QuestionQUESTION: Hello, my 1992 cadillac eldorado needs new spark plugs, cables, and distributor and rotor. What brand should I buy? I also need to have my rear air shocks replaced as well as a new motor. I appreciate your help. Thank you.
ANSWER: Well, you can't go wrong with buying the original equipment Delco parts sold at your local GM dealer, but they will be a little pricey. My favorite aftermarket company is Standard. They have been in the business almost as long as Delco, and their parts are manufactured to higher standards of quality. You will have to go to a real parts store (not a Pep Boys or other discounter) to get them but it will pay off in the long run.
If the motor for your self-leveling rear shocks is bad, you will have to go the dealer to replace it. Going to a salvage yard isn't a bad idea, though, as these things are pretty long-lived. The shocks can be had from Monroe. Make sure the parts guy checks the catalog and supplies any parts or kits that might be needed to make the shocks work with the factory air system.
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QUESTION: I have another question. I also need to replace the motor mount; the arm on top on the driver's side is broken and when I shift from drive or park to reverse it jumps forward and back. What brand do you suggest I buy. Thank you very much for all your help.
Answer This is one case where it really doesn't matter, they're all made in China or, more likely, India. Anchor/Doan is the most common aftermarket brand, but I would just make a few phone calls and buy the cheapest one.
However, I'd like to stand on my soapbox here. If you are planning on working on your own car on a regular basis, then you need to find a reliable, well-stocked parts jobber (NOT a Pep Boys or other discount house--someplace that is locally owned and operated). Then you need to give them ALL of your business, and make sure that they know it. Get to know the countermen, and the owner if possible. You will be spending a little more money, but you will be building goodwill with people who know what they're doing, and this will pay off when you run into a difficult situation (which you inevitably will). And, it will ensure that they will be around when you need them and not be run out of business by the discounters who don't care about you and turn over their staff of ill-informed incompetents about every six months.
