Thorntown Salvage Yard at 302 W Church St, Thorntown, IN 46071

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Thorntown Salvage Yard, located at 302 W Church St, Thorntown, IN 46071, is a well-established business that specializes in the recycling and resale of used auto parts. It has been in operation for over 30 years and is known for its extensive selection of quality parts from various sources, including domestic and foreign cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs.

Thorntown Salvage Yard is situated in the historic town of Thorntown, the oldest settlement in Boone County, Indiana, with roots dating back to 1827. While specific information about the yard’s establishment and founders is not readily available, the longevity of this business suggests that it has been operating for at least two to three decades, if not longer.

In the surrounding area, several other salvage yards and services cater to the automotive recycling industry. Notable options include Pull-A-Part, which helps individuals sell their junk cars for top dollar and offers free towing, and Junk-A-Car, which buys junk cars for cash and can remove them within 24 hours.

Services Provided

Thorntown Salvage Yard offers a full-service experience, making it a one-stop shop for all your automotive recycling and repair needs.

While the yard does not explicitly mention shipping parts directly to customers, their self-service option allows customers to visit the yard and retrieve the parts they need.

Vehicle Types and Popular Auto Parts

Thorntown Salvage Yard offers a wide range of used auto parts, including engines, transmissions, doors, fenders, hoods, and bumpers, which can be reconditioned through cleaning, sandblasting, and repainting. The yard focuses on salvaged parts from wrecked or damaged vehicles of various makes and models.

Some of the most commonly purchased auto parts at Thorntown Salvage Yard and similar junkyards in Indiana include:

• Engines: A wide selection of quality engines from domestic and foreign cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs.
• Transmissions: A variety of transmissions for different vehicle types.
• Wheels: Hard-to-find wheels that are in high demand for customizing or restoring vehicles.
• Brakes and Suspension Components: Crucial for the safety and performance of vehicles.
• Radiators: Essential for maintaining the cooling system of vehicles.
• Alternators: Ensure the proper functioning of the vehicle’s electrical system.
• Tires: Used tires, which are often a cost-effective alternative to new tires.

While Thorntown Salvage Yard does not provide a detailed price list, the following table from Buddy’s Upull, another salvage yard, gives an idea of the range of prices for various auto parts:

These prices are indicative of the range of prices for various auto parts and may not reflect the exact prices at Thorntown Salvage Yard.

Service Area

While Thorntown Salvage Yard primarily serves the local community, people may also visit from neighboring cities and towns, such as Indianapolis and Sugar Creek, to buy quality used auto parts at competitive prices.

Interchange System

Thorntown Salvage Yard provides an auto parts interchange system, allowing customers to search for compatible parts on other vehicles through several methods:

1. Search Inventory: Customers can search the inventory of available parts on their website.
2. Search by Image: This feature allows customers to upload an image of the part they need, and the system will search for similar parts in their inventory.
3. Multi-Part Search: Customers can search for multiple parts simultaneously, which can be particularly useful for finding compatible parts for a specific vehicle.

These features make it easier for customers to find the right parts for their needs, even if the exact part they’re looking for is not available.

Warranty Information

While Thorntown Salvage Yard specializes in the recycling and resale of used auto parts, they do not offer a specific warranty program for these parts, as per the provided sources.

Entry Fee and Discounts

There is no cover fee or entry charge to visit Thorntown Salvage Yard. As a business focused on providing quality used auto parts and repair services, they do not mention any special discounts on their website or in the available information.

Tools and Equipment Needed

When visiting Thorntown Salvage Yard to pull used auto parts from junk cars, customers are recommended to bring their own tools, as the yard does not provide them. Essential tools to have on hand include:

• Basic hand tools: wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench, Allen key sets, socket set, hammer, and multi-tool.
• Additional tools: penetrating oil, water, sunscreen, rubber gloves, rags, and cordless power tools like a sawzall and impact wrench.

Having the right tools and equipment will ensure that customers can safely and efficiently remove the parts they need without causing any damage.

Cash for Junk Cars

Yes, Thorntown Salvage Yard buys junk cars from the general public, offering cash for cars in any condition. This service is in addition to their automotive repair services, such as brake jobs and oil changes.

Other Junkyards in the Area

While specific details about other junkyards in the vicinity of Thorntown are not provided, Thorntown Salvage Yard stands out for its extensive selection of parts, helpful staff, and comprehensive automotive repair services.

Here are some key points that set Thorntown Salvage Yard apart:

• Extensive Selection: Known for its vast inventory of quality used parts from various sources, including hard-to-find items like wheels, brakes, and suspension components.
• Helpful Staff: Praised for their knowledgeable and accommodating staff, who assist customers in finding the parts they need.
• Automotive Repair Services: In addition to selling used parts, they offer complete automotive repair services, making it a one-stop shop for all your vehicle needs.
• Reasonable Prices: Customers have reported positive experiences with the yard’s competitive pricing and willingness to rectify any issues promptly.

While there may be other salvage yards in the area, Thorntown Salvage Yard’s reputation and comprehensive offerings make it a reliable choice for anyone in need of quality used auto parts or repair services.

