parts I buy. Funnily enough, my Vx dealer has done so before,, but then there is the labour charges!! ::) ::) :D ;)
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I like autodoc too and have found Ridex parts to be excellent.
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I like autodoc too and have found Ridex parts to be excellent.
Yes, indeed. I have found the same :D :y
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And they won't touch the alignment either. So budget another £80 or so.
But that quote is either chancing it or they don't want the work. Either way, I wouldn't be letting them any where near the car.
If they're taking the piss with the price, then they don't value your custom, and if they don't want the work then imagine the contempt for you and the car if you go ahead with it.
And bear in mind, for the mileage you do, you can buy both wishbones, track rods and drop links for less than £100.
No, they are doing the tracking within that price, and I will be supplying the alignment figures that you useful placed on record on the OOF some good time ago, to them 8) :D ;)
As for the overall price, it is worth to me as who else is going to do it in a lovely, warm, fully equipped dealership? ;D ;D ;)
I am sure given the age of my Omega, and the well stuck on nature of anything underneath the car, the labour price I pay is ok compared to struggling, in the cold, to unjam the part by a professional, whilst I enjoy endless coffees! :D :D ;)
…………and, don’t forget, I am a 71 year old women with a heart condition, so a long way past being 17 when I believed I could do anything! ::) ;D ;D ;)
How much would Serek charge to do it?
Yes. I have sent an email to Serek to find out, with perhaps the aim of having both left, as well as right, track rod ends done for the right price :D ;)
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For the extra couple of quid, complete track rod assemblies.
The labour time for replacing the whole thing with new will be about the same as messing around swapping individual bits.
And by the same logic applied to bulbs, if one needs doing, then you can pretty much guarantee that the rest won't be far behind.
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For the extra couple of quid, complete track rod assemblies.
The labour time for replacing the whole thing with new will be about the same as messing around swapping individual bits.
And by the same logic applied to bulbs, if one needs doing, then you can pretty much guarantee that the rest won't be far behind.
I am now DG thinking of going down that route. :D ;)
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Help please!
I have found a local garage, that I often use for tyres, who can do the job for a third of that quoted by the Vx dealership. However, they cannot source the part from their normal suppliers, but will fit the parts I acquire from Autodoc.
Trouble is I am nervous about ordering the part as there seems to be a number available from Autodoc, even though they match the parts to my Omega. Can someone confirm please that the following is right given the MOT description of "Track rod end ball joint OFFSIDE" ..... https://www.autodoc.co.uk/ridex/8094967
Does right equal "Offside"?
I know the manufacturer is a good one, but is that the right part please? ??? ???
I am not as confident as I used to be, and don't worry about giving your advice, I can show the part once received to the fitting garage and return to Autodoc if necessary. I will, as usual, pay for Autodoc to check the match with my vehicle. Many thanks :-* :-* ;)
If I also purchased .......https://www.autodoc.co.uk/ridex/8094919 would I be replacing the nearside track rod, which would mean I have a complete set for the repair?
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Yes if they are the same as the estate as that’s what comes up for mine too get the pair now they’re on offer.
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Yes if they are the same as the estate as that’s what comes up for mine too get the pair now they’re on offer.
Thanks. :y Yep, bought both and will properly have them both fitted if the fitting price stays thin line, respectively, as quoted this afternoon by Protyre, my second regular garage for the old girl! ;D ;D ;)
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as i mentioned earlier and DG mentioned too it would have been easier to just buy the full units . that was you know you have a good free moving adjuster .
then for the time it takes is there not a local oof member that would just pop it on for you for free ? the its just a case of tracking adjustment
i know i would help a member in this way and im sure im not alone in my ethic ?
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as i mentioned earlier and DG mentioned too it would have been easier to just buy the full units . that was you know you have a good free moving adjuster .
then for the time it takes is there not a local oof member that would just pop it on for you for free ? the its just a case of tracking adjustment
i know i would help a member in this way and im sure im not alone in my ethic ?
Thanks, but we are short of OOF mechanic's in this part of Kent ::) :D ;) In any case, the price the local Protyre outfit is going to charge me for just 1 hours labour and tracking is so good I cannot be bothered to muck around. I will now be enjoying their free coffee in the warm! 8) :D :D ;)
As for the whole assembly, I am not sure what that really is. I have now purchased the two track rod ends, but what else is there please? ??? ???
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the two track rod ends are joined by a threaded sleeve. its this that can often be seized . a complete rod assembly is all 3 bits . ( two joints and the sleeve with nuts bolts and clamps )
hopefully yours might not be seized and we might be worrying over nothing !.
