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A & R Auto Salvage: Quality Used Auto Parts in Osage City, Kansas

Establishment and History

A & R Auto Salvage, located at 510 N Martin St, Osage City, KS 66523, has been a trusted source for used auto parts since its establishment in 2000. For over 20 years, this family-owned salvage yard in Kansas has specialized in providing quality used and salvaged automotive parts for vehicles ranging from the late 1980s to present models.

The business has established itself as a reliable fixture in Osage City’s automotive community, offering both parts and vehicle purchasing services. Their long-standing presence in the area speaks to their commitment to customer satisfaction and quality service in the used auto parts industry.

While Osage City’s industrial roots date back to its founding in 1869, A & R Auto Salvage represents the modern evolution of vehicle recycling and parts reuse, providing an essential service to car owners throughout the region who need affordable repair options.

Services Provided

A & R Auto Salvage operates as a full-service junkyard with a comprehensive range of automotive solutions. Their business model focuses on providing quality used parts while helping customers save money on vehicle repairs.

Full-Service Approach

Unlike self-service junkyards where customers must locate and remove parts themselves, A & R Auto Salvage takes a full-service approach. Their experienced staff handles the location and removal of parts, saving customers time and effort. This service model is particularly beneficial for those who lack specialized tools or experience in parts removal.

Vehicle Purchasing

A & R Auto Salvage actively buys all makes and models of vehicles. Whether you have a damaged, non-running, or simply unwanted car, they offer competitive cash offers based on current scrap metal values and the usability of the vehicle’s parts. This service provides an environmentally responsible disposal option for end-of-life vehicles while putting money back in the owner’s pocket.

Parts Guarantees

One distinguishing feature of A & R Auto Salvage is their commitment to quality. All parts sold come with a guarantee, giving customers peace of mind when purchasing used automotive parts. While specific warranty details aren’t published, this guarantee demonstrates their confidence in the parts they sell.

Vehicle Types

A & R Auto Salvage specializes in used/salvage vehicles and parts, handling all makes and models from domestic to foreign manufacturers. Their inventory primarily consists of vehicles from the late 1980s to present, offering a wide range of parts for various automotive needs.

The yard’s inventory likely includes:

• Passenger cars (sedans, coupes, hatchbacks)
• Trucks (light and medium-duty)
• SUVs (compact to full-size)
• Vans (minivans and full-size)

Their approach focuses on providing quality used parts rather than emphasizing newer models, making them an excellent resource for those seeking affordable parts for slightly older vehicles. The salvage yard’s inventory regularly changes as new vehicles are acquired and parts are sold, so calling ahead for specific needs is recommended.

If you’re looking for specific parts like a used car hood or side mirrors, checking their current inventory is advisable.

Popular Auto Parts

Salvage yards like A & R Auto Salvage typically stock major mechanical and structural parts that offer significant cost savings compared to new parts. These commonly purchased items represent the best value for customers looking to save on repairs.

Engines and Transmissions

These major parts are among the most sought-after items at salvage yards due to their high replacement costs:

• Used engines: Complete engines for direct swap or rebuilding
• Remanufactured engines/transmissions: Rebuilt to OEM specifications
• Transfer cases: Essential parts for 4WD/AWD systems

An used engine block from a salvage yard can save you thousands compared to new, making it an excellent option for vehicles with catastrophic engine failure.

Body and Structural Parts

Collision repair parts are in high demand due to their expense at dealerships:

• Body panels (fenders, doors, hoods): Perfect for collision repairs
• Bumpers: Commonly damaged in minor accidents
• Glass/windows: Windshields, side windows, and rear glass

Suspension and Steering

These parts affect handling and ride quality:

• Suspension parts: Including struts, control arms, and knuckles
• Steering gears/rack and pinions: Critical for directional control

Getting OEM used suspension parts from a salvage yard ensures proper fit while saving money compared to aftermarket alternatives.

Interior and Electrical

These parts are often difficult or expensive to source new:

• Seats: Complete seat assemblies or individual parts
• Electrical control modules (ECMs): Engine and transmission computers
• Starters/alternators: Essential for engine starting and electrical systems

Wheels and Tires

Many customers visit salvage yards for replacement wheels:

• Wheels: Factory alloy or steel wheels
• Tires: Sometimes available with significant tread remaining

A & R Auto Salvage likely prioritizes these parts due to their high demand and substantial cost savings compared to new parts.

Service Area

A & R Auto Salvage serves customers from throughout Osage County and surrounding areas. Their central Kansas location makes them accessible to residents of numerous communities seeking quality used auto parts.