Common Questions

Here are seven common questions people ask about Thorntown Salvage Yard or similar junkyards, along with detailed answers:

1. What types of parts do they have available?

Thorntown Salvage Yard has a vast inventory of vehicles and parts, providing a wide range of automotive components. They offer collision repair parts such as quarter panels, headlights, and taillights, which are in high demand and sell quickly. They also have luxury car items, which are valuable and often sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Additionally, they stock various other parts that are easy to ship and replace in accidents, such as brittle plastic parts, which are generally avoided due to the risk of breakage and customer complaints.

1. How do I find valuable parts in a junkyard?

To find valuable parts in a junkyard, it is crucial to have a good understanding of the car model and its parts. Look up the car model on eBay and sort by sold items with the highest cost + shipping. This will give you an idea of what parts are in high demand and command a higher price. Know what parts are rare and expensive, such as certain headlights or luxury car items. Consider focusing on a specific brand or model as your niche, as it can be overwhelming to remember valuable parts from every make and model.

1. How do I know what parts are worth buying?

To determine what parts are worth buying, research the market value of the parts. Look up the prices of similar parts on online marketplaces like eBay or specialized forums. This will help you understand the demand and pricing for the parts you are considering. Additionally, knowing what parts are in high demand and what parts are rare and expensive can guide your purchasing decisions.

1. How do I avoid buying parts that will sit for a long time?

To avoid buying parts that will sit for a long time, look for yards with a high inventory turnover rate, meaning they receive new inventory frequently. This ensures that the parts you buy are likely to be in demand and sell quickly. Additionally, avoid buying brittle plastic parts, as they are prone to breakage and may not sell well. Focus on parts that are in high demand, such as collision repair parts, which are always needed and sell quickly.

1. How do I get to the junkyard quickly when I find something valuable?

To get to the junkyard quickly when you find something valuable, have a reliable transportation method. If you’re far from the junkyard, consider having a backup plan, such as a rental car or a friend who can drive you. Know the location of the junkyard well and have a clear route planned. If you’re in a rural area, plan for longer travel times, but prices may be lower compared to yards closer to major cities.

1. How do I remove parts from a vehicle without damaging them?

To remove parts from a vehicle without damaging them, use the correct tools for the job, such as wrenches, screwdrivers, and other specialized tools. Be gentle when removing parts, especially fragile ones like headlights. Avoid using excessive force, which can cause damage. Have a plan for packing and shipping the parts to prevent damage during transportation.

1. How do I list and sell the parts I find?

To list and sell the parts you find, create detailed listings on online marketplaces like eBay. Include high-quality photos of the parts and provide accurate descriptions. Ensure that the listings are easy to find by using relevant keywords and categories. You can also use specialized forums and social media groups to reach a wider audience. Keep your listings updated and respond promptly to inquiries to maintain a positive reputation and increase sales.

These answers provide a comprehensive overview of what to expect when dealing with Thorntown Salvage Yard or similar junkyards, making it easier for customers to navigate the world of automotive recycling and used auto parts.

With its extensive selection of quality used parts, helpful staff, and comprehensive repair services, Thorntown Salvage Yard is a reliable choice for anyone in need of affordable automotive solutions. Whether you’re looking for hard-to-find parts, seeking cash for your junk car, or in need of professional repair services, this longstanding salvage yard is worth a visit.

Thorntown Salvage Yard, located at 302 W Church St in Thorntown, IN 46071, is a one stop shop for all of your car part and scrap metal needs. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, we are proud to be Indiana's leading junkyard and used auto parts store. Our salvage yard is stocked with an extensive selection of quality parts from a variety of sources including both domestic and foreign cars, trucks, vans and SUVs.

Whether you need a new engine or transmission, we have it! We also specialize in hard-to-find parts such as wheels, brakes and suspension components. In addition to our wide selection of parts, we also offer complete automotive repair services ranging from brake jobs to oil changes.

Our highly trained mechanics are knowledgeable in all areas of auto repair and have the skills to get your car running like new again. We take pride in providing excellent customer service and competitive prices on all of our parts and services. So if you're looking for reliable car parts or top notch automotive repairs at an affordable price, visit Thorntown Salvage Yard today!

Real customer testimonials

Melissa Payne

Rated this company 5/5

Great guy to work with. I drove an hour and a half for a radiator and questioned it before I left. Got home and it leaked so I called and ge mailed me a check so i didn't have to drive back! Id go here again.

theresa blubaugh

Rated this company 5/5

Gary helped me out with finding the used tires I needed, they have also ordered new tires for our vehicles, mounted and balanced. Very reasonably priced.

Bob Bales

Rated this company 5/5

Typically looking salvage yard but the staff is great! Super nice people and quickly got the alternator off the car and to me. I’ll be back for sure.

Andrew R (ar_fullsend)

Rated this company 1/5

If you ever get towed in Indiana, please pray you don't get this company. They've been I'm business for 15 plus years and they have absolute garbage policies. I've worked with tow yards all over the country and this is by far the worst I've ever dealt with

James Hester

Rated this company 5/5

Very nice salvage yard. Staff very helpful and well knowledge on automobiles. Prices very reasonable. I recommend very highly