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Lizz has ordered the complete deal for a great price look at the links
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It’s all new two ends per side👍
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Lizz has ordered the complete deal for a great price look at the links
Yes, I think I have, but I am still feeling uncertain about all of this Raeturbo. Silly, but this proves I am getting older! ::) ;( ;(
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You’ll be ok😎 don’t forget these were selling for double 5 months ago👍
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the two track rod ends are joined by a threaded sleeve. its this that can often be seized . a complete rod assembly is all 3 bits . ( two joints and the sleeve with nuts bolts and clamps )
hopefully yours might not be seized and we might be worrying over nothing !.
Thanks for your observations cam in head, but given what I have purchased what else is there please? Can you post the link to Autodoc and the missing part from Ridex? Many thanks if you can :D :D ;)
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You’ve already got them Lizz look at the pics
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You’ve already got them Lizz look at the pics
Ah, right. Just shows how I am now confused ::) ::) :o
Thanks for your support :-* 8) ;)
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No probs mate👍
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i cant see the items.it takes me to an advert !
but yes if you have got the whole assembly then thats easier for whoever fits it . sorry if i confused the issue ! just (like many others)was disgusted by the initial price you were quoted !
hopefully all will be ok when done and dusted.
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You were just helping as were we all👍
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You were just helping as were we all👍
Yes, agreed. Cam in head certainly helped me to focus on what was needed, so many thanks to him and all the others who offered practical advice :-* :y :y
That is what the OOF is all about :D ;)
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i cant see the items.it takes me to an advert !
but yes if you have got the whole assembly then thats easier for whoever fits it . sorry if i confused the issue ! just (like many others)was disgusted by the initial price you were quoted !
hopefully all will be ok when done and dusted.
These are the links again that should show the product:
https://www.autodoc.co.uk/ridex/8094967
https://www.autodoc.co.uk/ridex/8094919
;) ;)
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Buy the two I linked to. They're local to you and if there's any issues they'll be easy to sort.
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https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/305411335709
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/296245516643
From a one of about 5 suppliers I use on eBay.
That's great DG, thanks :y :y
I note the examples are for estates. Does that matter, or are they the same for saloons? ??? :D ;)
Identical across the range :y
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Buy the two I linked to. They're local to you and if there's any issues they'll be easy to sort.
Thanks DG, but I have ordered them already from Autodoc for a cheaper price. In addition, the ones you note are apparently not suitable for my vehicle. The ones that do from that supplier are also £37+ each. But many thanks anyway for your input :y :y
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You totally ignored all the replies on the compatibility.
They're the same for saloon and estates all the way from the 2.0 8v through to the full fat 2.5 TDs and 3.2. I would wager that hearse and Limo use the same too.
Now you want to save a couple of quid :D
I hope the autodoc ones turn up and are for both sides rather than 2 lefthand ones., but if they don't it's going to be much more hassle than popping to Sittingbourne.👍
Also don't forget that free postage has a value... The item price isn't always theprice ;)
The important thing is you're not being totally ripped off by somebody you owe zero loyalty to.
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You totally ignored all the replies on the compatibility.
They're the same for saloon and estates all the way from the 2.0 8v through to the full fat 2.5 TDs and 3.2. I would wager that hearse and Limo use the same too.
Now you want to save a couple of quid :D
I hope the autodoc ones turn up and are for both sides rather than 2 lefthand ones., but if they don't it's going to be much more hassle than popping to Sittingbourne.👍
Also don't forget that free postage has a value... The item price isn't always theprice ;)
The important thing is you're not being totally ripped off by somebody you owe zero loyalty to.
I note your comments DG, but when a web site for a car parts company that I research tells me the parts I am looking for are not suitable for my particular car that I have put full details of in the search, I take notice. I would be stupid not to and argue with them. I am not ignoring the comments on the OOF about compatibility, but when the potential supplier states the parts do not fit my Omega, I have to take notice. I know with Autodoc that their specific confirmation that their product fits my car can be relied upon, and gives me a right of return. The company on eBay that you noted states clearly the parts mentioned do not fit my car. End of as far as I am concerned. Autodoc has given me the option of guaranteed correct parts, from a good manufacture, at a very competitive price.
In addition, Autodoc I have found to be a great supplier for the Omega parts I need. Their service is always great, with the right parts supplied at a very competitive price, as in the case of the product I have ordered, and delivered in good time. The postage of £8.45 for the complete delivery is also very acceptable, especially when I take into account the saving on the product itself. I am still saving money overall, with a great service company, that guarantees the parts are correct for my car, and come from the very European countries, such as Germany, that built the Omega.