Local Communities Served

Osage County towns within easy driving distance include:
– Carbondale
– Lyndon
– Overbrook
– Burlingame
– Vassar
– Scranton
– Melvern
– Quenemo

Regional Service Area

Customers also travel from larger cities in the region:
– Emporia
– Topeka
– Ottawa
– Lawrence
– Gardner
– Manhattan
– Olathe
– Junction City
– Lenexa

This extensive service area demonstrates the reputation A & R Auto Salvage has built as a reliable source for quality used parts. Many customers are willing to drive substantial distances to access their inventory and competitive pricing.

Interchange System

To help customers find compatible parts across different vehicles, A & R Auto Salvage likely utilizes standardized interchange systems and industry tools. These systems allow for accurate part matching even when the exact model is unavailable.

ARA Interchange Standards

1. Peer Interchange Program:
2. The Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) program allows recyclers to share interchangeability knowledge based on real-world experience
3. Enables A & R to provide compatibility information beyond standard manufacturer data
4. Standardized Part Numbers:
5. Industry-standard numbering systems for common parts
6. Simplifies part identification and compatibility verification
7. Recycled Parts Guide:
8. Defines what parts should be included with particular assemblies
9. Ensures consistent part descriptions and expectations

Inventory Management

A & R Auto Salvage likely employs modern inventory tools that:
– Track available parts with detailed specifications
– Assign interchange numbers to parts for cross-reference
– Maintain up-to-date availability information
– Link compatible parts across different vehicle makes and models

These systems help customers quickly determine if their needed part can be found on a different but compatible vehicle model, expanding available options and improving the chances of finding the right part.

Tools and Equipment for Parts Removal

Although A & R Auto Salvage operates as a full-service yard where staff typically pull parts for customers, understanding the tools needed for different parts helps customers appreciate the work involved in parts removal.

General Tools

For those instances where customers might need to assist or work with parts themselves, these basic tools are essential:

• Basic hand tools: Wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, sockets, and ratchets
• Power tools: Impact guns or cordless tools for stubborn fasteners
• Penetrating oil: Essential for loosening rusted parts
• Safety gear: Always wear gloves and safety glasses when handling parts

Specialized Requirements

Different vehicle systems require specific approaches:

• Engine/Transmission Parts: These heavy parts require substantial support and careful disconnection of multiple systems
• Electrical/Interior Parts: Delicate work requiring proper documentation of wire locations
• Suspension/Steering parts: Often need significant force to break rust bonds
• Exterior/Body Panels: May require precise removal to avoid damage

Since A & R Auto Salvage provides full service, customers benefit from the expertise and specialized tools the staff brings to parts removal, ensuring parts are extracted properly without additional damage.

Cash for Junk Cars

A & R Auto Salvage actively engages in used/salvage vehicle buying as part of their business model. This service provides a valuable option for those looking to dispose of unwanted vehicles while recouping some value.

Vehicle Purchase Program

While specific details aren’t explicitly stated in available sources, A & R’s website confirms they buy used and salvage vehicles. Based on industry standards, this typically involves:

1. Vehicle Assessment: Evaluating the vehicle’s condition, parts value, and metal content
2. Cash Offers: Providing payment on the spot for accepted vehicles
3. Free Towing: Often included for non-running vehicles within their service area

Condition Acceptance

As a salvage operation, A & R likely accepts vehicles in various conditions, including:
– Non-running cars and trucks
– Accident-damaged vehicles
– Mechanically failed vehicles
– Old or unwanted automobiles

Their focus on salvageable parts means even severely damaged vehicles may have value. This provides an environmentally responsible disposal option that keeps usable parts in circulation while ensuring proper recycling of remaining materials.

For those looking to get cash for a junk car, contacting A & R directly for their current purchasing policies and price offers is recommended.

Hours of Operation

A & R Auto Salvage maintains consistent business hours to serve customers throughout the workweek:

• Monday through Friday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Weekend hours: Closed Saturday and Sunday

These hours make the salvage yard accessible during standard business days, allowing customers to visit after work hours until 6 PM. While weekend availability isn’t offered according to their official listings, there is a conflicting report on Yellow Pages suggesting possible Saturday morning hours (9:00 AM to 12:00 PM).

For the most accurate information, especially for weekend visits, contacting the business directly at (785) 528–9130 is recommended to verify current hours before making the trip.

Other Junkyards in Osage City

The only other significant salvage operation near A & R Auto Salvage is Osage Salvage & Recycling, located at 600 N Martin St, directly adjacent to A & R’s facility.

Comparing Local Options

While both businesses operate on the same street, they serve different but complementary needs in the vehicle lifecycle. A & R focuses specifically on auto parts and salvage, while Osage Salvage & Recycling concentrates on metal recycling services.

