Omega Owners Forum
Chat Area => General Discussion Area => Topic started by: JamesV6CDX on 09 June 2008, 10:43:28
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Hi Guys,
As some of you will be aware I have very recently started offering a limited mobile mechanics service for the common Omega servicing requirements, cam belt changes and such.
I used to travel all over the country doing jobs for free – but unfortunately due to becoming completely inundated back then and not being able to keep up with it, I just had to draw the line to avoid disappointment.
Having thought about it, I now apply a (very, very reasonable) charge for the time spent assisting members with cars.
(With the exception of arranged OOF cam belt parties, where I still provide the service for free). The work I provide is meticulous and done with great care and precision and I am confident that the rates I charge are less than 50% of what a garage would.
I have however heard a whisper, that it is felt by some that applying this small charge for fixing cars may not be in the spirit of the forum?
I am certainly not here to “compete” for business. I don’t actually see it as a business; it’s more of a hobby (passion) that also earns a few beer tokens. I still actively encourage people to have a go themselves, or take up some local help if it's available.
So – I’d like to discuss (sensibly please!). Am I being fair in charging a very reasonable amount for jobs dealers charge the earth for? Is this a service that would be valued, or are there any reasons I should or should not continue?
The last thing I want to do is upset and members and distance myself from the group, so I’d appreciate views and I'll act accordingly.
Cheers
James
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the minimum you should be charging james is £15 per hour if people are saying its not right let them take it to a garage and pay £45 upwards per hour !! at least you will take care and do the job right mate !! i dont know how some people expect you to do it for free >:( i think you are doing a great service for the oof offering a mobile service mate well done to you :y :y :y :y :y :y :y :y :y
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If I was closer to you I would most deffo be calling upon your skills, but aless I'm miles away...
But there is no way on earth I would let you work upon my motor with out a fair chunk of beer tokens or Party paper.
It would just not be right
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well if i can get something done i cant tackle myself by a fellow member, i would certainly be willing to pay. i think its the norm to pay someone to do work for you. i personally would prefer to pay some of you guys to sort my car out rather than pay a garage that is full of assumptions and high bills.
im with you there james :y :y :y
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to add it would be like me breaking omegas and sending out parts for free fella !!! just doesnt sound right does it ! we all have to earn a living somehow mate ::) ::)
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the minimum you should be charging james is £15 per hour if people are saying its not right let them take it to a garage and pay £45 upwards per hour !! at least you will take care and do the job right mate !! i dont know how some people expect you to do it for free >:( i think you are doing a great service for the oof offering a mobile service mate well done to you :y :y :y :y :y :y :y :y :y
Thanks Mark,
I don't charge an hourly rate, I generally agree a mutually acceptable cost (regardless of how long it takes) per job, on a case by case basis, dependant on what needs doing.
Thanks for the input, I don't really want to discuss what I should or shouldn't charge, just whether or not I should offer the service :y
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The one thing that would concern me if I was in your position James, is what would happen if something went wrong?
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If I was closer to you I would most deffo be calling upon your skills, but aless I'm miles away...
But there is no way on earth I would let you work upon my motor with out a fair chunk of beer tokens or Party paper.
It would just not be right
unfortunatly jon some people take advantage of the fact you are helping them and wouldnt dream of giving you a drink for your help as ive found out in the past. :(
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The one thing that would concern me if I was in your position James, is what would happen if something went wrong?
Firstly, I don't work on brakes or suspension - period. All I do is basic engine stuff, cambelts and camcovers etc.
When these are done, the owner of the car is always shown that the timing is correct and that the torques on all the bolts are correct, and they witness this before it goes together.
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go for it mate if people dont like the price dont do the job !! i am lucky i can do all my own work being a proper mechanic !! but i do a lot of work for work collegues and base my prices on £15 per hour and they are very happy (i work on steel works now as a mechanical fitter better money) :y
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I would never expect anyone to do stuff free of charge, thats insulting, go for it mate :y
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Sounds completely reasonable to me - wish I lived a bit nearer! Keep up the good work :)
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The one thing that would concern me if I was in your position James, is what would happen if something went wrong?
Firstly, I don't work on brakes or suspension - period. All I do is basic engine stuff, cambelts and camcovers etc.
When these are done, the owner of the car is always shown that the timing is correct and that the torques on all the bolts are correct, and they witness this before it goes together.
