XV Engineering

[MOsman82]

Hi,

Looking for some advice and/or other members recent experience with XV Engineering.

My 68 Charger is currently in the workshop having rust repairs done and subframe connectors / torque boxes added.

I've always been keen on also adding the lower radiator support brace and inner fender brace. Both items are available from XV Engineering and US Car Tool - the amateur structural engineer in me tells the XV Parts will provide more stiffness than the US Car Tool parts so I jumped on the XV Engineering web sites do tried to order a set.

Frankly, I've been a bit confused by the subsequent discussion/exchanges with XV. I was told straight away the items were out of stock - fair enough. When I asked whe they would be back in stock again - the response I got back was basically an "I don't know" followed by some notes on the need to fill a minimum order quantity and that I should check back in a few months time. Well, a few months has passed and I've checked back and got no response. Also in the meantime an eBay ad (under XV's screen name) for the parts I need  popped up which I enquired about and was told "sorry we've sold out since the ad was posted" (which I didn't think ebay allowed).

I'm in manufacturing so understand the need to meet minimum orders with subcontractors - but also understand that you will never fulfill subject minimum order quantities if you don't harness the demand that's out there.

Anyway just wanted to see what other members have to say - is it just a small operation that you need to be persistent with? Note I'm in Australia - could it be a hesitation dealing with international shipping? Help as always will be much appreciated. Thanks

[Rolling_Thunder]

I didn't know XV was still around - I have seen them go in and out of production before -  I ordered their kit years ago and it was actually very basic in nature. Since their inception another company makes a similar strengthening kit - maybe you'll have better luck with in stock items with them?

http://store.uscartool.com/b-body-chassis-stiffening-kit.html

[Daytona R/T SE]

I thought XV went out of business a few years ago.

[Kern Dog]

John Buscema sold the business to someone else a few years back. He had heavily invested in the project then as the economy dropped off, he bailed out.
They had some great ideas and great products. Two years ago I bought some 3 point seat  belts for a great price.

[BrianShaughnessy]

Several years ago now...   I ordered XV subframe connectors for Sinnamon.    They fit like garbage.   I sent them back.  The XV would have required re-fitting to the floor almost the entire length.

I got the US Car tool ones.   Much better fit.  Basically up and in...  trim a little bit here and there.     

[comet_666]

I used the lower rad support and inner fender braces from XV, good quality. Had to trim the lower rad support to get radiator to fit though...

[will]

Their supposed to be in an old warehouse type place converted to a business park. It's right down the street from where I work. Maybe I'll swing by there and check it out later.

[Troy]

One of the employees bought the intellectual property and name I believe but didn't really get any inventory (or at least not much). There was a time gap between the original closing and the new one opening. I'm on the mailing list and it seems like they are coming out with new products. I'm pretty sure they don't keep much on hand.

I have the inner fender braces and radiator support for my 68 Charger but haven't installed them yet. Not sure if I would be willing to sell them and hope I can get replacements though.

Troy

[G-man]

The only thing I remember hearing a while back before it was bought out was  that XV was doing some dodgy business where it was hard to get what you paid for, things always out of stock but they took your money up front and then left a whole bunch of sour in the mouth after.

Seems the company went out of business (not surprised operating like that) and someone else took over, yet they are telling you things are out of stock too...

I wouldn't bother with it. Many more companies out there that do a better product anyway with years of history and reputation.

[will]

Their supposed to be in an old warehouse type place converted to a business park. It's right down the street from where I work. Maybe I'll swing by there and check it out later.

Drove by the warehouse office park yesterday. xv not listed on the sign, although a few other automotive type businesses were.