Profile
Pickett Salvage LLC: Paton, Iowa’s Premier Auto Salvage Yard
Located at 70 C Ave in Paton, Iowa, Pickett Salvage LLC has been serving the local community’s auto salvage yard and recycling needs since 1995. This family-owned business offers a wide range of services from used auto parts to scrap metal recycling, making it a valuable resource for car owners throughout Greene County and surrounding areas.
Establishment and Ownership
Pickett Salvage LLC has deep roots in the Paton community, having been in operation for nearly three decades. Managed by Mickey Pickett, the business was established in 1995 and later incorporated as an LLC in 2006. Their commitment to quality service has earned them an A+ BBB rating with accreditation since March 2020.
As a small family-owned business, Pickett Salvage takes pride in their personalized approach to customer service, setting them apart from larger corporate salvage yards. Their focus on both automotive recycling and scrap metal processing has made them a trusted name in central Iowa.
Services Provided
Pickett Salvage LLC offers a comprehensive range of services designed to meet various automotive and recycling needs.
| Service Category | Offerings |
|---|---|
| Automotive Solutions | • Used Auto Parts Sales
• Auto Body Repair & Painting • Self-Service Parts Removal |
| Recycling Services | • Scrap Metal Processing
• Electronics Recycling • Ferrous & Non-Ferrous Materials |
| Vehicle Services | • Junk Car Purchasing
• Vehicle Towing (fees apply) |
Used Auto Parts
The yard operates on a self-service model for many of its auto parts, allowing customers to extract the parts they need from vehicles in the lot. This “U-Pull-It” approach helps keep costs down while giving customers the freedom to personally inspect and select their parts.
For those looking for specific used auto parts, Pickett Salvage offers a wide selection of quality used parts at affordable prices. While they don’t offer shipping services, their local focus ensures parts are available for pickup.
Auto Body Work
Beyond used parts, Pickett Salvage provides full-service auto body repair and custom painting services. This makes them a one-stop shop for those looking to both source parts and complete repairs.
Recycling and Scrap
As a steel recycler specializing in scrap waste materials, Pickett Salvage buys all types of scrap metals and junk vehicles. Their recycling operation accepts various materials including:
- Aluminum
- Brass
- Copper
- Steel
- Various scrap metals
They require all cans to be free of food and liquid debris when brought in for recycling.
Vehicle Types Available
Pickett Salvage LLC maintains a diverse inventory of salvage vehicles, though specific makes and models aren’t explicitly listed in available information. As a facility that handles both auto and truck parts, customers can expect to find a variety of vehicle types in their yard.
The business focuses on providing affordable parts and services from a mix of vehicles. Their inventory likely includes both cars and commercial vehicles, though the specific ratio of newer to older models isn’t publicly documented.
For the most accurate information about currently available vehicles, direct contact with the yard is recommended, as salvage inventories fluctuate based on recent acquisitions.
Popular Auto Parts
While Pickett Salvage doesn’t publicly list their most commonly purchased parts, typical salvage yard demand patterns suggest these are likely the most sought-after items:
1. Engines and Transmissions
These major powertrain parts represent some of the most valuable components in a salvage vehicle. Used engines and transmissions can offer significant savings over new replacements while still providing substantial remaining service life. Many customers look for used engine blocks to save on major repairs.
2. Suspension and Axle Components
Parts like struts, control arms, and axles are built to withstand stress and often retain their integrity even in salvaged vehicles. These suspension parts can provide excellent value when purchased used.
3. Body Panels and Exterior Components
Following collisions, many customers seek affordable replacements for doors, hoods, bumpers, and other body panels. Used car hoods and fenders can offer significant savings for cosmetic repairs.
4. Wheels and Tires
Quality used wheels with compatible lug patterns and tires with significant remaining tread life represent excellent value compared to new purchases.
5. Electrical and Mechanical Components
Items like alternators, starters, and fuel pumps are typically in high demand due to their relatively high cost when purchased new.
Hours of Operation
Planning your visit to Pickett Salvage? Here are their operating hours:
Weekday Hours
– Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Some sources note slightly extended hours (8:00 AM – 4:30 PM) for Monday to Thursday, but the most consistent closing time is 4:00 PM.