Thats all very well, but lets say you have fitted a belt cambelt kit supplied by the person who's car you are working on and for what ever reason the belt jumps or a tensioner fails and there is head damage. Theres nothing stopping that person suing you as a business. Im not saying dont do the work, just be careful ;)
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I used to be a mechanic, as the family had a LTI & Vauxhall dealerships, I just never enjoyed doing it.
Did the NVQ's up to lvl4
But I would still rather pay some one I trust to work on my motor, and James is one of the few guys I would let loose on my mega,
I would say go for it mate :y
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The one thing that would concern me if I was in your position James, is what would happen if something went wrong?
Firstly, I don't work on brakes or suspension - period. All I do is basic engine stuff, cambelts and camcovers etc.
When these are done, the owner of the car is always shown that the timing is correct and that the torques on all the bolts are correct, and they witness this before it goes together.
Thats all very well, but lets say you have fitted a belt cambelt kit supplied by the person who's car you are working on and for what ever reason the belt jumps or a tensioner fails and there is head damage. Theres nothing stopping that person suing you as a business. Im not saying dont do the work, just be careful ;)
It is certainly in the back of my mind mate.
I have considered, if I do enough of it, that I should get some liability insurance to cover that?
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The fact that you feel in even neccessary to ask the question is a disappointment IMHO.
I find it odd that a few OOF members would appear to "require" you to work for nothing .. that is totally out-of-order ... they don't expect TB to do Tech2 work for nothing so why should you.
It is not compulsory for them to have the work done by you .... you are OFFERING a SERVICE ... and they can either take that service .. and pay for it... or decline .. their choice.
I would not have the temerity to suggest what rate you charge .. that is between you and your "client" of the day .. and MUST include things like travel costs, food, drink, parts - if you supply them - and a reasonable amount for your time and SKILL ...
but I would happily pay £25/hour + travel costs to have a job done properly than £45/hour for a stealer to do it wrongly.
Do not let a few who want things done on the cheap detract from the rest of us who are
1. Realistic
2. Honest
3. Hoping you continue this service as I know who I'm contacting when I need help !!
:y :y :y
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Thanks for the comments. I am only talking about chinese whispers here so I'm not taking it too seriously, I won't be stopping what I do unless there are any firm objections - and the purpose of this thread is just to make sure that's not the case :y
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There certainly appears to be the demand for it. Plenty of members have to entrust their cars to the motor trade for reasons of time or lack of mechanical experience/ confidence. I think the option of paying a member to do jobs the "OOF way" is a good one to have available.
We can all afford to spend a limited amount of our spare time helping other nearby members of the forum out for free through cam belt parties and more local arrangements but, as the forum grows, that is not going to get everyone's car maintained.
When it comes to travelling further afield and cutting into time that you would ordinarily spend earning your crust or relaxing at home I don't think it's unreasonable to charge, as long as both parties are happy with the arrangement.
Liability is an issue for you to consider, though. Anyone can make mistakes, regardless of experience (IME, it's the jobs that you are overly familiar with where you tend to overlook things). Part of the reason a main dealer is so expensive is because he's effectively insured against liabilities which his work may incurr. It's not such an issue when the vehicle's owner is able to work with you, double check and understand that what you are doing is correct but when you get a customer who doesn't know or care less what happens under the bonnet it's less clear to them that you have been as thorough as possible.
In summary, I think all you can do is to charge well below the motor trade rates and make it clear where the differences are in the level of service you're offering.
Kevin
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I have however heard a whisper, that it is felt by some that applying this small charge for fixing cars may not be in the spirit of the forum?
I`m sure the 'spirit' of the forum also would dictate that fairness be reciprocated; whom really would expect (anybody) with the experience/skills and helpful attitude of James to assist forum members by reaching into his own pocket?
TBH, I (always) have a tight budget; that`s why I came to OOF to try and keep the Debs-mobile on the road, but as short of funds as I often are; I would never expect (or permit) FOC 'mechanicing'......a fee for such practical help must surely be expected (nay, 'encouraged').
