Approximately 1 year ago, my beautiful baby was stolen. Much to my surprise it was found in field with the engine torn partially out, but for the most part appears intact.

I am seeking help in restoring it to its pristine condition, I live in Danville VA. Can anyone offer some direction?

If so please contact me at Mazdagirl2@yahoo.com. or post to this forum.

 

Direction as in....how to restore it yourself? If so, post some pics (of the CAR, you leg humpers!) and a more detailed description of the damage(s).
God knows there have been some totally whacked cars brought back from the dead...

 

You might want to post this in the regional section too (if it doesn't get moved). There's a few good shops and guys in the NoVa area.
If there's any new parts you need (buy used when you can) give Ray a call at Malloy Mazda in Manassas 888.533.3400. He owns 2 FD's and give us FD owners a break on parts.

 

I'm curious about the story you may have to tell. I take it whoever stole your car was never caught?
Do you think they were just out to joyride your car, or were they after the engine or parts? It would seem kind of odd to try to remove an engine in the middle of a field, or do you think they just dumped your car there?
Did the police seem to work on your case, or did they just dismiss it? Did they fingerprint your car?

 

The car was found in a field. It had been there for some time or somewhere like it, it had mice nests in the glove box. Squirrels under the hood (no joke) and it was of course covered with a layer of dirt.

We cleaned it yesterday. The paint is pretty badly discolored, but may be possible to rub out. There was some chipping and some dents on the doors. Along with some scratches. The leather is damaged from the sun, and could not be cleaned up. At this time we have not tested the stereo (can you believe that it was still there?) . It had just been redone prior to the theft, but heat and weather most likely have taken their toll on the speakers and electronics. and the interior of course had a mildew odor.

The engine was broke out, all the vacumm lines are either broken or damaged. There are parts in back hatch area. The computer and module were found in the passenger side floor board area.

There was a for sale sign taped to the back window. The cops said too much weather for finger prints. There were greasy hand prints on the pasenger side leather seat, (which will not come out).

And that is what I know.

My guess is that, they took it thought they could sell it, when they couldn't or maybe they got scared. They attempted to strip it, but were either interupted or decided that they would caught. Then they dumped it.

It would have been better for me $$$ wise to have had it gone, the insurance is prorating the paint and the leather and may or may not cover the engine and associated damages to the exterior.

So that is why I needed someone other than the mazda dealer to give me an independant quote or estimate on restoring it to a basic running condition. From there I can fight.

I will post pictures as soon as I can.

 

The insurance claim had not settled when the car was returned. I guess that is a mixed blessing. At least I am not paying back money. But they are doing their best to keep from paying for the damages.

My car is fully covered under comprehensive My high hope is that I can return it to a running and recovered state. Then in time I can completely restore it.

 

You can find many used parts for great deals on the forums (get a paypal account if you don't already have one) - for harder to find parts, call Ray Crowe at Malloy Mazda (they're in Woodbridge, VA) - I have met Ray and he is an outstanding guy to work with.

charlie