This proximity might actually benefit customers who can access both specialized automotive parts from A & R and general metal recycling services from Osage Salvage & Recycling without traveling to different locations.

Common Questions About Auto Salvage Yards

When visiting A & R Auto Salvage or similar facilities, customers often have questions about how the process works. Here are answers to the most common inquiries:

1. How do salvage yards acquire and process vehicles?

Salvage yards purchase vehicles from various sources including auctions, insurance companies, and private sellers. Once acquired, vehicles are inventoried, drained of fluids, and dismantled. Usable parts are tested, cataloged and stored for resale, while remaining materials are properly recycled.

2. What types of parts are typically available?

Common inventory includes engines, transmissions, alternators, starters, body panels, interior parts, and tires. A & R Auto Salvage likely maintains an extensive selection of mechanical and body parts from various makes and models, with particular strength in parts from vehicles manufactured since the late 1980s.

3. Do salvage yards pull parts for customers?

A & R operates as a full-service yard, meaning their staff locates and removes parts for customers. This contrasts with “U-Pull-It” operations where customers remove parts themselves. The full-service approach ensures proper removal and handling of components.

4. What warranties are offered on used parts?

Most salvage yards provide limited warranties on major parts. While A & R’s specific warranty terms aren’t detailed in available sources, they do mention that “all parts are guaranteed,” suggesting some form of warranty protection. For expensive parts like engines and transmissions, inquiring about specific warranty terms is advisable.

5. How can customers locate specific parts?

Modern salvage yards maintain inventory systems to track available parts. Customers can typically call with specific requests, providing their vehicle information and the needed component. A & R’s staff can then check availability or suggest compatible alternatives through interchange systems.

6. Are salvage yards environmentally responsible?

Reputable salvage operations like A & R follow environmental regulations regarding fluid disposal, recycling, and hazardous material handling. Vehicle recycling operations actually help the environment by keeping usable parts in circulation and ensuring proper recycling of metals and other materials.

7. Can they buy my junk car?

Yes, A & R Auto Salvage explicitly states they buy “all makes and models” of used and salvage vehicles. This service provides a convenient disposal option for unwanted vehicles while potentially putting cash in the seller’s pocket. For most vehicles, the process includes a quick evaluation and same-day payment.

A & R Auto Salvage stands as a valuable resource for automotive parts and vehicle recycling in Osage City, Kansas. With over two decades of experience since their establishment in 2000, they’ve built a reputation for providing quality used auto parts with guarantees and professional service.

Their full-service approach differentiates them from self-service salvage yards, offering customers the benefit of expert parts location and removal. Combined with their vehicle purchasing program, A & R provides comprehensive solutions for those looking to repair vehicles affordably or dispose of unwanted cars responsibly.

For residents of Osage City and surrounding communities throughout central Kansas, A & R Auto Salvage represents an important automotive resource that helps keep vehicles on the road at reasonable costs while promoting the environmental benefits of parts reuse and proper vehicle recycling.

Whether you’re seeking a specific component for a repair project or looking to sell a junk vehicle, their knowledgeable staff and extensive inventory make them a go-to destination for automotive needs in the region.

A & R Auto Salvage at 510 N Martin St, Osage City, KS 66523 is your one-stop shop when it comes to all things automotive. The business has been serving the local community since 1980, providing a wide selection of car parts, junkyard services, scrap metal deals and used auto parts. Their expansive inventory ensures that customers can find whatever they need for their vehicle's maintenance or repair needs.

The knowledgeable staff can help you locate the perfect part for your vehicle from the extensive collection of used auto parts. Besides offering new and used parts, A & R Auto Salvage also provides professional salvage yard services. They specialize in removing unwanted vehicles from properties and offer cash for cars as well as competitive prices on scrap metal and other materials.

Automotive experts recommend A & R Auto Salvage for their quality service and affordable prices. Whether you're looking for car parts, junkyard services or scrap metal deals, A & R Auto Salvage has you covered. Visit the facility today to browse the vast selection of available auto parts or speak with a member of the knowledgeable staff to get expert advice on what part or service is right for your needs.

Real customer testimonials

Eric Loquist

Rated this company 5/5

A & R Auto is a great place. Laird is a great guy and knows what all he had and what will work. If he doesn't he will look it up for ya.

Kevin Beadleston

Rated this company 5/5

A & R in Osage city is the best place to get a used part and information on your vehicle. For decades this recycler have been there.He is the bomb & cheep prices 10 stars raring.

Paul Ransdell

Rated this company 5/5

Very good nice people and I'll go back down there again very good experience

Vicky Hokanson

Rated this company 5/5

Anytime I call them up and ask questions, they give great advice. Great customer service!

Jimmy Baker

Rated this company 5/5

Friendly and very helpful when trying to find parts