Cambelt meets, or helping out via personal friendships would of course be different........but even then, fairness would seem to dictate that beer-tokens etc. should also be offered (as I know they always-are by fair-minded OOF`ers!) ;)
Good luck and best wishes with your enterprise James :y
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I will never charge at cambelt meets - that's not what they are about :y
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i think the service you offer ,at VERY reasonable rates is something to be admired.its obvious to anyone that you are far from greedy,and i cannot understand why anyone could have a problem with what you do. keep up the good work fella :y
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you can get personal public liabilty insurance james not very expensive and covers you for 1 millon pounds !!!! :y
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you can get personal public liabilty insurance james not very expensive and covers you for 1 millon pounds !!!! :y
I'm not sure even Bob Dent's mig is worth that much ;D
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you can get personal public liabilty insurance james not very expensive and covers you for 1 millon pounds !!!! :y
I'm not sure even Bob Dent's mig is worth that much ;D
bob will have ya fella ;D ;D ;D
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you can get personal public liabilty insurance james not very expensive and covers you for 1 millon pounds !!!! :y
I'm not sure even Bob Dent's mig is worth that much ;D
It might be if you turn it into a projectile though. :o
Kevin
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you can get personal public liabilty insurance james not very expensive and covers you for 1 millon pounds !!!! :y
I'm not sure even Bob Dent's mig is worth that much ;D
It might be if you turn it into a projectile though. :o
Kevin
Not sure changing a cambelt is likely to result in that ::)
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Well i have no objections JAmes i have always said you should charge a small fee.
(Going back to feb i tried to give beer tokens and you refused. just hope the next job i get you to assit me with you atleast let me get you some beers in!!!)
Hope it all works out for you and you dont end up running yourself to the ground!
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personally if i was doing this i would go for fixed pricing for the job and then a premium/surchange for distance travelled.
I see nothing wrong with what you are doing, we have other members of the forum who charge for services they offer.
My only warning would be to keep an record of what you have done, the Tax man is a very sneaky fish and i would hate to see you fall foul of something like that
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My only warning would be to keep an record of what you have done, the Tax man is a very sneaky fish and i would hate to see you fall foul of something like that
I am fully set up with HMRC and I do an annual online tax return, which involves paying the proportion of tax on EVERYTHING I earn, so there are absolutely no problems at all there :y
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I do mobile mechanics and its all above board and declared, but its only a part time hobby also.
You should charge people, like you say the meets are the free ones where everyone chips in and thats it.
If someone wants you to go to theres to fix a car, then you charge, end of ;)
You will need liability insurance(about £200) and trade insurance to drive there cars(about £450+)
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liability insurance sounds like a goer to me...
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absolutely fair enough. you're providing an expert service at a cost way lower than most workshops. you don't see w.i.m offering free geometry overhauls for all members 'in the spirit of the forum' cos no one would expect 'em to. how is this any different?
if you're up front about it and expect your time and travel to be compensated then members have a clear choice and know in advance what the costs are going to be. if another member says they'll do it for free then that's their choice. it should not be an expectation.
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Hi James
I think you do a great job and have heard very good things about your work + you are a gent and very helpful you helped me and Kevin at the cambelt meet with the coolant change a few months or so back.
I would be more that happy to pay and may be calling on your sevices soon. I feel 100% happer with the car in your hands than a Stealer or someone that has no care for my car.
I think you do a great job :y :y
Steve
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...it would be like me breaking omegas and sending out parts for free fella!!! just doesnt sound right does it!
...ummm now you mention it.... ;D
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Of course you should charge for doing actual work on a car
for someone you don't know.
Otherwise, any Tom Dick or Harry could join the forum just
to get their cars fixed for free.
The forum exists to share views, opinions and knowledge
for Omega ethusiasts, not as a free car fixing service for
tightwad strangers.
When you're fixing a car for a friend or someone you know,
the normal rules for friendship apply. Mates Rates, beer tokens,
or payment in kind such as old fashioned Bartering. You fix his
car, he fixes your plumbing/ computer etc.. whatever the skill
set of the friend.
It's always been so.
But expecting someone you've never met to come and fix your
car for free is greedy cloud cuckoo land.
As other folks have said, just make sure you've got the insurance
and tax angles covered.
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tuppence worth.....
Similar to all those mentioned above, i see no reason why you should not be charging. Simple as.
In fact it was only on Saturday that i was recommending you to a fellow forum member for work as and when needed :y
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Anyone who thinks that you charging what is effectively 'mates rates' for a job done better than most pros would do is surely in the wrong forum.
I know you are between jobs right now and need to support yourself so I do not feel it wrong at all.
In fact if you ever feel like coming to Germany I need to replace a gearbox, wishbones and drop links..... ::) interested?
