[silvershadow]

Vox,

You are correct about removing entire sub-frames mounted on vehicles to get access for maintenance becoming more common however this has been a fact of life for some British prestige makes since the mid-1960's. For example, the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow has two major subframes which carry the drive train and suspension and major overhauls are facilitated from the greatly improved access available when these subframes are removed from the vehicle in their entirety using supports and a suitable floor crane. The workshop manual contains full details on how this is undertaken.

However, my favourite is the reported instructions in the workshop manual for changing the spark plugs on a Bentley W16 engine, the first line is effectively:

1. Remove engine from vehicle..........................................

 

[silvershadow]

ElderJ - my first rule whenever considering a used car purchase "Always allow 20% of the purchase price for repairs in the first 3 months of ownership" because this impending cost is usually the reason for owners deciding to sell/trade their car".

The only time this rule may not apply is if the vehicle is a leased car being sold as the lease period has expired however you still need to check the service history of the car before purchasing.

 

[silvershadow]

The 20% is an average not a maximum or minimum estimate and used cars will range from "problem free" to "money pits", you need experience to help [but not always] determine where a potential used car purchase fits in this spectrum.

You pay your money and take your chances.................