4/29/2016

Options For Right Hand Drive Conversions

By Henry Anderson


Many car collectors and enthusiasts often decide to purchase and import an American manufactured vehicle. Whilst it is not compulsory to perform right hand drive conversions, many owners will choose this option particularly in Great Britain and Australia. Obviously the process is not just a matter of moving the steering wheel and pedals and there are many things to be aware of when opting for this modification.

There are two ways to convert your car to right hand drive. Entrust your vehicle to a professional conversion company or for the home mechanic the parts can be obtained in kit form for your particular model; these can cost as little as a few thousand dollars rising according to the number of parts needed. There are various websites and motor factors that can source these kits.

Handing your car over to the professionals is usually the way to go. The work will be covered by warranties and all paperwork to show the modifications pass the safety standards will be provided. Having this work done by a specialist will often be costly but the peace of mind that the work has been done properly and the expert attention is worth the expense.

For the home mechanic who opts to purchase a kit and do the conversion themselves or in some cases as part of a club there are a few things to bear in mind. Many of the kits are very basic and when the job is completed, although fully functional can be quite crude and not pleasing to the eye with levers, chains and various other components visible. However the satisfaction of knowing you did the work yourself can be very rewarding.

The more common vehicles will have kits readily available. However, also bear in mind that you may also need to purchase tools and other items to complete the work in your home garage. When the conversion is completed you will need to have all works inspected to ensure that in conforms to the standards of road-worthiness in your country.

Both the DIY option and using a professional company can be complicated and lengthy processes. It is not just things such as basic controls, but also wiring, heating, lighting and other systems to be tailored or relocated. If in the future you wish to exhibit your car in shows, check to make sure the club hosting the show does not penalize your vehicle for being non-standard.

When insuring a modified vehicle in most cases the premium will be higher. If you have had the work done by a specialist company the repairs or servicing may have to be done by them to keep the warranty valid. Resale value can also be affected so it is worth doing some research before commencing.

Should you decide to buy a vehicle that has had the work already done it is useful to take a qualified mechanic with you to inspect the work. Most mechanics and clubs will provide this service for you. Also check all paperwork to ensure that it is in order.




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