Free board and airfare as standard of course along with as much German beer as you can drink :y
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Anyone who thinks that you charging what is effectively 'mates rates' for a job done better than most pros would do is surely in the wrong forum.
I know you are between jobs right now and need to support yourself so I do not feel it wrong at all.
In fact if you ever feel like coming to Germany I need to replace a gearbox, wishbones and drop links..... ::) interested?
Free board and airfare as standard of course along with as much German beer as you can drink :y
Yep, I would definately be game for that (seriously)...
I'll need to dust off the passport, though ;D
At the moment, my employer is keeping me on as a contractor, so I'm OK short term ::)
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you can get personal public liabilty insurance james not very expensive and covers you for 1 millon pounds !!!! :y
I'm not sure even Bob Dent's mig is worth that much ;D
Not sure what it would be worth now with current fuel prices and planned road tax increases driving the price of big cars down. :'(
Anyway, just got to say that James did my cambelt/tensioners for me last year while I was in Barnstaple and did an excellent job which I was more than happy to pay his reasonable fee. I would never expect such work to be done for nothing, nor should anyone else unless there are circumstances to justify it. Free work done at meets and cambelt parties is down to the cameraderie and interests of the forum and is a bit of an exception. :y
However, it would probably be a wise move to get liability insurance for peace of mind if nothing else. ;)
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James, I used to do mobile mechanic-ing as a student for a couple of years (perhaps should've been doing my dissertation looking back ;D) and I had to stop due to the whole liability issue as the work became more involved (brakes etc. - you are wise to stay away).
All I have heard on OOF is good words about your workmanship, and I think it is an excellent idea. As mentioned already though, nothing is "free" someone always foots the bill; be it time, money, whatever... there is always a small cost for the person offering the help.
I think you will probably find that you will establish flat rates for certain common jobs within time, and then carry out other jobs on a quotation basis.
I think as a mobile "Omega Expert" you would be a great asset to many members within this forum. :)
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Hmmm, can see both sides here.
Personally, I see no issue. I offer low cost services here, though not seeking to make any profit (LOL, to break even would be nice ;D). Others are here as businesses to make a living - WIM and Dave DND are 2 that spring to mind. Others are making 'pocket money' by doing a bit of buying/stripping/selling. Thats fine, and with few exceptions, is an added benefit to OOF. As would your stuff be.
The flip side, obviously if everyone started charging garage rates to do jobs, then that 'spirit' of the forum would be lost. Its amazing that anonymous strangers here are so willing to put themselves out and help each other for free - possibly one of the key ingredients that makes OOF what it is.
Insurance is an absolute must, esp if you are charging. And this is where I think your overheads may rocket, so you'll need to consider your rates. Additionally, I think the demand will be strong, so you need to consider family etc.
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Hmmm, can see both sides here.
Personally, I see no issue. I offer low cost services here, though not seeking to make any profit (LOL, to break even would be nice ;D). Others are here as businesses to make a living - WIM and Dave DND are 2 that spring to mind. Others are making 'pocket money' by doing a bit of buying/stripping/selling. Thats fine, and with few exceptions, is an added benefit to OOF. As would your stuff be.
The flip side, obviously if everyone started charging garage rates to do jobs, then that 'spirit' of the forum would be lost. Its amazing that anonymous strangers here are so willing to put themselves out and help each other for free - possibly one of the key ingredients that makes OOF what it is.
Insurance is an absolute must, esp if you are charging. And this is where I think your overheads may rocket, so you'll need to consider your rates. Additionally, I think the demand will be strong, so you need to consider family etc.
Good post there Jaime...
Just to clarify a couple of points though.
You say you can see both sides. My proposal is to (naturally) get stuck in for free at the cambelt parties as we all do, and also any local members who want to look at a little problem etc are welcome to pop over at no cost. The (reasonable) charge (not garage rates) is applied when I have to travel somewhere and do a job that would otherwise cost a fortune at a dealer.
Therefore, I think this is a pretty good balance between having to charge something, AND contributing (as I always have) to the spirit of the forum, would you agree?
Admin Edit: Last paragraph removed
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Hmmm, can see both sides here.
Personally, I see no issue. I offer low cost services here, though not seeking to make any profit (LOL, to break even would be nice ;D). Others are here as businesses to make a living - WIM and Dave DND are 2 that spring to mind. Others are making 'pocket money' by doing a bit of buying/stripping/selling. Thats fine, and with few exceptions, is an added benefit to OOF. As would your stuff be.