Autodoc is a big parts company that I have no loyalty with, but know they do not rip people off as my many purchases prove. But any company can let you down, true, although so far this organisation has not.
As I said, thanks DG for your input :y :y
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I wouldn't have linked them if they weren't suitable.
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I have just received the two Ridex parts, nearside and offside, rod assemblies from Autodoc. That is just 4 days since I placed the order, which is very good considering they were from Berlin, Germany and at just £41 all in.
Next week they are being fitted for £125, including tracking, by Protyre who I often use in Ashford. :D :D ;) :y
Certainly cheaper all in than the quote from the Vx dealer of £319.80, and that only included the offside track rod end!! ::) ::)
:D ;)
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They will be fine👍
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That's a good result Lizzie, few quid saved to put towards a few runs out in the Omega 👍
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That's a good result Lizzie, few quid saved to put towards a few runs out in the Omega 👍
Thanks Rangie. Yes, not only a decent amount of money saved, but in with the price I am having the extra work done to replace the nearside track rod assembly to pre-empty any future MOT faults :D :y
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I foresee a wedding between DG and Lizzie. >:D
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I foresee a wedding between DG and Lizzie. >:D
Well they do bicker like an old married couple from time to time! ;D
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I foresee a wedding between DG and Lizzie. >:D
Well they do bicker like an old married couple from time to time! ;D
Ah, it is all good nowadays. Mutual respect - I hope! ;D ;D :y
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I foresee a wedding between DG and Lizzie. >:D
Well they do bicker like an old married couple from time to time! ;D
Could there be an OOF baby on the horizon?..... ::) >:D
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I foresee a wedding between DG and Lizzie. >:D
Well they do bicker like an old married couple from time to time! ;D
Could there be an OOF baby on the horizon?..... ::) >:D
Do you mind? I've just had me tea 🤢
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I foresee a wedding between DG and Lizzie. >:D
Well they do bicker like an old married couple from time to time! ;D
Could there be an OOF baby on the horizon?..... ::) >:D
I expect that Al is a bit past all that. ;D
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I foresee a wedding between DG and Lizzie. >:D
Well they do bicker like an old married couple from time to time! ;D
Could there be an OOF baby on the horizon?..... ::) >:D
I expect that Al is a bit past all that. ;D
So am I!! ::) ::) ;D ;D ;D ;)
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George and Mildred🤣🤣
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Today the Omega went into the Protyre garage at 0835, and came back out at 0930, with the two track rod assemblies, offside and nearside, fitted, along with the tracking done. All within the 1 hour stated by the manager in his quote. Excellent!! 8) 8) :y
For a total of £188 I have had the two track rod assemblies fitted, when the Vx dealer quoted £319.20 for fitting just the offside track rod end! So a great result, which gets rid of two potential advisors come the next MOT and beyond. :D :D ;)
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Result! 8) OOF strikes again! :y
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Today the Omega went into the Protyre garage at 0835, and came back out at 0930, with the two track rod assemblies, offside and nearside, fitted, along with the tracking done. All within the 1 hour stated by the manager in his quote. Excellent!! 8) 8) :y
For a total of £188 I have had the two track rod assemblies fitted, when the Vx dealer quoted £319.20 for fitting just the offside track rod end! So a great result, which gets rid of two potential advisors come the next MOT and beyond. :D :D ;)
Last time I checked Vx wanted around £140 p/h before they would let a spotty youth loose on my car. They don't really want to work on old cars.
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Today the Omega went into the Protyre garage at 0835, and came back out at 0930, with the two track rod assemblies, offside and nearside, fitted, along with the tracking done. All within the 1 hour stated by the manager in his quote. Excellent!! 8) 8) :y
For a total of £188 I have had the two track rod assemblies fitted, when the Vx dealer quoted £319.20 for fitting just the offside track rod end! So a great result, which gets rid of two potential advisors come the next MOT and beyond. :D :D ;)
Last time I checked Vx wanted around £140 p/h before they would let a spotty youth loose on my car. They don't really want to work on old cars.
No, they certainly don't unless it is at their price! Then you cannot get the spares from Vx now, as I have proved over the last year or so!!
