Down Under

["Simon Kaye" <skaye@domain.elided>]

Dear Peter,
Be careful if shipping gear in from the UK. Once its value exceeds $200 (I think, though possibly $250), Australia Post is obliged to levy a hefty import tax. The exhaust system, therefore, would attract extra cost if bought from overseas.
(The Midas offer sounds good; interested to hear from other Australians on this subject.)
I bought replacement carpets from Rimmers and was happy with the product and ease of fitting. Only hassle was the hand-brake/rear ashtray console.
My seats too are shedding themselves though I'm tempted to go for specialist replacements - due mainly to an occasional bad back - rather than re-working the originals.   
Regarding clubs, suggest you consult magazines, such as Unique Cars, for club listings.
Enjoy the car.
Simon Kaye.
'75 Mk II auto Stag.
Sandringham, Melbourne, Australia.

Date: Wed, 05 May 1999 13:23:23 GMT
From: "Hi From Malaswa!" <malaswa@domain.elided>
Subject: Down Under Stag Questions (and I don't mean the chassis!)

G'day from down under!
Time for some Australian content!

This mail is largely aimed at any Australian Stag Owners........ hopefully
Sydney, where I live..
But I suppose everyone else will read it, as I do all the others, (with
amazement at the dedication
and knowledge of you guys).... keep up the good work!!  :-)
My name is Peter Disney, proud first time owner of a gorgeous white 77 Stag
- - hmmm 3 weeks now.... and have been on this list for the same amount of
time, recommended by the previous owner...  (I was going to include a boast
picture, but maybe it isn't cool to send 200k to a mailing list!!)
Apologies for any apparent stupidness, as I am definitely new to the Stag
game, but keen!

Ok, Ok, Down to Business:

My Stag is in great nick, as it has been kept well,  mechanically, and in
body (and spirit!)  and have just had it looked over byTriumph Tune in
Sydney -  after a good tune, and a few minor repairs, has virtually a clean
bill of health...
I dont have a lot more to spend, thank god, until it will be in Mickey
Mouse condition (I suppose I had to say that, being a Disney!!)
But I do have some quotes on some stuff to be done, and I am amazed at the
price ranges, particularly
for exhaust systems, so I would like to know of any other local
experiences...

Firstly, complete exhaust systems.
I have been recommeded basically to go with Stainless Steel, if I can
afford, so I have had a few quotes, and many opinions from 'everything will
have to be hand made, and will be difficult', to 'its no problem, we can
get the parts, easy'....
I have had quotes ranging from $800, to $1400 - the $800 is from a Midas
Exhaust, and the guy says he has done many Stags before..... but most
quotes are up around the $1400..... what gives?? He says the others are
over charging, as it's not a major job.....
I have even thought of importing a full system from Rimmers, as they have
it at 170 pounds, apparently.... is that such a silly idea??
What experiences have others here had??

Secondly trim -
I have had quotes for new carpets, at around $350 fitted... doesnt sound
too bad - any experience here??
And Seats re-padded - I have had a  few quotes, for about $200 each seat...
the two front are leaking
deteriorated foam badly, so that's going to have to be done....
Sydney motor trimmers look fairly big, and they quoted $750 for the carpets
and seats, so unless any advice to the contrary???

Any advice on the centre console wood trim (Auto)?? Best place to get a
newy???

I live at Coogee, and would also welcome some recommendations for a panel
beater in the general vicinity, as I need a tiny bit of rust work done.....
but after the recent hail storm, that may be a while!!
Also, is there a Sydney based Stag Owners Club? I can only find an internet
reference to the Triumph Club - is there a specific Stag club?? Also what
experience??

My goodness.. did I really ask all those questions??!

Any or all advice appreciated!!

Over to the boffins!   8-d:-)

Thanks
Peter Disney
Coogee, Sydney, Australia (God's own Country)
And Proud new Stag Owner.... :-)