The flip side, obviously if everyone started charging garage rates to do jobs, then that 'spirit' of the forum would be lost. Its amazing that anonymous strangers here are so willing to put themselves out and help each other for free - possibly one of the key ingredients that makes OOF what it is.
Insurance is an absolute must, esp if you are charging. And this is where I think your overheads may rocket, so you'll need to consider your rates. Additionally, I think the demand will be strong, so you need to consider family etc.
Good post there Jaime...
Just to clarify a couple of points though.
You say you can see both sides. My proposal is to (naturally) get stuck in for free at the cambelt parties as we all do, and also any local members who want to look at a little problem etc are welcome to pop over at no cost. The (reasonable) charge (not garage rates) is applied when I have to travel somewhere and do a job that would otherwise cost a fortune at a dealer.
Therefore, I think this is a pretty good balance between having to charge something, AND contributing (as I always have) to the spirit of the forum, would you agree?
Can't say much fairer than that James ;)
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Hmmm, can see both sides here.
Personally, I see no issue. I offer low cost services here, though not seeking to make any profit (LOL, to break even would be nice ;D). Others are here as businesses to make a living - WIM and Dave DND are 2 that spring to mind. Others are making 'pocket money' by doing a bit of buying/stripping/selling. Thats fine, and with few exceptions, is an added benefit to OOF. As would your stuff be.
The flip side, obviously if everyone started charging garage rates to do jobs, then that 'spirit' of the forum would be lost. Its amazing that anonymous strangers here are so willing to put themselves out and help each other for free - possibly one of the key ingredients that makes OOF what it is.
Insurance is an absolute must, esp if you are charging. And this is where I think your overheads may rocket, so you'll need to consider your rates. Additionally, I think the demand will be strong, so you need to consider family etc.
Good post there Jaime...
Just to clarify a couple of points though.
You say you can see both sides. My proposal is to (naturally) get stuck in for free at the cambelt parties as we all do, and also any local members who want to look at a little problem etc are welcome to pop over at no cost. The (reasonable) charge (not garage rates) is applied when I have to travel somewhere and do a job that would otherwise cost a fortune at a dealer.
Therefore, I think this is a pretty good balance between having to charge something, AND contributing (as I always have) to the spirit of the forum, would you agree?
Admin Edit: Last paragraph removed
Sorry, just removed last para - I'm sure you can see why, if not, PM me, or even call (old fashioned technology ;D) :y
As said, I have no issue with it, I think it will add benefit to other members. Don't get yourself in same state as last time - that is NOT beneficial to anyone ;), and remember to leave plenty of time for family/friends :y
What I would hate to see is everyone using OOF purely as a business enabler - thats not what we're about.
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Hmmm, can see both sides here.
Personally, I see no issue. I offer low cost services here, though not seeking to make any profit (LOL, to break even would be nice ;D). Others are here as businesses to make a living - WIM and Dave DND are 2 that spring to mind. Others are making 'pocket money' by doing a bit of buying/stripping/selling. Thats fine, and with few exceptions, is an added benefit to OOF. As would your stuff be.
The flip side, obviously if everyone started charging garage rates to do jobs, then that 'spirit' of the forum would be lost. Its amazing that anonymous strangers here are so willing to put themselves out and help each other for free - possibly one of the key ingredients that makes OOF what it is.
Insurance is an absolute must, esp if you are charging. And this is where I think your overheads may rocket, so you'll need to consider your rates. Additionally, I think the demand will be strong, so you need to consider family etc.
Good post there Jaime...
Just to clarify a couple of points though.
You say you can see both sides. My proposal is to (naturally) get stuck in for free at the cambelt parties as we all do, and also any local members who want to look at a little problem etc are welcome to pop over at no cost. The (reasonable) charge (not garage rates) is applied when I have to travel somewhere and do a job that would otherwise cost a fortune at a dealer.
Therefore, I think this is a pretty good balance between having to charge something, AND contributing (as I always have) to the spirit of the forum, would you agree?
Admin Edit: Last paragraph removed
Sorry, just removed last para - I'm sure you can see why, if not, PM me, or even call (old fashioned technology ;D) :y
As said, I have no issue with it, I think it will add benefit to other members. Don't get yourself in same state as last time - that is NOT beneficial to anyone ;), and remember to leave plenty of time for family/friends :y
What I would hate to see is everyone using OOF purely as a business enabler - thats not what we're about.
