What part are you still on the hunt for?
If I stuck mainly to wheels, it'd probably be some 4x100 16" SSR MKII-R wheels. As far as for any hard to find parts go, probably something along the lines of some 1990 Supra LE rear bench seats with the matching floormats. That way they could match my front seats.
Since you've developed good connections and skills for finding rare parts, are you a bounty hunter for hire?
I have helped friends in the past for no monetary gain. I don't advertise as someone who would be a source. Heck, it's rare that I even post up pictures of my collection.
Do one-off or fabricated parts count as rare?
Not really, since I don't consider them truly "manufactured." If there was a series or certain quantity of production, then sure. I could easily say that short-lived manufacturers have produced "rare" goodies, but there's usually a decent quantity to begin with.
How do you find information on what parts were available?
Translate a ton of Kanji, or ask those who are aficionados on certain manufacturers.
How do you find all these rare parts?
I typically browse Japanese auctions to find my stuff. Then I ask a private importer to bring over the product.
Where do you keep all these parts and when are you not around?
Inside the Disney Castle in Florida. Mickey Mouse is my personal guard and he knows kung fu.
Name: Ronald Wu
Occupation: Importer/exporter, owner of Aero Duo Spoilers
What type of parts in particular do you collect?Mostly Honda parts, but also Nissan, Toyota, and Subaru parts as well. Everything from car parts down to memorabilia stuff, such as toys and brochures.
What car(s) are you currently building?
Supercharged Honda Odyssey RA3 and a Datsun Bluebird 510 SSS.
What do you love about JDM parts?
They are on the other side of the planet and not as common here.
Does the part have to be JDM?
Yes; even the oil I use is a JDM brand.
Does it have to be a discontinued item?
No, not at all. As long as the part is real and not a copy or imitation.
How long have you been collecting parts?
I started when I was in my teens, so over 20 years now.
What's your favorite part that you have or had?
That full titanium CRX exhaust behind me looks like it would up there on the list. I collect parts and sell rare parts to people, so a lot is now gone. Damn, so many items. I guess the one item should be the mint set of Mugen NR10R wheels. Another might be my brand new Mugen EF8 CR-X body kit decals.
What part are you still on the hunt for?
I've been able to find just about anything I've wanted. But I'm still looking for a Mugen Prelude BB4 exhaust, and Mugen NSX parts.
Since you've developed good connections and skills for finding rare parts, are you a bounty hunter for hire?
Yes, as long as the money is right.
Do one-off or fabricated parts count as rare?
Yes, but only if they're by a major brand.
How do you find information on what parts were available?
Brochures, and I research when I'm in Japan.
How do you find all these rare parts?
I mainly go to Japan and find them myself.
Where do you keep all these parts and when are you not around?
The Bat Cave.
Where's Your Stash?
Got your own collection of rare goodies? Don't be greedy or selfish. Take a pic of your rare parts and send them in with a description to mailsack@superstreetonline.com. The rarer, the better; which means if you've seen it here, it's not that rare. Shock us!
Name: Ernest Uy
Occupation: Senior financial analyst
What type of parts in particular do you collect?
My first love is wheels; particularly older SSR wheels. Back in the day, SSR wheels for Hondas weren't too common but were available if you knew where to get them. Places like Han Motoring and Dazz in the San Gabriel Valley could order them for you.