Toronado.org

Hello and Happy New Year from one of the few association members who does not currently own a Toronado. I am a HUGE fan of these cars (1966-70). I had a '67 in high school/college and loved it. And still actively looking to buy another first generation 'Toro. But from what I've seen on line, it seems these cars should be in the hands of experienced mechanics...which I am certainly NOT...to keep running and trouble-shoot if issues develop on the road. Are most of you owners experienced mechanics? Should a non-mechanic have any business with one of these cars?
Any advice much appreciated!! Greg

Aside from some of the more exotic options, there really shouldnt be much that could be out of the ordinary... There arwnt computers controlling everything... Just an engine, transmission, and a few nice extras like radiators, brakes and the like. It should be easier to keep going, theyve been on the road 40 years, and with some maintanence they'll go that again.

That said, mechanical knowledge is always good, but thats true of any car.

We are clueless non-mechanics and have - with the constant help of our friends in the TOA - restored our 66 and kept it runnning for 11 years now! One of the benefits of your membership is access to our tech advisors who are without a doubt some of the best Toro experts around.
They've seen and dealt with it all...,..

Try to find one in the best shape you can and have it inspected before buying - especially the hidden areas like the frame.

jane

Thanks Twilight and Jane! Good to know. Love the association and will continue to keep membership active. There are 3 Toros for sale online right now that look so tempting, but they are just too far away. Holding out for one close enough to look personally and drive.
Appreciate the feedback!! G

Holding out for the right car is very important. If you are looking for a low-maintenance car then you need to shoot for the best you can find up front.

That said, as was noted above, these cars are actually remarkably simple to work on. Everything is readily accessible, most issues are simple wrenching tasks and most of those that are not (brake work and the like) can either be handled by any competent mechanic or, if you choose, by yourself if you get some good books such as the Olds Tech manuals which are still available. Again, it is all up to you.

Parts seem to be widely available for most items, the few that are not will require that you have a good classic car boneyard available or a donor parts car (I am heading toward the point where I buy such a car soon).

The upshot of all this is that you can pretty much choose whatever level of involvement you want. It is entirely feasible, albeit more expensive, to have a good mechanic maintain the car for you, or you can do it all yourself, or anything in between. I can suggest that the more you do yourself the better you are likely to feel about it. One of the major allures for me is that I have the pride of making my car what it becomes, and nothing can touch that feeling within this context.