Yep, having read a second time I was going to amend it myself, you beat me to it ;D
I am pretty sure that nobody is using the site JUST to generate business are they?
Many of the people who do offer services or goods, are for the most regular posters and help out people in the threads, (I know I do) which I think is fair enough.
Oh, and I would happily give you a call, if I hadn't lost your numbers ;D
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Oh, and I would happily give you a call, if I hadn't lost your numbers ;D
You silly arse, lost it again :o - kids today :P
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Oh, and I would happily give you a call, if I hadn't lost your numbers ;D
You silly arse, lost it again :o - kids today :P
If JamesV6CDX doesn't stop distributing his belongings everywhere he visits this Mobile Mechanics lark could get expensive! ;)
Kevin
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Oh, and I would happily give you a call, if I hadn't lost your numbers ;D
You silly arse, lost it again :o - kids today :P
If JamesV6CDX doesn't stop distributing his belongings everywhere he visits this Mobile Mechanics lark could get expensive! ;)
Kevin
I've pretty much written off my Halfrauds kit - thanks to Mr Brown, the cost of picking it up is more than buying a new one, almost ;D
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Oh, and I would happily give you a call, if I hadn't lost your numbers ;D
You silly arse, lost it again :o - kids today :P
If JamesV6CDX doesn't stop distributing his belongings everywhere he visits this Mobile Mechanics lark could get expensive! ;)
Kevin
I've pretty much written off my Halfrauds kit - thanks to Mr Brown, the cost of picking it up is more than buying a new one, almost ;D
£100 at moment. New price, when offer ends is £199 :o
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V tempted to go and get another, actually...
Kev - if I were to arrange a courier, would you be so kind to label it up for me?
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Oh, and I would happily give you a call, if I hadn't lost your numbers ;D
You silly arse, lost it again :o - kids today :P
If JamesV6CDX doesn't stop distributing his belongings everywhere he visits this Mobile Mechanics lark could get expensive! ;)
Kevin
I've pretty much written off my Halfrauds kit - thanks to Mr Brown, the cost of picking it up is more than buying a new one, almost ;D
£100 at moment. New price, when offer ends is £199 :o
They regularly have the offer on, don't they?
I think £100 represents good value - but if it was £200 I think I'd rather buy the tools individually..
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Oh, and I would happily give you a call, if I hadn't lost your numbers ;D
You silly arse, lost it again :o - kids today :P
If JamesV6CDX doesn't stop distributing his belongings everywhere he visits this Mobile Mechanics lark could get expensive! ;)
Kevin
I've pretty much written off my Halfrauds kit - thanks to Mr Brown, the cost of picking it up is more than buying a new one, almost ;D
£100 at moment. New price, when offer ends is £199 :o
They regularly have the offer on, don't they?
I think £100 represents good value - but if it was £200 I think I'd rather buy the tools individually..
Las t one I bought was £94 with a Halfords trade card. No idea if it was that cheap as they were on £100 offer anyway, or if that is std TC price...
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I would use you if i could and be quite happy to pay for the service of someone who knows Omegas ;)
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V tempted to go and get another, actually...
Kev - if I were to arrange a courier, would you be so kind to label it up for me?
PM Sent.
Kevin
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I would use you as well James - fancy doing a rad and a coolant transfer pipe on a K series when the bloody rad turns up :P
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V tempted to go and get another, actually...
Kev - if I were to arrange a courier, would you be so kind to label it up for me?
PM Sent.
Kevin
i knew i was ment to do something yesterday.....James i think you might find that i still have it. with being so ill yesterday i completely forgot to give it to Kev. Its was a v long day.
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V tempted to go and get another, actually...
Kev - if I were to arrange a courier, would you be so kind to label it up for me?
PM Sent.
Kevin
i knew i was ment to do something yesterday.....James i think you might find that i still have it. with being so ill yesterday i completely forgot to give it to Kev. Its was a v long day.
No wories at all..... there is no urgency.
Get yourself better...
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Oh, and I would happily give you a call, if I hadn't lost your numbers ;D
You silly arse, lost it again :o - kids today :P
If JamesV6CDX doesn't stop distributing his belongings everywhere he visits this Mobile Mechanics lark could get expensive! ;)
Kevin
I've pretty much written off my Halfrauds kit - thanks to Mr Brown, the cost of picking it up is more than buying a new one, almost ;D
£100 at moment. New price, when offer ends is £199 :o
They regularly have the offer on, don't they?