Weekend Hours
– Saturday: Open 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
– Sunday: Closed
Pickett Salvage operates on Saturdays but remains closed on Sundays, making it accessible for weekend warriors who need parts on Saturday.
Tools and Equipment for Auto Parts Removal
When visiting Pickett Salvage LLC to pull your own parts, it’s important to come prepared with the right tools. While the yard doesn’t specify exactly what tools they provide versus what customers should bring, these recommendations will help ensure a successful visit:
| Part Type | Recommended Tools |
|---|---|
| Engine & Transmission | • Torque wrench
• Socket sets (metric and SAE) • Fluid drain pans • Gaskets/sealants |
| Suspension/Brakes | • Ball joint separator
• Coil spring compressors • Tire levers |
| Electrical/Electronics | • Multimeter
• Wire cutters/strippers • Heat gun |
| Body Panels/Exterior | • Sheet metal shears/cutters
• Pry bars • Impact driver |
General Recommendations
- Safety Gear: Always bring gloves, goggles, and sturdy footwear for protection when handling sharp metal and potentially hazardous materials.
- Fluid Management: Bring containers for draining liquids like oil and coolant if required by the yard.
For specific requirements about tools provided or restricted at Pickett Salvage, contact them directly at (515) 846–6444. Most salvage yards restrict powered tools to prevent damage, so manual extraction tools are typically essential.
Cash for Junk Cars
Pickett Salvage LLC actively purchases junk vehicles from the public, making it a great option if you’re looking to get rid of an unwanted car or truck. Their vehicle purchasing program includes:
- Cash for cars: As a scrap metal recycler that buys “junk vehicles,” they typically provide compensation, usually in cash.
- Condition acceptance: They accept vehicles in any condition, including non-running cars, damaged vehicles, and older models.
Their hours for vehicle purchases are Tuesday through Saturday from 8 AM to 4 PM. In addition to complete vehicles, they accept aluminum, brass, copper, and various scrap metal parts.
For exact cash offers or specific vehicle acceptance criteria, it’s recommended to contact them directly at (515) 846–6444. If you’re wondering whether it’s time to sell your old vehicle, check out our guide on when to consider selling your junk car.
Notable Incident
Fatality Involving Excavator (2022)
A workplace accident occurred at Pickett’s Salvage LLC on April 8, 2022, when 57-year-old Kevin Cummings of Boone was struck by an excavator while walking behind it at the facility. The operator, who was turning and backing the machine, did not see Cummings. The incident was investigated by the Boone County Sheriff’s Office, with OSHA involvement.
Other Junkyards in Paton, Iowa
For those looking to compare options, several other salvage yards operate in the vicinity of Pickett Salvage LLC:
1. Archie Bell Salvage
Located within Greene County, Iowa, this general salvage yard offers similar services, though specific details about their specialization are limited in available information.
2. Billy’s Sales & Salvage
Also in the Paton area, the name suggests a focus on both purchasing and reselling vehicles/parts, though detailed information about their operations isn’t readily available.
3. Bell Salvage
Another nearby option for those seeking salvage services.
4. Richter and Sons Recycling
Mentioned prominently in local listings, this facility likely focuses on recycling scrap metal, similar to Pickett Salvage’s steel recycling operations.
Comparison with Pickett Salvage LLC
When comparing the local options:
- Pickett Salvage emphasizes steel recycling and offers a broader range of automotive parts
- Nearby yards like Richter and Sons Recycling may overlap in recycling services
- Billy’s Sales & Salvage and Bell Salvage appear to focus more on vehicle resale rather than specialized recycling
For those looking to explore salvage options throughout the state, check out Salvage Yards in Iowa for a comprehensive directory.
Common Questions About Pickett Salvage
1. What services does Pickett Salvage LLC offer?
Pickett Salvage LLC focuses on metal salvage, scrap metal recycling, and used auto parts sales. They serve as both buyers of scrap materials and sellers of reusable vehicle parts. Customers can arrange towing services for vehicles, though pricing may vary based on circumstances.
