T & C Metal Co. at 378 Prairie St, Crystal Lake, IL 60014
T & C Metal Co. is a Crystal Lake auto salvage yard and scrap metal recycler at 378 Prairie Street. The yard runs on a self-service model—customers find and remove their own used auto parts from salvaged vehicles. It also buys scrap metal by the pound, including steel, aluminum, copper, and brass. The business has been in the area for over 10 years, known for fair prices and no-frills service.
Services & What to Expect
T & C Metal Co. keeps things simple. There’s no online parts catalog, so you’ll need to visit in person to see what’s available. The yard focuses on two main services: self-service auto salvage and scrap metal recycling.
Self-Service Auto Salvage
The yard sells used auto parts from junked vehicles, including engines, transmissions, body panels, and other components. You find and remove parts yourself. Basic tools like wrenches, sockets, and jacks might be available for rent or purchase on-site, but it’s best to bring your own. Inventory changes often, so what’s there today could be gone tomorrow.
Scrap Metal Recycling
T & C Metal Co. buys scrap metal by weight. Common materials include:
- Steel
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Brass
Prices depend on market rates and metal purity. The yard pays cash on the spot for clean, separated scrap. Sorting metals by type before arriving speeds up the process.
What to Bring
Plan ahead before your visit:
- Tools for removing parts, if needed
- A truck or trailer to haul parts away
- Cash or a payment method the yard accepts (check their website for details)
- Gloves and safety gear (the yard doesn’t provide these)
What They Don’t Do
T & C Metal Co. does not:
- Remove parts for customers
- Buy junk cars directly (check local cash-for-cars services for vehicle sales)
- Offer warranties or guarantees on used parts
- Provide online parts lookup or inventory lists
Location & Hours
T & C Metal Co. is at 378 Prairie Street in Crystal Lake, Illinois. The yard is easy to find, located near local businesses and major roads. Parking is available on-site for customers hauling parts or scrap.
Business Hours
| Day | Hours |
| Monday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Directions
From I-90 (Northwest Highway), take Exit 63 for Prairie Street. Turn right onto Prairie Street—the yard is on your left at 378 Prairie Street. GPS might not pinpoint the exact location, so watch for the signs.
Customer Experience
T & C Metal Co. has built a local reputation for straightforward service. Regulars appreciate the no-nonsense approach and fair pricing. Some customers have been coming for years, saying they haven’t found a better option in the area.
Noteworthy Reviews
Alex Lindsey (5/5 stars): "Walked in with a box of brass, expecting the usual hassle—you know, the side-eye from guys who act like you’re wasting their time. But these folks? Just quiet, no-nonsense, and got me paid without the attitude."
Mark Fredricksen (5/5 stars): "Ten years and counting, and I still haven’t found a better scrap yard in town. The guy who runs it knows his stuff, prices are solid, and he doesn’t treat you like you’re an idiot for asking questions."
Greg Zielinski (5/5 stars): "Tired of getting lowballed by every other scrap yard in the area, so I gave this one a shot. Turns out, they actually pay what the metal’s worth—no haggling, no excuses."
The yard holds a 4.3-star rating on Google from 22 reviews. Customers often mention the staff’s knowledge, fair pricing, and lack of unnecessary hassle. Several say it feels like a family-run business, which sets it apart from larger scrap yards in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for T & C Metal Co.?
The yard is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM. It’s closed on Sundays.
Does T & C Metal Co. buy junk cars?
No, T & C Metal Co. does not buy junk cars directly. For selling a vehicle, check local cash-for-cars services in Crystal Lake.
What kind of parts can I find at T & C Metal Co.?
The yard carries used auto parts from salvaged vehicles, including engines, transmissions, body panels, bumpers, doors, and interior components. Inventory changes often, so what’s available depends on recent salvage arrivals. There’s no online catalog, so you’ll need to visit in person to browse.
How does self-service auto salvage work at T & C Metal Co.?
Customers locate and remove their own parts from the yard’s inventory. Basic tools may be available for rent or purchase on-site, but bringing your own is recommended. You’ll need a truck or trailer to haul parts away. The yard does not remove parts for customers or offer warranties on used components.
What metals does T & C Metal Co. buy for scrap?
The yard buys common scrap metals by weight, including steel, aluminum, copper, and brass. Prices depend on market rates and metal purity. Sorting metals by type before arriving speeds up service and ensures accurate payments.
Do I need to bring my own tools?
The yard may have basic tools for rent or purchase, but bringing your own is a good idea. Common tools like wrenches, sockets, and jacks make the process faster and easier.
