Joyce: need Vendor graphics to pepper this article - see end

 The aging of Crosley owners parallels the general classic car ownership population nationwide. As our owners, and of course our cars age, the future of our car and our club weakens. Availability of parts is the single critical element of sustainability. When people see my Crosleys at a car show anywhere, among the first questions they ask is, “Hey, where do you get parts for this?” They never ask if there is a club; they never ask; how do you get repair information.?” It is always, “Where do you get parts?”

 If you think objectively about our Crosleys, they are the lifeblood of friendships, keeping our cars running, sharing stories, mechanical tips and even work-arounds. However, if we reflect on what sustains our members more than anything, it is the readily availability of parts. Period.

 In spring of 2023, I conducted an informal survey of “lower volume” and other orphan cars - 1950s and Older. The clubs and vendors contacted included:

·      Hudson, Essex, Terraplane (HET)

·      Willys

·      Studebaker

·      Kaiser-Fraser

·      Packard

 Most of the car clubs contacted are in the midst of experiencing similar issues Including: 

·      Aging of car owners.

·      Interest in clubs is for primarily swap meets, get togethers, annual regional/national events.

·      All clubs contacted acknowledged the availability of parts was important! However, no clubs have specifically addressed the need to ensure future parts availability – not because it is not important but just that no one has undertaken the project. (Until there is a “parts crisis”, work-arounds are always available, look at Cuba.)

 Other reasons ensuring parts availability has not been addressed include:

·      No one has initiated a plan although most contacts emphasized the notion of ensuring “parts availability” was important and commendable.

·      Multiple vendors (2-3) still provide parts, so there is no immediate need. (Studebaker)

·      Single vendors still survive and provide most of the support. (e.g. Willys)

·      Some parts and cars are no longer supported e.g. Willys yes - but Whippet and other related pre-wars no.)

 Current vendor and/or parts strategies

·      Vendors have sought to reproduce certain parts that are widely needed for their “market”. The Crosley market is small.

·      All contacts mentioned that drive train (engine, trans, etc.) were important parts to keep cars “running”

·      High volume parts e.g. rubbers, door molding, etc. were frequently mentioned as “reproduceable”. (High volume need/low cost tooling and reproduction was critical.)

So, what do we do next to ensure parts are available to keep our Crosleys on the road. First and foremost is to support our current vendors.

However, let us know your other ideas, and we will compile your responses.

 Ed

Joyce Insert here:

List our comprehensive primary vendors and contacts at the end of the article:

·      Yankee

·      Service

·      Dave Edwards