I think £100 represents good value - but if it was £200 I think I'd rather buy the tools individually..
Las t one I bought was £94 with a Halfords trade card. No idea if it was that cheap as they were on £100 offer anyway, or if that is std TC price...
mine was that cost with halfords trade card but they said no discount to kit with tc, just standard offer price.
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Well James did the cambelt, waterpump and coolant on my car last year and we discussed the price before the job so there was no confusion. All I can say is that I would recommend James to anyone who needs work doing on their Omega, I am certainly very happy with the work he did and the advice he offered! :y
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Go for it, charge away, I think many people would like to pay a 'competant amateur' who they trust to do a job properly than a garage.
One other thing to bear in mind is anything you earn over expenses is taxable income and *should* be declared.
I put a makeshift title in quotes, I know you are better than that but a real title fails me :-?
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TBH I would EXPECT to compensate you for your services ( as a mechanic ::) ). Not at all against the spirit of the forum IMO
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yeah i would prefer getting an OOF'r to do the jobs on the mig i cant do ie Timing belt
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Yes I think charging for a good job is definately OK. Its a shame you couldn'nt "borrow" one of the Tech 2's, that would make you indespensible. Just think a Vaux mechanic who actually knows what to do with a Tech 2 and how to interpret the readings!. Serriously, when my facelift developed its non starting fault, no mobile mechanics had a real tech 2, and the only answer was to get it towed (£40) to the Vaux agent, who pronounced the ECU dead and wanted £650 to replace. OK, I managed to get one from a scrappy for £45, but still had to pay £200 to get it fitted and a key coded. There must be hundreds of people in most towns running Vauxhalls, fed up of getting ripped off by dealers. Could develop into a substantial business me thinks.
Ken
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Potentially you have a good business idea James but you need to be structured if you are going to do this profitably, and considering this will be your main source of income you need to do it right.
I can guide you through the basic business plan and maybe give other advice as and when required. I will say one thing for certain, £15 p/h is too low, you are underestimating your overheads or making your margin far too small.
With regards to affecting the spirit of the forum? Not a chance.
You are one of the most popular members of this place and that will not change.
With regards to advertising yourself? Just advertise your services in a similar manner to the way Jaime does on his signature. You are a very established contributor, this has just developed into a opportunity for you from that. :)
Oh and I know someone who would like an LPG conversion on a Lexus GS300 (not me) if you fancy a non Omega job. At least the engine points the right way ;)
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Hi Guys,
As some of you will be aware I have very recently started offering a limited mobile mechanics service for the common Omega servicing requirements, cam belt changes and such.
I used to travel all over the country doing jobs for free – but unfortunately due to becoming completely inundated back then and not being able to keep up with it, I just had to draw the line to avoid disappointment.
Having thought about it, I now apply a (very, very reasonable) charge for the time spent assisting members with cars.
(With the exception of arranged OOF cam belt parties, where I still provide the service for free). The work I provide is meticulous and done with great care and precision and I am confident that the rates I charge are less than 50% of what a garage would.
I have however heard a whisper, that it is felt by some that applying this small charge for fixing cars may not be in the spirit of the forum?
I am certainly not here to “compete” for business. I don’t actually see it as a business; it’s more of a hobby (passion) that also earns a few beer tokens. I still actively encourage people to have a go themselves, or take up some local help if it's available.
So – I’d like to discuss (sensibly please!). Am I being fair in charging a very reasonable amount for jobs dealers charge the earth for? Is this a service that would be valued, or are there any reasons I should or should not continue?
The last thing I want to do is upset and members and distance myself from the group, so I’d appreciate views and I'll act accordingly.
Cheers
James
Well James id personally say your doing members a great service by helping them and its only common sense that you would need to recoup some of the costs...i know when ive enquired regards work that needed too be done a while back i was truly amazed at how little you was offering too do the work for.
So in a nutshell id say instead of doubting yourself you should be getting a pat on the back for being so helpful (Hope that doesn't sound condescending)...especially for people like me with zero ability/knowledge its guys like you and the other extremely helpful and kind members that allow me too actually keep my car on the road. :y
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At the end of the day even if you didn't charge I would ensure you had some beer for your trouble or at least some cash to cover the go juice.
I do some PC repair work for friends and family neighbours etc and never ask for payment (unless I have to purchase parts for the repair) but they always ensure I go away with something for my trouble.
