in fact, i'm confident i've never heard of it anywhere else either, ever!
I have opended this thread, for you the CAF members to air your thoughts and comments, to the idea of a Forum Workshop.
Myself, Kev, and other vital members that can make their interest known if they wish too, have losely discussed the notion of a fully equipped workshop, likely including ramp, and/or inspection pit, tools, air, power, electric and lighting as usual, to be used by the Classic Alfa Forum members primarily, and for any of their personally owned vehicles, not just a classic or Alfa branded car, although clearly that's where we'd like to prioritise.
It would be available to book the use of, right here on the forum, on a day to day rental basis, just to help with the running costs, a kind of renta'ramp arrangement, but with a variety of differences.
Not only could a member book the workshop for his own use for servicing or mechanical repair etc, but some of the key people involved with the project will also make their time available by pre-arrangement to carry out repairs or work for you.
That could be anything from a cambelt service to a carb set up, engine removal to body repairs. Essentially, given time and development, the idea would be to potentially offer the whole range of services, and maybe given the right premises, take on some longer term projects, such as race car builds and in depth restoration.
Who knows where or how far it may lead, but one things for sure, the romance of the idea is certainly very very appealing, and those people that have already been involved in the "throwing around" of ideas to date, are certainly keen to take it further than just a Mills and Boon love affair with the whole plan.
Now from small acorns and all that, i'm afraid we can't promise to have a CAF service centre in every city centre, but what we have discussed so far would likely mean a serious look for a property in or around the lincolnshire sort of area, and for good reason. Kev and I are around that area, and available for a variety of work service offerings, and with the car trailer transporting I have been doing for years, distance to and from a workshop site even with a basket case is no more than a logistical exercise. But potentially the biggest draw would be the lent expertise of none other than Tom, BLS Automotive.
Tom is always on hand for his incredible advice right now, and always has been of course, but if the workshop thing were to become a reality, particularly the race car and classic maintenance stuff, we would actively seek to have him more involved in the projects he would love to be a part of.
I think that's the best way i can diplomatically speak on other peoples behalf, but if i'm wrong on any count, i'm sure i will be corrected.
So a quick recap, Classic Alfa Forum would administer the booking of use of a cheap, fully equipped rentable workshop, on a day to day basis, and priority (exclusivity initially), given to active CAF members.
Certain members have agreed to either staff or be usable, for the purpose of car transport, mechanical repairs and services, refurb and restoration, potentially engineering and body repairs etc
The bigger picture if successful, would be to take on more long term projects, including larger more in depth restorations, race car preparation and maintenance.
My own little notions as i'm writing this, would also be the benefit of a property which could be used as a base for many things including CAF events and meetings. An active trading address for international parts sourcing, and recognition as a motor trade participant achieving better prices for servicing parts etc.
Who knows where it might lead?
Clubhouse! now there's a thought!
The floor is open guys n gells, please feel free to express all thoughts, idea and comments.
