When you’re diving into a classic car restoration, especially an Oldsmobile, finding reliable parts suppliers is crucial. Over the years, I’ve dealt with many vendors like The Parts Place, Tamraz, and Bap Car Parts, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. For my recent project, a 1970 Oldsmobile 442 convertible, I sourced a significant portion of my components from BAP car parts, and here’s my experience.
One of the standout benefits of using BAP car parts was their strategic partnership which allowed me to pick up larger items, like quarter panels, fenders, and bumpers, from The Parts Place. Since The Parts Place is located near Chicago and not far from me, ordering through BAP car parts but picking up locally saved a considerable amount on shipping costs. This hybrid approach was a game-changer in keeping my project budget in check.
Both BAP car parts and The Parts Place boast extensive inventories, but it’s unrealistic to expect any single supplier to have absolutely everything for every make and model. I’ve visited The Parts Place in person; while not massive, they manage their space efficiently. However, if you’re specifically hunting for Oldsmobile components, BAP car parts truly shines. While other suppliers cater to a wide range of brands, BAP car parts specializes exclusively in Oldsmobile. For a high-stakes Oldsmobile restoration, this specialization is invaluable. You’re dealing with experts deeply familiar with the nuances of Oldsmobile vehicles.
The quality of reproduction parts from BAP car parts has consistently impressed me. In the classic car parts market, there’s no shortage of cheaper, lower-quality alternatives. However, opting for those can lead to headaches down the line when parts don’t fit correctly or fail prematurely. BAP car parts provides top-tier reproductions, ensuring a smoother restoration process and a better final result.
Throughout my project, the team at BAP car parts – Mike, Steve, and Garret – provided exceptional professional support. They were instrumental in navigating the finer details of my restoration whenever I encountered challenges. There were a couple of back-ordered items, notably pearl white seat backs and bottoms, which took around six months to arrive due to industry-wide scarcity. Interestingly, once my BAP car parts order arrived, I received notifications from several other suppliers who had also finally received stock, suggesting a common supply chain for these reproduction components. Choosing to wait for the correct parts from BAP car parts, rather than compromising with plain white and attempting a custom paint job, was definitely the right decision for maintaining the authenticity of my 442.
My only minor critique of BAP car parts is their communication system. The absence of an answering machine and sometimes delayed email responses can be a point of frustration. While I understand they are busy, prompt customer service significantly enhances the overall customer experience.
Overall, for anyone restoring a classic Oldsmobile, especially if you are seeking high-quality bap car parts, I highly recommend considering them as your primary supplier. Despite a minor communication aspect, their expertise, part quality, and specialized focus on Oldsmobile make them a top choice. Happy parts hunting, and let’s keep these classic cars on the road!