How on earth I am going to get part no. 90467543, the top hat gasket/seal. No-one so far seems to have them!! :o :o :o ;( ;(
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Today the Omega went into the Protyre garage at 0835, and came back out at 0930, with the two track rod assemblies, offside and nearside, fitted, along with the tracking done. All within the 1 hour stated by the manager in his quote. Excellent!! 8) 8) :y
For a total of £188 I have had the two track rod assemblies fitted, when the Vx dealer quoted £319.20 for fitting just the offside track rod end! So a great result, which gets rid of two potential advisors come the next MOT and beyond. :D :D ;)
Last time I checked Vx wanted around £140 p/h before they would let a spotty youth loose on my car. They don't really want to work on old cars.
No, they certainly don't unless it is at their price! Then you cannot get the spares from Vx now, as I have proved over the last year or so!!
How on earth I am going to get part no. 90467543, the top hat gasket/seal. No-one so far seems to have them!! :o :o :o ;( ;(
They would only need to work half a morning on my Signum and it would cost more than the car is worth.
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If you really do want/need the top hat seal(the one underneath the breather bridge?) Let me know and I'll dig out a spare one I have. Other than that are they still available from USA where I got mine from some while ago.
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If you really do want/need the top hat seal(the one underneath the breather bridge?) Let me know and I'll dig out a spare one I have. Other than that are they still available from USA where I got mine from some while ago.
Thanks Baza. :-* :y :y I will message you. I have looked at web sites in the USA, but they state “out of stock” ::)
I have messaged you, but it has disappeared!
Did you receive it? If not, I’ll send again :D ;)
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Officially they've been unavailable for about 12 years.
The V6 was used in several GM products including Cadillac and Saab so parts are somewhat available, but you need to be pretty imaginative when it comes to sourcing them. Especially when the part number provided has been superceded a few times.
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Today the Omega went into the Protyre garage at 0835, and came back out at 0930, with the two track rod assemblies, offside and nearside, fitted, along with the tracking done. All within the 1 hour stated by the manager in his quote. Excellent!! 8) 8) :y
For a total of £188 I have had the two track rod assemblies fitted, when the Vx dealer quoted £319.20 for fitting just the offside track rod end! So a great result, which gets rid of two potential advisors come the next MOT and beyond. :D :D ;)
Last time I checked Vx wanted around £140 p/h before they would let a spotty youth loose on my car. They don't really want to work on old cars.
Merc want about £170 just for them to 'diagnose' the fault before they even start work on your car ..... even when you tell them what the fault is!
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Officially they've been unavailable for about 12 years.
The V6 was used in several GM products including Cadillac and Saab so parts are somewhat available, but you need to be pretty imaginative when it comes to sourcing them. Especially when the part number provided has been superceded a few times.
Tell me about it! ;D ;D
So often I go on web sites, including those in the USA, and they recognise the part number and description, the (American & European) GM cars that they are for, but then tell me "out of stock"!! ::) ::) :P
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Here you go Lizzie - if you don't mind the price!
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/145887884234?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=eX9M6lIaS46&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=GCEcaYdASwi&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
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Christ ! I have a new spare in the shed. I think I might lock it in a safe now. :o
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If you need one for the car to run remotely decently then that's easily a price worth paying.
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Here you go Lizzie - if you don't mind the price!
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/145887884234?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=eX9M6lIaS46&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=GCEcaYdASwi&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
Thanks for that Jonnydog, much appreciated :-* :-* :y
I have sourced one from a lovely, generous OOF member that will keep the Omega going. I thank you for taking the trouble to look for this, apparently now very precious part, but I will give this a miss at over £32! :o :o
Another complication is that this private seller, in Germany (where else!!), may not post to the UK. Maybe after contact they will, but after selling five already, I will probably be wasting my time, and theirs. :y :y
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Just a thought..............................is there anyone who can, or knows someone, who can fabricate these top head gaskets/seals? ??? ???
With 893 Omega's taxed in the UK alone, all needing this part, it could be a worthwhile project. :D ;)
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They only need them if they're disturbed.
They get baked in place and are fine if the breather bridge is left alone.
People wrongly presume that the breather bridge needs to be removed from the plenum to do other work. At which point it WILL need to be replaced.
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They only need them if they're disturbed.
They get baked in place and are fine if the breather bridge is left alone.
People wrongly presume that the breather bridge needs to be removed from the plenum to do other work. At which point it WILL need to be replaced.
That's good advice DG :y
Personally though, when I clean the breather system, as I did the other week, I always take off the bridge to blow through it with carb cleaner. Should I leave it on in future to save the top head gasket? ???
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Now you've disturbed it, if you start getting rough idling then it's got to be one of the first places to look.
When the breather cleaning advice was written, the seals were available off the shelf at most any VX dealer for about a quid.
