Venturing into Old Gold Cars & Parts junkyard in Old Town, Florida, three VCCA members recently embarked on what they hoped would be a fruitful expedition for classic car components. The initial impression was of a vast expanse dedicated predominantly to General Motors vehicles, with a strong emphasis on Chevrolet models. Acres upon acres stretched out, populated with automotive relics, primarily Chevrolets, ranging from the late 1930s up through the 1970s. Specifically noted were scattered gems like a 1939, 1940, 1941, and 1947 Chevy, alongside a small cluster of 1948 models, and then a significant increase in vehicles from the early 1950s onwards, peaking with the numerous offerings from the 60s and 70s.
However, the team expressed surprise at the pervasive rust damage observed across the inventory. The expectation of finding rust-free southern cars was quickly dispelled by the reality of vehicles succumbing to decades of outdoor exposure. Despite Florida’s southern locale, the junkyard’s proximity to the coast likely contributes to significant corrosion due to salt air and humidity. This observation underscores a crucial point for enthusiasts seeking Old Gold Car Parts: even in warmer climates, prolonged exposure to the elements takes a heavy toll on classic vehicles.
While the sheer volume of vintage Chevys and GMCs makes Old Gold Cars & Parts a potentially valuable resource for those in search of specific components, the degree of rust damage means prospective buyers should temper their expectations. The yard may still yield some treasures, particularly more robust mechanical parts or interior trim pieces less exposed to the elements. For those willing to sift through the decay, there might be “old gold car parts” to be unearthed, but a thorough inspection is paramount.
The visit serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against time and weather in the world of classic car preservation. While junkyards like Old Gold Cars & Parts hold a wealth of automotive history and potential components, the condition of these vehicles highlights the importance of careful sourcing and restoration efforts when seeking authentic “old gold car parts” for restoration projects. The trip, while perhaps not resulting in a haul of readily usable parts, offered valuable insights into the realities of sourcing vintage components and the challenges posed by environmental factors, even in the South.