2. How does pricing work for scrap metal?
Scrap metal pricing at Pickett Salvage follows market rates and depends on material type (e.g., copper, aluminum, steel). While specific prices are not publicly listed, they accept non-ferrous metals and may offer competitive rates. Prices are subject to fluctuation based on commodity markets.
3. Are they accredited and reputable?
Pickett Salvage LLC is BBB Accredited (since March 2020) with an A+ rating, indicating compliance with BBB’s standards for trust and ethical business practices. Customer feedback is mixed: one review praised their quick, transparent process (visible scales during weigh-ins), while another criticized high towing costs ($175) during a car accident recovery.
4. Can I purchase used auto parts directly?
Yes, they sell used auto parts, allowing customers to browse or request specific parts. The facility’s layout reportedly streamlines the process, though details about self-service or staff-assisted searches are not explicitly stated.
5. Do they handle towing?
Pickett Salvage provides towing services, including emergency recoveries. However, costs may be higher in urgent situations (one customer reported a $175 charge during a rain-related accident). Pricing likely depends on distance and vehicle condition.
6. How do I contact them?
- Address: 70 C Ave, Paton, IA 50217
- Phone: (515) 846–6444
7. What safety standards do they follow?
Pickett Salvage undergoes OSHA inspections, as indicated by a recorded inspection at their facility. While no specific violations are detailed in the provided data, compliance with occupational safety regulations is part of their operational framework.
Entry Fee Information
Pickett Salvage LLC does not appear to charge an entrance fee based on available information. Their focus is on scrap metal pricing and material purchases rather than charging customers to enter the facility.
During special events, such as the Boone City clean-up event where they accepted appliances and scrap metal, items were accepted free of charge (excluding TVs, computers, and tires). This suggests their standard operating model does not typically include entry fees.
For real-time rates or event-specific details, contacting the yard directly at (515) 846–6444 is recommended.
Pickett Salvage LLC continues to serve the Paton community and surrounding areas with reliable recycling services and affordable used auto parts. Whether you’re looking to sell a junk car for cash or find that hard-to-locate part for your vehicle repair project, this family-owned business offers the personalized service that larger corporate yards often can’t match.
Pickett Salvage LLC, located at 70 C Ave in Paton, IA 50217, is one of the area’s leading car part and junk yard centers. They offer a wide selection of salvage vehicles and parts for customers to choose from. Pickett Salvage also provides scrap metal services for those looking to dispose of unwanted metals and materials. Customers can find everything from used engines to new tires here.
The staff at Pickett Salvage are highly experienced professionals who know exactly what it takes to get the job done right. Their knowledgeable team will assist you with locating the exact part or vehicle that you need in order to maintain your car or truck. They even provide free estimate services so that you can be sure to get the best deal on whatever you’re looking for.
In addition to their car part services, Pickett Salvage also offers an array of other services including recycling, auto body repair and painting, custom exhausts and more. The team has built a reputation in the area as being reliable mechanics who never cut corners on quality service. Whether you’re looking for used auto parts or want your vehicle serviced, Pickett Salvage has what you need at affordable prices.
Real customer testimonials
SMJMike
I’ve been using Pickett’s for well over a year now. Their prices are very fair and in most cases higher than other yards. The employees are friendly and personable. They have given me many great tips and personal knowledge to help me gain top dollar and efficiency. I wont go anywhere else. I bypass many closer yards because they (Pickett’s) treat people so well. They are super knowledgeable on laws, regulations, and policies related to the scrapping community. Very professional.
Mike McClintock
Kyle (Thumper)
Staff is very friendly and helpful. Little bit of a mess even for a salvage yard. Was nervous I was gonna get a flat the whole time. But the excavator I followed cleaned the road as we went. Very fair and honest prices! Would go back and would recommend.
Brian Clausen
Good people! good prices! friendly! & helpful!
Tracy Stanek
It was awesome they are awesome people and they treat everyone good and with respect
Very nice people I will always go there with my stuff
Adam Choruzek
Always 10 stars going here. Sandy and Mick are the best!