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Now you've disturbed it, if you start getting rough idling then it's got to be one of the first places to look.
When the breather cleaning advice was written, the seals were available off the shelf at most any VX dealer for about a quid.
Thanks again! :y :y
Yes, if only we could turn back the clock. I dread to think of how many of these gaskets I changed over the years!! :o :o :o ;)
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Just a thought........................................can the gasket be repaired; that is the top cross over part which usually ends up broken on one side, be stuck into place with cam cover gasket black goo? ??? ???
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If it doesn't set up correctly, you run the risk of blocking up the breather ports.
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If it doesn't set up correctly, you run the risk of blocking up the breather ports.
That’s true DG :o
Oh well, back to trying to find other supplies to last for the rest of my Omega’s life, and mine!!! ::) :o ;D ;)
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Thanks to the great generosity of OOF member Baza, I have now been able fit a brand new top hat gasket/seal onto the breather bridge.
I have extracted the old one, which I show below:
(https://i.postimg.cc/G3sx7G99/Top-Hat.jpg)
As usual the top section has disconnected from one side, and I aim to fix this as I certainly will not be chucking it away!!! :P :P
I am wondering though how to repair it. As it appears made of plastic, perhaps a good super glue that is heat resistant will do the job? Gorilla Glue or similar I'm thinking, but any thoughts? ??? ???
Don't want to damage it further, so will not be rushing into it. Plenty of time on my hands! ;D ;D ;)
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Are you sure, Lizzie? According to Opti, we only have days, or even hours, left.
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The fact it appears to be plastic tells you it is done.
Rubber turns into plastic when exposed to oil and heat. Both ingredients being prevalent where the seal resides.
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The fact it appears to be plastic tells you it is done.
Rubber turns into plastic when exposed to oil and heat. Both ingredients being prevalent where the seal resides.
Didn't know that DG. Thanks :y :y
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Are you sure, Lizzie? According to Opti, we only have days, or even hours, left.
;D ;D ;D ;D Personally I treat everyday as my last now, and celebrate when I manage to get to the next and still do useful things! :D ;)
Let's face it, during the Cold War we all though we were doomed, but it never came ;D ;D ;)
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Are you sure, Lizzie? According to Opti, we only have days, or even hours, left.
.....minutes. :)
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Yes, as DG says, if its gone hard, its knackered. It is a uniquely shaped o-ring, and should feel like one.
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Err…….
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I have checked the old seal again, and in actual fact it IS still of a rubbery nature. My mistake!! ::) ::)
When I took it off it just seemed a bit different, but when I did eventually compare to the new one, I found it all ok, being very flexible and bendable. In other words, as rubber should feel!! ::) ::) ;D ;D
Have now also repaired it using Gorilla Super Glue, the one designed to work on rubber, glass, wood, metal, plastic; in fact almost anything!! It's worked and I have now put it in my spares box instead of throwing away what is now a precious item. It should mean I can keep the Omega going for a few years yet, due of course, and thanks, to the wonderful assistance of BAZA! 8) 8) ;)
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......
I am wondering though how to repair it. As it appears made of plastic, perhaps a good super glue that is heat resistant will do the job? Gorilla Glue or similar I'm thinking, but any thoughts? ??? ???
Don't want to damage it further, so will not be rushing into it. Plenty of time on my hands! ;D ;D ;)
A spot of Tiger seal/Sikaflex? You'd need to have a tube of it that's already open though or know someone who has cos it's be a bit expensive to buy a tube specifically for it.
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......
I am wondering though how to repair it. As it appears made of plastic, perhaps a good super glue that is heat resistant will do the job? Gorilla Glue or similar I'm thinking, but any thoughts? ??? ???
Don't want to damage it further, so will not be rushing into it. Plenty of time on my hands! ;D ;D ;)
A spot of Tiger seal/Sikaflex? You'd need to have a tube of it that's already open though or know someone who has cos it's be a bit expensive to buy a tube specifically for it.
Thanks for the tip Andy :y :y
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Standard CA works really well on rubber, but you'll have to ensure its clean, and those things don't react well to solvents.
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Standard CA works really well on rubber, but you'll have to ensure its clean, and those things don't react well to solvents.
:y :y
It has been 48 hours since I glued it with Gorilla Super Glue and all is good. Nice and strong join, that I have tested. ;)
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Good stuff that, I dropped my tea container lid and broke the knob off and used that to repair it.
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Good stuff that, I dropped my tea container lid and broke the knob off and used that to repair it.
Yes, the best glue I have ever used. For once a product that lives up to the hype! :D ;)