But the requests are not that often (well apart from my dad who kills PC's for a hobby i think).
If I started getting unidated with requests then I would look at charging even if it was a basic rate to cover travel costs/time.
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Well James, it seems you have a pretty unanimous response here and well deserved too.
I had James here at my house yesterday to d the cam-belt and the list of jobs we he achieved on a sweltering hot afternoon was fantastic.
I have now got complete faith in the engine under my bonnet. I wouldn't have had that had I taken it to the stealers + I got to take out my OCD on my breather system with 4 cans of carb cleaner whilst he was at it.
That level of faith is priceless and although James' reasonable rates come nowhere near what a dealer would have charged I am more comfortable with the fact he did it than an unknown.
All I can say is THANK YOU JAMES. IMO what you're doing is utterly reasonable and is precisely in the spirit of the forum; I think laidback puts it most eloquently.
PS: Write yourself a little checklist of tools you bring, just to make sure you take them all with you ;D Remember to PM me with your address and I'll pop it in the post straight away mate.
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You've got my vote James. :y :y To have someone work on my car, who comes so highly recommended by so many forum members, is something special indeed.
And to have it done at a reduced rate - well -thats just a bonus for us .
Keep up the good work James - and CHARGE AWAY! :y :y
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to be honest with you james i don,t know you personally
but from what been said on this forum about your work
i would pay you beer tokens or whatever because i,m a lazy bugger ;D
keep it going m8 :y :y
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Got to have another say ....... ::)
Bottom line is, and I think I speak for all of us here, we would rather have the work done by someone we trust and we KNOW is familiar with the miggy and its oddities.
As has been said before so many times -- paying isn't the issue.
Go for it James :y
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I've met James and have chatted a few times.
He is also willing to learn as well and expand his knowleage.
I would trust him and I have offered him a hand if he ever requires it.
His worry is something I am comfortable playing with.
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james offered me help and assistance earlier this month when the miggy died and i was grateful for that as this guy has only ever met me once you do what your happy with mate.... :y :y
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I can't see a problem with your idea James. I would much sooner have my car repaired by someone like you who has a passion and pride for what they do than put it into a garage where any old monkey can let there spanners loose on it. You also seem to know the Miggy engine very well which is a plus. Your proposed labour charges are more than reasonable. Also the fact that at meets you offer your help FOC shows you are in the spirit of the the forum. Go for it James and good luck :y :y :y
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Well James, I have read this right through, and I think you have your answer... go for it, why should you not charge for work done. If I was nearer I would be talking cambelts. You have to earn a living after all. :y :y :y
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James, Wether you charge per job or per hour i think the consensus of opinion on here is that we all trust you to do/assist the work needed on our Omega's. Your knowledge and help is priceless and it's only right that suitably rewarded. :y
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I don't know u James, but obviously have read your posts and other members posts to and about you. If I asked you to work on my car(s) I would expect to pay u a suitable agreed fee plus expenses. This is not against the spirit of OOF.
Mark breaks cars and supplys parts for a (cheap) price - he has also sent me some parts FOC - this is also in the spirit of OOF.
In short go for it but make sure you are adequately recompensed for your efforts and skill :y :y
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It is my opinion James that you do not charge enough! You are a dedicated, metaculious, and honest mechanic.
To find such an honest willing, and fine mechanic is a rarity. And you are a credit to OOF members and to our ever gratful Omegas :) :) :)
Keep it up matey! :y
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You could always them to sign a disclaimer, James.
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Disclaimers dont work anymore when it comes to corporate responibility - dont forget the new laws that came into effect in April :(
PM sent by the way :y
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PM recieved mate.
Agree with what's said re. disclaimers, but in reality -
If someone had hypothetically signed something saying "I agree not to hold you responsible if my car blows up, even if it was your fault" - and you could show in court that they put their signature to that - I doubt their case would be viewed very favourably!
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PM recieved mate.
Agree with what's said re. disclaimers, but in reality -
If someone had hypothetically signed something saying "I agree not to hold you responsible if my car blows up, even if it was your fault" - and you could show in court that they put their signature to that - I doubt their case would be viewed very favourably!
There was a recent change of law about 'unfair' contracts, so such cases may well be viewed in their favour...
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Ah... ok.
Not that I would write such a silly disclaimer - it would of course, be a Fair one, with obvious neglect covered by insurance :D
Btw, PM pending, about something totally unrelated...