Places to Wrench in Launceston

[Chunkal]

To begin, I apologize. My current vehicle of concern is a 1990 econovan (although I have a falcon at home). I'm in the beautiful Tasmania on a mature gentlemans adventure holiday and opted to increase the adventure factor by bringing a cheaply purchased van as accommodation and transport. Much wrenching has been done to get us to this point (both at home and en route), but now we need to change the rad, water pump and head gasket. I'm looking for any suggestions on where I might be able to do this. I have all the tools I need, and the parts in a couple of days but don't want to be harassed mid operation as will probably happen if I proceed in the parts store car park. Would be happy with any friendly situation - a car port, hose access or a place to wee would be a bonus (although will work around those situations). Happy to chip in for beer/grocery money if it's private property. Trying mid this week or mid next week if that doesn't pan out. Thanks in advance for any suggestions. Alex

[GasoLane]

You may be better off posting this in The Pub, where there's a lot more traffic so to speak

http://www.fordforums.com.au/forumdisplay.php?f=2

[Chunkal]

To begin, I apologize if this is off topic. My current vehicle of concern is a 1990 econovan (although I have a falcon at home). I'm in the beautiful Tasmania on a mature gentlemans adventure holiday and opted to increase the adventure factor by bringing a cheaply purchased van as accommodation and transport. Much wrenching has been done to get us to this point (both at home and en route), but now we need to change the rad, water pump and head gasket. I'm looking for any suggestions on where I might be able to do this. I have all the tools I need, and the parts in a couple of days but don't want to be harassed mid operation as will probably happen if I proceed in the parts store car park. Would be happy with any friendly situation - a car port, hose access or a place to wee would be a bonus (although will work around those situations). Happy to chip in for beer/grocery money if it's private property. Trying mid this week or mid next week if that doesn't pan out. Thanks in advance for any advice. Alex

[Citroënbender]

Look for something close-ish to Invermay Rd, if possible. That minimises walking if you need anything - there’s Pep’s, Repco, Supercrap, Merv Gray and Beechey’s all close by. Tasma Upholsters or McNulty Joinery both have a bit of off-street space.

[Tassie f100]

Just saw this post.Bunnings big carpark is only a 5 minute walk from PABS in Invermay rd or Supercheap couple of minutes further, or Autobarn and Repco another 5 mins away near Kmart

[Citroënbender]

Yes, I meant Pab’s - Pep’s is Gladesville, Sydney...

The Bunnies carpark is theoretically part of the “CarePark” business. I’ve noted plenty of travellers using it for digs in the past, though.

[roKWiz]

I've always had good results working on stuff in caravan parks
(not the resort type ones)
Most owner/operators are very helpful as long as you tell them what you need to do and of course don't leave a mess.

[Tassie f100]

That is ok,but there aren,t any parts shops anywhere near the caravan parks in Launceston,although having said that it is only about a half hour walk from most of outer Lonnie to the city centre

[roKWiz]

Originally Posted by Tassie f100

That is ok,but there aren,t any parts shops anywhere near the caravan parks in Launceston,although having said that it is only about a half hour walk from most of outer Lonnie to the city centre

If he already has all the parts what else does he need. A bicycle will get you down the shops. Ask me how I know. ?

[Tassie f100]

I reckon you are going to tell me anyway lol

[Citroënbender]

It’s actually a great area for cycling. Really good.

The biggest issue is prevalence of gratuitous vandalism and opportunistic theft, mostly close to the bogan rat-runs between town and the suburbs of Ravo, Mayfield, Rocherlea. So being a little bit out-of-the-way whilst also close by, is a good strategy.

[MercuryT]

Go to the Gorge Carpark.

It's a tourist area and you won't get hassled at all.

Facilities all close and i reckon ideal spot to work.

Good luck.

[Chunkal]

Thanks everyone for the helpful comments. I think I'm going with Bunnings - I'm a tradie of sorts so I feel ok about using their facilities after all the money I've spent with them.

[MercuryT]

Originally Posted by Chunkal

Thanks everyone for the helpful comments. I think I'm going with Bunnings - I'm a tradie of sorts so I feel ok about using their facilities after all the money I've spent with them.

Great choice but don't be surprised if you're asked to move on. It is private property but as previous good luck!